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Sunset Phở Caffe
Master Critic Review
Sunset Phở Caffe
8.4
This Vietnamese-Yugoslavian fusion spot pairs traditional phở with Balkan specialties like cevapcici spring rolls and burek under cathedral-like vaulted ceilings. The 22-hour bone broth anchors a menu that celebrates both owners' heritage with genuine warmth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở with Brisket and Tripe, Cevapcici Spring Rolls, Lemongrass Pork Chop Rice
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: One-of-a-kind Vietnamese-Yugoslavian fusion with 22-hour bone broth and homemade infused brandies
Who should go: Adventurous eaters seeking unique cultural mashups
When to visit: Cold evenings when soul-warming broth hits perfectly
What to order: Rare beef phở, cevapcici baguette with kajmak, frog legs in lemongrass
Insider tip: Buy 10 Get One Free phở punch card makes regulars out of first-timers
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Clark St - generally manageable in Lakeview East
Dress code: Casual - come comfortable; the vaulted ceilings feel special but the vibe is relaxed neighborhood spot
Noise level: Moderate - intimate 44-seat space with blues and jazz from the 40s-80s playing; conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 20-30 min for food when busy - everything cooked fresh to order; reservations accepted
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min - smaller crowds Thu-Fri lunch service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options - veggie phở with dedicated vegetarian broth, tofu stir-fry, veggie spring rolls
Vegan options: Available - veggie phở and spring rolls work; staff can guide modifications
Gluten-free options: Accommodating - staff knowledgeable about allergens; phở and spring rolls can be made GF, but not a dedicated facility
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - the cathedral-like vaulted ceilings and stained glass create unexpected romance, owner Zelimir offers first-timers tastes of homemade infused brandy, and the unique fusion menu gives you plenty to talk about. Intimate without being stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for smaller parties - the 44-seat space handles walk-ins well on weeknights. Weekend dinners can fill up, and since everything is cooked fresh to order, larger groups should call ahead to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - family-run with a welcoming atmosphere. The phở is customizable (kids can skip spice), and the owners' daughter often serves tables. European soccer on TV keeps restless ones entertained.
Best For
Better for: Adventurous eaters seeking a one-of-a-kind cultural mashup - nowhere else pairs 22-hour bone broth phở with cevapcici spring rolls and homemade Balkan brandies in a cathedral-like setting
Skip if: You want quick counter service or traditional-only Vietnamese - head to MK Noodle for speed and value, or Sochi for refined Saigon-style cooking without the fusion twist