0 Followers
Wha Da Pho
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Wha Da Pho
7.9
Compact counter-service spot near 22nd Street pouring steaming bowls of pho and quick rice/noodle plates. Late hours and steady takeout make it a reliable after-dark option.
Must-Try Dishes:
Phở tái nạm (rare beef & brisket), Bánh mì thịt nướng, Chả giò (fried spring rolls)
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Late-running pho and fast counter pickup in the Mission.
Who should go: Night owls needing comforting bowls
When to visit: After 9 pm for easiest parking and shorter lines
What to order: Rare beef & brisket pho; grilled pork banh mi; spring rolls
Insider tip: Broth travels well—ask for noodles packed separately for takeout.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along 22nd Street and Mission; easier after 9 pm when nearby restaurants close. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, tees, and sneakers fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout traffic and brief dine-ins, quiet enough for easy conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes depending on delivery orders; quick counter turnover.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk right up and order.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho, tofu vermicelli, and veggie spring rolls available.
Vegan options: Limited—broth contains meat base, but tofu vermicelli and rolls can be made vegan.
Gluten-free options: Partial—rice noodles are gluten-free, but soy sauce and some marinades may contain wheat.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both pho lovers who value substance over setting—tiny space and bright lighting make it better for casual hangs than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Tables turn fast, and takeout orders keep the flow steady.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick family meals—basic seating and kid-safe dishes like rice plates or pho with mild broth, but no high chairs or changing stations.
Best For
Better for: Late-night pho and quick takeout—open later than most Mission spots and reliably consistent.
Skip if: You want atmosphere, cocktails, or table service—this is a functional counter setup built for efficiency, not ambience.
Wha Da Pho
7.6
Compact counter-service spot for quick bowls of pho and casual Vietnamese-Chinese staples. Good for a fast, affordable meal near 22nd Street without a long wait.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho Tai (rare beef), Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork vermicelli), Shrimp Dumplings
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Speedy bowls and grab-and-go format at wallet-friendly prices.
Who should go: Solo diners and quick-lunch seekers
When to visit: Mid-afternoon for minimal line
What to order: Pho tai; bun thit nuong; shrimp dumplings
Insider tip: Order at the counter, then snag a window seat for a fast turn.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—availability improves after 7pm; limited metered spots nearby.
Dress code: Totally casual—come as you are; jeans and hoodies common.
Noise level: Low to moderate—conversation-friendly except during peak lunch rush.
Weekend wait: No wait or minimal—traffic drops off by early evening.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes max; quick counter service keeps it moving.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho and tofu stir-fry available.
Vegan options: Limited—can request veggie broth, but sauces may contain fish.
Gluten-free options: Some options—pho rice noodles and grilled meats are safe; avoid soy-based sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more of a casual, grab-and-go setup than a sit-down atmosphere. Better for quick eats than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, always—this is counter-service only. Tables turn over quickly even during lunch rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Fine for older kids who like noodles, but space is tight and no high chairs—best for short, low-fuss meals.
Best For
Better for: Fast, inexpensive pho in a clean, no-frills setting—beats most takeout spots for speed and broth clarity.
Skip if: You’re looking for an extended dine-in experience or broad Vietnamese menu—try Thanh Tam II or Sunflower instead.