Pho 2000

You’re coming to Pho 2000 to demolish a bowl of fragrant soup as big as a dunk tank. The casual Vietnamese spot in Little Saigon is a multi-level oasis of phở made with richly spiced broth, grilled meats that are charred but never dry, and imperial rolls fried until bubbly and translucent. It can be hard to narrow down an order from the menu of about 75 dishes, but the tomato-laden bún riêu is a consistent smash. This is an ideal place to eat alone if you’re on a half-hour lunch break, or whenever you want a filling soup that won’t leave you hungry in a few hours. 

Food Rundown

photo credit: Julia Chen

Bánh Xèo

The best version of the Vietnamese crepe we’ve had in SF. It’s crisped up without being dry, loaded with plump shrimp and thick slices of pork, and should absolutely be in front of you.

photo credit: Julia Chen

Bún Riêu

The hunks of tomato absorb the crabby flavor like little sponges. Even if it’s a rare 75-degree day, you need this soup.

photo credit: Julia Chen

Phở Đặc Biệt

A gold standard of the classic. Unlike a lot of places that overdo it with bowls that are 85% meat, this phở is a lesson in simplicity. It’s just a bowl of rich, smooth broth supported by the requisite beef cuts and noodles that stay bouncy even in the hot soup.