ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch Restaurants in Boerum Hill
Best Vietnamese in Boerum Hill
Master Critic Review
5ive Spice
8.6
The original 5ive Spice on Fifth Avenue is a fast-casual Vietnamese spot where long-simmered pho, crisp banh mi, and playful bánh xèo tacos anchor a compact room that stays busy from lunch through late evening. Locals use it as a reliable go-to before or after Barclays, especially when they want upgraded broth and bigger portions than the average neighborhood noodle shop.
Must-Try Dishes:
5 Spice Special Pho, Classic Vietnamese Banh Mi, Bánh Xèo Tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A high-volume Park Slope Vietnamese hub where slow-simmered pho and inventive tacos share the menu.
Who should go: Pho fans wanting serious broth in a casual room.
When to visit: Early evening before Barclays events or peak dinner rush.
What to order: 5 Spice Special Pho, Classic Vietnamese Banh Mi, Bánh Xèo Tacos.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for faster service and a better view of the line cooking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Fifth Ave and on nearby residential blocks; spots turn scarce after 6pm, especially on event nights.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and gym gear fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—lively music and conversation, but you can comfortably talk at your table.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak hours; can stretch longer around Barclays events.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or a short 5-minute queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian pho, tofu banh mi, and several veggie-forward starters.
Vegan options: Partial—can modify tofu dishes and rolls; broth-based items are not fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited—pho noodles are rice-based, but banh mi and tacos contain gluten; cross-contact possible.
Best For
Better for: Bigger portions, deeper pho flavor, and trendier energy than many neighborhood Vietnamese options.
Skip if: Skip if you need a long, quiet sit-down meal or a fully vegan Vietnamese menu—this space runs fast-casual and meat-forward.