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ZipPicks Awards

Best Pho in Elmhurst Best Vietnamese in Elmhurst

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Huong Xuan 7.7
Elmhurst
A newly revived Vietnamese kitchen at a longtime neighborhood address, leaning into pho and rice-plate comfort with a familiar, straightforward dining room. It’s best approached like a return-to-basics spot: one soup centerpiece, one appetizer, and you’re set.
Must-Try Dishes: Beef Cubes, Vegetable Fried Spring Rolls, Ca Kho To
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 7.4 Consistency: 7.1 Food Quality: 7.9 Atmosphere: 6.6 Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: A fresh reopening that brings pho-and-rice comfort back to 74th Street.
Who should go: Pho seekers and rice-plate regulars
When to visit: Weeknight dinner for easiest seating
What to order: Pho, beef cubes, fried spring rolls
Insider tip: Order one soup and one appetizer—don’t scatter across the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking on surrounding Elmhurst blocks; can be tight after 6pm, but short-term spots turn over regularly.
Dress code: Casual and practical — jeans, hoodies, and everyday wear all fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate — active dining room, but conversation at the table is easy.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes during peak hours; shorter if you arrive early.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable pho, tofu-based rice plates, and a few meat-free starters.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with vegetable pho and simple substitutions, but not fully vegan-focused.
Gluten-free options: Some options — rice noodle soups and plain rice plates work best; confirm sauces when ordering.
Best For
Better for: Straightforward pho-and-rice comfort, relaxed group meals, and reliable neighborhood utility.
Skip if: You’re looking for standout regional Vietnamese specialties, modern plating, or a date-night atmosphere.