Best Vietnamese Restaurants in Downtown LA
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
The Pho Shop
High-volume pho shop that keeps broth and noodles steady.
Notable Picks
#1
The Pho Shop
8.3
A long-running Little Tokyo pho counter that stays busy for a reason: clean, aromatic broth, tender meats, and fast, dependable service. It’s not trying to be trendy—just a reliable Downtown bowl-and-spring-roll stop that delivers day after day.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho tai chin, Pho dac biet, Fresh spring rolls
What Makes it Special: High-volume pho shop that keeps broth and noodles steady.
#2
Au Lac
8.2
A 24-year pioneer in plant-based Vietnamese cooking, using shiitake and king oyster mushrooms to recreate seafood textures that consistently fool even skeptical diners. The Downtown space offers an upscale, conversation-friendly atmosphere with weekend piano—positioned well for pre-theater crowds from the nearby Ahmanson. Expect $25-35 dishes with generous portions that justify the price point for refined vegan Vietnamese execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Octopus, Pho, Ravioli
What Makes it Special: Upscale vegan Vietnamese cuisine in a historic Downtown LA building with live music programming
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Casual, family-run pho specialist drawing Downtown workers and convention-goers for hearty bowls and quick lunches. The focus is on deeply flavored broths, straightforward toppings, and efficient service rather than décor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Combination Pho (Pho Dac Biet), Slices of Chicken Breast Noodle Soup, Phoritto
What Makes it Special: A long-running, family-operated DTLA pho shop known for straightforward, flavorful bowls and fast lunch service.
Worthy Picks
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Business Lunch Power Players
A compact Arts District takeout shop focused on crisp bánh mì and strong Vietnamese coffee. The bread-to-filling balance is the draw—fresh herbs, bright pickles, and savory proteins built for a quick, satisfying grab-and-go.
Must-Try Dishes:
Special banh mi, Grilled pork banh mi, Vietnamese iced coffee
What Makes it Special: Straightforward bánh mì with fresh bread and bright fillings.