ZipPicks Awards
Best Vietnamese in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Best Cheap Eats in Murray Hill & Kips Bay
Master Critic Review
Nom Nam
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Nom Nam is a cozy Vietnamese spot on East 34th Street where steaming bowls of pho, spring rolls, and banh mi anchor a compact, focused menu. Locals use it as an easygoing stop for comforting broths, straightforward rice plates, and a quick solo meal or low-key catch-up.
Must-Try Dishes:
O.G. beef pho with brisket and sirloin, Crispy pork spring rolls, Grilled pork banh mi
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A tight, pho-centered menu that feels homey and personal.
Who should go: Pho lovers craving cozy, casual bowls.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner before the small room fills.
What to order: O.G. beef pho, crispy spring rolls, grilled pork banh mi.
Insider tip: Sit near the window counter for the fastest in-and-out solo meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive; paid garages along East 34th Street are the most reliable option in the evenings.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable — jeans, sneakers, and workday attire all fit right in.
Noise level: Low to moderate — generally easy to hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak dinner hours if the room is full.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait, with quick table turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable pho, tofu dishes, and spring rolls without meat are available.
Vegan options: Limited — possible with tofu-based options, but broths may not always be fully vegan.
Gluten-free options: Limited — rice noodle pho is naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual first meets than romantic dates — the cozy size and quick-service feel make it relaxed but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations are rarely needed, but arriving early on weekend evenings helps avoid a short queue.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy noodles and rice plates, but the compact space isn’t ideal for strollers or large family groups.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable pho with comforting flavors and fast service in a quiet neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for cocktails, a lively atmosphere, or a full-featured Vietnamese dinner experience.