ZipPicks Awards
Best Pho in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Plum Vietnamese Restaurant
7.8
A cozy Upper West Side Vietnamese neighborhood spot where pho works best as comfort dining rather than a destination chase. Stick to one pho bowl plus one “snacky” side (kimchi fries or spring rolls), and it lands as an easy, satisfying meal without over-ordering.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pho: Super bowl, Pho Duck, Kimchi fries
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: A warm neighborhood Vietnamese room with dependable pho options.
Who should go: Families and casual weeknight diners
When to visit: Early dinner for easiest tables
What to order: Pho Super Bowl, Pho Duck, kimchi fries
Insider tip: Add one side, not three—pho is the main event here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; limited availability and competitive after 6pm. Budget extra time or use a rideshare.
Dress code: Casual to smart-casual. Jeans and sweaters fit right in; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate. Lively enough to feel comfortable, but you can still hold a full conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – vegetarian pho, noodle dishes, and vegetable-focused sides available.
Vegan options: Limited – possible with modifications, but not a dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Some options available, especially pho and rice-based dishes; confirm sauces with staff.
Best For
Better for: Comfort-focused pho in a relaxed neighborhood setting, especially for families or small groups who want an easy, sit-down meal.
Skip if: You’re chasing destination-level pho, ultra-deep broth complexity, or a buzzy, trend-driven dining scene.