Vietnamese Restaurant

[1694 Kalakaua Avenue]

A delicious bowl of pho can be found at many spots around Honolulu, but one of the first places I discovered remains among my favorites.

Pho Bistro 2 offers one of the most authentic and delectable Vietnamese culinary experiences in the city.

In this digital age where nearly every restaurant strives to maintain an active online presence, Pho Bistro 2 remains refreshingly old-school. It doesn't boast a website, relying mainly on its Facebook page and Yelp/TripAdvisor to attract customers.

In a city where word-of-mouth often carries more weight than online reviews, Pho Bistro 2 stands as a testament to the power of genuine flavors and heartfelt service.

The exterior of Pho Bistro 2 might deceive you. Tucked away in a modest, residential strip mall close to Palama Market, its unassuming façade conceals the rich, aromatic wonders within. Contrary to its hole-in-the-wall appearance, once you step inside, you're greeted by an expansive dining room exuding a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere.

The interiors, simple yet charming, clearly reflect an ethos of authenticity. Here, the primary focus is undeniably on the delicious food.

At each table's condiment station, alongside regular accompaniments like Shoyu (soy sauce) and Hoisin, you'll find their signature: a homemade lemongrass chili sauce. This delightful concoction brims with flavor.

The expansive menu boasts appetizers, rice dishes, noodle soups, Oxtail soup, vermicelli cold noodles, and other Vietnamese specials and delights. Their dishes are generously portioned and always delectable!

Pho Bistro 2 opens for lunch from 10:30 am - 3 pm and for dinner from 4:30 pm - 8 pm.

For those curious about the "2" in Pho Bistro 2, the original Pho Bistro is located in Waipahu, continuing the tradition of culinary excellence.