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Pho Cow Cali Express

4.3 (2.3k reviews)
Closed 8:00 am - 9:00 pm

Pho Cow Cali Express Photos

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PHO COW CALI EXPRESS ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Classy
Casual
Moderate noise
Good for groups

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Recommended Reviews - Pho Cow Cali Express

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Jenny V.

My pho was delicious. My first time coming to Pho Cow. I have heard good things about this restaurant and I finally had the opportunity to try it out. I love pho and this place hit the spot. Service was fast and easy. Most importantly my food was very tasty. If you want some authentic pho this is the place to come.

Canary H.

A decent pho place for when you're craving your mom's noodle and rice dishes, but you're too far to get some. But if I had the choice, I'd make the drive to Orange County just for some good pho. This was my first time visiting this place, and I had to put my name on the waitlist. There were 8 parties ahead of me and it only took 20 minutes in order to get seated. We all ordered pho, and the server was quick to bring out the food. He also brought nước béo for me when I had requested some, which i thought was unique because not many restaurants offer it, even though it's for pho connoisseurs. If you're reading my review, I'd suggest you try it with your pho (it's beef fat with scallions in oil to enhance your soup). I thought the soup was lacking in comparison to the pho places in OC. The meat wasn't as tender or flavorful, but the aroma was great and powerful. Again, not bad for a random location in San Diego. The inside was bigger than you'd expect; it seated numerous tables. The floor is sticky to walk on( but they serve customers constantly. I don't think I'd be back, but it's not a bad place to go to.

Wendy L.

Pho Cow Cali Express is located in Mira Mesa just a few blocks west of the 15 freeway on Mira Mesa Blvd. I've been here numerous times purely for nostalgia and because my family likes it here. Sometimes you'll see a line out the door so you'll need to sign in. The wait time is typically quick unless you have a huge party. My order usually consists of their Grilled BBQ Pork Vermicelli (Bun Thit Nuong) and their Egg Rolls (Cha Gio). This restaurant has plenty of seats and the ambiance is very casual. There are TVs around and it's mid-noisy inside. The service is pretty quick given that the menu isn't as large as other Vietnamese restaurants. There's prices are also decent and competitive for the area. The servers are really just there to take orders, bring out orders, etc. - very casual dining. One thing to note: The aroma will stick to your skin, hair, and clothing! And it's pretty intense. It should definitely be your last stop of the day. Don't say I didn't warn you. Overall, Pho Cow Cali dishes out simple Vietnamese food, where the service is quick and dining is casual.

#1 special pho and grilled bbq pork + egg roll vermicelli bowl
Jennifer O.

We were initially a little deterred by the line, but the wait ended up being painless and the food came out quickly once we sat down. We got the #1 pho special and the grilled BBQ pork and egg roll vermicelli bowl. Both were generous portions and really tasty. The egg rolls were super crispy and the grilled pork had great flavor and char. Definitely becoming one of our go-to spots for Vietnamese food when we're in SD!

Rare and Well Done Pho
Jenny T.

I heard that this place was pretty popular and since I was craving Vietnamese food, I decided to give this a try. When we arrived a little bit before noon there was already a waiting list and a line outside. We probably waited for about 15-20 minutes before our group of 4 was called. I ordered the regular size Rare and Well Done Pho ($12.50), and I also tried out the egg rolls. The food came out pretty quickly, and the pho was piping hot. Everything tasted fresh, and the broth would taste so good on a cold day. The herbs and sides that comes with the pho were all fresh and didn't seem old at all. Service is quick and they try to stay efficient. Since there is a line outside, they try to get people in an out as quickly as possible. They take your orders, drop off your food, and drop off the check pretty quickly, however if you need something in between, and are trying to call them over, it feels like they glaze right over you and pass you without looking. My water was also left empty and it was hard getting someone's attention for a refill. Overall the food itself was pretty good. Service is okay since they really focus on just moving parties in and out as quickly as possible.

special combo pho
Presh N.

Pho Cow Cali is such a solid pho spot that also offers a wide variety of appetizers, pho, rice and vermicelli dishes, plus drinks. Even when there's a long line, the wait usually ends up being only about 10-15 minutes max. Service is fast and friendly, and restaurant is always clean. #26 Spring Rolls (10/10): Filled with pork slices and shrimp. They're made fresh, and rice paper was soft, not hard or dry at all. #1 Special Combo Pho (10/10): Huge portion with tons of different meats. Broth is rich and flavorful, meats were cooked well, and noodle portion is generous. #29 Pork Rind & Grilled Pork with Broken Rice (9/10): Very nostalgic dish served with fish sauce and a small side of pho broth. Only thing is I wished grilled pork portion was a bit bigger since ratio felt slightly off this time. Thai Tea with Boba (10/10): Delicious and perfectly chewy boba. Definitely a reliable spot when you're craving pho and classic Vietnamese dishes.

Delicious
Arnel D.

Still an excellent value after all these years. Service is quick. Food is delicious and an absolute value. The dining area is relaxing and comfy. I love how they still have the Philip Rivers and Ladanian Tomlinson memorbelia on the walls. When you're craving Vietnamese Cuisine, visit here and get that fix. Thank me later. Remember to tip well.

Bun Bo Hue
Ann H.

Over a decade since I've been visiting this establishment and I still stand by my words that they have the best pho in all of San Diego. Regardless of what pho or noodle you order, the broth is on point and pack with flavor. The service is fast and despite and long like out the door, their staff always makes sure you are taken care of and quick. The ambiance is nothing to write home about but then again what pho place does anyone visit for ambiance? They've got an ample amount of seating to fit the huge crowds so the waitlist moves faster than expected.

Pho tai nam
Anastasia V.

Every time I have a craving for pho in SD, I head to Pho Cow Cali. AND Every time I go here, it's packed or the waiting list is long. Understandably so, since their pho is reliably good. The other day I came in with a big group and thankfully the wait for a table was less than 15 minutes. There's a good amount of seating inside, and the restaurant itself was very clean. We were sat at one of the tables in the middle of the restaurant so there was a bit of foot traffic but nothing too disruptive. I ordered the pho tai nam which came out piping hot! So delicious. My aunt was able to split a bowl of pho for her two kids, and the server mentioned that she could order a side of noodles so both of the kids had a good soup to noodle ratio. Our server was very nice and super attentive.

Shrimp spring rolls
Alex E.

Haven't been here in a while but still one of my favorite restaurants in the area, and have never had a bad meal here. Arrived to a group of people waiting outside to be called, as is usual, but was seated quickly. Ordered #52, Grilled Chicken with Egg Rolls and Vermicelli, and it was on point. Ordered spring rolls as well, and they were delicious. Pleased that my order came out in about 5 minutes. I love that some of the entrees come with egg rolls. Service was solid and parking is usually pretty easy. Will return.

Shrimp rolls
Ambareen C.

If you're craving pho in San Diego, this spot is a solid go-to. Pho Cow Cali Express has built a reputation over the years for its rich, slow-simmered broth and super fast service...your bowl usually hits the table within minutes. Dishes I tried: Shrimp rolls with peanut sauce: 10/10 Fillet Mignon pho: 9/10 The broth was flavorful but I felt they could've added a bit more beef slices compared to the amount of noodles. Shrimp noodles: 8/10 The broth tasted a little bland and there wasn't enough broth compared to the noodles.

26
Karen L.

Hands down the best Vietnamese restaurant in San Diego. And I don't say that lightly. Yes, there's almost always a line during dinner. And yes, it moves fast. Once you're seated, the service is seriously impressive. Orders are taken quickly, food comes out lightning fast, and everything hits the table hot and fresh. They run this place like a well oiled machine. Let's talk food because wow. The egg rolls are easily the best you can ask for. Crispy on the outside, perfectly seasoned, not greasy, and insanely addictive. Order them. Non negotiable. Their pho is consistently on point. Rich, flavorful broth that tastes like it's been simmering all day, generous portions of meat, and fresh herbs every time. Whether you're doing brisket, rare steak, or combo pho, you really can't go wrong. The vermicelli bowls are another standout. Big portions, perfectly grilled meats, fresh veggies, and that balance of sweet and savory that keeps you going back for more. The grilled pork and beef plates are also worth the hype, tender, flavorful, and always cooked just right. Portions are generous, prices are fair, and quality is consistent. That combo alone is rare these days. Bonus points for being kid friendly. It's lively and loud enough that you don't feel stressed bringing kids, which is a huge win for families who still want great food. Friendly staff, fast service, and food that never misses. This is one of those places you crave, recommend without hesitation, and keep coming back to even when the wait looks intimidating. Worth the wait. Every single time.

Pork vermicelli
Amy N.

First time here while visiting. The wait was not long but once we got seated the service was quick and the food came out super fast. It was tasty. The pho and the pork vermicelli was good. We liked it. The restaurant was clean. When we were leaving there was a line of people waiting. Busy place!!!

#35  pork rind steam meatloaf grilled pork chop broken rice w/ side of fish sauce and pho broth

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2 months ago

Best pho in San Diego. It is a wait, especially on the weekends. But you need to go if you like Vietnamese food!

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Pho Cow Cali Express Reviews in Other Languages

Ask the Community - Pho Cow Cali Express

Do they do delivery?

Nope. To go orders are pick up only.

Do they accept apple pay?

They bring out your check and you’re expected to give them your card.

Do they still have outside dining?

Just inside dining.

Is the pho gluten free? Sometimes they put gluten in the broth and sometimes they put gluten in the rice noodles (esp in America).

I think it is! My previous partner was gluten free (otherwise she could get super sick) and we ate here all the time!

Is there a min credit card charge?

There is no minimum for CC

View All 7 Questions

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4.3(654 reviews)
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It has been a while. But they still have the same friendly atmosphere, and those delicious little…read morerice plates. My colleagues got soup but I got a vermicelli plate with pork and shrimp. I don't know what number it is but it is so good! What I really like about coming here is that it is very down to earth. Most of the customers are from the Little Saigon area of City Heights. I do feel like I've been transported somewhere else. I didn't feel like getting the mung bean pudding so that will have to wait until next time.

Just moved here and looking for my go to Vietnamese spot. Took my mom here while she was visiting…read moreand we were pleasantly surprised! The space is a cozy mom & pop shop in city heights. The place was packed with Vietnamese so we must have been in the right spot! The fooooood: -Bun Bo Hue Great traditional flavor!! They even have shrimp paste you can add to adjust the flavor to your liking. 8.5/10 -Banh Beo chen This is more of a hue style with the ground shrimp and the fried pork skin on top. Probably my favorite dish. It was light and delicious! 8.8/10 -Banh Canh Cua A crab noodle soup with tapioca udon. The flavor was a bit bland but I added in some fish sauce and it made it better. The crab meatballs had great texture and flavor. 7/10 Overall, this place was delicious and I would absolutely come back to support this mom & pop shop.

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This is my go to local spot for a quick bite to eat! Never disappoints me and fresh food every…read moretime. MY FAVORITE!! First off, the staff here is so friendly and it's family owned. Always providing amazing recommendation and the service is fast. Second, any item here is delicious. Never had such a unique spot offer spring rolls of any sorts. I love the combo spring roll #1 for only $14 you get a variety of spring rolls and dumplings with a side of soup. Such a good deal! I also love their vermicelli dishes, Banh mi, and pho. If you're looking for a delicious spot in the Hillcrest area, I recommend stopping by for a bite! Food: 10/10 never disappoints, delicious and hearty Service: 10/10 so friendly and fast Parking: 8/10 small parking lot but easy to find spots to park!

So many options for spring rolls! Visiting from out town…read more I love spring rolls so had to try this place. They have combos available. You can use class pass to purchase here. The service was good. They recommended something my boyfriend could have (shellfish & nut allergy). He got the chicken pho I tried shrimp roll, shrimp & Crispy snack roll & beef pho roll. The crispy snack was delightful. Enjoyed the crunch within the roll. Came with 3 sauces- coconut, peanut & another one i dont remember but it was similar to peanut sauce. All tasty You order from the menu at table or you can place to go order at counter. Its smaller space in strip mall.

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Thanh Tinh Chay - Banh mi

Thanh Tinh Chay

4.9(1.4k reviews)
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Not sure if I trust some of these negative reviews, since some of them even said they didn't eat…read morethe food. Others you can't even see their profiles. So, I'll leave a legitimate review along with pictures. Initially, we were ambivalent about trying this place due to the high prices but they also have an exceptional rating on Google and Yelp. 4.9 on both Google and Yelp, that's rare. We bit the bullet and headed there. Parking can be tough but luckily we found parking in front of the restaurant. It was free after 8 pm on a Tuesday. If you go earlier or on the weekends, I would read the parking sign more carefully. There might be free street parking on the left side behind the restaurant. Don't quote me on that. Like I said, parking is not as easy as other places in SD. There are quite a bit of tables to sit in. It wasn't busy when we went. Yes, they do have a very large menu with like 1,000 items. We are not vegetarian or vegan but we have tried vegan places in Denver, CO. We ordered eel Helen pho roll, crispy beef chestnut and pineapple banh mi, and duck wonton noodle soup. The owner also gave us complimentary desserts, vegan corn pudding and vegan creme. She also gave us cookies and two cups of that delicious special water to go. That special water is hands down one of the best drinks I've ever had. Prices range $22-30. -eel Helen pho roll 5 - not real eel but this was very tasty. I like that the rolls don't fall apart easily. -crispy beef chestnut and pineapple banh mi 5 - the bread has a crispy exterior and the inside is moist. The chestnuts and pineapple really pair well together. I devoured this fast. -duck wonton noodle soup 5 - I really like the broth and the noodles. -vegan corn pudding 5 - this has corn with some coconut. It's a light dessert. -vegan creme 5 - this tastes like the real thing. I honestly wanted more.

Holy shit I am so impressed!!! We found street parking right in front. When we walked in we were…read moregreeted by Tran and seated right away. She went through the menu with us and gave us water. Water that tasted so freaking good! She mentioned the recipe is from the Middle East. Tran was so amazing! Plenty of seating inside. We found this restaurant on google searching vegan restaurants. This place did not disappoint. To be honest I knew it was going to be good cause being Vietnamese myself, my mom always used fresh ingredients!! Everything I ate tasted like my mom's cooking and that is extremely rare! Everything we ordered was 10/10!! I have no complaints from anything we ordered. It is expensive but you definitely pay for the quality of the food and you can taste it tooo! Can't wait to come back!!

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Kingfisher - The flan was a great end to the meal

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4.3(686 reviews)
14.0 miGolden Hill

Exceeded expectations! We stopped by for a date night, had…read morebeen by years ago and hadn't been back due to the crowds, somehow got 2 seats at the bar on a Friday night. The space is beautiful with that SoCal casual fancy (love it, hate stuffy dressed up fancy atmospheres). The staff were friendly, attentive, knowledgeable, definitely were helpful in making informative recommendations. The efforts put in are Michelin level. They notified us multiple times of the automatic 20% tip that's shared with all staff which I'm honestly fine with. We got the Pig Ears Salad (recommended by the bartender, the best, most surprising dish, 100%, will never find this anywhere else in the world), eggplants (they were still good and plentiful but not our favorite), and the dry aged duck ($$$$, the confit duck made me uncontrollably laughed and gnaw on the bones praying to extend the moment). I will always get the pig ear, and I was initially skeptical of the price of the duck but left feeling it was worth it. We left with leftovers and it's a good amount of food. Overall, excellent meal, great service, so happy it's at a point that we can do walk ins, and will be back!

I throughly enjoyed my dining experience at Kingfisher. My partner and I had a reservation here and…read morewas seated promptly after we arrived. The hostess had a note for our anniversary celebration. They also printed a little celebatory note directly on the menu - a great personal touch. Our server was friendly and answered any questions we had. We ordered the beef tartare, smoked aged duck, and the deep fried sand bass. For the drink we ordered the Seasame Soirée. While our food came out pretty slow, I'd say it was worth the wait. We also enjoyed 2 complimentary glasses of bubbly while we waited as part of our anniversary celebration. The restarant itself is decorated beautifully with a jazzy ambiance. The interior had bits of gold and green with a beautiful pearlescent leafy wallpaper. The bar is located in the center and also doubles as a centerpiece to the restuarant. Restrooms are located in the back - there we many private, clean and spacious rooms. Below is a summary of the food we ordered: Beef Tartare (5/5) - Savory, sweet and spicy beef tartare dressed in fish sauce and thai chilis. Paired alongside fresh herbs like cilantro, shiso, argula and radicchio. The sesame rice crackers were light and airy. Smoked Dry Aged Duck (5/5) - Perfectly cooked, sweet and salty aged smoked duck paired with rice noodles, herbs and 2 different sauces. I appreciated the many ways you can wrap and enjoy the duck. I do wish the slices of duck were either smaller or thinner - it's hard to eat in one bite. Whole Fried Sand Bass (4/5) - I'll always order a whole firied fish wherever I go and this was no expection. I loved the sweet & sour ginger sauce. The fish was a bit over-fried in my personal opinion, but the inside is still very soft and tender. Sweet & Sour Rice Noodles (5/5) - Aboslutely delicious! Slippery and cold rice noodles dressed in fish sauce and other seasonings. It's not overpowering at all and goes great with the Whole Fried fish as well. Seasame Soiree Cocktail (5/5) - A very unique drink made with gin, ginger, coconut, seasame seeds and more. It was very fragrant in the best way. The flavor really develops after the first sip. I love how nutty and decadent yet light this drink is. Overall, I had a great experience here and this is one of the top restaurants I've had the pleasure of enjoying in SD. Highly reccomend especially if you like Vietnamese food / fish-sauce forward dishes. (At least for the dishes I ordered)

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Pho Cow Cali Express - vietnamese - Updated May 2026

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