My review of Pho Cow Cali 🍜
Nobody asked but this is my review of Pho Cow Cali as one of the first few people in line. 🍜
I lined up this morning and at 9 I was greeted by a friendly team of eager workers. I was promptly sat and immediately brought water, then my order was taken. I ordered the grilled pork rice plate, egg rolls, and filet mignon pho (not pictured as it was to go.) The food came in about 10 minutes. I visited the restrooms and they were modern and very clean.
The food: the grilled pork was cooked perfectly, the veggies were fresh, and the pho was tasty, the mint flavor really stood out. I also ordered the Vietnamese iced coffee and although it was tasty, it was too strong for me and they were more than happy to add more milk to it for me. Ppl think if pho as lunch or dinner, but I think that the rice plates make a nice breakfast, especially with a fried egg!!
The service: the workers were friendly and eager to assist. It seems a couple of them are still getting used to everything which is expected, but nonetheless they were still very helpful. Let’s be patient during this adjustment period for them :). They refilled my water multiple times and they checked on me throughout my meal.
Ambiance: it’s beautiful inside, the interior design is contemporary. They played pop music and the volume was perfect (not too loud) the mural inside was cute and colorful showing a scene of life in busy Hanoi. The seating had many options for singles/ doubles or groups.
Overall I was extremely pleased with the food. It was fresh and tasty. This is exactly what UCSD needed (more healthier options.) This is a sit down restaurant, so be sure to tip your servers! Let’s be respectful to this place as it is a real gem and a wonderful food option for us! When I was there, they couldn’t accept triton pay (I believe there was some issue) since they just opened, so be aware of this, but they will be accepting it when this gets straightened out.