Pho Kapolei — Restaurant in Oʻahu

This review was a few months ago, but I thought I’d finally share it anyway. Months back, we decided to try Pho Kapolei on a whim; and to support a small eatery that had either reopened or newly opened in Kapolei (still confused about that). My husband was the one to order so I can’t attest to the ordering experience, but I can speak on the food.

I ordered my go-to Vietnamese fav: BBQ chicken, Spring rolls, and Vermicelli. When my husband came back to the car & passed me the bag with our order, I was surprised and a little confused as to why everything in the bag felt so…hot. Usually when we get takeout Vietnamese, parts of it feel cold because of the Vermicelli. But I thought nothing of it, and we drove home.

When I opened up the food container at home, I realized why it was so hot: The Vermicelli was Piping Hot to the point of still steaming! I was so confused. I waited for it to cool a bit, dipped some in the dipping sauce, and tried a bite. Because the vermicelli was never given an ice bath right after cooking, it had continued to cook and was now mushy and practically inedible. I’ve never had that happen at any Vietnamese restaurant before, so I was at a loss. I closed up the container, and we drove back.

This is actually when the experience went from bad to worst, all bc of poor customer service. Because it was a simple mistake that could easily be fixed, I wasn’t too worried. I spoke to the only person there, and told them what had happened; opening the container and showing them that the noodles were still hot and severely overcooked. At least I TRIED. They unfortunately couldn’t speak much English and had to call another person to the front to help me. The second person couldn’t speak much English either - and looked at me like he really didn’t care.

I tried to tell him that all I wanted was a replacement of the noodles since they were extremely overcooked, but they were closing and obviously didn’t want to do that. They refunded my money on the plate, and that was that. I ended up throwing away the entire plate, and grabbing a bento from 711. We never returned, and don’t plan to in the...

I spoke to the guy & he didn’t respond. I spoke again, almost forcing him to greet me prior to taking my order. The place was empty so there wasn’t a dinner rush. A few minutes after I placed my order some locals walked in & the same guy proceeded to greet them all properly which leads me to believe it wasn’t a matter of lack of skillset rather a lack of respect bc I am not a local. Being in a customer service heavy industry, service is to be a complete experience. From customer interaction, to order taking, food preparation & so on. I should not have to speak to someone repeatedly before they acknowledge me as a paying customer. If I were in the mood to drive further than I would have walked out based on his lack of politeness & service skills. No worries though because I’LL NEVER RETURN TO THIS RESTAURANT AGAIN.

Just tried the pho & it’s good. Not better than Pho Cow 7 in San Diego but solid. Too bad his behavior tarnished a potential...

First time here. I thought it be just like any other place. But I was wrong. I had the BBH and my husband the crispy noodles with vegetables and seafood stir fry. All the flavors were there and where it was supposed to be. They didn't skip on their seasoning! It was delicious!! 😁😁😁 definitely recommend and will come back for more!!! Their food portions are on the larger side. Nothing wrong with that just come hungry or share with family/friends! Service was friendly and quick. Lady who took our order...