Phở Passion and MinTea Bar — Restaurant in San Jose

I came on this place almost accidentally because I was recently offered a new job where it’s in downtown San Jose area. For a while I passed by it thinking I must came in and have some pho or specialty drinks soon especially after I read so many great reviews regarding it. On a relatively windy and cool day, which is perfect for hot meal or hot soup like pho, I decided to come in. I was thoroughly impressed by the modern artistic deco, completely unexpected and much more chic and trendier than other pho restaurants I’ve frequent. Then I met the lady server who was smiling to me which gave me a welcoming sensation. Upon ordering, I also saw the choices of noodles for pho which wasn’t always an option in other places and I was ecstatic because instead of the usual thin rice pho noodles, I got to order the thicker rice noodles version which I much more prefer, as they are softer and chewier (more Al dente). After order I was given a number so the server can find me wherever I am and that’s another great feature of the establishment which I don’t have to wait for anyone to seat me. I also ordered some specialty fruit drinks and they were so tasty and fresh. Overall, great experience but if I must suggest anything for improvement, it’s universal to all pho restaurants. That is, pho noodles have become way more expensive than even few years ago, to a ridiculous level. What used to be cheaper comfort food is becoming nearly unaffordable and honestly I don’t think they cost an arm and a leg on the ingredients to the establishments but because they are popular, the businesses have all decided to upcharge their clients. If I were there restaurateur, I would not have charged so much on something so simplistic and not all that expensive because n ultimately they can sell volumes and satisfy more customers, primarily those that don’t have high paying jobs like the high tech employees here. But again, that’s...

Pho Passion & MinTea Bar delivers when you want solid Vietnamese food with a relaxed vibe. The space is clean, modern, and welcoming. We tried the steak & brisket pho and a variety of tea drinks, and both hit nicely—the meat was generous, the broth flavorful, and the teas refreshing. The robot waiter was a fun touch and added some novelty without distracting.

What works well: the staff is friendly; your order is usually ready quickly; the menu has good variety with noodle soups, fish balls, gyoza, and tasty sides. Portions are generous enough that you don’t feel short‑changed. Drinks are well done and paired nicely with the food.

What could improve: when it’s busy, wait times go up, especially for popular pho bowls or hot appetizers. Parking is street parking mostly, so timing matters. Also, more frequent check‑ins by staff could improve service during peak hours—refilling water or asking if you need anything helps.

Overall, Pho Passion & MinTea Bar is a solid go‑to for authentic Vietnamese pho, good boba/tea options, and a welcoming atmosphere in San Jose. If you’re craving a soup that warms you up or a flavorful noodle dish, this place delivers.

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My 8 year old son and my husband visited this establishment - my 8 yr old asked to use the restroom. The rude 30 year old with silver braces and missing teeth advised that the restroom was for customers only.

My husband asked if she would allow our child to use the restroom and was turned away.

Horrible policy. He is a child. And has to use the restroom.

I go in 10 minutes later, and asked to use the restroom and she said ok.

I asked her why she wouldn’t allow my husband and son to use the restroom and she looked shocked smiled and said customers only. I said I’m not a customer- In the middle of my talking she got loud and talked over me. I ashamedly, lost my cool And got loud back.

My husband is black and our son is mixed. I am Asian and embarrassed even though I’m not Vietnamese.

Patronizing this establishment will only foster the racism that continues in San Jose. Horrible service and funny enough, we were looking for a restaurant to eat at.

The hostess with the braces is rude and obviously racist. It’s sad to have to explain this to a child and fortunately he has now witnessed how some close minded people view other...