Pho Papa — Restaurant in San Jose

Have been strongly and repeatedly suggested to try this place as one of those must go to places. So set sail, I did. Drove from the North Bay to SJ one week day for lunch, sadly it was closed for Chinese year. Then a few weeks after I gave it another visit. Got there and saw good parking spaces and lot of customers inside. With great anticipation, I walked in but was advised that it is closed after 2pm! Dang it! So home I went with some regrets. Days later I finally got back in and got what I had long waited for - a good and awesome bowl of pho. Oh boy, did I not get it. It was out of this world. Every thing a typical pho-connoisseur (or at least I think I am) would expect: tasty and boiling hot broth topped nicely cut scallions, fresh-made and soft pho noodles (i prefer these over the others), tender and plentiful of meats, fresh basils and bean sprouts, clean table and sauce bottles. Keep in mind this place does Pho only and no other BS rice dishes, vermicelli bowls, rolls, or etc so one can be assured that this is the "PLACE". Pho Papa has added 1 extra regular customer to their data base or clientele. Love this...

12/13/2024* Everything tastes amazing, and the service is impressively quick. The moment I was seated, the waiter was ready to take my order right at my table.

The Pho Pap’s #1 Beef Noodle Soup was fantastic! The soup base was flavorful and clear, without being too salty. The combination of steak, brisket, flank, tendons, and fat brisket was a great mix of textures, and the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, chilies, and lemon juice really elevated the dish!

8/26/2024 I tried Pho Pap's #1 Beef Noodle Soup, and it left quite an impression! The soup base was both flavorful and clear, which I appreciated. Unlike some other places, it didn't leave me feeling overly salty afterward. That's definitely a plus!

The combination of raw steak, well-done brisket, flank, tendons, and fat brisket provided a delightful mix of textures. But what really stole the show were the fresh additions: basil, bean sprouts, chilies, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Each bite felt like a new flavor adventure!

It's a cozy spot with efficient service, and their Beef Noodle...

Pho Papa was our first visit to this Vietnamese pho restaurant. We thought Christmas Day might be less busy, but when we arrived around 1 PM, there was still a wait. However, opting for outdoor seating allowed us to be seated more quickly.

The pho broth was incredibly rich and flavorful, leaving a lasting impression. The bean sprouts and Thai basil provided were noticeably more generous than other restaurants, and the lime slices were larger and fresher. Adding extra lime juice brightened the broth even more, enhancing its depth with a refreshing tang.

I ordered the small bowl #1, which came with a variety of beef cuts and tender beef tendon. The flavors and textures were absolutely delicious. I also added an order of beef ribs, which were served in a separate bowl filled with broth and topped with plenty of green onions. The meat was tender and fall-off-the-bone, making it a memorable addition...