blossom vietnamese — Restaurant in Santa Monica

When we first walked in, the hostess just stared at us. No “hi,” no “how many,” nothing. It was super awkward until I finally said, “Uh hi, 3 and a highchair please.” She just said “ok” and kept staring… we weren’t sure if it was seat yourself or what.

Another lady came to take our order. I asked if they had a kids menu (not a big deal if they didn’t), she said no. I asked if we could get a smaller portion for my 2-year-old and she flatly said no again, but with this attitude like I was wasting her time. Honestly made the whole table uncomfortable.

I ordered the combination pho and asked if I could swap the tendon for shrimp. She first said no substitutions, then said it would be $7 extra. Didn’t make sense since I wasn’t adding anything, just swapping — and the shrimp pho on the menu was cheaper than the combo anyway. I let it go, but when it came out there were only four shrimp in the whole bowl. On top of that, they weren’t deveined, and the first one tasted almost plastic/chemical. The second one had an earthy taste but not in a good way.

We also ordered Thai iced teas, but they didn’t bring them until after we were completely done eating.

Then the bill came, and this part really bothered us. My husband and I both ordered the combination pho, but our friend ordered just brisket pho. The receipt literally said “Combination pho – no tendon, no tripe, no rare steak”… so basically they rang her up for the most expensive pho, removed all the other meats, left just brisket, and still charged her the full combo price.

The broth itself was good, but the whole experience was stressful and not worth it. LA has hundreds of pho places with way better service and atmosphere. What sucks is we’ve ordered takeout from here before and it was always great — but actually dining in? Definitely...

After a long day at work i craved for a pho. Found this place and even when i get off at 8:00pm i hurried to get there. I was able to find a table outside and was not sure if it was open because blossom and friends cafe is not blossom vietnamese food. But google map pointed me there. I called in and ask if they were open and lady said immidiately last order is 830. I was calling 825. I read on google they close at 930 so i was like ok. Then i said 1 pho. She was like which one. I told her i havent looked into their menu. She was like call back when you have seen it. Then i called again 826 answered 827 i think got my order then just took my name. She didnt ask anything else. I realized when i looked into the map again that the pho place is besides the one i was waiting at. Went to the place. Lady greeted me and i told her i ordered by phone and just wanted to pay. Then a couple came in and asked to be sitted. So i asked the lady can i eat here? She said yes and was very accomodating. I didnt want to make a fuss and just want to eat there but the chef came out and said he can put my order in a bowl cause it is much better. They already packed it for to go that is why. The place is cozy. People were welcoming (except for the lady who answered my call. It seemed she was like ready to go home). Free water. Ambiance was perfect. I left $20 tip because they deserve it. Even when i felt bad at first, but they made up for it big time. Definitely...

4.5 Star. Overall. Impressed. First word that came to mind. Walked in expecting a 3-Star encounter with MSG coma, pleasantly surprised that waiter says no MSG is added to broth. Authentic flavor, comparable to ones in the SGV, in fact — even much better than many of them! Would return if in the area. Adding it to my Would Return places. Decent price. Everyone’s speaking Vietnamese in the open kitchen. Adds a touch to the authenticity.

5 Star. Atmosphere. Not rundown and tackily maintained like most authentic Pho places. Edy comfortable, modern, classy, and relaxing. So glad someone up the experience.

4.5 Star. Service. Only one other party before me, service is a little slow compared to ones in the SGV (serviced minutes after ordering). But it’s okay. I’m not in a rush today. Bill was $21.16 after tips and 18% tax pre-added to the receipt. Good thing I don’t have to calculate how much to tip, but bad if I feel like tipping less if I happen to experience below par service.

4.5 Star. Food. Fresh, quality, authentic. Not horrible like normal pho places that down a bunch of MSG to cover up the poor taste. Decent portion, but about 1/4th smaller to what I’m used to. An appetizer and bowl of noodle still fed myself and my 6 year old well, with a little left to spare.

#1 $5 spring rolls- with shrimp & pork. Very fresh and authentic. #31 $11.50 Rice Noodle Soup - Combination Waiter says no MSG...