Kai Vietnamese Cuisine — Restaurant in Tulsa

There are quality restaurants all through downtown Tulsa but of the few that are in the Western area, Kai proves that quality, not location, is the most important characteristic of any establishment. I visited this restaurant on two occasions (Nov. 2nd, 2022 and Jan. 3rd, 2024) around 1pm and each time I've been impressed with their efficiency and offerings. Located directly across the street from the City court, County court, County library and three hotels, there isn't a shortage of foot traffic and potential customer in the area. But, instead of relying on patrons passing by, Kai captures people's interest and keeps their business through their service, quality of their food and variety of options.

Though the restaurant was relatively full, both visits (unannounced with another guest) the service was very attentive as I was seated almost immediately and brought menus and waters soon after. The menu is vast with offerings that range from Vietnamese plates, stir frys, Pho, Appetizers and even desserts! Each time, no matter how indecisive, the server knew when we were ready to order and came promptly, despite the traffic. My first visit I ordered the Brisket Steak Pho and the second time I ordered the Duck Noodle Pho. The food was delivered in within 15mins (or less)! Each came with a sizeable amount of basil cilantro and bean sprouts. I was intrigued at the taste of the (Brisket Steak) broth! I've had pho before in different cities but, instead of a simple/general vegetable palette, Kai's actually had a distinct flavor to it. Additionally, when I had the Duck Noodle, I was beyond impressed at the robust flavor. There was a heaping helping of meat while the vegetables included were well-balanced. The broth was so good that it's necessary to sip it to the bottom of the bowl. On my initial visit, I ordered the passion fruit lemonade and it was to die for! I absolutely had to order it again when I returned and would highly recommend ordering one. Both visits were on a lunch break and I was in-and-out within 1hr. Lickety Split.

Overall, Kai is capitalizing on the elements surrounding it and thriving doing so. Though it's easy to miss, it's a treasure in plain sight that's championing the downtown lunch service. Highly recommended as a go-to Asian cuisine or for any casual...

Kai uses extrememly fresh ingredients. The spring rolls taste fresh from the garden. I've worked through most of the menu and everything is delicious.

Update 6/16/2025 - it has been a year but here we are again. I can't believe I have been eating here since it opened. I had the H2, the combination seafood in shimmering broth. My wife had Vermicelli with tofu, a go-to dish.

Update: 5/9/2024 - It has been awhile since I went to Kai. Just remembering how fresh the ingredients were, drew me back. Being a lover of seafood, I had the H1, Hù tiēu, which is a traditional chicken broth simmered for hours with seafood, sheer noodles, and served with fresh beans sprout and basil leaves for wilting in the soup. Also at the table, was V4, Vermicelli with Tofu. It looked very delicious and Kai can really make Tofu exciting. For an appetizer, we had our favorite, the Lotus salad. It was fresh and the fish chips are so delicious. We sat outside on a quiet pleasant evening and took in the placid environment. It was a wonderful dining experience. I'd like to add that the hot green tea is nice, especially for a spring evening. Kai has been one of, if not the one, my favorite restaurants to dine at.

Update: Tonight 5/26/22 - The great thing about Kai is that it is there for you when your day or string of days may be very challenging. My assorted Lo Mein was front and center in my mind before leaving. I needed some comfort and Kai delivered!

Update: Tonight 5/21/21 I had the H1 (The Glass Noodle Seafood). I asked for it extra spicy. It comes in a giant bowl and is served in Kai's shimmering broth. It was so delicious. On a scale of 5, it was my first 6. I've given most of their dishes a 5. This one just blew me away. I also had the Lotus Salad appetizer for the first time and I was surprisingly pleased with the taste and combination of the shrimp crackers and fish sauce. Definitely...

I relocated downtown two years ago, and ever since discovering Kai, it has become my go-to spot for incredible Vietnamese cuisine. Every visit reaffirms why I keep coming back; their food is simply phenomenal, and I’m convinced you can’t go wrong with any dish on the menu!

Let’s start with the pho—it's hands down some of the best I’ve tasted. The broth is rich and flavorful, with the perfect balance of spices that warms the soul. Whether you’re a meat lover or a fan of vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone, and each bowl is generously portioned.

Next up is the fried rice, which is nothing short of exquisite. I highly recommend adding a fried egg on top; it takes this dish to a whole new level. The yolk adds a creamy richness that complements the savory flavors perfectly. Trust me on this one—you won’t regret it!

And we can’t forget dessert! The Thai Boba is a delightful treat that wraps up the meal perfectly. The chewy boba pearls are just the right texture, and the sweet, creamy drink is the ideal ending to a fantastic dining experience.

The atmosphere at Kai is inviting, and the staff is always friendly and attentive. It’s a cozy spot where you can relax and enjoy amazing food, and I love the consistency they maintain over the years.

In summary, I wholeheartedly recommend Kai—100%! If you’re in the area, do yourself a favor and try their incredible pho, fried rice, and that irresistible Thai Boba. You won't be...