Seemor
Chubby BowlA-Worth Trying
107 Upper St, London N1 1QN
· Vietnamese restaurant
· 5/5 Google (165 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
A warmly run Vietnamese spot in Islington delivering standout banh mi and reliably tasty pho at fair prices, with casual vibes and friendly service.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Chubby Bowl delivers solid A-grade performance through exceptional food quality anchored by standout banh mi and deeply satisfying pho, paired with attentive, friendly service that keeps the pace brisk. Reliable execution and outstanding value for money make it a neighborhood favorite, though the modest casual setting and lack of distinctive culinary ambition prevent it from reaching grade A territory. This is exactly what a well-executed neighborhood Vietnamese restaurant should be.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with friendly staff who keep things moving. One diner summed it up: "The pho broth tasted layered and the baguette snapped in the best way," which captures the vibe—simple, cozy, and neighborhood-comforting. Pricing is gentle for Upper Street and portions are generous, making this an easy addition to your local rotation. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional: classic Vietnamese flavors with a few playful turns like curry-infused pho and sate heat. Expect fresh herbs, lively pickles, and broths that taste slow-simmered rather than flashy. It is ideal for those who crave deep, comforting bowls and a top-tier banh mi rather than avant-garde experimentation. Families should do well here thanks to approachable dishes like chicken pho, chicken curry with rice, and stuffed spring rolls, plus gelato for a sweet finish. Herbs and sauces are adjustable, so you can keep flavors mild for kids; there is no formal kids menu, but the banh mi and rice plates can be simplified on request.
At a Glance
- Excellent banh mi with standout bread and balanced fillings
- Deep, satisfying pho broths and generous portions
- Friendly, attentive service with quick lunch pacing
- Herbs for pho may be an extra charge per some reviews
- Small, cozy space can feel busy at peak times
What Sets It Apart
- standout_banh_mi_on_upper_street
- rich_broths_made_in_house
- excellent_value_lunch_deals
What People Love
- Bread texture and stuffing of the banh mi
- Rich, balanced pho broths without heavy aftertaste
- Fair prices and consistent portions
- Staff warmth and practical guidance on sauces and garnishes
Points of Concern
- A minority reported blandness on a visit, suggesting occasional variance
- Pho herb plate reportedly charged extra by some accounts
- Small venue may have limited space for larger parties
- Lunch deal availability may vary by day and time
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£19-28 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with Pork & Prawn Spring Rolls (£7.50), then Classic Beef Pho (£12.95) for a balanced meal under £25.
- For vegetarians, pair Tofu & Mushrooms Pho (£12.25) with Papaya Salad (£6.50) for fresh contrast.
- Banh Mi lunch route: any fill at £8.90; ask if the drink bundle is available.
Perfect For
- Casual weekday lunch on Upper Street
- Pre-theatre bite with comforting bowls
- Banh mi cravings without the premium price
- Solo drop-ins wanting quick, friendly service
Location Insights
Area: Lively High Street corridor with boutiques, theaters, and casual-to-midrange dining popular with locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy into evenings with steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Almeida Theatre and Upper Street retail; strong lunch trade and pre/post-theatre dining.
IslingtonA trendy and sophisticated neighborhood with a sophisticated dining scene, featuring numerous gastropubs, artisan cafes, and high-end restaurants. Upper Street is particularly renowned for its diverse culinary offerings and cosmopolitan atmosphere.
AngelA bustling sub-district within Islington known for its vibrant nightlife, innovative restaurants, and contemporary urban energy.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday12:00–16:00, 17:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–16:00, 17:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–16:00, 17:00–22:00
Friday12:00–16:00, 17:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–16:00, 16:30–22:00
Sunday12:00–16:00, 16:30–21:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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