Seemor
Com Pho RestaurantBWorth Trying
159 Whitecross St, London EC1Y 8JL
· Vietnamese restaurant
· 4.8/5 Google (295 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
A lively Vietnamese spot near the Barbican with standout pho, crisp spring rolls, and quick, no-frills service at fair prices—though service warmth and consistency vary.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Com Pho delivers reliable Vietnamese comfort food with solid pho and spring rolls that earn consistent praise, supported by fast, friendly service ideal for pre-theatre dining. However, quality fluctuates across visits and dishes—with occasional reports of bland broth or small portions—and moderate uncertainty from review authenticity patterns prevent a higher grade. Strong value and convenient Barbican location make it a dependable neighborhood choice rather than a destination.
Restaurant Summary
A compact Vietnamese spot steps from the Barbican, Com Pho hums with quick, friendly energy. Bowls of steaming pho and plates of blistered spring rolls hit tables fast, and several diners call it their go-to before a show. One summed it up simply: "Broth tasted deep and aromatic and the staff kept things moving." The cooking leans classic Vietnamese comfort with a few regional nods like Hue spicy broth. Expect crisp spring rolls, savory fish sauce wings, sturdy banh mi, and a pho that many rate among London’s better bowls. Portions are usually generous for the price, though a few diners wished for more herbs or larger beef slices. In short: reliable flavors, fast pacing, and good central-London value. Families do fine here. Kids gravitate to egg fried rice, spring rolls, and mild grilled chicken, and the room feels casual enough for a quick meal. There is no dedicated kids menu, but the rice dishes and banh mi are approachable; just mind the heat warnings on sauces, which reviewers say are accurate.
At a Glance
- Deep, aromatic pho broth praised by many
- Fast, pre-theatre-friendly pacing
- Strong vegetarian and vegan selection for a Vietnamese venue
- Service warmth and tone can be uneven at peak times
- Occasional reports of small meat portions or bland broth
What Sets It Apart
- authentic_pho_focus
- pre_theatre_speed
- robust_vegetarian_vegan_menu
What People Love
- Broth depth that feels homemade
- Spring rolls that crackle and stay light
- Speedy service when the room gets busy
- Fair prices for the central location
- Staff who give honest heat warnings
Points of Concern
- Some diners report curt or inconsistent service interactions, especially when busy
- A few bowls had small herb plates or shredded meat bits instead of slices
- One report of illness after beef stew; isolated but worth noting
- Review patterns include many templated owner replies which can feel defensive to criticism
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£28-42 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Vietnamese spring rolls (£7.80-£8.60), then a pho or curry (£11.50-£14.80); add iced coffee for a classic finish
- Value combo: starter + banh mi (£8.50-£11.00) for a lighter meal under £25
Perfect For
- Pre-Barbican dinner with limited time
- Casual weeknight pho craving
- Group of friends seeking good value in central London
- Solo quick lunch with reliable staples
Location Insights
Area: Mixed commercial and residential streets near the Barbican, popular with office workers, locals, and pre-show diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked with evening footfall due to Barbican events.
Nearby: Close to the Barbican Centre; surrounded by small eateries and shops along Whitecross Street.
BarbicanA distinctive urban neighborhood characterized by brutalist architecture, cultural institutions, and a vibrant mix of residential and commercial spaces. The dining scene is sophisticated, with trendy cafes, artisan restaurants, and innovative culinary establishments.
Whitecross StreetA bustling street known for its popular street food market and diverse, affordable dining options that attract a dynamic lunch crowd and after-work social scene.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Tuesday11:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Wednesday11:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Thursday11:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Friday11:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Saturday11:00–22:30
Sunday11:00–22:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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