Seemor
iPho by SaigonB-Worth Trying
704 University Ave W, St Paul, MN 55104
· Vietnamese restaurant, Pho restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (2143 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Fast, affordable Vietnamese comfort food with generous pho and quick service; great value but polarizing broth quality and automatic gratuity complaints.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
iPho by Saigon delivers reliable neighborhood comfort through exceptional service speed and friendliness and generous portions at modest prices, earning its loyal following. However, variable broth quality and inconsistent banh mi execution prevent grade A territory, while the basic, worn setting limits appeal beyond its core local audience. Best suited for diners prioritizing value and speed over culinary refinement.
Restaurant Summary
A neighborhood staple where bowls hit the table fast, the room stays casual and bustling, and the portions make leftovers likely. Reviewers rave about the comforting broth and quick smiles, with one noting, "food arrived in minutes and the regular size fed me twice." Do expect no-frills surroundings and a hybrid service flow between table and counter. The cooking leans classic Vietnamese comfort: pho with aromatic bones-and-spice character on good days, fresh vermicelli salads, and a long list of banh mi. Fans praise the value and consistency of the hits; detractors call out occasional salty or bland broth and banh mi bread that can miss the mark. It is not a chef-driven fusion spot—more a reliable, portion-forward canteen. Families do well here. There is a real kids menu with simple vermicelli and rice plates, plus kid-size pho that diners say still yields leftovers. If your crew prefers plain, familiar flavors, options abound; adventurous eaters can still build spice with chiles and sauces.
At a Glance
- Very fast service with generous portions
- Strong value for money at moderate prices
- Real vegetarian and kids options
- Polarizing pho broth and banh mi bread quality
- Reports of 15% automatic gratuity for small groups
What Sets It Apart
- lightning_fast_kitchen
- banh_mi_counter_for_takeout
- large_portion_pho
- broad_kids_menu
What People Love
- Heaping bowls that feel like a bargain
- Lightning-fast kitchen when you are hungry now
- Friendly, efficient staff that keeps things moving
- Comforting pho and fresh vermicelli bowls
Points of Concern
- Broth quality varies; some find it salty or underpowered
- Banh mi bread can be soggy or stale per several diners
- Policy friction: 15% automatic gratuity reported for groups as small as three or four
- Occasional reports of bland fried rice and light protein portions in stir-fries
- Review patterns show strong opinions at both extremes; interpret isolated rants cautiously
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleHybrid
Average Cost$22-$35 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Lean toward pho or vermicelli for best value at $14-$17
- Vegetarians: Bun Chay or Mi Xao Chay around $13.85
- Kids: K1-K7 options at $7.95 offer simple, familiar plates
Perfect For
- A quick, warming pho lunch on a cold day
- Casual family dinner with picky eaters
- Solo comfort-food stop with leftovers
- Budget-friendly group meal before a game or class
Location Insights
Area: Bustling University Avenue corridor with diverse eateries and everyday retail; draws students, locals, and families.
Safety: Generally busy with steady foot traffic; typical urban corridor conditions, lighting and cleanliness can vary by block.
Nearby: Near Hamline University and Frogtown businesses; convenient to light rail and neighborhood services.
Macalester-GrovelandThis neighborhood offers a blend of historic homes and modern amenities, with a lively dining scene featuring casual eateries, cafes, and ethnic restaurants. The atmosphere is community-oriented and welcoming, with a mix of students and established residents contributing to a dynamic social environment.
Snelling-Hamline CorridorA bustling stretch known for its concentration of small businesses, eateries, and easy access to public transit, making it popular for quick meals and casual dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday10:00–19:45
Wednesday10:00–19:45
Thursday10:00–19:45
Friday10:00–19:45
Saturday10:00–19:45
Sunday10:00–18:45
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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