VN
Vianna Nguyen
Aug 25, 2026
This place honestly felt like a scam. We ordered trà đá, which is basically ice water with just a splash of tea. At 99% of Vietnamese restaurants, this is complimentary. If there is a charge, restaurants usually let you know beforehand, and it is typically around $1 to $2 per cup.
At this restaurant, no one clarified that there would be a charge, yet we were charged $5.50 per cup, while their actual drinks cost only $6. If we had known, we would have just ordered actual drinks instead. It is not about the amount of money. It is about transparency and honesty with customers.
As for the food, it was overpriced and lacked flavor. I ordered their special Vietnamese udon (bánh canh đặc biệt), but they had the audacity to serve me Japanese udon. That is not bánh canh. Vietnamese bánh canh and Japanese udon are completely different in taste, texture, and preparation, so this was especially disappointing and felt disrespectful to a traditional Vietnamese dish.
We also tried their “most popular” dish, mackerel snd fish cake noodle soup (bún cá thu chả cá), and unfortunately, it was completely bland and lacked flavor.
Overall, I would not recommend this place. Between the disappointing, overpriced food and the lack of transparency regarding the charges, the experience left a very bad impression.
Gao is an all-around spot that never disappoints in taste or service, which is why I’ve returned with my family countless times. We’ve definitely become regulars! Such a great authentic Vietnamese spot for families and casual dining.
My go-to is always the Grilled Beef Chop (Rib Cutlet) rice dish. Their house sauce is on the saltier side, but poured over the rice, it balances out perfectly. Oh, and I absolutely love the Vietnamese iced coffee here! And the portions? They do not play. Generous every single time.
The service is what really sets Gao apart. The two gentlemen at the front are always so attentive and friendly. On my last visit, one of them remembered that I wasn’t a fan of the steamed egg and pork meatloaf from a previous visit. I never mentioned it or asked for anything, he just remembered my reaction and offered to substitute it with an egg. . Such a small gesture, but it says a lot. Great food, thoughtful service, and a place I’ll keep coming back to! 10/10!!!