Little Vietnam Cafe

309 6th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States
+1 415-876-0283
$$$ Vietnamese restaurant , Pho restaurant , Sandwich shop , Vegetarian restaurant
(93 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Little Vietnam Cafe sits quietly on 6th Avenue, offering a straightforward Vietnamese dining experience that balances quick, satisfying meals with casual neighborhood comfort. It's a spot where you can come for a laid-back lunch or an early dinner without the fuss of fine dining, yet still enjoy dishes that hit authentic notes.

The eatery leans heavily on classic Vietnamese staples like pho and bánh mì, with enough variety to suit different tastes including vegetarian options like their tofu garlic noodles and vegetarian pho. Regulars appreciate the balance between hearty and light—soups are generously portioned but not overwhelming, making it a good choice for a filling yet digestible meal. The bánh mì sandwiches are straightforward and traditional, especially the lemongrass pork and crispy fish varieties, served on toasted French rolls with fresh pickled vegetables and herbs. Adding their house special sauce and a fried egg, known locally as "Peter's Special," transforms the sandwich into something more layered without complicating flavors.

The atmosphere is unpretentious and functional, with a small indoor seating area complemented by a few outdoor tables along the street—ideal for people-watching during the calmer early evening hours. Locals seem to drop in most often in the afternoon and early evening, times when other nearby spots may be closed or transitioning. The modest, no-frills setup reflects the cafe’s focus on straightforward, homestyle dishes rather than ambiance. Service feels warm and efficient, the kind of friendly interaction that fits well with the neighborhood vibe.

For those who linger over beverages, the Vietnamese iced coffee stands out as a refreshing choice, rich and strong, providing a nice counterbalance to the savory dishes. Non-coffee drinkers find safe bets with familiar sodas and Thai iced tea, which also fits the casual, low-key approach of the place.

This cafe is best for diners seeking authentic, unfussy Vietnamese flavors without the trappings of fusion or trends. It's particularly suited to folks who want a quick and satisfying meal after a day exploring the Richmond District or those who appreciate comfort food served with a side of straightforward hospitality. Lunchtime and early dinner visits are moments when the place feels most lively without being crowded.

Visitors should note:

  • Portions are generous but the bun on sandwiches can sometimes vary in freshness.
  • The price points are modest, though some local feedback suggests a desire for more meat in certain sandwiches.
  • Outdoor seating is available and pleasant when the weather allows, ideal for soaking in street views in a relaxed way.
  • Closing time around 8pm means it’s best to plan visits accordingly if you’re coming for dinner.
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
What they serve
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Best for
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible car park

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

09:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Wednesday

09:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Thursday

09:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Friday

09:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Saturday

09:30 AM - 08:00 PM

Sunday

09:30 AM - 08:00 PM

93 Reviews
Bonnie Carawan

07 Jan 2026

Cute little cafe we found when looking for a place to eat during "the fringe". When no one is open at 330pm! What a gem! I had the vegetarian bowl, husband had mixed beef pho bowl. Both were tasty, filling yet light. I recommend. I know they close at 8pm.

ItsAllAbout Buddhism

07 Dec 2025

Around 5:45 PM, as the city seemed to be winding down and our hunger was growing, we stumbled upon this unexpected gem. Eager to try something new, we found ourselves in an amazing place. We chose to sit outside, wanting to soak in the street views while we enjoyed our meal. The owner's kindness and generosity only enhanced the experience. The Vietnamese cold coffee was a refreshing highlight, and both the tofu sandwich and crab salad were absolutely delicious. April 11 2025

Ali Tatarian

18 Nov 2025

If you want to eat the most delicious Bahn Mi you’ve ever tasted then come here bc theirs is THE BEST!!!! I live in the North Bay and we don’t have anything North of the golden gate that is delivering proper Bahn Mi with all the fixins and nothing fancy or fusion. Traditional and delicious made with fresh products. Do not, I repeat, do not forget to add the pate!! On top of allllll that, the staff is giving above and beyond service; they offered to wrap up a few of my sando’s all special so they would be at peak perfection for the next day. Yes, I ordered six bc when you can’t get something you love every day you go big!

Elise Duncan

15 Nov 2025

Little Vietnam Café is a hidden gem. The pho is incredibly comforting, with rich, aromatic broth and noodles that are cooked just right. The portions are generous, and the fresh herbs and condiments served on the side really let you customize the bowl to your taste. The staff were welcoming and efficient, and the cozy, no-frills atmosphere made it feel like a go-to neighbourhood spot.

Andrey Kisel

11 Nov 2025

The lemongrass pork Banh Mi came out to $7 even after taxes. The pork in the sandwich was what carried this sandwich! The only thing is that afterwards, you will wish there was more of it in the sandwich. During this visit, the bun did not seem the freshest. Would be 5 stars if there was a bit more meat, a fresher bun, and a price around $4.50-5.

E Lee

02 Nov 2025

Came here for lunch. I’ve previously come here just for a grab and go spring roll that is pre packed. This time, tried the chicken pho and Vietnamese coffee. Ordered on the kiosk. Coffee was very sweet but still strong. Pho ga broth was good. Inside had bar stool seating for about 6. Outside had 2 patio tables

Joanne Senoren

14 Oct 2025

When I used to work in the Presidio back in 2013 - 2015 I frequented this place for a quick lunch pick up. My coworkers would go to another place to get their banh mi sandwiches, but for me this was the most authentic spot to get a banh mi in the Richmond. I went back just yesterday after all these years. I was happy to see they still maintain their classic menu and do their sandwiches the same delicious way! They share a kitchen with Koja kitchen nowadays, but you can choose from the two menus. I recommend the pork banh mi with Pete's special sauce. My mother-in-law enjoyed a small bowl of chicken broth and my husband sipped the broth with his sandwich. Super cozy combination! There is a grab and go corner for items like spring rolls. But I didn't see desserts like they used to carry. I hope that desserts are still be available.

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