When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
City Pho
Why City Pho is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
City Pho in Denver offers a casual dining experience focused on Vietnamese cuisine, including its signature pho and banh mi sandwiches. Although the restaurant has a low rating, it serves dishes that some customers enjoy, especially its banh mi which has been praised for well-seasoned pork and perfectly layered vegetables. The atmosphere is straightforward without much embellishment, making it a place suited for simple meals rather than special occasions. The location is convenient for those seeking quick, authentic Vietnamese street food-inspired offerings, serving as a modest spot to meet friends casually and share flavorful dishes without high prices or fancy surroundings.
Here's what people think of City Pho
As of recent, City Pho holds a 1.5-star rating based on 263 reviews.
User reviews for City Pho are mixed but tend toward the critical, contributing to its low overall rating of 1.5 from around 263 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the tasty banh mi sandwiches, with particular appreciation for the seasoning and balance of ingredients, describing the place as an "urban oasis of Asian culinary delight." Some customers enjoy the authentic flavors and straightforward menu options. However, negative reviews often mention issues like inconsistent food quality, lackluster service, and an unremarkable dining environment. Several users felt the experience did not meet expectations based on the modest prices, with some disappointed by the pho and other menu items. Overall, the reviews suggest City Pho can deliver on some Vietnamese staples but faces challenges with consistency and service, leaving it a less favorable option compared to other local Vietnamese restaurants.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Seikoh Kobayashi
First of all, the customer service is pretty bad. 2 young girls were working but I do not think they have never been trained for working there. That would be the reasons why the pho taste was so bad. Noodle, soup, ingredients, everything are bad. Especially, a pho usually includes a lots of bean sprouts on top but there were only a couple of them with my pho. Since City Pho is located at the airport. I do not expect high quality but this is not worth to pay $17. You should be ready for regretting of yourself if you stop by City Pho.
SkyWolf1378
Denver airport’s hidden gem! This unassuming and quiet facade on the upper level of Terminal B has a simple signage, but amazing food! As a foodie who appreciates good Asian food, I highly recommend the tuna poke bowl at City Pho. It’s a little pricey, but considering there’s always an up charge at airports, I think it was well worth it!
Holly House
I went to the reviews first and super skeptical, but I saw a group of gals eating the pho. So naturally, I asked them how it was. They said it was really good, and mentioned they’re from Seattle and get pho often there. I liked those credentials so I threw caution to the wind and got the beef pho. They only had 2 people working; one person working the register and the other plating. So let’s keep our expectations low on speed and service. Truly average service. The pho does have all the works, I thought it was a good balance of everything and there was enough protein. Broth was fine, and I ate the whole thing. I think this is just average pho, and honestly good for being airport pho. There is no wow factor, but it’s a good place to eat if you crave pho like I do. I would eat here again!
Papat Wikraisakda
I warned you! don’t even think about trying it. I made a big mistake by not checking the review. raw noodle with extremely salty broth which just nasty as its look. I took back and let them know. they said it was good they ate it before just depends on your taste. Well if you like it 1000% you have taste problem 🤦♀️
Zaid Al
Absolutely HORRIBLE. The pho tasted worse than garbage. The noodles are plastic, the greens are prepackaged and old, and the pho broth itself tastes like used toilet water. I saw them pouring the pho broth from a huge paint bucket from the back into a container in the front. it looked unsanitary and gross. You can see how disgusting the broth looks in my photos and it tastes even worse than it looks. The workers have no idea what they are doing. I can’t even believe I had a spoon full of this, after I ate one spoon full. I had enough, I spat it out, and threw it away right away. video is proof.
How to reach City Pho
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Website: None
Why City Pho may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at City Pho with your friends?
City Pho presents a unique and casual dining experience that can be perfect for gathering with friends or family. Despite its relatively low overall rating of 1.5 from 263 reviews, the restaurant offers specific highlights that can appeal to groups seeking authentic Vietnamese flavors, especially Asian culinary delights like banh mi sandwiches and pho noodle soup. Atmospheric factors such as a clean and aesthetically pleasing interior, quick service, and generous meat portions in their pho bowls create a comfortable setting for socializing. The affordability of menu items, especially for airport dining, makes it accessible for groups on the go. Furthermore, the combination of traditional Vietnamese dishes alongside urban flavors provides a broad palette that can satisfy diverse tastes within a group, encouraging conversation and shared enjoyment. For those looking for a spot to catch up over flavorful meals where the veggies are layered perfectly and the dishes are seasoned just right, City Pho offers a welcoming environment. Though some reviews note price concerns and variability in food quality, this place can still be an urban oasis for a casual, food-focused meetup with close friends or family members.
What activities can you enjoy at City Pho for a group meetup?
At City Pho, the primary activity revolves around enjoying authentic Vietnamese cuisine, which naturally facilitates communal dining experiences. The menu prominently features dishes like pho, which is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup served with savory broth, herbs, and your choice of meats such as shrimp or pork. This setup lends itself to sharing, as groups often order a variety of bowls to sample different flavors. Additionally, banh mi sandwiches offer a delicious alternative for those preferring handheld meals, featuring seasoned pork and layered vegetables with flavorful sauces. Beyond eating, the restaurant's interior is designed to be clean and inviting, which promotes relaxed conversation and connection. Groups can also engage in customizing their dishes, as pho is often accompanied by fresh herbs, lime, and chili that guests can add to suit their taste—a fun, interactive experience when done together. The fast service ensures that groups don’t have to wait long, which keeps the energy positive and helps maintain good vibes throughout the meetup. Overall, dining at City Pho is about more than just the food; it’s about sharing a cultural and culinary experience in a place that encourages social interaction and togetherness.
Why is City Pho ideal for hosting a friendly and casual meetup?
City Pho stands out as a venue that caters to casual gatherings due to its approachable menu and straightforward ambiance. Its specialization in Vietnamese dishes provides a unique offering compared to generic dining spots, thus making meetups fresh and memorable. The restaurant embraces an informal environment where groups can feel comfortable lingering over their pho while chatting without the pressure of formal dining. The availability of affordable yet tasty options means groups don’t have to worry about the cost burden while enjoying quality meals. Moreover, the quick and attentive service ensures that groups can focus more on their company rather than on logistical delays. The venue's urban setting enhances its appeal as a meetup destination for locals or travelers who want a quick, satisfying taste of Asian cuisine without extensive wait times. These factors combine to create a gathering place that is both accessible and enjoyable, allowing friends or family to rally around good food, meaningful conversation, and shared cultural tastes in a relaxed setting.
How does the menu at City Pho support group dining experiences?
The menu at City Pho is tailored to encourage sharing and variety, essential components of successful group dining. Pho noodle soups can be personalized with different proteins, from shrimp to beef, offering variety within the group so everyone can find something they enjoy. The inclusion of banh mi sandwiches further diversifies the dining options, giving guests a taste of Vietnamese street food classics. Side dishes such as spring rolls and shrimp summer rolls bring finger food into the mix, perfect for sharing and sampling among friends. The fresh vegetables and condiments that garnish many dishes invite customization, engaging guests in a tactile and flavorful experience. This breadth and depth of offerings make ordering for a group fun and dynamic, sparking discussions about preferences and encouraging guests to try dishes outside their norm. The generous meat portions and carefully balanced flavors on the menu mean that the food is satisfying, helping to nourish lengthy conversations and celebratory meals. The menu’s diversity thus transforms the act of dining into a social event, where everyone contributes to the feast.
What makes the interior and space of City Pho suitable for a group meetup?
City Pho’s interior contributes significantly to its suitability as a meetup location with friends or family. Reviews highlight the clean and aesthetically pleasing design that creates a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel comfortable and relaxed right when they enter. The seating arrangements are spacious enough to handle groups, allowing for easy interaction without feeling cramped or rushed. The decor reflects a modern urban vibe with subtle nods to Vietnamese culture, which enhances the dining experience by connecting guests with the authenticity of the cuisine. Lighting and layout are designed to promote a warm, inviting mood conducive to lingering over food and conversation. Additionally, the restaurant's efficient layout enables quick service and easy movement for guests and staff, helping maintain the flow of the group’s gathering. This comfortable environment encourages guests to stay longer, fostering stronger social bonds and memorable times together.
How do service and pricing affect the group meetup experience at City Pho?
Service and pricing at City Pho play a nuanced role in shaping the group meetup experience. Customer reviews indicate that service tends to be quick and attentive, which is especially beneficial for groups who prefer not to wait excessively for their food. Quick service keeps the mood upbeat and allows more time for interaction once the meal arrives. On the pricing front, some reviewers note that items like pho can be somewhat pricey, particularly compared to other similar restaurants or for airport dining. However, others feel the quality and portion sizes justify the cost. For groups on a budget, it’s a consideration, but many find the value acceptable given the flavorful and generous meals served. Overall, the quality of service ensures that the group feels well cared for, while the pricing reflects a balance between accessibly affordable and premium Asian cuisine. These factors combined influence whether the meetup feels smooth, worthwhile, and enjoyable.
What kind of crowd typically gathers at City Pho?
City Pho attracts a diverse crowd that ranges from local residents seeking authentic Vietnamese dishes to travelers and airport visitors looking for decent, flavorful meals on the go. Groups of friends who appreciate Asian cuisine often find this spot suitable due to its urban location and menu variety. Families wanting a casual dining experience without the formality of larger restaurants also frequent City Pho. Younger crowds and food enthusiasts who enjoy trying banh mi sandwiches and pho noodle soup form a significant portion of the clientele. The atmosphere is congenial and informal, attracting patrons who value flavor and comfort over fine dining exclusivity. This mix creates a lively, dynamic environment that supports social meetups, cultural exchange, and communal dining.
What are the pros and cons of choosing City Pho for your group gathering?
Choosing City Pho for your meetup has several benefits and some drawbacks to consider. On the pro side, the restaurant offers authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a menu that encourages sharing and tasting a variety of dishes. The clean, welcoming interior and fast service create a hassle-free dining experience. The venue's urban setting makes it easy to access for diverse groups. Additionally, the customization options for pho and banh mi enhance the interactive group experience. However, the cons include an average rating of 1.5, which suggests there can be inconsistencies in food quality or service that may affect your visit. Some guests find the prices a bit high for portions or quality received, and certain dishes receive mixed reviews about flavor consistency. These factors might lead to disappointment for more demanding groups. Nonetheless, for casual gatherings focused primarily on exploring Vietnamese flavors in a convenient setting, City Pho remains a viable and interesting choice.
How can you make the most of your group visit to City Pho?
To maximize your group experience at City Pho, consider planning your meal around sharing multiple dishes to sample the full range of the menu’s offerings. Order a variety of pho bowls with different proteins, and complement these with banh mi sandwiches and appetizer options like spring rolls. Engage your group in customizing dishes with fresh herbs, chili, and sauces to create a personalized flavor map. Arriving during less busy times can provide a more relaxed atmosphere and attentive service. Take advantage of the quick service so you can spend more time socializing rather than waiting. Finally, embrace the casual vibe by focusing on the experience of eating together and exploring new tastes rather than expecting formal dining. By doing so, you create fun memories and meaningful connections that extend beyond the meal itself.
This comprehensive look at City Pho highlights why it can be a unique, flavorful, and enjoyable spot for friends or family to meet up, despite mixed reviews. The restaurant’s food-focused environment, cozy interior, and menu variety make it an appealing place to rally around for shared meals and social moments.