Turtle Tower

"Turtle Tower is a beloved San Francisco restaurant known for its Northern-style pho, which has reopened at a new location after closing down in 2023. The restaurant offers an updated look with a modern decor and an expanded menu that includes 10 different styles of pho, rice plates, vermicelli noodle bowls, and a variety of appetizers. Although the prices have increased, the restaurant has maintained the quality and essence that made it a favorite." - Dianne de Guzman

"SF went a devastating two whole years without Turtle Tower’s phở gà. Long loved for its Northern-style phở, at the height of its mini-empire Turtle Tower had multiple locations before its last in SoMa closed in 2023. But those dark days are behind us. The Vietnamese restaurant reopened in the Financial District in 2025, and brought that chicken rice noodle soup with them. It’s just as good as it was before—the rich broth will trigger endorphin-dripping memories for those who’ve had it, and convert those who haven’t into weekly subscribers. The other noodle soups, like the phở tái and bún thang with chicken, pork, and chewy ribbons of egg are also fantastic. The nem cua, though a bit greasy, are crispy and ballooned with filling. video credit: Patrick Wong The latest iteration of Turtle Tower now rubs shoulders with fellow institutions Tadich Grill and Perbacco. The long, narrow dining room of the former Barbacco remains, but dressed up with colorful murals. Vietnamese pop plays gently enough to hear your fellow slurpers and nothing else. Tables turn over fast so it’s a great option for an in-and-out meal that doesn’t require jostling with other FiDi office workers for a seat. Food Rundown photo credit: Patrick Wong Nem Cua They taste a bit greasy, but the dipping sauce does a good job of covering it up. It's decent overall, but we prefer the spring rolls. photo credit: Patrick Wong Gỏi Cuộn Đậu Phụ The fried tofu is a little dry. If you're not vegan or vegetarian, go for the gỏi cuộn tôm thịt instead—the pork and shrimp are moist and complement the peanut dipping sauce (topped with whole nuts) better than the tofu. photo credit: Patrick Wong Phở Gà Whether it's your first time or your hundredth, this chicken rice noodle soup is something you'll want to always come back to. This should always top your order. photo credit: Julia Chen Phở Tái If you're looking to branch out from the phở gà, this is a great choice. The broth is a bit richer than the chicken version, but the slices of beef—while tender—could use more flavor. photo credit: Patrick Wong Bún thang A great alternative to the phở gà. The broth is richer and we love how many different textures there are between the vermicelli, meat, and egg. photo credit: Patrick Wong Cơm Thịt Nướng hoặc Gà Nướng An excellent choice when not in the mood for noodles. Get the pork, which has crunchy charred edges." - Patrick Wong

"A pho favorite making a comeback, serving bowls of steaming pho and plates of papaya salad." - Paolo Bicchieri