Brentwood might not have invented pho (let’s be honest, that honor goes to Hanoi’s street vendors). But we’ve got some seriously legit spots where we’d confidently bring our Saigon-born friends or those San Franciscans who think only their city does Vietnamese right. So before you settle for bland takeout or—dare we say—a chain restaurant’s interpretation, let this list be your guide.
Banh Mi Express
$ | (925) 626-7864 | WEBSITE
A quick-service counter in a busy Brentwood plaza, Banh Mi Express works as a solid option for folks who’ve been hustling all day and need a satisfying bite. While you may hesitate at the modest storefront and the packed parking lot, you’ll appreciate the fresh ingredients and the kitchen’s grilling finesse. The Combo Banh Mi is assembled with similarly vibrant fixings, but notably, you don’t quite get the same savory punch as the grilled pork version.
Still, the crispy, fragrant baguette and that special ‘Vietnamese-style’ sauce tie everything together for a traditional, wallet-friendly meal that’ll have you planning your next visit.
CreAsian Flavors of Vietnam
$ | (925) 516-8880 | WEBSITE
CreAsian Flavors of Vietnam is primarily known for their pho, which earns a spot on our best Vietnamese guide. But their lesser known talent (garlic noodles) is another big reason to make your way here. These noodles fill an entire takeout container by themselves, so bring a friend and some chopsticks to tackle these generous portions. There are many options, but we usually go with the #57 Garlic Noodles with Shaking Beef.
Tender beef and an avalanche of aromatic garlic and savory sauce sits on top of perfectly cooked noodles. And the dish is bathed in flavor—it somehow never gets greasy despite the mound of delicious ingredients.
Boba Wings
$ | (925) 481-2298 | WEBSITE
A go-to late-night spot in Brentwood since it opened, this hidden gem tucked away in a courtyard has become a favorite for flavorful chicken and refreshing drinks. String lights hanging above the courtyard tables are more about creating a peaceful vibe than practical lighting since the soft glow helps to enhance the very welcoming atmosphere of the place. People are usually spilling outside of the cozy interior to the courtyard area.
And with a menu so varied, ordering might seem like it would be too overwhelming. But thank heavens you don’t need a lot of arm space to eat Boba Wings’ Cajun shrimp, which we usually order for its spicy kick with a hint of sweetness. The garlic noodles come topped with extra garlic, and the Bahn Mi sandwiches have true flavors that take things to the next level.
Teaspot
$ | (925) 666-8129 | WEBSITE
We already know what you’re thinking. How can we recommend any other drink at Teaspot besides their famous King Taro tea? But this beloved boba spot in Brentwood proves they aren’t a one-trick pony with their surprisingly awesome passion fruit smoothie with strawberry popping boba (and yes, they offer both creamy and fruity options). After a few hours of studying or hanging out, dive into our favorite—the Tao coconut sago topped with fresh coconut flakes and chewy sago pearls.
To-go orders are totally a thing at Teaspot, so we recommend going on a weekend afternoon, so you can enjoy it while basking in the welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff who make you feel valued even when small mistakes happen.
Da Nang Tourane Vietnamese Restaurant
$ | (925) 206-4412 | WEBSITE
The main draw of Da Nang Tourane Vietnamese Restaurant is not the flashy decor. But there isn’t another spot in Brentwood where we can savor authentic pho while watching families enjoy a casual meal together. And the dishes here are credible, particularly the pork with peanut sauce or the beef pho that comes with abundant noodles and fresh-tasting meat. Plus, our vegetarian friends can make it a vegetarian pho for no extra charge.
After you beat your hunger, grab a Vietnamese coffee and take on the rest of your day.
Golden Gate Pho
$ | (925) 392-8686 | WEBSITE
You probably know Golden Gate Pho as the best place to grab a quick, satisfying meal without breaking the bank. But next time you’re in Brentwood craving Vietnamese food, try one of their shrimp spring rolls (the superior appetizer choice). The fresh rolls come with a variety of dipping sauces, but we like their peanut sauce or fish sauce best. True to the restaurant’s reputation, these spring rolls aren’t overly large, so we usually order two or get a bowl of pho on the side.
CreAsian Wok ‘n Roll
$ | (925) 516-9999 | WEBSITE
The typical Brentwood strip-mall blandness is refreshingly absent from CreAsian Wok ‘n Roll’s simple tables and unassuming decor. But the food is exceptional, the portions are generous, and the quirks are charming, so we absolutely adore this place. Their Vietnamese menu is extensive, but the standout star is the acclaimed calamari. Pair it with any of their fresh noodle dishes—we’re partial to the perfectly seasoned Basil Chicken and Eggplant with Tofu. Or honestly, go for more.
You’re already enjoying such affordable prices anyway, so why hold back on the culinary indulgence now?