Order: Pho dac biet, extra rare steak$13–18
The most consistently deep, clean beef broth in San Diego, at a City Heights price.
Pho Ca Dao simmers a broth that reads as beef first and aromatics second, which is the correct order and the one most local shops invert. The rare steak is sliced thin enough to cook in the bowl, the noodles arrive with bite, and the herb plate is fresh. It is a plain room doing the fundamentals better than anyone.
Local tip: Ask for broth on the side if you're picking up — it keeps the noodles from going soft.
90
Taste
94
Consistency
90
Value
92
Atmosphere
74
Uniqueness
86