We came here because we wanted pho and our regular place was closed. What a disappointment! We ordered fried rice, seafood pho and egg rolls to go, just to try a few items, see how the food was. We got home with the egg rolls, which were greasy and tasted like frozen food, the broth for pho with some raw meat in a plastic bag that looked grey and definitely was not seafood, and no fried rice, wrong order. We didn't want to drive all the way back so I decided to have the pho without any meat. It was really THE WORST PHO I have ever had! If I got one of those instant soups packs from an ethnic shelf at Ralphs, it would have probably been better. Just a warm water with no flavor. Waiter had an attitude like he didn't like our presence there, barely opened his mouth to answer our questions. You are a small restaurant in a 99 cents store shopping mall that was empty on Sunday afternoon and you cannot even make an effort to give us what we ordered? Simply Pho looks like it is simply bad service and BAD FOOD! No idea what generates the good reviews but I have a feeling they are either fake or these people really never had good pho before. The place inside was ok looking but the menus were covered in sticky fingerprints. Needless to say we will not go back to this place. We appreciate small, family businesses, usually food is really authentic and tasty, this place is definitely not that. read more

Let's start with their oxtail pho, which was simply divine. The broth was rich, savory, and had just the right amount of spice. The oxtail was tender and flavorful, adding a layer of depth to the dish. The noodles were perfectly cooked and served in generous portions. This pho was so good that I found myself slurping up every last drop of the broth. Next, let's talk about their pork banh-mi. It was easily one of the best I've ever had. The bread was fresh and crusty on the outside while being soft and chewy on the inside. The pork was perfectly cooked and had a nice charred flavor to it. The pickled vegetables and herbs provided a burst of freshness and tanginess that complemented the pork perfectly. I could easily see myself coming back just for this sandwich alone. And last but not least, the spring rolls were amazing. They were fresh and crispy, filled with a generous amount of shrimp and vegetables. The peanut dipping sauce was the perfect accompaniment, adding a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the rolls. Overall, this pho restaurant is definitely worth a visit. The oxtail pho, pork banh-mi, and spring rolls are all must-try dishes. The restaurant itself had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff was friendly and attentive. If you're a fan of Vietnamese cuisine or looking to try something new, this place should be at the top of your list. read more

I have this place a 3 cuz their food isn't bad it's just the service that is. I wasn't familiar with the menu so when I placed my order for curry and asked if I could sub mushrooms for carrots before I even asked I was rudely interrupted at the word "sub" with a loud "NO". We all looked at each other thinking is this guy serious?! Then I wanted to ask if the curry is with breast and he interrupted me again. So I got my order and the curry was made with drumsticks which was a first for me. I don't like any chicken except for breast so I said oh well I'll just have the potatoes with rice but no...they were totally uncooked. I went up and asked to order the dish with shrimp and veggies which he said was fine and changed it for me. I got back to work and took a look at my food it wasn't the dish I wanted. It had shrimp, fish balls of some sort and according to a coworker... Squid gross. I do NOT eat that kind of seafood so ended up just tossing out my 12$ food-uneaten. Maybe it's best for people to only go if they're getting the most basic thing on their menu which is pho. You definitely won't ever be seeing me in there ever again! read more

This pho restaurant was bustling with activity but still managed to deliver impressively fast service. The food was flavorful and satisfying, making it a solid choice for pho in Lake Forest. However, in my opinion, if you're looking for truly exceptional pho in Orange County, the restaurants along Brookhurst Street in Westminster are unparalleled in taste and authenticity. While this spot is convenient and great for the area, Westminster remains the go-to destination for the best pho in the county. The ambiance was good. I also want to highlight the complimentary dessert we received at the end of our meal. It was an unexpected and delightful touch that really added to the experience. The dessert was not only beautifully presented but also incredibly delicious, leaving a sweet and lasting impression. It was a thoughtful gesture that showed their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, and it definitely made our visit feel extra special. read more

I stopped by Simply Pho on a whim and honestly didn't expect much, but wow -- this place is a gem. The broth was super rich and flavorful, not too salty, and you can tell it's been simmering for hours. The portions were generous, the meat was tender, and the noodles had that perfect chew. The staff were friendly and quick, even during a busy lunch rush. The restaurant itself is clean, cozy, and smells amazing the second you walk in. I also tried their spring rolls and iced coffee -- both were excellent. The rolls were fresh and tightly wrapped, and the coffee was strong with just the right amount of sweetness. If you're craving authentic pho in California without the overpriced "fusion" stuff, this is the spot. Simple, flavorful, and comforting -- exactly what good pho should be. read more

Very poor customer service. Ordered $40 worth of takeout from this place. When we picked it up, the guy gave us our bags, and we specifically asked "this is everything?" He said yes. We get all the way home and open everything up and realize TWO orders are missing. We call to let them know that we are missing food and are coming back, and the guy simply says "K." When we show up to get the missing items, he points at a bag sitting on a table. No sorry, no words at all actually. Very unhappy with how this was handled. I didnt need a refund or for them to do anything for me besides some common decency and apologizing for their mistake. read more

Pho is absolutely delicious at this spot! The broth is rich, flavorful, and clearly simmered to perfection it's aromatic without being too salty or oily. The noodles have a great texture, and the portion of meat is generous and tender. I especially loved the fresh herbs and bean sprouts served on the side they add a crisp, vibrant balance to the warm bowl. The service is friendly and quick, and the overall atmosphere is clean and welcoming. Whether you're a pho enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this place is a must-visit. I'll definitely be coming back for more! read more

Just tried this place yesterday and I was extremely surprised. My all time favorite pho place that I go to 100% of the time is Pho 99 in Garden Grove, but they have definitely met their match here. The broth was so flavorful and the meat was really good quality. I left nothing in my bowl.I will be back with the boyfriend to show him the new treasure I found. Also, there's only 1 size bowl but it was pretty big, and it was $7.75. Best money spent. Thai tea was also delicious. All in all, I spent less than $14 here and I coulsn't be more pleased. Will be back tonight! read more

As a newcomer to Orange County, this was my first stop for a comforting bowl of pho, and I've returned three times since. While the pho here is satisfactory, it falls short in comparison to the options available in Westminster. The broth is flavorful enough to satisfy my cravings, but I couldn't help but notice that the meat portions are somewhat stingy compared to other pho joints I've frequented. Overall, it's a decent spot for a quick fix if you're in the area, but if you're willing to make the trek to Westminster, you'll find more generous servings elsewhere. read more

Was driving on El Toro Road and saw their Opening Banner. What a great experience it turned out to be! We wish we lived closer to this place. It's so good. Hands down the best pho place my gf and i have been to (and we've been to a lot because we live in Westminster, land of Pho restaurants, lols). We loves their spring rolls, shakin beef was hot and flavorful. Best pho ever and free tapioca dessert at the end to boot! Prices were very reasonable and the service is so nice and friendly.. (not ur typical pho place). Definitely be back if I'm in the area. read more

Dining at Simply Pho in Lake Forest was an outstanding experience. The warm, inviting atmosphere and modern interior set the stage for a delightful meal. The highlight was the classic beef pho, with a rich, flavorful broth and generous portions of tender beef, fresh herbs, and rice noodles. The spring rolls and banh mi were also delicious, featuring fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. Service was impeccable, with attentive and friendly staff who were knowledgeable about the menu. James had amazing service. read more

Recently, I visited a pho restaurant in Lake Forest, and I had a great experience thanks to our server Lynn. She was very friendly and attentive, even though the restaurant was busy. Lynn was very helpful in suggesting dishes to us and making sure we had everything we needed. She made our visit very enjoyable and I would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for great food and service. Thanks, Lynn read more

Excellent service! The waiter that served us had really good memory and was always nice to us whenever we needed anything! The food was great and is genuine authentic Vietnamese food of high quality! The quiet ambiance combined with the relaxing music really makes the restaurant a great environment! The restaurant is generally very friendly and attentive, especially with how it accommodated all 11 of us! read more

This place is my favorite Vietnamese restaurant to enjoy delicious traditional Pho and other tasty items they have to offer. Vien along with his other colleagues is always ready to give you that royal treatment. Next time you are in the mood for some great Vietnamese dishes do not hesitate to stop at either one of their locations in both lake forest or Fountain Valley! read more

Simply cheesy! Why would any one come here is beyond me. First off the food came out cold. Fried egg rolls were soggy. Waiter and staff were rude as f. Small portions, charged extra for soy sauce! Can't believe people actually still come here. You are better off driving to real authentic Vietnamese food in Westminster. read more

I ordered pho and calamari. Pho broth is good. Around here, I think they got my best vote for that. However, meat portion is alright. Calamari looks interesting but the cut was too thin. I felt like eating powder at times. My advice, stick to pho. Overall, for the price and promo(free drink), it is a good deal read more

You should go eat at the 99 store its better. I hate to give a so-so review but I am use to westminster and the flavor and portions are just so much better there. Its just noodles they should give you plenty. The drinks are way over priced. I feel bad because in that location nothing lasts that long. read more

This is on my way to home. I used to stop by eat sushi before. Now they changed food to Pho. which is ok. the location is really good just before 5freeway entrance. The taste is pretty much same, not special. not much difference inside too. I wish they decorate inside more like Vietnam restaurant. read more

High rating mostly for the cleanliness and ambiance. Don't get me wrong, food was good, not great (there's a better one up the road, but out of respect, won't name it here), but definitely a place I would take people that are germaphobes as other Vietnamese restaurants are nowhere this clean. =P read more