Inside the Experience
Located in the heart of Houston at 11778 Bellaire Blvd, Dakao Restaurant & Bar stands out as a beacon for authentic Vietnamese cuisine fused with creative twists. This restaurant has earned a loyal following over the years, with patrons praising its extensive menu that respects tradition while embracing innovation.
Dakao offers a wide array of dishes that cater to diverse tastes, from classic plates like broken rice with grilled pork, Chinese sausage, and fried egg, to specialty items such as Hu Tieu Ga DaKao Dac Biet, which boasts a perfectly seasoned broth and generous protein portions. The rice plate here is particularly notable, allowing customers to customize their meat choices without altering the price—a rare and customer-friendly touch.
The pho at Dakao is often described as some of the best in Houston, with a fresh, deeply flavorful broth that anchors the experience. The grilled chicken spring rolls stand out as a signature dish, crisp and packed with flavor, balancing texture and savor beautifully. Other favorites include the banh cot, bun thịt nướng, and the creative spring rolls with Chinese sausage and omelette, which show the kitchen’s skill in blending traditional and fusion elements.
Service at Dakao is generally attentive and warm, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere that complements the clean and stylish decor. While a few have noted moments of slower water service, the staff’s friendliness and knowledge shine through, especially when managing large groups with grace and efficiency.
What makes Dakao truly special is its ability to evoke the nostalgic comfort of Vietnamese home cooking while inviting diners to explore new flavors and combinations. The balance of authenticity and innovation, attention to detail in seasoning, and generous portions at reasonable prices make every visit rewarding. Whether you crave a hearty bowl of pho, savory grilled dishes, or inventive spring rolls, Dakao Restaurant & Bar delivers with consistency and heart.
“ Very good restaurant with lots of choices and lots of seating. I enjoyed the variety of dishes I could pick from, and especially for the rice plate that I could pick the meats on the plate and price is the same. The chicken wings especially surprised me at how well marinated and crispy they were. This place has all the traditional Vietnamese dishes but also some fun fusion dishes with Korean and Chinese influences. Lots of seating but still gets very busy in the evening. Staff were very nice and attentive. ”
“ One of my favorite Vietnamese restaurants to go to since college days. I enjoy getting the chicken pho here and my husband likes the special chicken rice dish. I typically get different spring rolls to try and I like the chicken spring roll the best. I have had other dishes before and they all tasted great but I just have a preference on eating chicken pho here. Servers are as friendly as they can be in Chinatown area. ”
“ The food here is good. They have a variety of dishes. I like the banh cot, bun thịt nướng, cảnh chùa, cả kho tộ, chicken wings, spring rolls ném nướng, and bố lúc lắc. The servers were a bit cranky & we had to ask for water several times. ”
“ I love Dakao Restaurant! Been eating the BEST PHO in Houston here for 17 years! And they have grilled chicken spring rolls!!! All the dishes here are delicious! So next time you want some Vietnamese food come try this place. And say hi to the owner, Tony, for me! ”
“ Phenomenal food! I would give 11/10 if I could. I had the Hu Tieu Ga DaKao Dac Biet and it was so well-seasoned, lots of protein and the broth was perfect very reasonable price as well, mine was a large bowl for $13.99 ”