If you've spent any time around the University of Minnesota, you've likely walked past Pho Mai. It sits at 319 14th Ave SE in Dinkytown, and it's the kind of place that rewards a little digging into its history. The family behind it immigrated from Vietnam in 1980, and the owners, Michael and Mai, met while attending the U of M from 1992 to 1996. With the help of Mai's brother, Peter Do, they opened this location on May 21, 2020. The name isn't new, either: the establishment was named Best Vietnamese Restaurant in the Twin Cities back in 2017.
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The menu is built around pho, and there's a version for almost everyone. The classics run $17.34 — Pho Tai with lean beef, Pho Ga with chicken, Pho Bo Vien with meatballs, and Pho Chin with brisket — while the Pho Dac Biet house special is $18.27 and the Pho Thit meat-lovers version is $17.92. If you're after something with a kick, the Bun Bo Hue spicy beef noodle soup is a newer addition at $19.66. Seafood and shrimp phos land at $18.50, and there's a no-meat option for $15.60. Beyond the pho, you'll find Hu Tiu rice noodle soup at $17.11, Mi Wonton soup at $18.50, and Mi Kho at $18.50.
Rice dishes make up the other half of the menu. The Com Dac Biet house special is $19.66, the Com Suon Dai Han Korean short-ribs are $20.82, and a protein-of-your-choice fried rice is $17.34. Mai's stir-fry is $18.50, and the Com Tam Heo Bi Cha — grilled pork with shredded pork and egg bread — is also $18.50. There's a good spread of banh mi too, with the Banh Mi Dac Biet at $12.76 and the Banh Mi Thit Nuong grilled pork at $11.60, plus several other varieties ranging from $11.60 to $12.76. For appetizers, springrolls are $8.06, eggrolls and cream cheese wontons are $10.38, and an appetizer plate runs $23.14. A Cafe Sua ice coffee is $6.90, and iced tea and sodas are $3.42.
Logistically, it's an easy place to drop into. It's open for lunch, dinner, and late-night dining, with the exception of Wednesdays when it's closed. Hours are 11:00 am to 9:00 pm most days, stretching to 10:00 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. Table service is the norm, but contactless delivery, takeout, and catering are all on the table, and reservations are accepted. The space is wheelchair accessible with an accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms, and there are kids' high chairs if you're bringing the family. It takes credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, and parking is paid street parking. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming to families, groups, and locals alike.
One thing worth noting for the budget-conscious: there's a Friday deal of $5 pho at the Dinkytown location, which is a steal compared to the usual prices. If you're planning a visit, that's the day to aim for. Otherwise, it's a solid, family-run spot that's been a part of the neighborhood for a few years now.
