Café Diem

**CASH ONLY** I’ve been here many many times. As a viet, this is my favorite Bun bo hue (BBH) in all of Philly. It’s just sooo good. Their BBH broth is flavorful but balanced between sweet, sour, salty, it’s heavy with herbs and spices such as lemon grass (as this broth should be), while the meat is thick and plentiful. My go to tend to be BBH or banh cuon (also the best around). I’ve also tried their dry noodles and beef pho, both were phenomenal and would reorder again. The food is always fresh and hot, I could tell it was made with care. The place is small and there may be a wait depending on party size and when you go but food gets served quickly. They serve tea at no charge instead of water (it’s rare to get free tea like this anymore). All the ladies there are very friendly. Highly recommend this place for great authentic Vietnamese food.

This place felt like I just ate at a family friend’s house, it was comforting, and made with care. The food had that homemade feeling that you don’t always get when eating out. The spice level was perfect. It had the right amount of heat without overpowering the flavor, and every bite felt balanced. Simple, authentic, and really satisfying. Definitely the kind of spot I’d come back to when I want something comforting and full of flavor.

Cafe Diem is seriously such a hidden gem. I ordered the original Bún bò Huế and it was incredibly authentic—rich, spicy, and honestly addicting. As a Vietnamese person, I can’t help but love this place more than I probably should. It gave me that comforting, nostalgic feeling of being in my grandma’s house, which is something you don’t come across often. The workers are so kind and welcoming, and you can tell they really care about the food they serve. My boyfriend and I were literally tearing up from the spice but couldn’t stop eating—it was that good. The only downside is that it’s cash only, but everything else was amazing so it’s easy to overlook. Afterward, we even walked over to get some water ice, which made the whole experience even better. This place definitely deserves more recognition!

Seriously amazing viet food! The pho broth was extremely flavorful and the bon bo hue has just the right balance of spicy and sourness. Definitely would recommend! Good price for the food and the service is great too! The waitresses were really polite and quick to help with everything.

Came here for breakfast on a Sunday morning around 8am, the lady who served us was so lovely and thoughtful we felt so welcome. We got a regular bun bo hue and a banh cuon to share. Both delicious. Highly recommend if you are looking to satisfy your craving for authentic viet food in Philly