Albany Ao Sen

Stopped in after a salon appointment in Albany and found this to be a slightly more polished version of your typical Bay Area pho spot. Food: The fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn) were fresh and well-prepared. Peanut sauce was good, nothing standout, but definitely enjoyable. I ordered the bún bò Huế, which included traditional congealed pork blood (huyết), always a plus for authenticity. The broth had good depth of flavor, but it lacked the expected spice. This dish should have a bit of heat, and that was missing. The side veggies leaned heavily on bean sprouts (very typical here), but I would’ve preferred more shredded cabbage for balance. Drinks: Vietnamese iced coffee came out almost immediately, so it’s clearly pre-made. Efficient, but you do miss the traditional drip experience. Service & Atmosphere: Service is very fast, everything came out within minutes. After that, it’s pretty hands-off, so you’ll need to flag someone down if you need anything. The space itself is nicer than most pho spots, and the uniformed staff gives it a slightly more put-together feel. Overall: Good food, very quick service, and a clean, comfortable space. Not exceptional, but a solid, reliable option if you’re in the area. Pricing is in line with current Bay Area averages, though it feels slightly high given the quick-service, pho-house style experience. Pricing (my order): • Fresh spring rolls: $10.95 • Bún bò Huế: $17.25 • Vietnamese iced coffee: $6.95 3.75⭐️

Overall great spot for Vietnamese food. Fresh and delicious. I like how they have a small bowl of broth on the side for their rice plates. It's a perfect pairing. The spring rolls are on point as well.

Pho family favorite! Every time we are in town we come straight to this place. Staff are so family friendly. Food has been amazing for the past 6 years; never disappoints! My go to is their Pho Chin, Nam, Ve Don which is Well-done brisket, well-done flank, and crunchy flank with extra lime squeezed. Everything is so fresh and homemade is at their best! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

It's one of my favorite restaurants. The pho has delicious broth, I usually get it without meat and get an appetizer too.. I appreciate having the option. The bun is great, as well as the egg rolls and fresh rolls with peanut sauce.. it's consistently delicious, priced well, and I feel good after eating it. The servers are also on top of it and friendly.

Great Pho place in Albany with reasonable price. The food is delicious with great serving, you typically only need to wait < 10 mins before your order is ready. There is parking next to the restaurant. Also, the atmosphere is great and the staff are really nice.