Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image

Viet Chubby Boy

4.7(134 community reviews)
Budget ($)

About

Discover Viet Chubby Boy, offering the best Asian experience in Kalihi / Nu'uanu. Enjoy Budget ($) meals, explore their menu, and read reviews from the community on TasteHi.

A Taste of Vietnam in the Heart of Honolulu

Tucked away near the bustling corridors of Honolulu, Viet Chubby Boy brings an unpretentious, high-energy approach to Vietnamese street food. This is not a place for white-tablecloth formality; it is where the air hangs thick with the scent of star anise, charred lemongrass, and fresh cilantro. You will hear the rhythmic clatter of woks against burners and the chatter of regulars who treat this spot like their personal kitchen.

The Culinary Focus

Chef-driven passion defines the menu here, moving well beyond standard fare. The signature banh mi arrives with a crusty, airy baguette that shatters upon the first bite, revealing savory proteins marinated in secret spice blends. Expect your palate to be hit with the sharp brightness of house-pickled carrots and daikon, balanced by the richness of pâté and creamy house-made mayo. Their pho broth is a patient labor of love—simmered for hours to extract deep, marrow-heavy notes that warm you instantly, especially when the trade winds bring a cool evening breeze off the Pacific.

Local Insights & Atmosphere

The vibe is utilitarian and fast-paced, making it an ideal pit stop for a quick lunch or an informal evening meal. Be mindful that space is a premium; during the midday rush, the small footprint gets quite intimate, and you might find yourself shoulder-to-shoulder with other diners. Parking in this part of town can be a bit of a scavenger hunt, so budget a few extra minutes to navigate the nearby blocks. It is a no-frills destination for those who prioritize authentic, bold, and unapologetically flavorful cooking over polished decor. Whether you are craving a refreshing vermicelli bowl topped with crunchy peanuts or a piping hot bowl of aromatic soup, this local favorite captures the honest soul of Vietnamese cuisine.

Photos

Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image
Viet Chubby Boy - Honolulu Restaurant Image

Location

1311 N King St, Honolulu, Hawaii, 96817-3319

Directions

Reviews

Showing 3 of 134 community reviews
D

Dee VinoGoogle Maps

Recently

I had an excellent meal here! The star was the steak pho—the broth was incredibly flavorful and rich. I also tried the vermicelli bowl, which was fresh and tasty. Don't miss their Vietnamese coffee; it's strong, sweet, and the perfect finish to the meal. The portions are good size, making it a fantastic value. I would definitely recommend this spot and will be back soon!

B

BruceGoogle Maps

Recently

I absolutely love Viet Chubby Boy! From the moment I walked in, the warm, welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The menu offers an inspired fusion of flavors, and every dish I tried now that this is was my theirs visit, was outstanding. Their pho ga was rich, savory, and perfectly balanced deep, fragrant broth with tender meat, fresh herbs, and noodles cooked just right. Their lemongrass banh mi was crisp, flavorful, and loaded with fresh ingredients. I also sampled their Vietnamese coffee — bold, smooth, and a delightful finish to the meal. What really stands out is their genuine attention to detail. Portions are generous, ingredients feel fresh, and presentation is thoughtful. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, always ready with recommendations or to customize a dish. And, the owner actually comes around and chats with the his clients and checks on us. If you’re looking for authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Honolulu served with heart, Viet Chubby Boy is a must-visit. I’ll be returning again and again — highly recommended!

R

Russ LacuataGoogle Maps

Recently

My first time trying this Vietnamese restaurant. I went during off hours, so plenty of parking and I was the only customer. The menu is extensive typical of a Vietnamese restaurant, but I am here to try the Pho. The broth is very light, but beefy. Not too sweet. But its missing the essence of the spices, like the cinnamon, star anise, cloves, coriander seeds, cardamom and fennel. Also the smokiness of the onions and ginger. I just prefer my pho broth to be heavier on the spices. But I still enjoyed it. The rice noodles was perfect, and the meat toppings is a little on the stingy side. Also only one size bowl. I also tried the Summer Rolls with BBQ Pork. It was just average to me. Service was good, attentive and refilled my water when needed. Came to check on me a couple of time. My Mom called me while eating and I ended up ordering the Chicken Pho for take out for my Mom. They did get busier after I sat down with mostly take out orders. I will definitely come back again. I like the convenience of satisfying my Pho cravings and I don't have to drive to downtown/Chinatown.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Viet Chubby Boy

Common questions from diners about Viet Chubby Boy in Honolulu.

Viet Chubby Boy specializes in Asian cuisine.

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