Cordon Bleu Vietnamese Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco’s Nob Hill neighborhood, Cordon Bleu Vietnamese Restaurant offers a delightful and authentic Vietnamese dining experience that’s anything but ordinary. This cozy, intimate spot is a true gem for those craving bold, home-style Vietnamese flavors crafted with care and precision.

From the moment you step inside, the warm, no-frills ambiance welcomes you like a cherished neighborhood haunt. Though compact—with limited seating and a casual bar-style setup—the focus here is unequivocally on delivering exceptional food that punches well above its humble footprint.

The menu showcases an impressive array of traditional Vietnamese dishes highlighted by Cordon Bleu’s distinctive specials. Among the crowd favorites is the Five Spice Chicken, lauded by regulars for its juicy, tender texture and perfectly balanced seasoning that creates a symphony of fragrant warmth in every bite. Equally irresistible is their Imperial Roll Shish Kebab and Rice with Meat Sauce, a complete meal offering layers of texture and flavor—from crispy exterior rolls to succulent kebabs paired with flavorful, savory rice.

For lighter fare, the Noodle Salad stands out—a refreshing bed of rice vermicelli and greens complemented by a crispy imperial roll and tender shredded shish kebab, delivering both vibrant freshness and satisfying heartiness. Vegetarian diners will find thoughtful options as well, such as the Veggie Noodle Salad with crunchy cucumber and basil, dusted with chopped peanuts and paired with delightful vegetarian rolls.

House specials like the Spicy Pork Chop bring a punch of fiery, aromatic richness served alongside green onion oil-infused rice and a tangy tomato cucumber salad, while the Ma Po Tofu offers a sumptuous fusion of minced pork and silky bean curd bathed in a creamy, garlicky oyster sauce, showcasing the kitchen’s mastery at blending textures and bold tastes.

Patrons frequently praise the generous portion sizes and reasonable prices, which make each visit feel like a rewarding culinary discovery rather than just a meal. Jake Byman highlights the “impeccable” imperial roll and noodle salad, while Maria T appreciates the authentic, friendly vibe created by the welcoming staff, affectionately referred to as “the aunties.” Matt Nguyen calls it a “hole-in-the-wall gem” where the juiciness and seasoning of the chicken dishes set a high bar for quality and flavor.

Be mindful that this popular hotspot is cash-only, a small detail that fits with its charmingly old-school character. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Cordon Bleu Vietnamese Restaurant is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking genuine Vietnamese cuisine that feeds both the body and soul. The intimate, bustling environment, combined with kitchen-crafted dishes that evoke the comfort of a homemade feast, promises an experience that’s as authentic as it is satisfying.