Gao comptoir vietnamien offers a focused menu centered on traditional Vietnamese staples characterized by fresh ingredients and bold aromatic profiles. Patrons encounter a selection of authentic noodle soups featuring complex, simmered broths alongside vibrant salads topped with carefully prepared herbs and proteins. The kitchen prioritizes precise flavor balancing through the inclusion of lime, chili, and fish sauce in every signature dish. Rice paper rolls serve as a hallmark offering, emphasizing crunchy vegetables and quality fillings that reflect standard culinary techniques from Southeast Asia. Efficient service defines the interaction at this establishment where diners quickly receive high-quality preparations crafted for those seeking genuine regional character. The interior provides a functional space that allows the bold textures and pungent scents of the cuisine to remain the central focus of every visit.
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Gao comptoir vietnamien is widely celebrated as a culinary gem in Quebec City, known for its authentic, fresh, and flavorful Vietnamese cuisine. Many patrons praise the rich, aromatic pho broth and the well-prepared spring rolls, dumplings, and lemongrass pork dishes. Beyond the food, the restaurant is frequently lauded for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and exceptionally friendly service, with the staff often noted for their attentiveness and kindness toward families and tourists. The environment is consistently described as clean, modern, and inviting, making it a highly recommended destination for both locals and visitors seeking a quality meal at a reasonable price.
We chose GAO Vietnamese Restaurant based on its high reviews, but unfortunately our experience was extremely disappointing & stressful - especially for a family with children during the holidays.
The only positive was the restaurant's beautiful interior design. Everything else fell far short.
Upon arrival, we were never greeted. We eventually sat ourselves, waited 8 minutes before getting our own menus, then waited another 5-7 minutes before anyone came to take our order. We ordered 3 Beef Pho, 2 summer rolls, 1 bun cha gio, & 2 bubble teas (taro & matcha) for our kids.
Despite understanding it was the holidays & they appeared short-staffed, the service issues continued:
• No plates or flatware were provided - we had to get them ourselves
• Water finally arrived 10 minutes later, & the'hot' water was lukewarm at best
• Still no bubble tea
• Our appetizer (summer rolls) arrived with no plates
• Food arrived about 5 minutes later, but by then we had already been waiting 35+ minutes
The Beef Pho broth was lukewarm, to the point where the raw beef would not cook in the broth.
The bun cha gio had decent flavor, but the portion was unacceptable - I received only two thin slices of beef, each about half the size of my palm.
No sauces were brought for the pho - again, we had to retrieve them ourselves.
Right before we finished eating, my husband asked about the bubble teas we ordered at the very beginning. The cashier/server said,'It's coming.'
We waited another 10 minutes after finishing our meal because our kids were begging for them. Nothing came.
We finally went to pay. There was a line out the door, & while processing our payment, she suddenly handed us the bubble teas.
I told her politely,'We don't want them now - the kids wanted them with their meal.'
She rolled her eyes, said'Fine,' offered no apology, & continued the transaction.
That moment alone told us everything we needed to know.
I understand holiday rushes. I understand staffing issues.
What I don't understand is disrespect, indifference, & complete lack of accountability.
Even if this was a holiday issue, this level of service is unacceptable.
We would not return - even if it were the only restaurant open.
My wife & I went here to dine in for lunch on Tuesday (Dec 23). We ordered one chicken, one beef Pho, one Hue style Calamari stuffed with pork & 2 Vietnamese coffees. The staff serving my table just told me that the dish has been taken off the menu & they're no longer serving that, but still it's in the menu for some reason, so I ordered the Lemongrass Pork chops instead. The Pho & coffee were good, however the Pork chop with rice was a big disappointment. The meat was not thoroughly cooked & being raw in the middle. When I told the staff, he checked with the kitchen & told me that it's because they have a new chef. The restaurant offered to make me a new dish but I had lost appetite by that time since I was eating raw pork. It ruined the whole meal, which was unfortunate because the other dishes were ok. I hope they learn from this so other customers won't get food poisoning from eating here.
1st time here. Had beef pho & the dumplings. Both very good, the dumplings dangerously so. Price point is acceptable. Friendly staff. Would return. Recommend.
Nov 29, 2025
on Google
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Great Vietnamese restaurant just a few minute walk outside Old Quebec City walls. Very clean with a cute aesthetic. Our waiter (young man with slightly longer brown hair) was very friendly & he was kind enough to let me practice my French with him. My husband ordered the Beef Pho & I had the Beef Cha Gio. To be honest, portions are slightly on the smaller side. The owner was very friendly & attentive. They also have pre made items such as spring rolls, Kim chi & desserts to go. Would highly recommend, especially on a cold rainy day like today.
Came across this Vietnamese restaurant when we strolling down the old quater. Decided to give it a try . We ordered 2 Pho (1 chicken & 1 beef). They are served with a plate of beanspouts & some basil leaves..soup are very tasty. When the weather is cool outside..all you need is a bowl of Pho. Staffs are friendly & nice. Restaurant has bright & homely decor. Love all of it. Thanks for delighting our day with your bowls of Pho.
Here on vacation in Quebec & looking for Vietnamese food. We choose the place for the name'Gao''Rice' so cute. But would definitely come back for the food, services & environment. Very clean, adorable & attentive services. The picture doesn't do it justice. The food was excellent & authentic Vietnamese food. We ordered the beef pho & bun cha gio (vermicelli eggroll with beef). Definitely would come back when we visit Quebec again.
