Gao Restaurant 3071 Nutley Street, Fairfax, VA 22031

"We tried GAO twice within a 24-hour period: once for dinner and once for a late lunch. Dinner was ok and we were treated ok. When we returned for lunch to order the same sandwich we had ordered the evening before, customer service was not good at all. And the sandwiches are just ok-- I just wanted to support this business as it's Vietnamese, fairly close by, and I used to come often when it existed as a pho place (Pho Thang Long). When we asked for a shrimp banh mi without pork paté, we were questioned why we didn't want the paté (we don't eat it, that's why). Then, when the gentleman seemed to get upset that we ordered more than one drink, to go (strange). What made me most annoyed is when we asked if they accept Apple Pay. That question was met with the answer, "You're making this so complicated”. Never again. So sad as I wanted to love and support this newly-established Vietnamese restaurant cafe. To management and customer service: be civil (I don't even expect "nice"). Apple Pay is a normal form of payment in this century. Wrap your sandwiches in paper instead of foil. The baguette becomes chewy from the foil trapping in the heat/moisture. We will not return, but this will help your future customers."

"Vietnamese noodles -Pho, pronounced like the end of sofu (in Asian countries). But here in the US go ahead and call it "Foe". Because in the US we might require a spin on the originals but I love how we have changed the pronunciation and added a plate full of sprouts, slices of jalapenos, (that special basil is still there), and a good old fashioned lime wedge. I think everything else about the soup is very traditional. Virginia and Maryland (DC area) really do have some of the best Vietnamese noodles in the world! This restaurant helps that claim. I also enjoyed how attentive they were."

"Food is great and service is courteous. I ordered a pho soup and a rice dish to go. I really liked both and will be back for more!"

"I'm under the impression that it changed ownership. So I don't know how it was before. I'm giving it a 3 star because the pho is bland. Flavorless, tasteless. Couldn't taste the hours of preparation that normally goes into creating a delicious broth. The fried spring rolls were 5/5. This was the only thing that saved them from receiving a 1 star."

"This is one of those places that from the outside you wouldn't give it a second thought. But trust me, go in! The service is friendly and the Pho is amazing. It may not be the flashiest place you have ever been, but really, who cares. The food is great! Don't pass this place by, go in and enjoy!"