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Turtle Tower, a beloved Vietnamese restaurant, originally founded by Chef Steven Pham in San Francisco, became an icon for its simple, authentic Northern Vietnamese cuisine, particularly its pho. After nearly 24 years of serving the community, a new chapter of Turtle Tower began as Chef Steven Phan took the helm to reopen Turtle Tower at 220 California Street in the historic heart of downtown San Francisco.

Turtle Tower’s return not only preserves a vital piece of San Francisco’s culinary history but also breathes new life into a space that holds significant historical value. The building, over a century old, offers the perfect setting for this cherished restaurant’s revival, blending tradition with a fresh start. As a hub for authentic Vietnamese dining, the restaurant's reopening is a nod to both the past and the future, ensuring that Chef Steven Pham's legacy continues to thrive.

Chef Stephen Pam standing in the kitchen being interviewed by a reporter

Chef Steven Pham sitting faced towards the side talking to interviewers

Cozy interior of Turtle Tower's restaurant featuring warm hanging lights and a rustic brick wall

Turtle Tower is known for its authentic Northern Vietnamese cuisine, which sets it apart from other Vietnamese restaurants in San Francisco. Specializing in clean, simple flavors, Turtle Tower focuses on dishes from the Hanoi region, particularly its iconic pho, which uses a clear broth without herbs like cilantro or basil typically found in southern styles. Other specialties include rice noodle soups, fresh spring rolls, Bánh mì, and savory bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls). Turtle Tower’s commitment to authenticity, inspired by Chef Steven Pham’s vision, has earned it a loyal following over the years.

Chef Steven Pham has partnered with the ownership team behind Novela, Barbarossa Lounge, and Madarae to bring Turtle Tower in a new location at 220 California Street, an iconic building with over 100 years of history in downtown San Francisco. The partnership and new location aim to preserve the restaurant's legacy while introducing a modern twist, ensuring Turtle Tower remains a culinary landmark in the city.

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Don't just take our word for it

After 10+ years of living in SF, Turtle Tower is the restaurant I eat at most regularly. It has the holy trinity for a go-to restaurant: delicious food, great prices, and gracious and friendly people.

Mee-Sun Y.

DANK. UMAMI. FLAVOR. EXPLOSION. I drool thinking about the broth. Rice noodles are so chewy and the meat is also flavorful and tender.

Lydia Z.

THE BEST CHICKEN PHO IN SF!! Their chicken pho is full of flavor and heals the soul.

Chloe S.

I absolutely love this place! If you love pho, I definitely recommend checking this place out.

Brian C.

The best part about Turtle Towers pho is the BROTH!!! The flavor and the umami that comes from it is what makes it different.

Fanny C.

Definitely one of the higher quality bowls of pho that I've had in San Francisco. Even my dad, who isn't from SF and doesn't really know of any restaurants in the city, knows of this restaurant and how good it is.

Tract N.

I've been coming here for years! A must-get here is their chicken pho. They use fresh pho noodles and the broth is very light and refreshing.

Thu V.

I came here once years ago and this place is unforgettable! Different people I've met always rave about this place too.

Michelle K.

This place never disappoints! It's been so long since I've been here and everything I love and miss about this place is still the same.

Charlie A.

After 10+ years of living in SF, Turtle Tower is the restaurant I eat at most regularly. It has the holy trinity for a go-to restaurant: delicious food, great prices, and gracious and friendly people.

Mee-Sun Y.

DANK. UMAMI. FLAVOR. EXPLOSION. I drool thinking about the broth. Rice noodles are so chewy and the meat is also flavorful and tender.

Lydia Z.

THE BEST CHICKEN PHO IN SF!! Their chicken pho is full of flavor and heals the soul.

Chloe S.

I absolutely love this place! If you love pho, I definitely recommend checking this place out.

Brian C.

The best part about Turtle Towers pho is the BROTH!!! The flavor and the umami that comes from it is what makes it different.

Fanny C.

Definitely one of the higher quality bowls of pho that I've had in San Francisco. Even my dad, who isn't from SF and doesn't really know of any restaurants in the city, knows of this restaurant and how good it is.

Tract N.

I've been coming here for years! A must-get here is their chicken pho. They use fresh pho noodles and the broth is very light and refreshing.

Thu V.

I came here once years ago and this place is unforgettable! Different people I've met always rave about this place too.

Michelle K.

This place never disappoints! It's been so long since I've been here and everything I love and miss about this place is still the same.

Charlie A.

Featured press

The new Turtle Tower is a reborn shrine to chicken pho

The San Francisco Standard

Apr 3, 2025

Comedian Ali Wong spotted at her favorite San Francisco restaurant

SF Gate

Mar 19, 2025

First look: San Francisco’s Beloved Vietnamese restaurant Turtle Tower makes grand return

KTVU

Jan 31, 2025

View all press