Eat This Now: Phở Tái Bò Viên at Xuyen Vietnamese Cafe

Xuyen Vietnamese Cafe // Photo by Alexander Omorodion

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the warmth of a steaming bowl of phở. Xuyen Vietnamese Cafe delivers this comfort through both its food and its inviting atmosphere.

Located in Gladstone, Xuyen offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes alongside an array of boba teas. Among these dishes is the Phở Tái Bò Viên, a fragrant phở featuring sliced rare steak and Vietnamese meatballs.

Xuyen doesn’t skimp on portion sizes. When the server set the bowl on the table, its hearty thud signaled I had my work cut out for me. The noodles were perfectly cooked—firm enough to avoid a mushy texture yet smooth going down. The Vietnamese meatballs, with their sausage-like flavor, provided a delightful contrast to the tender steak. A small plate of garnishes, including bean sprouts, jalapeños, fresh herbs, and lime wedges, accompanied the dish for customization.

Beyond the food, Xuyen curates a unique dining experience with intentional and thoughtful design. The restaurant, adorned with vibrant Vietnamese decorations, is divided into two distinct areas: the dining room and a mini market.

While the dining room follows a fairly standard setup, the mini market offers a completely different vibe. It features an assortment of everyday items like instant ramen and various snacks for sale. The true highlight, however, is the wall showcasing Vietnamese art—paintings, sculptures, and vases that give the space the charm of an antique shop.

Whether you’re seeking unique trinkets or a satisfying meal, Xuyen Vietnamese Cafe is a destination that comfortably fulfills both desires.

Xuyen Vietnamese Cafe is at 6920 N Oak Trafficway, Gladstone, MO 64118.