A new addition to Bend’s Old Mill District is serving up steaming bowls of pho, crunchy banh mi sandwiches and plenty of crispy fried appetizers, all with a welcoming, family-friendly vibe. Pho 88, located in the former Mill Works Pub space, is the newest venture from Alice Nguyen, a seasoned restaurateur who previously managed Mio Sushi in the Old Mill and also ran her own restaurant in Vietnam.
The move feels like a homecoming for Nguyen, who clearly brings both experience and heart to her menu. The space itself hasn’t undergone a dramatic transformation, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. With subtle Asian-inspired decor and the warm smells of broth, basil and grilled meats drifting from the kitchen, the restaurant feels like it’s settled in right where it belongs.
The menu at Pho 88 is packed, almost overwhelmingly so, with classic Vietnamese comfort food options. There are dozens of choices spanning appetizers, noodle soups, rice plates and house specialties. The first few minutes at the table might involve some menu strategizing, but that’s part of the fun. Come hungry and bring a curious palate.
To kick things off, I opted for the Vietnamese Fried Chicken Wings. If you know me, you know I never pass up a chicken wing. These were sticky and sweet with a bright punch from the pickled carrot and daikon garnish. The wings are offered with either sweet-and-sour sauce or a savory garlic and fish sauce combo. Mine were bold in flavor and tender inside with just enough crisp on the outside to make each bite count. Easily my favorite bite of the meal.
Other appetizers include fresh salad rolls, fried egg rolls, potstickers, and a salt and pepper shrimp that’s already gaining popularity with regulars.
Pho 88’s banh mi sandwiches are another highlight. Options include lemongrass tofu, a fried egg with house sauce and black pepper, and the pork meatball sandwich I went with — juicy, savory meatballs layered inside soft bread with cucumber, cilantro, jalapenos and pickled vegetables. The textures were spot on. Crunchy and fresh on the outside, tender and seasoned inside. My only regret? I wanted more meatballs.
And of course, pho fans will find plenty to love. The namesake soup is available in multiple variations with steak, brisket, meatballs, oxtail, shrimp, chicken or vegetables. The slow-simmered broth is aromatic and inviting. But on a hot July day, I went for one of the vermicelli noodle bowls instead.
I chose the Special Combination Bowl which featured grilled shrimp, pork and egg rolls on a bed of noodles with fresh lettuce, purple cabbage, pickled vegetables, green onion, cilantro and crispy fried onions. The whole thing is tied together with a tangy peanut fish sauce for dipping and drizzling, The vegetables were fresh and cooling, the proteins warm and flavorful. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling satisfied but not heavy.
For those craving rice-based dishes, Pho 88 delivers with an extensive list of rice plates. You can choose from grilled honey lemongrass meat and shrimp skewers, grilled pork chop, stir fired beef or chicken or even lemongrass tofu with vegetables all served with steamed rice, veggies and broth. There’s also a section of Kitchen Specialties worth exploring. Think Shrimp Pad Thai, a Vietnamese Chicken Curry and a Crispy Vietnamese Pancake filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts and onions.
The kitchen clearly focuses on freshness and balance, hallmark qualities of Vietnamese cuisine. Each dish brings together elements of sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy in a way that feels intentional and familiar. You’ll find fragrant herbs, tangy pickles, bold sauces and plenty of crunch.
And if you’re dining with a group, everyone should be able to find something. Gluten-free options abound and the menu is friendly to both meat-lovers and vegetarians. There’s a full bar with wine, beer and cocktails, but the overall vibe leans casual and family-oriented. It’s not trying to be trendy or cutting-edge. It’s a warm, accessible neighborhood spot with dependable flavors.
There’s something charming about Pho 88. Maybe it’s Nguyen’s passion for the food she’s clearly proud to serve or the way the space has quietly reinvented itself without fanfare. It’s not flashy, and while there’s room to grow and refine, the foundation is solid. For locals and visitors wandering through the Old Mill District in search of something a little different Pho 88 is worth a stop.
No matter what you order, expect a comforting blend of fresh ingredients, bold spices and Vietnamese hospitality. Whether you come for a quick bowl of noodles, a banh mi on your lunch break or a laid-back dinner with the family, this new spot brings something fresh to the table and to the neighborhood.
This article appears in Source Weekly August 7, 2025.
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