I first found out about Năm Giao through a friend whose family knows the owners, and now it’s one of my go-to spots — especially for the baked catfish. It’s tucked away in the OG Tastea Plaza, and honestly, I’d never even noticed it until I was put on to it. Lots of places serve baked catfish, but this one is honestly my favorite. It’s flavorful, fresh, and decently priced for what you get. It’s a no-frills, family-run spot, and you can really feel that when you come in. The staff is always nice — you can tell they care. They take cards, but cash is always better for them. I’ve dined in a few times and done takeout as well. When I order to go, they even bring it out to my car, which is so thoughtful. Just a tip — they don’t give a ton of vegetables with the catfish (probably to avoid waste), so if you like making rolls and go heavy on the veggies, just ask for more. They’ll happily give it to you. They’ve also got little side dishes you can grab at the counter, and everything comes out in a reasonable time — unless it’s super busy, which is fair. My other favorite dish here is the bánh bèo — it’s so good. The crispy pork topping is better than most places, and every time I get it, I’m reminded why I keep coming back. Writing this actually makes me want to go again soon. Definitely recommend this spot, especially for the baked catfish and bánh bèo. Hidden gem in the OG Tastea Plaza.
Overview
When you're in the mood for a vibrant, flavorful Vietnamese dining experience, Nam Giao Restaurant in Garden Grove, CA is a spot that promises to deliver authentic taste with a warm and inviting atmosphere. Located at 10145 Westminster Ave, this family-owned gem is a local favorite, offering a unique blend of traditional Vietnamese dishes and modern twists that appeal to both newcomers and regular patrons.
Upon stepping into the restaurant, the cozy yet bustling vibe sets the tone for what promises to be a memorable meal. The restaurant is spacious, with an interior that feels both contemporary and welcoming. It’s clear that a lot of thought went into creating a space that feels like home but with the vibrant energy of a dining hotspot. Whether you're coming in for a quick bite or planning a family gathering, Nam Giao Restaurant offers a comfortable setting for all occasions.
As far as the menu goes, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned Vietnamese cuisine lover or just starting to explore the world of pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. A standout here is their pho, which boasts a rich, aromatic broth that’s been simmered for hours, resulting in a depth of flavor that's hard to find elsewhere. The tender beef slices or chicken options pair perfectly with the noodles, making each bowl a warm, comforting experience.
One of the must-try dishes at Nam Giao Restaurant is the Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese-style savory pancake that is crisped to perfection and filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It's served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce that makes each bite burst with flavor. If you’ve never had it before, this dish is a great introduction to the restaurant’s skill in crafting balance and texture in every dish.
What sets Nam Giao Restaurant apart from many other Vietnamese spots in the area is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing the best produce and meats, ensuring that every meal is not only delicious but also made with the finest ingredients available. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, the menu offers plenty of options, including vegetarian and gluten-free dishes, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.
Beyond just the food, the service at Nam Giao Restaurant is another reason why locals keep coming back. The staff are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, often willing to make recommendations or customize dishes based on dietary preferences. Whether you're a first-timer or a regular, you'll feel well taken care of.
For those who are interested in exploring more, Nam Giao Restaurant also offers various traditional Vietnamese beverages that pair wonderfully with the rich flavors of the menu. Their iced Vietnamese coffee is a local favorite, known for its strong, bold flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a hearty meal or a nice complement to your spring rolls.
While Nam Giao Restaurant may be located in a bustling part of Garden Grove, the ambiance inside feels relaxed and unpretentious, making it easy to enjoy a quiet meal or a lively conversation. It’s not hard to see why this place has earned a loyal following. If you’re ever in the area, it’s a great choice for anyone craving authentic Vietnamese flavors in a welcoming setting. Whether you're there for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or a gathering with friends, you're sure to find something to satisfy your appetite.
Customer reviews also speak volumes about the consistency and quality of the dishes. Many have raved about the authenticity of the flavors, claiming that it brings them right back to their roots, whether they're Vietnamese locals or simply enthusiasts of the cuisine. The restaurant has become a staple in the community, with patrons praising both the taste and the hospitality they receive on each visit.
If you're looking to try something new or just want a reliable spot for your Vietnamese food cravings, Nam Giao Restaurant is the place to be. The combination of great food, excellent service, and a casual but cozy ambiance makes it one of the best dining experiences in the area.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryHighlights
✓ Serves local specialtyPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible car park ✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small platesDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ CasualCrowd
✓ Family friendly ✓ Groups ✓ TouristsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kids ✓ High chairsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Free parking lot ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Great place for family! Crispy Cat fish. Great Banana rice Grill with coconut for dessert. And Specially the Bun Mam noodle.
We came here for the baked cat fish. The fish was good and flavourful. It came with a generous portion of vegetables, noodles and rice papers. The service was friendly and quick. The restaurant seems a little run down though. The vegetables didn’t appear to be washed cleanly, We had pick out the old leaves and stems ourselves.
The fish was pure perfection. Crispy skin and succulent meat. The aunties and nephew are super friendly and hard working. They were very attentive their customers. Medium size will feed 3 regular people or 2 hungry post Disney monsters.
A good friend suggested this small restaurant & the #13 catfish certainly was everything we expected it to be. Crispy skin, tender perfectly cooked flesh, a big pile of herbs & lettuce to wrap it up... I'm drooling just thinking about it! Staff is very helpful without being intrusive.
Best place for baked Vietnamese catfish in town. Reasonable prices for the size of the fish. This small was big enough for 2-3 people. The fish came out piping hot and the sides were garden fresh.
I only visit this restaurant for the Baked Catfish (Ca Nuong Da Gion) so I will review that dish only. The fish was amazing as it smells really good and very crunchy. I think this restaurant is one of the best restaurant to come for this dish and I highly recommend it. Though, I don't really like the dipping sauce as much as I think it is a bit too diluted with water so the taste was not strong enough. But overall, still enjoyed the fish with my family. It was $58 for the whole fish, so it's a bit more expensive compared to the past.