San Jose- Tofoo Com Chay

    So this is Tofoo Com Chay, known by many, but you can miss it easily since it literally is a hole in the wall eatery (maybe 4 small groups/couples can eat inside.) As you can see below, they have added seats outside as their popularity has grown. It is located on 388 E Santa Clara Street in downtown San Jose.

I have been going to Tofoo Com Chay for about 10 years now. It is around the block from San Jose State University, my alma mater,  however I didn't discover this hidden gem until after I graduated. They serve all Vegan, Vietnamese food. The owner, known as Ben, is an awesome guy. I don't come in as much as I would like, maybe 5 times a year, but Ben always remembers me and my family when we come in. 

     When you walk in you will see a large case of faux meats, such as sausage and beef, and traditional Vietnamese food. Now, I know some vegans do not care to have the taste and texture of faux meats. In this case, this place may not be for you.

Lets talk about what I had on my recent visit(my food was to go):

vermicelli noodle salad

As you see it came with beef skewers,fresh basil, and a small salad. It also came with a sweet sauce to add to the top. It was very good, the fresh greens balanced out the meal. The meat would satisfy the average carnivore, at least I think!

A favorite of mine are the drumsticks, they cook it is a savory sauce, and again the meat is very realistic. 

      I think I got lucky this particular day because Ben added some spring rolls to my order for no charge.

The spring rolls were definitely fresh tasting, I have to be honest I am not a huge fan of spring rolls, so they were ok to me. They are stuffed with faux meats, fresh veggies, and noodles. It also came with a sweet sauce. 

        Like I said before, I have been here many times, and there is quite a few things I would recommend to try. This place has the best Vietnamese Pho in town. In fact, any of their soups are above average in quality. All of their soups are made fresh in house. When either myself or a family member comes down with a cold, their soup is a great remedy to relieve symptoms. 

      I would say the only downside of this place is that they reheat food using a microwave. Tofoo Com Chay would definitely be considered a fast food eatery since many people are coming and going from work/school and can get packed at times, thus the reheating. On the positive side, the service is fairly good, the portions are big, and the prices are right. 

    I would try this place at least once if you haven't done so already.