Gia Lam II

- 5414 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220

## Introduction / Overview

Gia Lam II represents a deep-seated tradition in Brooklyn’s vibrant culinary landscape. Located prominently on 8th Avenue, this established Vietnamese restaurant has served the local community for generations, fostering a strong sense of nostalgia and loyalty among its long-time patrons. Indeed, some have been enjoying the food here since their childhood, a testament to its former consistency and historical significance in the neighborhood.

The restaurant's focus is firmly rooted in authentic Vietnamese flavors, offering a sprawling menu that goes far beyond typical takeout fare. It is celebrated for its deep commitment to traditional dishes, making it a popular choice for Lunch, Dinner, and even solo dining. The extensive selection covers everything from comforting Rice Noodle Soup—a staple of Vietnamese cuisine—to complex House Special platters. While primarily known for its main dishes, Gia Lam II also serves a robust menu of Coffee and unique traditional beverages. The restaurant operates with a casual atmosphere that is welcoming to all, drawing a consistent crowd of **Locals**, **Groups**, and even **Tourists** seeking an authentic culinary experience that is characterized by rich and amazing flavors.

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## Location and Accessibility

Gia Lam II is conveniently situated at 5414 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA. This address places it squarely within one of Brooklyn’s most bustling and culturally rich neighborhoods, a central point for Asian dining in the borough. The location on 8th Avenue makes it easily accessible via local transit options, and for those driving, the availability of **Paid street parking** is a notable convenience in this busy area.

The atmosphere of the restaurant is designed to be inviting yet tranquil. Customers have described the vibe as typically quiet, which makes it an ideal setting for more intimate gatherings, such as dates or relaxed social gatherings. The dining room is built to comfortably accommodate a variety of guests, from large Groups to Families, and is considered Good for kids with the provision of High chairs. The space ensures that diners have essential amenities, including a clean Restroom, enhancing the overall table service experience, and encouraging patrons to sit down and enjoy a full Vietnamese meal.

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## Services Offered

Gia Lam II provides multiple service avenues to ensure its traditional Vietnamese cuisine is accessible to everyone in the New York area, regardless of whether they wish to dine in or enjoy their meal at home.

• Dine-in: Guests can enjoy a quiet, full-service dining experience featuring Table service. The restaurant is open for both Lunch and Dinner, providing a comfortable atmosphere perfect for social meals or a moment of reflection.
• Takeout: For those on the move, the takeout service provides a quick and efficient way to pick up any item from the extensive menu, from a Grilled Pork Chop On Rice ($11.05) to a generous order of Vietnamese Spring Roll.
• Delivery: The restaurant offers delivery, ensuring that New Yorkers can enjoy their favorite Vietnamese dishes—including large Soup orders or rich Stir Fried Noodles—right to their doorstep.

In addition to main meals, the restaurant’s dining options include a dedicated Dessert service, allowing patrons to conclude their meal with a satisfying sweet treat or a unique traditional beverage. The array of options makes Gia Lam II a flexible choice for various scheduling and dining needs.

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## Features / Highlights

The defining characteristic of Gia Lam II is its extraordinarily deep and authentic menu, reflecting a commitment to comprehensive Vietnamese cooking, coupled with a history that makes it a true local institution.

• Generational Patronage and Heritage: The restaurant boasts a powerful legacy, with multiple customers confirming they have been eating the food here since childhood. This history underscores the quality and traditional nature of the menu that has delighted **Locals** for decades.
• Specialized Rice Noodle Soup (Pho) Selection: The Pho menu is immense, showcasing both simple and complex variations. Favorites include the Special Rice Noodles Soup With Beef brisket, omosa, eye round, tendin ($14.24), alongside dedicated options like Seafood On Noodle Soup ($15.28) and Grilled Pork Chop On Rice Noodle Soup ($14.24). This extensive list offers the true Comfort food that many New Yorkers seek.
• Unique Vietnamese Beverage Program: The drink menu is a highlight, offering traditional French Hot Coffee With Condensed Milk ($5.85) and more adventurous choices like Soda With Egg Yolk And Condensed Milk ($7.80) or the colorful Three Color Sweet Bean Ice Drink ($7.80). They also feature an extensive list of fresh Summer Cold Drinks, including Avocado and Mango shakes, ensuring a perfect pairing for any meal.
• Interactive House Specials: For group dining, the House Special section offers high-end, shared experiences, such as the option to have Grilled Shrimp And Beef At Your Table ($44.14), which creates a memorable, interactive culinary event.
• Massive Vermicelli & Rice Offerings: Beyond Pho, the restaurant excels in its Vermicelli (Tiny Rice Stick) dishes, such as Grilled Beef With Sesame Seasoning On Rice Thread ($24.64), and its diverse Rice Dish selection, featuring classics like Grilled Pork Chop Shredded Pork Egg Patty On Rice ($12.35) and flavorful options like Stir Fried Chicken With Lemongrass On Rice ($12.03).
• Appetizers and Small Plates: The wide array of Small plates includes Vietnamese staples like Shrimp Summer Roll ($9.75) and unique salads like Jelly Fish With Shrimp Salad ($15.54 S), making it easy to enjoy a Quick bite or a full, varied meal.

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## Contact Information

To place a takeout order, arrange a delivery, or inquire about the dine-in experience, please use the following contact information:

Address: 5414 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA

Phone (Local): (718) 567-0800

Phone (Mobile): +1 718-567-0800

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## What Is Worth Choosing

For New Yorkers seeking a truly expansive and traditional Vietnamese culinary journey, Gia Lam II represents a deep dive into the cuisine that few other local spots can match. What makes it worth choosing is its historical commitment to authentic, large-scale Vietnamese menus, particularly in its noodle and specialty drink categories.

While one recent review pointed to disappointing changes in flavor and service consistency, noting issues with mandatory tipping, table service, and a decline in quality, the sheer legacy of the restaurant suggests a strong foundation that has previously produced "fantastic" food with "amazing flavors." These challenges, while important for potential customers to note, often mark a transitional period for long-standing establishments. A visit here is not just about the meal, but about experiencing a local fixture with a menu that has satisfied generations.

The undeniable highlight is the menu's sheer depth, offering unique dishes that cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. The dedication to authentic, strong Vietnamese coffee and the vast selection of Rice Noodle Soup and Vermicell options ensure that every patron, from the Pho purist to the adventurous diner, can find a fulfilling meal. Furthermore, the availability of specialized, high-end dishes like the tableside grilling options gives Gia Lam II an edge for those planning a special Dinner or social event. When considering a visit, focusing on the highly detailed, unique aspects of the traditional menu—the variety of Pho cuts, the specialized Vietnamese beverages, and the comforting Grilled Pork Chop Shredded Pork Egg Patty On Rice—provides the best chance for a truly rewarding and authentic dining experience that honors its long-standing status in Brooklyn.

Gia Lam II

5414 8th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA