A fresh burst of flavor has arrived in Tacoma’s historic Lincoln District.
La Cà 38th is serving up authentic Vietnamese cuisine inside a cozy, contemporary bistro space at 1001 S. 38th Street.
From Vietnam To Tacoma
Opened in December 2024, the restaurant is the third addition to Tuan Nguyen’s growing family of La Cà establishments, joining La Cà Bar on 6th Avenue and La Cà Cafe near Pacific Lutheran University.
Nguyen, who purchased the distinctive white-brick building five years ago, said the name La Cà comes from a familiar Vietnamese phrase meaning “to linger in one place all day.” That’s exactly the atmosphere he hopes to create. “I want this restaurant to be like an ‘all day here,’” Nguyen explained.
A Menu That Travels
The menu at La Cà 38th blends traditional Vietnamese street food with modern bistro flair. Diners can expect everything from crispy Bánh Xèo rice crepes to steaming bowls of Phở and spicy Bún Bò Huế.
Appetizers include deep-fried shrimp and pork rolls topped with roasted peanuts and salmon fresh rolls wrapped in rice paper with basil, mint, and chili-garlic fish sauce.
Sandwich lovers will find hearty Bánh Mì options, including the grilled pork version loaded with pickled papaya, cucumber, cilantro, and jalapeños.
For noodle fans, highlights include a chicken curry vermicelli rich with coconut milk and vegetables, and grilled beef vermicelli bowls layered with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sweet fish sauce. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available.
More Than A Meal
The restaurant’s full bar offers craft cocktails, beers, and wines, making it an easy stop for lunch, happy hour, or dinner. With late-night dining until 10 p.m. daily and convenient parking, La Cà 38th is positioning itself as a go-to destination for Vietnamese food in Tacoma’s International District.
What Diners Are Saying
Early reviews have been glowing. One Yelp user called La Cà 38th “a hidden gem… with great service, authentic dishes, and a cute, cozy space.” Another praised the food as “warm and fresh,” with staff who made them feel welcome.
A third raved about the grilled pork Bánh Mì, adding, “We loved it so much we came back the next day for the vermicelli bowl.”
🍽️ La Cà 38th | 📍 1001 S. 38th Street in Tacoma | ⏰ Open daily 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. | 💻 Website
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