They’re ‘pho-ing’ back. Vietnamese restaurant reopening after outpouring of support

A popular Fresno Vietnamese restaurant that announced it was closing last month will reopen this week.

Pho 75 closed on Jan. 18 because of a dispute with the landlord after operating in its location on McKinley Avenue and First Street for more than 26 years.

Landlord Ted Caldwell said at the time there were behind-the-scenes plans that he couldn’t share. But if things didn’t work out he’d be willing to reconsider negotiations with the restaurant.

After hearing how much the community loved the restaurant, Caldwell and owner Kim Vo negotiated a new lease so the restaurant could stay open, said Pho 75 manager Gina Saiyasane.

“The landlord heard how much Pho 75 meant to the community and we were able to get a new lease and stay open,” she said.

The restaurant announced the news on its Facebook page: “Voices were heard to keep Pho 75 #2 alive! Thanks to the community, customers, and everyone getting involved we will be opening our doors again. We thank everyone again because of you...WE ARE PHOING BACK!!!”

The grand reopening will be Thursday. The first 75 customers will receive a free T-shirt with the phrase “I’m Pho-ing back” and a depiction of a bowl of noodles. The restaurant will be open from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The restaurant was the Vo family’s livelihood, and the community support opened the family’s eyes to how beloved it was by the community, Saiyasane said.

“We didn’t know it brought that much joy to our community,” she said. “We’re hoping to see the same faces and regular customers.”

Social media had a meltdown when news of the closure was announced. Customers were happy to learn of the much better news this time.

Caldwell could not immediately be reached for comment.

This story was originally published February 12, 2018 at 5:59 PM with the headline "They’re ‘pho-ing’ back. Vietnamese restaurant reopening after outpouring of support."