By Kelly McCarthy A Vietnamese American-run restaurant in California made it through the throes of the pandemic all while continuing to honor and celebrate its food traditions. Oakland, California-based "Top Chef" alum Tu David Phu brought "Good Morning America" into the kitchen of one of his favorite local Vietnamese American eateries, Tay Ho, to honor the mother-daughter duo and share a recipe that originated in the heart of San Francisco.

Soon, travelers passing through Oakland can enjoy a taste of Tay Ho. The popular Vietnamese restaurant from Oakland Chinatown is set to open near the airport in early September. The menu will feature pho, vermicelli bowls, banh mi, coffee, wine, and beer. It's perfect for any schedule—sit down with a warm bowl of pho or grab a quick banh mi on the go. The new spot brings a familiar local favorite to a whole new setting.

Downtown's 'Tay Ho Restaurant & Bar' Is 'As Authentic As We Can Be' Neighborhoods Oakland Location 344 12th St., Oakland, CA When it comes to serving Vietnamese cuisine, "we try to be as authentic as we can be," said Denise Huynh, owner of Downtown's Tay Ho Restaurant & Bar.

This stylish Chinatown restaurant serves Vietnamese-inspired cocktails alongside its traditional Vietnamese eats. The menu draws from all over the country, but diners should pay special attention to dishes from central Vietnam and the Mekong Delta regions. Bánh bột lọc (chewy Hue-style dumplings) are delightful, as are the Mekong turmeric cakes, fried turmeric catfish, and fish curry. Northern Vietnamese bánh cuốn — delicate rice noodle rolls — are also a specialty​

The pandemic forced Tay Ho owner Denise Huynh to pivot her business model quickly, yet she still gave back to her local community during these tough times. Filmmaker Rafael Gomez, of Diptongo Media Group, captured the story. “I was inspired by the unique anecdotes and magical moments that propelled Tay Ho through challenging times,” said Gomez. “Denise did it all and had an unwavering commitment to frontline workers.”