Mug 'n' Bowl Cafe & Eatery is a cosy, Vietnamese-leaning cafe on Carr Road in Three Kings, Auckland, rated 4.7 from 669 Google reviews. Banh mi and pho are its most-mentioned dishes by far, with reviewers praising the beef pho broth, welcoming service and easygoing feel; outdoor seating gets a nod, and updates are posted on its Facebook page.
The mark of a good Vietnamese cafe usually comes down to broth and bread. Pho broth should be clear but deeply savoury, simmered for hours with star anise, charred ginger and onion, while a proper banh mi needs a baguette with a crisp shell and airy middle, filled and eaten promptly so nothing goes soggy. Strong drip coffee with condensed milk is the classic companion. A queue at lunch is often a good sign: brisk turnover keeps stock fresh.
For a well-reviewed bowl of pho or banh mi in Three Kings, this Carr Road spot is an easy local call.