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Downtown Greenville dining Vietnamese Authentic Cuisine

About us

Pho in Greenville SC

From humble roots

What began as three separate journeys eventually came together around a shared belief: that food has the power to connect people, preserve culture, and bring communities together.

Founded by Vietnamese immigrants and longtime Greenville restaurateur, our restaurant is a reflection of family, perseverance, and a deep love for hospitality. Every dish we serve is inspired by the traditions we grew up with, the experiences that shaped us, and the communities that have supported us along the way.

Lisa Doan Owner of Can Tho Bistro and Bar Vietnamese Fare, Greenville SC

Lisa Doan

Following the Vietnam War, Lisa and her family came to the United States through a journey that eventually led them to Louisiana, where they planted new roots and built a life together. It was there that she met her future husband, beginning a partnership that would span decades of family, entrepreneurship, and community involvement. Known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering dedication to family, she has always believed that food is one of the most meaningful ways to bring people together. Her influence can be felt throughout the restaurant—from the welcoming atmosphere to the recipes and traditions that inspired it. This restaurant is a reflection of the values she holds most dear: family, hospitality, and sharing a meal with the people you love.

Chuck Doan, owner of Can Tho Bistro and Bar Vietnamse Fare in Downtown SC

Charlie Doan

After escaping Vietnam, Charlie arrived in the United States as a young man seeking opportunity and a fresh start. Sponsored by a foster family in Minnesota, he began rebuilding his life in a country that was completely unfamiliar to him. Like many immigrants, he learned quickly that success would come through hard work, determination, and resilience. Over the years, he built a career, wrote a book, started businesses, raised a family, and never lost sight of the sacrifices that made those opportunities possible. For him, this restaurant represents more than a business. It's a celebration of where he came from, the life he worked to build, and the opportunity to share Vietnamese culture with others through food.

Hai Yap, owner of Can Tho Bistro and Bar Vietnamese Fare in Downtown Greenville SC

Cheng Yap

For more than thirty years, Yap has been a driving force in Greenville's restaurant community. Having opened and operated more than 15 restaurants across Greenville and Anderson counties, he has built a reputation for creating memorable dining experiences and welcoming guests with genuine hospitality. His ventures have included Greenville and Anderson Murasaki, The Orient on Main, Saki Saki at Gather Greenville, Stix on Stone (formerly Community Canteen), and the upcoming Murasaki at Bridgeway Station. Throughout his career, his passion has remained the same: bringing people together through great food and meaningful connections. Partnering on this restaurant was a natural extension of that philosophy. By combining decades of restaurant experience with a shared appreciation for Vietnamese culture and cuisine, Yap helps bring a vision to life that honors tradition while creating something uniquely Greenville. Together, the three owners share a commitment to hard work, community, and creating a place where every guest feels welcome.

Honoring our journey

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