Hanoi is not only famous for its rich history and cultural heritage but also for its diverse culinary scene, particularly pho—the national dish of Vietnam. This September 2nd holiday, if you are looking for unique culinary experiences, let’s explore some of the pho restaurants that have received high praise from the Michelin Guide. Below is a list of 9 pho restaurants included in the Michelin recommendations or Bib Gourmand (good food at reasonable prices) for 2025 that you should not miss.
Pho Bo Lam (Phở Bò Lâm)
- Address: 48, Hang Vai Street, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem District (Google Map)
- Opening Hours: 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM
- Rating: Bib Gourmand
Pho Bo Lam is one of the most famous pho restaurants in Hanoi, known for its signature pho made from the core part of the beef brisket. The restaurant is located in a small house that can accommodate about 6-7 tables inside and 2-3 tables outside on the sidewalk. The pho here features tender beef brisket and chewy tendons, providing a delightful texture. The restaurant often runs out of food early on weekends, so it’s best to arrive early to enjoy this delicious dish.
Pho Khoi Hoi (Phở Khôi Hói)
- Address: 50, Hang Vai Street, Hoan Kiem District (Google Map)
- Rating: Bib Gourmand
Pho Khoi Hoi stands out not only for its beef pho but also for its unique name, which reflects the owner’s hairstyle. The Michelin Guide suggests that diners should try the beef pho here, which offers a variety of toppings, including tía beef and brisket. The cozy and friendly atmosphere makes it an ideal place to enjoy a steaming bowl of pho in the heart of Hanoi.
Pho Bo Au Trieu (Phở Bò Ấu Triệu)
- Address: 34 Au Trieu Street, Cua Nam Ward (Google Map)
- Rating: Bib Gourmand
Pho Bo Au Trieu is a hidden gem located beside St. Joseph’s Cathedral, without a signboard. The restaurant has a compact space that can accommodate about 30 people. During peak hours, diners often have to wait in line or sit on plastic chairs on the sidewalk across the street. The broth here is thick, rich, and flavorful, contrasting with the lighter, clearer broth typically found in Hanoi pho. This unique broth recipe has been around for over 80 years, contributing to the restaurant’s brand and attracting customers from all over.
Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan
- Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District (Google Map)
- Rating: Bib Gourmand
This restaurant offers a variety of options such as rare beef, brisket, or well-done pho, and customers often order crispy fried doughsticks (quẩy) to enhance the flavor. Additionally, the golden, rich boiled chicken is another popular dish here. The small but cozy space makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a hot bowl of pho.
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su
- Address: 39B, Ly Quoc Su Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem District (Google Map)
- Rating: Bib Gourmand
Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is renowned for its rich and distinctive broth. Here, you can choose from over 10 different types of pho, including rare, well-done, brisket, and more. The small kitchen located right at the entrance creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Each bowl of pho offers a complete experience with tender, sweet beef slices that easily melt in your mouth.
Pho Ga Nguyet
- Address: 5 Phu Doan, Cua Nam Ward (Google Map)
- Rating: Bib Gourmand
Pho Ga Nguyet is one of the most famous chicken pho restaurants in Hanoi. Diners can choose from various cuts of chicken, but the tender thigh is always a favorite. The restaurant stays open until midnight, making it a popular spot for late-night diners. The flavorful broth, combined with various spices, provides a delightful culinary experience.
Pho Ga Tien
- Address: 103, Nguyen Truong To Street, Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh District (Google Map)
- Rating: Michelin Recommended
Pho Ga Tien is located on Nguyen Truong To Street and is known for its spacious environment and free parking. The soft noodles are served with green onions and fragrant lime leaves, creating a delicious combination. The Michelin Guide also recommends trying additional toppings like chicken entrails, eggs, and fried doughsticks available at this restaurant.
Pho Ga Cham
- Address: 97, Yen Ninh Street, Ba Dinh District (Google Map)
- Rating: Michelin Recommended
The chicken pho at Pho Ga Cham is priced slightly higher than average, but the quality of the chicken and the broth is always guaranteed. Diners can choose between chicken breast, thigh, or a combination of both, then add chili, garlic, and lime according to their taste. The restaurant is usually busy in the early morning, so arriving early is advisable to not miss out on the best cuts of chicken.
Pho Cuon Chinh Thang
- Address: 7 Mac Dinh Chi Street, Truc Bach, Ba Dinh District (Google Map)
- Rating: Michelin Recommended
Established in 2000, Pho Cuon Chinh Thang is considered the birthplace of pho rolls. These soft pho rolls, filled with beef, herbs, and vegetables, are served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, while crispy fried pho topped with beef sauce is a favorite among many diners. Although the restaurant is small, it is always bustling with activity, creating a lively atmosphere for guests.
Conclusion
This September 2nd holiday, take the time to explore these Michelin-recommended pho restaurants in Hanoi. Not only will you enjoy delicious food, but you’ll also experience the rich culinary culture of the capital. These pho restaurants not only offer distinctive flavors but also preserve the stories and memories of the people of Hanoi. Wishing you a wonderful culinary adventure!
