What is Pho?

Pho, pronounced “fuh,” is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup steeped in culinary tradition. A hallmark of the nation’s cuisine, pho is beloved for its comforting broth, tender noodles, and fresh aromatics. Hanoi, the capital city, offers its renowned take on this iconic dish, distinguished by its unique flavor combinations.

Type of Pho?

Pho ga ( Chicken pho/ Chicken noodle Soup )

Pho Ga, literally translating to ‘chicken pho,’ is a Vietnamese noodle soup featuring silky rice noodles and tender, thinly sliced chicken immersed in a light, fragrant broth. This comforting dish combines the iconic flavors of pho with the delicate taste of chicken.

Ingredients:

• Broth: Chicken bones, ginger, onion, shallot, star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, sugar, fish sauce.
• Noodles: Fresh, flat, soft rice noodles.
• Chicken: Free-range chicken, cooked and shredded or thinly sliced.
• Herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, green onion, bean sprouts.
• Condiments: Lime, chili peppers, black bean sauce, Sriracha sauce.

Instructions:

1. Broth: Simmer chicken bones with ginger, onion, shallot, star anise, cinnamon, and cardamom for hours to create a flavorful broth. Season to taste.
2. Chicken: Clean the chicken, and cook it in boiling water with ginger and salt. Remove, cool, shred, or thinly slice.
3. Noodles: Blanch the noodles in boiling water to soften.
4. Assembly: Place noodles in a bowl, top with chicken, and ladle hot broth over. Garnish with herbs, and serve with lime, chili peppers, black bean sauce, and Sriracha sauce.

Pho bo (Beef pho )

“Phở bò” translates to “beef pho” in English. It is a Vietnamese noodle soup made with a broth derived from beef bones, typically served with thinly sliced beef, various fresh herbs such as cilantro, onions, and cilantro, and seasoned with toppings like fried shallots, black pepper, chili, and lime. Beef pho is enjoyed with rice noodles and condiments to create a flavorful and nutritious traditional meal.

Ingredients:

• Broth: Beef bones, ginger, onion, shallot, star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, sugar, fish sauce.
• Noodles: Fresh, flat, soft rice noodles.
• Beef: Sliced flank, brisket, chuck, etc., thinly sliced.
• Herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, green onion, bean sprouts.
• Condiments: Lime, chili peppers, black bean sauce, Sriracha sauce.

Pho chay (Vegetarian pho)

“Phở chay” translates to “vegetarian pho” in English. It is a variation of the traditional Vietnamese pho dish made with vegetable-based broth and seasoning instead of bone broth. Typically, vegetarian pho includes a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, tofu, carrots, cabbage, celery, and tomatoes. This dish is often served with rice noodles and condiments to create a delicious and flavorful meal suitable for vegetarians or those seeking a lighter, cleaner option of pho.

Ingredients:

• Broth: Shiitake mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, carrots, chayote, cabbage, onion, shallot, star anise, cinnamon, cardamom, salt, sugar, vegetarian fish sauce.
• Noodles: Fresh, flat, soft rice noodles.
• Vegetables: Tofu, bean sprouts, leafy greens (e.g., bok choy, watercress), and other vegetables as desired.
• Herbs: Thai basil, cilantro, green onion, bean sprouts.
• Condiments: Lime, chili peppers, black bean sauce, Sriracha sauce.

Pho Xao ( fried noodle)

“Phở Xào” translates to “Stir-fried Pho” in English. It’s a dish in Vietnamese cuisine where pho noodles are stir-fried along with various ingredients such as beef or chicken, vegetables, onions, garlic, and seasonings. This dish is typically cooked in a pan or wok to create a flavorful, delicious, and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• Rice noodles: Fresh, flat, soft rice noodles.
• Beef, chicken, or seafood: Thinly sliced.
• Stir-fry vegetables: Chinese broccoli, broccoli, mushrooms, onion, carrots, etc.
• Seasonings: Cooking oil, fish sauce, salt, sugar, pepper, chili, minced shallots, minced garlic.

Best Chicken Pho in Hanoi Old Quarter

1. Pho Tien

Pho Tien holds a special place among our preferred pho eateries, particularly when we crave the delightful taste of chicken pho. At Pho Tien, you’ll find enticing sliced chicken, a clear and delicate broth, and thoughtfully chosen scallions and thinly sliced lime leaves adorning the noodle soup. It’s simply delicious!

• Address: 50 Nguyen Truong To Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

2. Pho Ga Tinh

Pho Tinh stands as one of the oldest establishments specializing in chicken noodle soup within Hanoi’s Old Quarter, now run by the family’s third generation. The eatery bustles with activity during lunch and dinner hours, yet patrons typically don’t have to wait in line as they might at other traditional pho venues in the city.

At Pho Tinh, patrons can savor solely chicken noodle soup, enjoying it as locals do by supplementing their meals with extras like additional eggs, fried breadsticks, or Vietnamese iced tea. Despite its modest exterior appearance, the interior of Pho Tinh is surprisingly spacious and can comfortably accommodate small groups of travelers. Moreover, their prices are very reasonable!

• Address: 42 Quan Thanh Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

3. Pho Ga Bao Khanh – Huyen Huong Restaurant

Nestled on the serene Bao Khanh Street, bridging the Hoan Kiem Lake and Hang Trong Street, Huyen Huong Restaurant is hailed by locals as one of the premier destinations for chicken noodle soup in the area.

The chicken here resembles free-range poultry, lending a slightly firm texture that adds to its allure. A bowl of chicken pho boasts generous portions of meat, complemented by a broth naturally imbued with sweetness and enhanced with fragrant basil and cilantro. While it may come at a slightly higher price point (60,000 VND per bowl) compared to other establishments, the delectable soup and comfortable seating make it well worth the cost.

• Address: 20 Bao Khanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi  (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 8:00 PM

4. Pho Ga Nguyet

Pho Ga Nguyet is an ideal place to enjoy authentic and delicious chicken pho. The restaurant is recognized by the Michelin Guide and is loved by many diners. If you want to experience the traditional chicken pho flavor of Hanoi, come to Pho Ga Nguyet.

• Price range: Affordable (around 50,000 – 70,000 VND/bowl)
• Address: 5B Phu Doan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM (Monday – Saturday)

5. Pho Hanh – 65A Lan Ong

Phở Hạnh, located on Lãn Ông Street, offers a modern take on traditional pho with a chicken-based option. Popular among Hanoi’s young crowd, it opens only in the evening, attracting patrons despite sidewalk seating on small plastic stools. Choose from traditional soup pho or the flavorful dry version. Experience the fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese flavors, with aromatic broth infused with Chinese herbs.

• Price: Starting from 50,000VND per bowl.
• Address: 65A Lan Ong, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm daily

Best Beef pho in Hanoi Old Quarter

  1. Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan

Located on the vibrant Bát Đàn Street, Phở Gia Truyền is a must-visit for pho enthusiasts. This legendary spot has been serving traditional pho for generations, known for its rich broth and tender beef slices. Despite its modest setting, it remains the finest pho joint in Hanoi since the ’60s. The broth, infused with a blend of flavors, complements the succulent beef perfectly. Don’t miss out on this authentic pho experience.

• Price: Starting from 50,000 per bowl
• Address: 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 am – to 10:00 am and 6:00 pm – to 8:30 pm daily

2. Pho Thin Bo Ho

Located just steps away from the picturesque Hồ Hoàn Kiếm, Phở Thìn Bờ Hồ is renowned for its signature pho featuring thin beef slices. The beef, cooked to perfection, offers a tender and succulent texture, while the broth bursts with umami flavors. Enjoy your bowl of pho amidst the scenic surroundings, making it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists alike. Delight in the delicious pho and immerse yourself in the charm of Hanoi’s old quarter at Phở Thìn Bờ Hồ.

• Price: 50,000 – 80,000 VND per person.
• Address: 61 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi  (Map)
• Opening hours: around 5:30 pm daily

3. Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su

Nestled on Lý Quốc Sư Street, Phở 10 is a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. What distinguishes this eatery is its dedication to using fresh ingredients and high-quality beef. The broth at Phở 10 is meticulously prepared, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously. Each bowl of pho is a delightful fusion of tastes, with the aromatic beef broth complementing the tender beef slices and fresh rice noodles. For an extra burst of flavor, don’t forget to pair your pho with their homemade chili sauce.

• Price: 60,000 – 85,000 VND per person.
• Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: around 6:30 am – 2 pm daily

4. Pho Vui – 25 Hang Giay

Conveniently located within walking distance of Hanoi Old Quarter, Phở Vui specializes in a variety of beef noodle dishes. Despite its slightly richer broth, the flavors are delightful. With sidewalk tables providing an authentic Vietnamese dining experience, this spot is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, Phở Vui has something to satisfy your cravings. With generous portions and affordable prices, it’s a great choice for a satisfying meal.

• Price: 40,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl.
• Address: 25 Hang Giay, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 am – 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm – 11:00 pm daily

5. Pho Suong – 24B Trung Yen

Phở Sướng, located on Trung Yên Street, is a beloved spot renowned for its exceptional pho. With a loyal customer base and an amazing blend of broth, noodles, herbs, vegetables, and grilled meat, it’s a steal at just VND 50,000 per bowl. The charming interior adds to its allure. Open from 5:30 am to 11 am and 4:30 pm to 9:30 pm daily, it’s perfect for a delicious meal any time of day.

• Price: 40,000 – 50,000 VND per bowl.
• Address: 24B Trung Yen, Dinh Liet, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 5:30 am – 11 am & 4:30 pm – 9:30 pm daily

6. Phở Gánh – Ngã Tư Hàng Chiếu

Phở Gánh, a humble street food vendor located at the intersection of Hàng Chiếu Street, offers some of the finest pho in the old quarter. Despite its unassuming appearance, its simplicity shines through – tender beef slices, fresh noodles, and a fragrant broth perfected over the years. Sit on a stool, enjoy your curbside bowl of pho, and immerse yourself in the flavors of Hanoi at Phở Gánh.

• Price: From 35,000 VND – 60,000 VND per bowl.
• Address: 7 Cho Gao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 3:30 am – 10:00 pm daily

Best Vegetarian pho in Hanoi Old Quarter

1 Vegetarian Pho Specialty Restaurant Tu Bi

For those who enjoy indulging in special vegetarian dishes such as vegetarian pho, you can visit Từ Bi Restaurant located on Trúc Bạch Street. The restaurant offers a relatively clean and spacious environment, along with a team of enthusiastic, cheerful, and friendly staff. Although the taste of the vegetarian pho may not be extraordinary, the broth is rich, flavorful, and suitable for many palates.

• Price: around 30,000 – 50,000 VND/portion
• Address: 30 Ng. Truc Lac, Truc Bạch, Ba Đinh, Ha Noi (Map)
• Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM

2. Vegetarian Pho Lo Duc

It is one of the most enticing and renowned vegetarian pho eateries in Hanoi, attracting many visitors. The pho here is praised for its delicious taste, offering both mixed and broth-only options. True to its vegetarian pho standards, the restaurant utilizes ingredients like tofu and vegetables in its dishes.

• Price: around 15,000 – 25,000 VND/portion
• Address: 168 P. Lo Duc, Dong Mac, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM

Best ( fried noodles) in Hanoi Old Quarter

1. Pho Xao Hang Buom

Pho Xao Hang Buom is a unique and novel dish that is currently capturing the attention of Hanoi’s young crowd.This dish is a twist on the traditional pho, prepared by stir-frying instead of boiling. Pho Xao features chewy pho noodles stir-fried with various meats such as beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetables, creating a rich and nutritious flavor profile. Dubbed as the “fitness” pho due to its high calorie and protein content.

• Price: from 40,000 to 50,000VND/portion
• Address: So 11 Hang Buom, Q. Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (Map)
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Conclusion

Hanoi’s Old Quarter is not only renowned for its ancient streets and historical landmarks but also draws visitors with its rich and diverse culinary scene. Among them, pho is a must-try dish when visiting this place. The Old Quarter boasts numerous pho eateries, each with its distinctive flavors, ranging from traditional longstanding establishments to modern ones. Each pho restaurant has its secret recipe to create delicious and enticing pho flavors.