Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and a bustling metropolis filled with rich culture, history, and of course, delicious food. One of the must-try dishes when visiting HCMC is pho – a Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat. With so many restaurants and street vendors claiming to have the best pho, it can be overwhelming for travelers to find the perfect bowl. In this article, we will delve into the top six places to find the best pho in HCMC based on popularity, authenticity, and overall taste.
1. Pho Hoa Pasteur
Located in the central district of District 3, Pho Hoa Pasteur has been a household name for pho lovers since 1968. This restaurant has been around for over 50 years and is known for its original recipe that has been passed down for three generations. It is said that the broth is cooked for over 24 hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful base for their signature pho.
History of Pho Hoa Pasteur
Pho Hoa Pasteur was founded by the Tran family in 1968 and has become one of the longest-standing pho restaurants in HCMC. The founder, Mr. Tran Ngoc Son, learned how to make pho from his grandmother and spent years perfecting the recipe before opening up his own restaurant. Today, the restaurant is still run by the Tran family with the third generation carrying on the traditional recipe.
The restaurant’s location on Pasteur Street also holds significance as it is named after Louis Pasteur, a famous French scientist who contributed to the development of pasteurization – a method used to preserve food and drinks. This connection to France is fitting as pho, which originated in North Vietnam, has French influences from the time of colonization.
The Menu
Pho Hoa Pasteur specializes in pho and offers a variety of options on their menu. Their most popular dishes include Pho Tai (beef steak), Pho Bo Vien (beef meatballs), and Pho Ga (chicken). The broth is made with beef bones, ginger, onion, and secret spices that give it a unique and distinct flavor. The noodles are also freshly made in-house, adding to the authenticity of the dish.
Aside from pho, the restaurant also offers other Vietnamese dishes such as spring rolls, banh mi, and bun thit nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles). For drinks, they serve traditional Vietnamese iced coffee and various fruit juices.
What Makes Pho Hoa Pasteur Stand Out?
One of the main reasons why Pho Hoa Pasteur is so popular among locals and tourists alike is because of its consistency. The taste of the pho has remained the same for over 50 years, which speaks volumes about the quality and dedication put into each bowl. The restaurant also boasts a modern and clean interior, making it a comfortable place to dine in.
Another factor that sets Pho Hoa Pasteur apart is its long history and connection to the city. It has become a cultural landmark in HCMC and is often recommended by locals due to its reputation and delicious pho.
Tips for Visiting Pho Hoa Pasteur
- The restaurant gets crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to come early or make a reservation.
- Try different types of pho to see which one you like best.
- Don’t forget to add the condiments provided at the table – bean sprouts, lime, chili sauce, and hoisin sauce – to enhance the flavor of the pho.
- Pho Hoa Pasteur is a cash-only establishment, so make sure to bring Vietnamese Dong.
2. Pho Le
Pho Le is another family-owned restaurant that has been serving delicious pho for over three decades. Located in the heart of District 1, this restaurant offers a more modern and upscale dining experience compared to traditional pho shops. The atmosphere is also cozy and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a quick lunch or dinner.
History of Pho Le
Pho Le opened its doors in 1985 and has since become one of the go-to places for locals and tourists to satisfy their pho cravings. The founder, Mr. Ly Le, learned how to make pho from his father, who was a chef at a French restaurant during the colonial period. Inspired by his father’s cooking, Mr. Le set out to open his own restaurant and share his family’s recipe with the world.
To this day, the restaurant is still run by the Le family, with Mr. Le’s son now taking over the business. The original location on Nguyen Trai Street has expanded to four other branches in different districts, catering to the growing demand for their famous pho.
The Menu
Pho Le offers a wide selection of beef and chicken pho, as well as vegetarian options. Their broth is simmered for 8-10 hours, resulting in a clear and flavorful base. The noodles are also made fresh daily, adding to the authenticity of the dish. In addition to pho, they also serve other Vietnamese dishes such as bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) and com tam (broken rice).
For drinks, they offer traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, as well as smoothies and juices. They also have a small dessert menu featuring popular Vietnamese sweets like che (sweet soup) and banh flan (egg custard).
What Makes Pho Le Stand Out?
Aside from its delicious pho, Pho Le is known for its friendly and efficient service. The staff are well-trained and can recommend dishes according to your preferences. The restaurant also has a clean and modern interior, making it a comfortable place to dine in.
One unique aspect of Pho Le is their use of fresh herbs and vegetables in their dishes. They have a small garden at the back of the restaurant where they grow their own produce, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients are used in their dishes.
Tips for Visiting Pho Le
- Pho Le offers a set menu for larger groups, making it a great place for family or friend gatherings.
- Their bun bo Hue (spicy beef noodle soup) is also worth trying if you’re feeling adventurous.
- They have an English menu, making it easier for non-Vietnamese speakers to order.
- If you’re not a fan of beef or chicken, try their vegetarian pho – the broth is made with mushrooms and still packs a lot of flavor.
3. Pho Quynh
Located in the bustling backpacker district of Pham Ngu Lao, Pho Quynh is a popular spot among budget travelers looking for a satisfying bowl of pho without breaking the bank. This no-frills restaurant has been around for over 20 years and is known for its affordable prices, generous portions, and tasty pho.
History of Pho Quynh
Pho Quynh was established in 1990 by Ms. Doan Thi Hong Hanh, who learned how to make pho from her grandmother. Her recipe became an instant hit among locals and tourists due to its affordable price and authentic taste. As the demand for her pho grew, Ms. Doan opened a second branch in District 1, which has now become the main location.
The restaurant is still run by Ms. Doan and her family, and is now a popular spot among travelers looking for a budget-friendly meal.
The Menu
Pho Quynh offers a limited menu consisting mainly of pho and a few side dishes. Their signature dish is Pho Tai Nam Gau (beef steak, brisket, and flank), which comes in three different sizes – small, medium, and large. They also have chicken pho and vegetarian options. The broth is cooked for 6-8 hours, resulting in a light yet flavorful base.
Aside from pho, they offer spring rolls, nem lui (grilled pork on skewers), and banh xeo (Vietnamese crepe) as appetizers. For drinks, they serve traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, as well as fruit juices.
What Makes Pho Quynh Stand Out?
The main selling point of Pho Quynh is its affordable prices. A bowl of pho can cost anywhere from 40,000 VND to 60,000 VND, making it a great option for those traveling on a budget. Despite the low prices, the quality and taste of the pho are not compromised.
The restaurant is also open 24/7, making it a favorite among late-night diners and party-goers. It’s also a convenient option for travelers arriving in HCMC at odd hours.
Tips for Visiting Pho Quynh
- If you’re dining with a group, order a large bowl of pho and share it amongst yourselves.
- The restaurant gets crowded during peak hours, so it’s best to come early or late in the evening.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for extra condiments if needed – the staff are accommodating and will gladly provide them.
- Pho Quynh only accepts cash, so make sure to bring enough Vietnamese Dong.
4. Pho 2000
Pho 2000 is another popular pho restaurant located in the heart of District 1, just a stone’s throw away from the famous Ben Thanh Market. This restaurant gained international recognition after former US President Bill Clinton dined here in the year 2000, hence the name Pho 2000. It has since become a must-visit spot for tourists in HCMC.
History of Pho 2000
Pho 2000 was established in 1995 by Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Lien, who learned how to make pho from her mother. The restaurant quickly gained popularity among locals and foreigners due to its prime location and delicious pho. However, it wasn’t until Bill Clinton’s visit in 2000 that it gained worldwide attention and became a tourist hotspot.
The restaurant has since expanded to three other locations in different districts, with the original location still being the most popular among visitors. The interior has also been remodeled to accommodate more customers while maintaining its original charm.
The Menu
Pho 2000 serves both beef and chicken pho, as well as vegetarian options. Their broth is simmered for 12 hours, resulting in a rich and flavorful base. The noodles are also made fresh daily, adding to the authenticity of the dish. They also offer spring rolls, banh mi, and com tam (broken rice) as side dishes.
For drinks, they serve traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, as well as smoothies and fruit juices. They also have a small selection of desserts featuring popular Vietnamese sweets like che (sweet soup) and banh flan (egg custard).
What Makes Pho 2000 Stand Out?
Aside from its famous clientele, Pho 2000 is known for its efficient service and clean facilities. The restaurant has an air-conditioned dining area, making it a comfortable place to dine in, especially during the hot summer months. Their location near Ben Thanh Market also makes it a convenient spot for a quick meal while shopping.
Tips for Visiting Pho 2000
- The restaurant can get crowded during lunch and dinner hours, so try to come early or late.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, try their special beef pho with beef tendon and tripe – it’s a favorite among locals.
- Don’t forget to take a photo with the life-size cutout of Bill Clinton at the entrance.
- They accept both cash and credit card payments.
5. Pho Chu The
Pho Chu The is a hidden gem located in the quiet alleyways of District 3. This family-owned restaurant has been around for over 30 years and is known for its traditional recipe that has been passed down for three generations. It may not be as well-known as the other pho restaurants on this list, but it is a local favorite and definitely worth a visit.
History of Pho Chu The
Pho Chu The was founded by the Doan family in 1985 and has remained in the same location ever since. The restaurant is now run by Mr. Doan Quang Chu, who learned how to make pho from his father. His father, Mr. Doan Van Ba, was an apprentice under the famous Nguyen Tac Sinh – one of the pioneers of pho in Hanoi.
The restaurant has maintained its traditional cooking methods and recipes, resulting in a bowl of pho that stays true to its roots.
The Menu
Pho Chu The only offers beef pho, but with different options such as beef steak, brisket, flank, and meatballs. The broth is cooked for 8-10 hours, resulting in a clear yet flavorful base. The noodles are also made fresh daily, adding to the authenticity of the dish. They also offer other Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi and bun thit nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles).
For drinks, they serve traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, as well as smoothies and fruit juices. They also have a small selection of desserts featuring popular Vietnamese sweets like che (sweet soup) and banh flan (egg custard).
What Makes Pho Chu The Stand Out?
The main selling point of Pho Chu The is its authenticity. The restaurant has remained true to its traditional recipe and cooking methods, resulting in a bowl of pho that reflects the origins of the dish. It’s also a favorite among locals, which speaks to the quality of the pho.
Tips for Visiting Pho Chu The
- The restaurant is located in a quiet alleyway, so it may be hard to find. Look for the signboard with the name “Pho Chu The” in front of a house gate.
- The restaurant is only open for lunch, so make sure to come before 2 PM.
- If you’re not a fan of beef, try their bun thit nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles).
- Pho Chu The only accepts cash payments.
6. Pho Ganh
Pho Ganh is a humble street food vendor located in the heart of District 1, just a few minutes away from Ben Thanh Market. While most pho restaurants have a cozy and comfortable ambience, Pho Ganh offers a more authentic experience by serving pho on the sidewalk, just like how it is traditionally eaten in Vietnam.
History of Pho Ganh
Pho Ganh was opened by Ms. Nguyen Thi Nga in 2014, who learned how to make pho from her mother. She started out as a street food vendor, serving pho on a small cart, before opening her own shop. Despite the expansion, she still serves pho on the sidewalk, giving customers a more genuine experience.
The Menu
Pho Ganh only serves beef pho, with options such as beef steak, brisket, flank, and meatballs. The broth is cooked for 6-8 hours, resulting in a light yet flavorful base. The noodles are also made fresh daily, adding to the authenticity of the dish. They also serve other Vietnamese dishes such as spring rolls and banh mi.
For drinks, they offer traditional Vietnamese iced coffee and various fruit juices. They also have a small dessert menu featuring popular Vietnamese sweets like che (sweet soup) and banh flan (egg custard).
What Makes Pho Ganh Stand Out?
Aside from its authentic street food experience, Pho Ganh is known for its generous portions and affordable prices. A bowl of pho can cost anywhere from 45,000 VND to 60,000 VND, making it a great option for budget travelers. The owner, Ms. Nga, is also known for her friendly and welcoming personality, adding to the overall experience of dining at Pho Ganh.
Tips for Visiting Pho Ganh
- Pho Ganh only operates during lunch hours, so make sure to come before 2 PM.
- If you’re dining with a large group, try their special set menu featuring different types of pho and side dishes.
- Don’t be afraid to try the street food – it’s clean and safe to eat.
- Pho Ganh only accepts cash payments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no shortage of delicious pho in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you prefer a modern and comfortable dining experience or an authentic street food adventure, these six places will surely satisfy your cravings for a hearty bowl of pho. Each restaurant has its own unique story and recipe, making it a worthwhile experience to try them all and find your favorite. So the next time you’re in HCMC, make sure to add these top six places to your list and taste some of the best pho in the city.
