Pho – Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup | History, Recipe & Best Places to Try
When you think of Vietnamese cuisine, one dish undoubtedly comes to mind: Pho. This fragrant noodle soup is more than just a meal; it's a culinary masterpiece and a cultural symbol. From its humble beginnings in Northern Vietnam to its global fame, Pho has captivated food lovers with its complex flavors and comforting warmth.
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It is a traditional dish of Vietnam that embraces cultural values (Source: Collected)
1. Pho – Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup
1.1 What is Pho?
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with a fragrant broth, flat rice noodles, fresh herbs, and tender slices of meat. Widely considered Vietnam’s national dish, Pho has become a global comfort food loved for its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors. The magic of Pho lies in its simplicity and depth-a simple-looking dish that takes hours to perfect.
1.2 The History of Pho
The story of Pho begins in Northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, particularly in the provinces of Nam Dinh and Hanoi. Its creation is believed to be influenced by a fusion of culinary traditions:
• French Influence: The French demand for beef led to a surplus of beef bones and cuts, which were then used to create a flavorful broth.
• Chinese Influence: The Chinese brought their tradition of selling noodle soups from street vendors, a practice that shaped how Pho was served.
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As people migrated south in 1954, Pho traveled with them. In Southern Vietnam, the broth became sweeter, and the dish was served with a wider array of herbs, bean sprouts, and various sauces. Today, Pho is a global sensation, with countless variations reflecting regional tastes and creative innovations.
1.3 Key Ingredients of Pho
To find the best pho, you have to visit the places that have perfected the art for generations. Here's a breakdown of some of Hanoi's most famous establishments.
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A complete bowl of Pho goes beyond broth and noodles-it is customized with protein and fresh herbs. Beef Pho (Pho Bo) features thinly sliced beef, while Chicken Pho (Pho Ga) offers shredded chicken for a lighter variation. Fresh toppings such as bean sprouts, Thai basil, cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced chili peppers allow diners to adjust flavor and freshness to their liking. This perfect mix of savory broth, tender meat, and vibrant herbs makes Pho one of the most beloved and widely enjoyed noodle soups in the world.
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2. Popular types of pho soup to try in Vietnam
In Vietnam, you can delight in a variety of delectable options when it comes to pho. Two widely enjoyed types of pho soup are pho bo (beef pho) and pho ga (chicken pho).
2.1 What is pho bo (beef pho)?
Pho bo, also known as beef pho, is an iconic Vietnamese noodle soup known for its rich broth. This dish consists of a bowl of steaming beef broth accompanied by tender rice noodles and various cuts of beef. Pho bo offers a range of delicious options to suit different tastes. Some popular variations include “pho tai”, featuring thinly sliced medium-rare steak; “pho chin,” with steamed lean beef; “pho nam,” combining steamed half-lean and half-fatty beef; “pho gau bo,” showcasing steamed fatty beef; and “pho sot vang,” which includes a Vietnamese version of Bordelaise sauce with beef tendon. Garnished with chopped ginger, scallion, yellow onions, and cilantros, Vietnamese beef noodle allows diners to customize their bowl to their preferences.
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2.2. What is pho ga (chicken pho)?
For those who prefer poultry, pho ga, or chicken pho, offers a delightful alternative. This variation features a fragrant chicken broth that is simmered with aromatic spices, creating a light yet flavorful base. The rice noodles, similar to the ones used in beef pho, provide a satisfying chewiness. The star of pho ga is the tender and succulent chicken meat, which can be shredded or served in slices. The broth is often garnished with chopped scallion, thinly sliced lime leaves, and lime wedges, adding freshness to the dish. Pho ga is a comforting option that showcases the versatility of pho soup beyond beef.
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A fantastic option for non-meat eaters, offering all the aromatic comfort of traditional pho without the meat. The key is in the broth, which is simmered for hours using a hearty combination of roasted vegetables like carrots and daikon radish, along with mushrooms (shiitake or oyster) to provide a rich, umami depth. Instead of beef or chicken, this version typically features protein-rich tofu and an assortment of fresh vegetables like bok choy and broccoli, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful bowl.
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2.3 What is pho Chay (vegetarian pho)?
A fantastic option for non-meat eaters, offering all the aromatic comfort of traditional pho without the meat. The key is in the broth, which is simmered for hours using a hearty combination of roasted vegetables like carrots and daikon radish, along with mushrooms (shiitake or oyster) to provide a rich, umami depth. Instead of beef or chicken, this version typically features protein-rich tofu and an assortment of fresh vegetables like bok choy and broccoli, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful bowl.
3. Best Places to Try Pho in Hanoi
To find the best pho, you have to visit the places that have perfected the art for generations. Here's a breakdown of some of Hanoi's most famous establishments.
3.1 Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn (49 Bát Đàn Street)
A true institution in Hanoi, this place is renowned for its authentic, long-standing tradition. It's so popular that you'll almost always find a queue of locals and tourists alike, a testament to its quality. The pho here is classic Northern style, with a clear, savory, and simple broth.
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- Recommended Dish: Order the Phở Tái Lăn (stir-fried rare beef pho) or Phở Tái Nạm (rare beef with flank). The broth is delicate but deeply flavorful.
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM & 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM.
3.2 Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư (10 Lý Quốc Sư Street)
Recognized by the Michelin Guide, this spot serves a traditional and high-quality version of pho in a clean, modern setting. It's a great place for those who want to experience authentic pho without the street-side feel.
- Recommended Dish: The Phở Bò Tái Gầu (rare beef with beef brisket) is a must-try. The broth is rich and the meat is perfectly cooked.
- Operating Hours: 6:30 AM - 10:00 PM.
3.3 Phở Thìn Lò Đúc (13 Lò Đúc Street)
This shop has been a Hanoi staple for decades and is famous for its unique signature style. Unlike most places, the beef here is stir-fried with garlic and ginger before being added to the bowl, giving the broth a rich, slightly oily, and incredibly fragrant flavor.
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- Recommended Dish: The one and only Phở Bò Tái Lăn. This is what everyone comes here for, and it's a completely different (but equally delicious) experience from traditional pho.
- Operating Hours: 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM.
3.4 Phở Sướng (24B Trung Yên Alley)
A small, family-run restaurant that has gained a strong reputation, even being praised by Anthony Bourdain. As its name "Sướng" (meaning "bliss") suggests, the pho here delivers a feeling of pure satisfaction with its perfectly balanced broth and tender meat.
- Recommended Dish: Try the Phở Gà (chicken pho) for a light yet deeply flavorful alternative to beef.
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM.
3.5 Phở Gánh Hàng Chiếu (Hàng Chiếu Street)
This is a truly unique street-side experience. The "gánh" (carrying pole) is the defining feature of this stall. It opens late at night and serves a simple, no-frills pho that many locals swear by for a late-night meal.
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- Recommended Dish: The classic Phở Bò Tái Nạm (rare beef with flank). The experience of eating pho on a tiny plastic stool in the middle of a bustling street is just as important as the taste.
- Operating Hours: 3:00 AM - 7:00 AM.
3.6 Phở Vui (25 Hàng Giày Street)
A charming, tucked-away restaurant in the Old Quarter. It may not be as famous as Bát Đàn or Lý Quốc Sư, but it's a hidden gem that locals and visitors consistently recommend for its excellent pho.
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- Recommended Dish: The Phở Nạm Gân Sụn (beef brisket, tendon, and cartilage) is a popular choice for those who love a variety of textures in their bowl.
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
3.7 Phở Gà Lâm (68 Hàng Hòm Street)
A top choice for those who prefer chicken pho over beef. The broth is incredibly light and aromatic, and the chicken is always tender and flavorful. It's a perfect bowl for a quick, comforting meal.
- Recommended Dish: Simply order the Phở Gà. You won't be disappointed.
- Operating Hours: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM.
Pho is more than just a meal; it's a journey through Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. Each bowl tells a story of tradition, flavor, and cultural pride. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the quiet corners of the world, Pho continues to bring people together, one fragrant spoonful at a time.
Experience the Best of Vietnam with Us
Ready to immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Vietnam? At Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa, we offer more than just a place to stay-we provide a complete cultural experience. After a day of exploring, you can savor the best of Vietnamese cuisine right here in our hotel.
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Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa
Our on-site restaurant, Gao Ta, is dedicated to showcasing the finest of Vietnamese gastronomy, from the iconic Pho to a wide array of other exquisite local dishes. Experience a taste of tradition in a setting of unmatched elegance and comfort.
Book your stay at Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa and treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary journey at our Gao Ta restaurant.
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