One of the most distinctive culinary legacies of Vietnam, which not only showcases the sophistication and richness of the country’s food culture but also shines on the global culinary map, is PHO. So, is Pho Vietnamese? Yes, it is! This dish, with its perfect combination of simple ingredients and delicate spices, has become an indispensable symbol in the culinary life of the Vietnamese people.
What is Pho?
Pho is a traditional dish from Vietnam and is often considered one of the most iconic foods representing Vietnamese cuisine. It is commonly eaten as a breakfast dish or for dinner. In Vietnam, the word “Pho” can also be used metaphorically to refer to an affair, in a more colloquial sense.
The Main Components of a Bowl of Pho
“Pho noodles” are traditionally made from rice flour, rolled thin and cut into strands. The broth is made by simmering beef bones, with either beef or chicken meat, along with spices such as cinnamon, star anise, ginger, cardamom, cloves, dried shrimp, and other flavorings. Each pho restaurant keeps its own broth recipe a secret.
Tips for Eating Pho
Pho should always be eaten hot for the best flavor. In Hanoi, pho is often eaten with fried dough sticks, while in Saigon, they eat fried dough sticks with congee. Pho varies by region, with Northern pho being saltier, while Southern pho tends to be sweeter and has more herbs. The pho noodles in the South are also smaller than those in the North.
Is Pho Vietnamese? A Journey Through Its History in Vietnam
Pho originated in northern Vietnam and spread to central and southern regions in the 1950s, after the defeat of France in Indochina and the division of Vietnam into two parts. Vietnamese people from the north migrated to the south in 1954, bringing pho with them, and the dish began to evolve with some variations. However, a common rule is that the names of traditional pho restaurants usually consist of a single word, often the owner’s name, such as Pho Hoa, Pho Quyen…
After the Anti-American Resistance War, the Vietnamese diaspora introduced pho to many countries, particularly Western nations. Pho restaurants have appeared in the United States, France, Australia, and Canada. Other Vietnamese immigrants brought pho to former Soviet countries, including Russia, Poland, and the Czech Republic. In the U.S., an unofficial 2005 statistic showed that Vietnamese pho restaurants nationwide generated about 500 million USD in annual revenue. Today, originating from Vietnam, pho has become a famous dish enjoyed in many countries around the world. Is pho Vietnamese? Absolutely – pho is undeniably a Vietnamese dish with a rich history and cultural significance.
Why Do Vietnamese People Love Pho?
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish
Vietnam has a long history of rice cultivation, which has significantly influenced its cuisine, with pho being one of its most iconic dishes. Pho has been a staple in Vietnamese households since the early 20th century, especially in Hanoi and Nam Dinh. Many families even have their own secret recipes for making pho, from the broth to the preparation of the noodles. As a result, pho restaurants have flourished, attracting numerous customers. Pho is not just a common breakfast food, but also a perfect dish for special occasions or when one wants to change their usual meal.
Pho is a quick and convenient breakfast
Pho is a popular breakfast choice because it is both delicious and convenient. You can easily grab a bowl of pho at a street vendor or restaurant, spending just 30-40 thousand VND (approximately 1.25 to 1.65 USD) for a hearty, nutritious meal to start your day. While not everyone eats pho every day, it remains a favorite breakfast for many, especially when compared to heavier meals like rice or bread. Pho is perfect for mornings when your mouth feels dry, and you’re not quite ready for a big meal—its warm, savory broth is the ideal choice. On the other hand, rice and bread typically require additional soups or drinks to complete the meal.
Pho is incredibly delicious
There’s no doubt that pho is a delicious dish. A perfect bowl of pho is a harmonious blend of silky smooth, tender rice noodles that aren’t too soft, with a clear, subtly sweet broth. The beef is perfectly tender, and it’s complemented by fresh herbs and spices that enhance its flavor. Like many other traditional Vietnamese dishes, pho achieves a perfect balance of flavors—neither too rich nor bland. This delicate balance is why pho is not only loved by Vietnamese people but also adored worldwide.
Pho is a healthy and nourishing dish
Pho is a carefully crafted dish that combines many wholesome ingredients, from meats and bones to herbs and spices such as cinnamon, coriander, ginger, and onions. A single bowl of pho can contain up to 18-20 organic ingredients, making it not only flavorful, but also easy to digest and nutritious. The broth, made from simmering bones and marrow, is rich in calcium and other essential nutrients, which are beneficial for joint health and overall growth. The herbs and spices in pho are also a great source of minerals and vitamins, helping improve blood quality and protect blood vessels.
Pho is a source of pride for the Vietnamese people
Pho is not only a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine but also a symbol of the country’s rich culinary culture. Around the world, when people think of Vietnam, pho is often the first thing that comes to mind. This dish has helped bring Vietnam’s image to the global stage. Pho is enjoyed in many countries, and most people fall in love with it from the first bite. It was added to the Oxford English Dictionary in 2007 and was ranked among the world’s best dishes by CNN Go in 2011. As a result, pho is a source of national pride for the Vietnamese, representing not only the country’s culinary heritage but also the spirit and people of Vietnam on the world stage. Pho truly exemplifies what is pho Vietnamese.
The Perfect Pho Menu for Your Ideal Morning in Vietnam
Start your morning in Vietnam with the perfect selection of Pho dishes, each offering a unique experience that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine:
Pho Bo – Beef Pho
A classic favorite, this hearty dish features tender slices of beef in a rich, aromatic broth simmered for hours with bones, star anise, and cinnamon. Served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime, it’s a perfect morning energizer.
Pho Ga – Chicken Pho
For a lighter option, chicken Pho offers delicate flavors with tender chicken slices in a clear, fragrant broth. It’s soothing, refreshing, and a popular choice for breakfast.
Pho Chay – Vegetarian Pho
This plant-based version features a savory broth made from vegetables, mushrooms, and spices. Loaded with tofu, fresh herbs, and vegetables, it’s perfect for a healthy, nourishing start to your day.
Pho Tai – Rare Beef Pho
Thinly sliced rare beef is gently cooked in the hot broth right before serving, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. It’s a delicious, protein-packed option that’s both light and satisfying.
Pho Cuon – Pho Rolls
A delightful twist on traditional Pho, these fresh rice noodle rolls are filled with beef or shrimp, herbs, and vegetables, served with a tangy dipping sauce. Ideal as a light appetizer or snack!
Pho Xao – Stir-Fried Pho
Famous Pho Brands in Vietnam Today
Pho is a signature dish of Hanoi, closely tied to the city’s culinary culture and identity. Hanoi’s pho stands out with its rich, sweet broth made from beef bones, tender meat cooked just right, clear broth, and thin, soft pho noodles that are not soggy. Here are some of the most famous pho brands in Hanoi that are loved by locals and tourists alike:
Pho Thin
One of the most famous pho shops in Hanoi, Pho Thin is always bustling with customers from early morning. Although the space is small, it is always crowded. Customers often have to wait, pay, and then find a seat after receiving their pho. The perfect balance between broth, meat, and noodles creates the distinctive taste of Pho Thin, which sets it apart from other pho restaurants.
Address:
- 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi. (A bowl of pho costs approximately 3$)
- 110 Lê Thị Hồng Gấm, Nguyễn Thái Bình Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (A bowl of pho costs about a $1.00 – $1.50 USD)
Pho Vuong
Pho Vuong is a unique name that immediately sparks curiosity. “Vuong” here symbolizes the perfection of four key elements: flavor, service, cleanliness, and price. It also implies a gathering space, much like a square, where people meet to enjoy authentic Hanoi pho. Pho Vuong is run by an owner from a Hanoi family with a long tradition in making pho.
- Address: 44 Ngo Thi Nham, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi.
- Price: A bowl of pho costs between 75,000 to 90,000 VND (approximately 3 to 4 $).
Pho Nho
The name Pho Nho was given by a Vietnamese expatriate who loved Hanoi pho. After enjoying a bowl, he said, “Eat it, and you’ll remember it forever.” Since then, Pho Nho has become a popular brand among pho enthusiasts. Each bowl here has its unique flavor, with tender, sweet beef, chewy pho noodles, a subtle fragrance from thinly sliced scallions, and a spicy kick from fresh chili. Pho Nho won second place in the Pho Hanoi competition, proving its outstanding quality.
- Address: 27A Huynh Thuc Khang, Hanoi.
- Price: A bowl of pho costs between 60,000 to 85,000 VND (approximately 3 to 4$).
Pho 24
Pho 24 is a well-known pho brand, not only in Vietnam but also internationally. Tourists enjoy dining here because of its professional service and high hygiene standards. Pho 24 offers a variety of pho options, including pho with rare beef, pho with beef brisket, pho with rare and well-done beef, and even pho with chicken and eggs. The restaurant also offers a range of nutritious drinks made from fresh fruits. Pho 24 maintains a consistent standard for both food quality and service.
- Address: 45 Huynh Thuc Khang, Dong Da District, Hanoi.
- Price: A bowl of pho costs between 30,000 to 70,000 VND (approximately 2 to 4$).
Pho Bat Dan
Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan has been around since the 1960s. Despite its small space, the shop has preserved the authentic taste of Hanoi pho for over 60 years. Here, pho is not served with bean sprouts or herbs like in Saigon, but instead, the dish is seasoned with chili and lime. The noodles are thin, the meat is tender, and the beef tendon is cooked to perfection, melting in your mouth. It remains a beloved spot for many locals in Hanoi.
- Address: 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
- Price: a bowl of pho costs between 40,000 to 50,000 VND (approximately 1 to 2 $)
Pho Phu Vuong
Phở Phú Vương is a renowned pho brand in Saigon, beloved for its rich and distinctive flavors. While rooted in Northern-style phở, Phở Phú Vương has been adapted to suit Southern tastes, creating a unique blend of both culinary traditions. What sets it apart is the variety of toppings, including rare beef, beef balls, tripe, oxtail, bone marrow, and even eggs. The broth is sweet and flavorful, perfectly complementing the round, chewy rice noodles, which differ from the flat, thin noodles typical of Hanoi-style pho.
Additionally, the dish is served with an array of fresh herbs and a signature house-made sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience. From its humble beginnings as a small street-side stall, Pho Phu Vuong has become a go-to destination for food enthusiasts, offering a delicious fusion of Northern and Southern Vietnamese culinary culture.
Address:
- 339 Lê Van Sy, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- 120 Nguyen Thai Binh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Price: Bowls of pho typically range from 60,000 to 80,000 VND (approximately $2.50 to $3.50 USD
Pho Hoa
Pho Hoa is a beloved phở restaurant located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, known for its spacious, airy atmosphere and unforgettable premium flavor. The broth is simmered for hours with beef bones, creating a naturally sweet and rich taste. When combined with fresh herbs, green onions, and cilantro, it offers an irresistible culinary experience.
- Address: 260C Pasteur, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 40,000 VND – 55,000 VND (approximately $1.70 – $2.30 USD)
Pho 2000
Phở 2000 is a famous phở restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its unique story and high-profile visitor. The restaurant’s name originates from an exciting event: in 2000, former U.S. President Bill Clinton visited and enjoyed a bowl of phở here. To commemorate the occasion, the owner named the restaurant “Phở 2000,” marking the moment Vietnamese traditional cuisine gained international recognition.
The highlight of Pho 2000 is its special seafood pho, a delicious and unique offering rarely found in other phở restaurants.
- Address: 1st Floor, 1 – 3 Phan Chu Trinh, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 40,000 – 88,000 VND (approximately $1.70 – $3.70 USD)
Pho Atiso Da Lat
Pho Atiso Da Lat is a well-known pho restaurant from Da Lat that has expanded to Ho Chi Minh City, offering a unique and nutritious take on traditional pho. The standout feature of this phở is its pink noodles, infused with artichoke flowers (atiso), providing both visual appeal and valuable health benefits. The broth, made from premium beef ribs, is naturally sweet and rich in flavor, ensuring a delicious and wholesome experience.
- Address: 307 An Duong Vuong, Ward 3, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price: 50,000 VND (approximately $2.10 USD)
Enjoy Pho – Is Pho Vietnamese? A Trademark of Vietnamese Cuisine and Culture
Through the article above, you now understand why is Pho Vietnamese and why this dish has become so popular, right? Pho is a traditional dish that is not only delicious and healthy but also very convenient, while also bringing fame to Vietnam. Pho truly deserves to be the national dish of Vietnam. If you have the chance to join a tour in Vietnam, you definitely shouldn’t miss the opportunity to taste Pho right where this dish originated. Thank you for taking the time to read the article!
For more ways to explore Vietnam, check out our other articles:
- 25 unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh
- 12 must-do tours in Ho Chi Minh
- 26 highlights in Ho Chi Minh’s Chinatown
- 20 Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City At Night
- 25 Things to Do with Kids in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tour In Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – Vietnam
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