Is there any difference between Pho Saigon and Pho Hanoi?
There is indeed a noticeable difference between Pho in Saigon and Pho in Hanoi. Each city takes pride in its unique approach to this cherished Vietnamese dish.
Hanoi's version of Pho, known as Hanoi Pho, reflects a more traditional and nostalgic heritage. The broth is clear and subtle, allowing the essence of the slow-cooked beef bones to shine through.
The Pho is different between Saigon and Hanoi
On the other hand, Pho Saigon has a distinctive flavor making it stand out from other variations of Vietnamese Pho. You can expect to savor Saigonese Pho, characterized by its vibrant and bold flavors. The broth tends to be rich and aromatic, with a perfect balance of spices and herbs.
Besides features of savor in each type of Pho, there is also a difference in the type of noodles. While the shape of Saigon Pho noodles is thick and round, that of Hanoi Pho is thin and flat. Regardless of the shape of it, the Pho noodles are still soft and chewy.
While both are undoubtedly delicious, these distinctions in flavor and preparation techniques showcase the diverse culinary delights. Besides, both cities take pride in their unique approach to this cherished Vietnamese dish.
Top 5+ best Pho in Saigon
We won't keep you waiting any longer. Let’s explore these top-notch places where you enjoy the irresistible taste of Pho in Saigon.
Pho Hoa Pasteur
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Address: No. 260C, Pasteur Street, District 3
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Opening hours: 5.00 am - 11.30 pm
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Price range: 40,000 - 55,000 VND (1.69 - 2.32 USD)
When referring to Pho, do you want to know which restaurant sells the oldest and the best Pho in Ho Chi Minh City? Pho Hoa Pasteur is the answer. This stall has also gained international acclaim.
Pho Hoa Pasteur
Coming here, you won’t think this restaurant is just an ordinary place to eat. The reason why is that there are a lot of diners from many countries all around the world. When you first taste the broth of Pho Hoa Pasteur, you will deeply feel the rich taste of well-brewed tubular bones. This special ingredient also makes the sweet taste of your bowl of Pho.
In addition, you can double the delectable taste by combining it with several types of local herbs that are always in fresh condition.
With an affordable price, this Pho stall deserves the best Pho in Saigon that you can try.
Pho Dau
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Address: No. 288, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3
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Opening hours: 10.30 am - 1.30 pm
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Price range: 50,000 - 80,000 VND (2.32 - 3.37 USD)
In the list of the best Pho in Ho Chi Minh City, Pho Dau can’t be missing. The taste of Pho in this eatery will differ from the above restaurant because it has the typical features of Pho Hanoi. This small eatery is also highly recommended by the Northern people living in Ho Chi Minh City.
Pho Dau
In particular, the best seller of Pho Dau is well-done flank beef Pho. You must try this signature dish when coming here. You will feel that the slice of beef is melting in your mouth because it is very juicy and tender.
The secret to the success of this pho restaurant is an original recipe of Hanoian style. The owner doesn’t use sprouts, herbs, or black sauce like the Southern style. And he doesn’t use sugar for seasoning but monosodium glutamate instead.
Pho Minh
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Address: No. 63/16, Pasteur Street, District 1
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Opening hours: 6.30 am - 10.00 am
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Price range: 40,000 - 80,000 VND (1.69 - 3.37 USD)
Another stall that sells the best Pho in Saigon is Pho Minh. Pho Minh stays in a small alleyway in District 1.
You can’t imagine this place has the vibes of an ancient 60 years old restaurant. It is thoroughly contradictory to a modern and dynamic city center. Nevertheless, you shouldn’t underestimate this old stall because the age of it is proportional to the rich experience of the owner.
Pho Minh
The Pho’s broth has a mild sweet taste and not too much spice. Specifically, there are crunchy Chinese fried churros for diners to eat with Pho, which make it stand out from other Pho stalls in Saigon.
Besides, the stall’s space is quite airy. And this place is not often crowded because the diners who come here are mostly locals.
To gain more insights, navigate to our post about guide to Vietnam!
Pho Le
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Address: No. 303-305, Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
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Opening hours: 6.00 am - 1.00 pm
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Price range: 40,000 - 60,000 VND (1.69 - 2.53)
Pho Le has had seniority in cooking Pho similar to Pho Minh since this Pho stall first opened in 1950. To this day, Pho Le is still one of the best Pho in Ho Chi Minh City among the authentic Pho restaurants in Saigon.
Pho Le
The broth of this Southern Pho stall is a harmonious blend of savory beef and aromatic spices. And so it creates a satisfying and aromatic experience for diners. The excellent recipe for a perfect bowl of pho comes from cow's bones topped with cinnamon, cumin, and cilantro.
Compared to others, Pho Le looks much cleaner and more premium. Moreover, seats in this restaurant are always packed with locals and visitors from early morning till late at night.
Pho Cao Van
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Address: No. 25, Mac Dinh Chi Street, District 1
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Opening hours: 6.00 am - 10.30 pm
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Price range: 40,000 - 70,000 VND (1.69 - 2.95 USD)
Interestingly, the owner of this eatery is now more than 90 years old. He's one of the first ones bringing pho from Hanoi to Saigon. With his precious cooking experience, the owner has made a savory taste that can satisfy any guest.
Pho Cao Van
Whether you are a loyal returning or first-time visitor, you will be impressed by the distinctive Northern pho taste. All ingredients are selected strictly so diners can feel its soft and well-cooked beef, spotless noodles, green onions, and basil.
Pho Tau Bay
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Address: No. 435, Ly Thai To Street, District 10
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Opening hours: 6.00 am - 12.30 am
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Price range: 60,000 - 70,000 VND (2.53 - 2.95 USD)
A fun fact is that a regular size here can equal a big bowl at other restaurants. The restaurant sells over 400 bowls/day, which is all you need to know about the pho's perfection here.
Pho Tau Bay
In particular, the Pho bowl is full of noodles and beef. The Pho Tau Bay’s owner thinks that too many vegetables, bean sprouts, and black sauce will devalue the delicacy of the pho. Hence, you can only season your dish with chili sauce, fish sauce, and limes.
Pho Truong Minh Ky
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Address: 19a Nguyen Thi Dieu Street, Ward 9, District 3
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Opening hours: 6.00 am - 11.00 pm
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Price range: 40,000vnd - 55,000 VND (1.69 - 2.32 USD)
This eatery isn’t as popular as all the above-presented restaurants though it is still on the list of the best Pho in Saigon. Customers here are mostly loyal ones or surrounding officers.
Pho Truong Minh Ky
This stall not only sells Pho but also beef hotpot. Therefore, diners coming here can choose one of them, and both are fully good. What’s more interesting is that you can order any part of the cow for your soup like oxtail, brain, or organs.
We think that a culinary adventure will leave you with a profound appreciation for the extraordinary diversity of Vietnamese cuisine. Thus we hope you will have the best Pho in Saigon with the Top 5+ Culinary Gems above. And if you are looking for best Vietnam package tour, please contact New Asia Tours for detailed informations!
