Overview

Pho has long been the first name that comes to mind when thinking of Vietnamese cuisine. It is so famous that it was added to the Oxford Dictionary back in 2007. 

Over time, as more travelers explore Vietnam, they have discovered other equally impressive dishes, one of which is Bun Bo Hue. This noodle soup from Hue has rapidly gained popularity, receiving high praise from diners. Some even argue that Bun Bo Hue deserves the top spot as Vietnam’s best bowl of noodles, surpassing Pho.

This culinary debate has sparked a fascinating conversation: should you opt for Pho or Bun Bo Hue? Let’s delve into the distinctive qualities of each dish, explore the reasons behind this ongoing debate, and offer some insight to help you make your choice.

pho or bun bo hue

Choose between Pho or Bun Bo Hue

The Differences

While both Pho and Bun Bo Hue are noodle soups served in a bowl, they have notable differences that set them apart:

bun bo hue vietnam

Bun Bo Hue Vietnam

Category

Pho

Bun Bo Hue

Origin

Originated in Northern Vietnam, around the 1910s.

Originated from Hue, Central Vietnam, around the 16th century.

Ingredients

  • Soft, flat rice noodles, bone-broth soup, beef or chicken, and green onions. 

  • Side condiments include garlic, vinegar, lime, chili, pepper, fresh herbs, and crispy fried dough sticks. Sometimes served with poached eggs.

  • Thick, round rice noodles, spicy bone-broth soup, beef, pork knuckles, congealed pork blood, Vietnam sausage, and green onions. 

  • Side condiments include garlic, vinegar, lime, chili, pepper, and fermented shrimp paste (mắm ruốc).

Flavor

Traditional Pho has a mild, naturally sweet flavor, with a hint of fattiness.

Bun Bo Hue offers bold, spicy, and rich flavors, representing the robust culinary style of Central Vietnam.

Where to Eat

Pho is widely available throughout Vietnam, with the most famous versions found in Hanoi and Nam Dinh.

Bun Bo Hue is also widely available, though Hue remains the best-known city for enjoying this dish.

Price (average)

1,4 - 4 USD/bowl

2 - 4 USD/bowl

Variations

Pho comes in many forms, such as stir-fried Pho, stone-bowl Pho, Pho salad, fried Pho, sour Pho, and Pho with wine-braised beef.

Bun Bo Hue doesn’t have as many variations. There are currently only two ways to enjoy it: in a traditional bowl or a hot stone bowl.
 

Which One is Better?

The heated debate about whether Pho or Bun Bo Hue should represent Vietnam's cuisine arises from the fact that each dish caters to different taste preferences. Some diners find Pho too simple and bland for their liking, while others argue that the spicy and bold flavors of Bun Bo Hue lack the refinement that Pho offers. 

pho vietnam

Pho Vietnam

So, is Pho or Bun Bo Hue better? The answer depends on your preferences.

  • If you prefer a light, delicate dish with simple toppings, soft noodles, and a subtle broth, then Pho is for you.

  • If you enjoy a hearty, bold, and flavorful dish with a variety of meats and a richer taste, then Bun Bo Hue will be your top pick.

Both dishes are quintessential representatives of their respective regional cuisines. Each bowl embodies the culinary soul of its origin, using ingredients that best suit the local palate.

  • Pho reflects the graceful elegance of Hanoi, with its clear broth, natural sweetness, and balanced flavors. It is a simple yet refined meal, perfect for slow, gentle dining.

  • Bun Bo Hue, on the other hand, boasts a fiery, bold profile, typical of Central Vietnamese cuisine. The dish’s vibrant colors and rich, spicy ingredients create a hearty meal that leaves nothing to be desired.

Best Restaurants to Sample

Why limit yourself to just Pho or Bun Bo Hue? You can absolutely try both and appreciate the different joys each culinary experience offers. Check out these local spots to savor both dishes during your trip:

pho or bun bo hue

Bun Bo Hue at local Me Keo restaurant

Pho

  • Pho Bat Dan: 49 Ba Dan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

  • Pho Thin Bo Ho: 61 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

  • Pho Ly Quoc Su: 10 Ly Quoc Su, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

  • Pho Suong: 24 Trung Yen - 36B Mai Hac De

  • Pho Hoa: 260A Pasteur, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

  • Pho Hung: 243 Nguyen Trai, Ward Nguyen Cu Trinh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

  • Pho Dan: 142 Bac Ninh Street, Nam Dinh City

  • Pho Tao: 44 Tran Phu, Tran Dang Ninh, Nam Dinh City

Bun Bo Hue

  • Bun Bo Hue My Tam: 5 Tran Cao Van, Vinh Ninh, Hue City

  • Bun Bo Hue Ba Tuyet: 47 Nguyen Cong Tru, Phu Hoi, Hue City

  • Bun Bo Hue Me Keo: 20 Bac Dang, Phu Cat, Hue City

  • Bun Bo Hue O Xuan: 189 Xa Dan, Dong Da, Hanoi

  • Bun Bo Hue Ngu Uyen: 101 C4 Luong Dinh Cua, Dong Da, Hanoi

  • Bun Bo Hue Hanh: 135 Banh Van Tran, Ward 7, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City

  • Bun Bo Hue Xua: 48 Cach Mang Thang 7, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

pho or bun bo hue

Both Pho and Bun Bo Hue are absolute delights for foodies

Find out more about what to eat in Vietnam!

While Pho may have initially captured international attention, it is wonderful to see Bun Bo Hue gaining the recognition it deserves. So, what will you choose: Pho or Bun Bo Hue? Explore more Vietnamese culinary delights and Vietnam tours on our website. If you need any support, feel free to leave us a message!