15 Restaurants to Savor the Best Pho in Hanoi, Vietnam 2025

Pho is a well-known and traditional Vietnamese food. People say that the original and most authentic taste of Pho can only be found in Hanoi. If you're a food lover, IZITOUR will guide you to the best Pho restaurants in Hanoi, where you can experience the most popular and delicious versions of this dish.

The best Pho in Hanoi at a glance

Before we dive deep into the stories behind each bowl, here are two tools to help you make a quick decision. Whether you're looking for the closest spot or the perfect pho for your taste, this is your shortcut to the best bowl in town.

I've pinned all 15 recommended pho restaurants on the map below. Click on a pin to see the name and address. Save this map to your Google account, and you'll have a personal pho guide right in your pocket as you explore Hanoi!

Use this table to find the perfect pho based on your location, budget, and craving.

The icons: Legendary Pho that define Hanoi

#1. Pho Bat Dan - The art of queuing for Pho

• Address: 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Average price: 50,000 to 60,000 VND/ bowl
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM & 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM

Walking up to 49 Bat Dan street, the first thing you'll notice isn't the sign, but the queue. Don't be deterred; this line is an essential part of the experience. Phở Bát Đàn is a living piece of history, preserving the raw, self-service style of old Hanoi. You queue, you pay, you carry your own bowl to a shared table.

The reward is a bowl of pho that is the gold standard for traditional Northern style. The broth is crystal clear yet deeply flavorful, simmered for hours from bone marrow, with a subtle aroma of star anise and cinnamon. The beef is sliced thin and cooked perfectly tender by the boiling broth poured over it. This is pho in its purest form—no frills, just decades of perfection in a bowl.

Insider Tip:
Have your cash ready before you reach the counter; the line moves incredibly fast! Order a side of quẩy (fried dough sticks) to dip into the savory broth—it’s a non-negotiable part of the ritual for any local.

Pho Bat Dan restaurant in Hanoi

#2. Pho Thin Lo Duc - The revolutionary stir-fried beef Pho

• Address: 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price: ~70,000 VND

If Pho Bat Dan is the respected elder, Pho Thin is the rebellious, brilliant child. Since 1979, this legendary spot has done one thing, and one thing only: Pho Tai Lan. Instead of simply blanching the beef in the broth, they stir-fry it with garlic and ginger in a fiery wok before adding it to the bowl.

The result is a revolution. The broth is rich, savory, and noticeably fattier, with a powerful aroma of garlic and scallions that hits you the moment the bowl is placed down. It’s an incredibly intense and addictive flavor profile that stands in delicious contrast to the lighter, traditional pho. There's no menu, no choices—just grab a seat, say how many bowls you want, and prepare for a pho experience unlike any other.

Mouth-watering bowls of Pho Thin Lo Duc with lots of spring onion

Insider Tip:
The only "customization" here is to ask for a poached egg to be added to your bowl. Let the yolk run into the hot, savory broth for an even richer, creamier texture. This is not a light meal!

#3. Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su: The clean & consistent champion

• Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price: ~70,000 - 100,000 VND

Phở 10 Ly Quoc Su offers a more modern, comfortable, and tourist-friendly pho experience without sacrificing quality. With a clean, air-conditioned space and a clear menu in multiple languages, it's the perfect entry point for first-time visitors to Hanoi. While it has become a successful chain, the original location at number 10 remains the benchmark.

The pho here is consistently excellent. The broth is well-balanced and clean-tasting, and they offer a wide variety of excellent beef cuts, from tenderloin (tái) to brisket (chín) and flank (nạm). It's a reliable, "can't-go-wrong" choice that delivers a delicious bowl of pho every single time, making it a favorite for both locals and travelers alike.

Insider Tip:
To get the best of all worlds, order the Tái Nạm Gầu bowl. It gives you a fantastic mix of textures: tender rare beef, soft brisket, and the rich, fatty crunch of flank. Also, don't miss out on their homemade chili sauce and pickled garlic on the table.

Other Pho loved by Hanoians

#4. Pho Suong - A bowl of pure "bliss"

• Address: 24B Ngo Trung Yen, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price: ~80,000 VND

The name "Suong" translates to "Bliss" or "Happiness," and it's the perfect word to describe your feeling after the first spoonful of their broth. Tucked away in a tiny alley in the Old Quarter, Pho Suong is a haven for broth purists. They are masters of a perfectly balanced, incredibly clear, and naturally sweet broth that lets the quality of the ingredients shine.

The space is small and you'll likely be sharing a table with strangers, but that's part of the charm. The beef is famously tender, and each component, from the noodles to the fresh herbs, is meticulously prepared. It’s a sophisticated, clean, and deeply satisfying bowl that will make you understand why its name is so fitting.

Insider Tip:
If you love a richer flavor, don't be afraid to ask for a small side bowl of "nước béo" (fatty broth skimmed from the top of the pot) to add to your liking. It’s a common request from regulars.

The chefs at Pho Suong are all 2nd or 3rd generation descendants

#5. Pho Bo Lam Hang Vai - An old-school sidewalk legend

• Address: 48 Hang Vai, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 5:30 AM – 12:00 AM (Often sells out earlier)
• Price: ~55,000 VND

Eating at Phở Lâm is like taking a step back in time. This is a classic Hanoi sidewalk pho spot, complete with low plastic stools and a bustling atmosphere. The owner, a constant presence for years, runs the operation with quiet efficiency. This isn't a place for leisurely dining; it's a place for an honest, incredible bowl of pho.

Pho Bo Lam Hang Vai with a yummy poached egg

The broth here is often described as more robust and full-bodied than others, with a deep, savory flavor that lingers. It’s a favorite among the older generation of Hanoians who appreciate its uncompromising, traditional character. You come here for the pho, and only the pho—and it's absolutely worth it.

Insider Tip:
This is strictly a morning affair. To guarantee yourself a bowl, you should arrive before 10:00 AM. Any later, and you're likely to be met with a clean, empty pot.

#6. Pho Cuong Hang Muoi - The butcher's secret

• Address: 23 Hang Muoi, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price: 45,000 VND - 80,000 VND

Pho Cuong is the definition of a hidden gem. From the outside, it looks like just another small, unassuming local eatery. But for those in the know, this is a temple for beef lovers. The owner, a butcher by trade, has access to the best and most interesting cuts of meat, some of which you won't find on any menu.

Photo: Nguyen Hoang Anh

While their standard pho is excellent, the real magic lies in asking for the special cuts. The broth is hearty and beef-forward, a perfect base for the star of the show: the meat. This is a place that rewards curiosity and is a genuine slice of local life, far from the polished tourist trail.

Insider Tip:
Be adventurous and ask for "lõi rùa"—a special cut of beef shank that is incredibly tender and flavorful. For a low-carb option, do as the regulars do and order "một bát không bánh" (a bowl without noodles), which gets you a generous serving of broth and beef.

For chicken lovers: Hanoi's best Pho Ga

While beef pho often takes the international spotlight, many Hanoians will tell you that their true comfort food is pho ga. A great bowl of chicken pho is a thing of beauty, featuring a lighter, golden broth that is both delicate and deeply flavorful, simmered for hours with chicken bones and aromatics. Here are two essential stops for any chicken pho enthusiast.

#7. Pho Ga Nguyet - The mixed chicken noodle queen

• Address: 5B Phu Doan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM – 1:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
• Price: $$ (~55,000 VND)

Located on a busy street near the cathedral, Pho Ga Nguyet is a legendary late-night spot, but it's equally fantastic at any time of day. While their traditional chicken pho with broth is excellent, their undisputed masterpiece is the mixed chicken pho without broth.

Pho Ga Nguyet - a delicious chicken Pho in Hanoi

Tender, chewy pho noodles are mixed with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, and fried shallots, all tossed in a perfectly balanced sweet, sour, and savory soy-based dressing. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite. The chicken here is famously delicious—whether you choose the lean white meat or the more flavorful dark meat, it's always moist and tender.

Insider Tip:
The place gets extremely crowded, especially at night. Be prepared to share a table. For the ultimate combo, order a bowl of pho ga tron and ask for a small side bowl of their hot, clear broth to sip alongside it. It's the perfect way to enjoy the best of both worlds.

#8. Pho Ga Tien - A taste of classic elegance

• Address: 103 Nguyen Truong To, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 1:30 PM and 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM
• Price: ~50,000 VND

Pho Ga Tien is a testament to the beauty of simplicity. Located slightly outside the main tourist hub, this spot is a firm favorite among locals for its classic, no-nonsense approach to chicken pho. They focus on one thing: crafting a perfect, traditional bowl.

A generous bowl of Pho Tien

The star here is the broth. It's exceptionally clean, with a beautiful golden hue and a delicate, naturally sweet flavor that can only come from high-quality chicken and hours of gentle simmering. The chicken is expertly boiled to retain its moisture and flavor, then chopped to order. Paired with a sprinkle of finely chopped lime leaves, this bowl is the definition of elegance and comfort—a soothing, restorative meal that feels like home.

Clean and tidy area of preparation in Pho Tien

Insider Tip:
To truly appreciate the broth, taste it on its own before adding any condiments like lime or chili. Also, try ordering "đùi hoặc cánh" (thigh or wing) for more flavorful dark meat and tender skin, which is how many connoisseurs prefer their chicken pho.

Unique & modern twists: The new wave of Pho

While tradition is the heart of Hanoi's pho culture, innovation keeps it exciting. These restaurants are pushing the boundaries of what pho can be, offering new experiences, high-quality ingredients, and inclusive options for every kind of diner.

#9. Pho That - A refined, gourmet Pho experience

• Address: 48 Tran Nhat Duat, Hoan Kiem
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price: ~80,000 - 120,000 VND

Pho That ("Real" Pho) lives up to its name by focusing on one thing: exceptional ingredient quality. This is where you go when you want a more refined, comfortable, and gourmet pho experience. The restaurant is clean, spacious, and air-conditioned, offering a calm oasis compared to the bustling sidewalk eateries.

They pride themselves on using high-grade beef and a broth that is simmered for over 12 hours to achieve a clean yet profound flavor. The menu offers premium cuts you won't find elsewhere. It’s the perfect place to introduce pho to a first-time visitor or for a meal with family or business partners who appreciate a more upscale setting.

Insider Tip:
Splurge on their signature "Pho That" bowl, which includes a selection of their finest premium beef cuts. It's a great way to sample the quality that makes them stand out.

#10. Pho Bat Da: Dinner and a Show

• Address: Found at various locations, e.g., 98 Thai Thinh, Dong Da, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: Varies by restaurant
• Price: ~80,000 VND

Pho Bat Da (Hot Stone Bowl Pho) is more than a meal; it's an interactive experience. Your pho arrives deconstructed: a bowl of noodles and herbs, a plate of thinly sliced raw beef, and the star of the show—a super-heated stone bowl filled with boiling broth.

The fun begins as you dip the raw beef into the sizzling broth, cooking it to your desired doneness right at the table. The broth continues to bubble away for several minutes, ensuring your pho stays piping hot from the first bite to the last. It's a novel and entertaining way to enjoy pho, perfect for a fun meal with friends.

Insider Tip:
Don't drop all your beef in at once, or it will overcook. Add a few slices at a time, let them cook for just a few seconds until pink, and enjoy them immediately for the most tender result.

#11. Vegan Pho at Uu Dam Chay - A Revelation in a Bowl

• Address: 55 Nguyen Du, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 09:30 PM
• Price: $$$ (~95,000 VND)

Who says pho needs meat to be delicious? Uu Dam Chay will shatter any doubts you have about vegan pho. Located in a beautifully designed space that feels like a peaceful sanctuary, this restaurant elevates vegetarian cuisine to an art form.

Their vegan pho is a testament to this. They create a miraculously deep and savory broth using a medley of mushrooms, root vegetables like daikon, and a secret blend of herbs and spices. It's complex, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. Topped with various types of mushrooms, fried tofu, and fresh herbs, this isn't just "pho without meat"—it's a thoughtfully constructed, delicious dish in its own right that will impress even the most dedicated carnivores.

Insider Tip:
It’s best to make a reservation, especially for dinner. While the pho is a must-try, don't hesitate to explore their wider menu. The fried mushroom "chips" and homemade tofu dishes are spectacular.

More great bowls to discover

#12. Pho Khoi Hoi - 50C Hang Vai

This is a true "working man's pho." Known for its incredibly generous portions of both noodles and beef, Pho Khoi Hoi is where you go when you are seriously hungry. The broth is hearty and robust, and the atmosphere is always bustling with locals fueling up for the day. It’s a straightforward, satisfying, and delicious bowl of pho.

Insider Tip: Come with a big appetite. The 'regular' bowl here feels like a large portion elsewhere.

#13. Pho Vui - 25 Hang Giay

The name literally means "Happy Pho," and it delivers just that—a happy, consistent, and no-frills pho experience. Phở Vui is a reliable local spot that's perfect when you're in the Old Quarter and need a quick, delicious fix. With a clean broth and tender beef, it’s a dependable choice that never disappoints.

Insider Tip: This is a fantastic 'safe bet'. If you're feeling overwhelmed with choices, you can always count on Phở Vui for a quality bowl.

#14. Pho Thanh Beo - 36 Nguyen Du

This is your chance to go truly off the beaten path. Pho Thanh Beo is a lesser-known spot with a fiercely loyal local following. You won't see many tourists here, which is part of its charm. The pho is traditional, savory, and served without any fanfare. It’s an authentic slice of daily Hanoian life.

Insider Tip: Don't be shy! This is a great place to practice your ordering skills. Simply pointing at a picture or what your neighbor is having works perfectly.

#15. Pho Ganh Hang Trong

This isn't a shop, but a legend. Pho Ganh is a mobile stall, traditionally carried on a pole (gánh), that sets up on a specific corner of the Old Quarter late at night. Finding it feels like discovering a secret. Sitting on a tiny plastic stool on the sidewalk, slurping a hot bowl of pho under the night sky, is one of Hanoi's most romantic and quintessential food experiences.

Insider Tip: This is a late-night affair, typically setting up after 8 PM at the intersection of Hang Trong and Hang Bong streets. Follow the crowd of locals to find it.

7. FAQs about Pho in Hanoi

What is the average price of pho in Hanoi?

A local bowl of pho typically costs between 45,000 to 70,000 VND ($1.80 - $2.80 USD). More specialized or upscale restaurants may charge up to 120,000 VND or more.

Is it safe to eat street food pho in Hanoi?

Eating street food is a fundamental part of Hanoi's culture. A great rule of thumb is to choose busy stalls with a high turnover of local customers. This is usually a sign of fresh ingredients and good quality.

What's the main difference between Hanoi pho and Saigon pho?

Hanoi-style pho focuses on the purity and flavor of the broth, which is typically clearer and more savory. It's served with minimal garnishes. Southern-style pho has a sweeter broth and is served with a large platter of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and various sauces like Hoisin sauce for diners to customize their bowl.

What time of day do people eat pho in Hanoi?

Pho is traditionally a breakfast dish, and you'll see locals crowding pho stalls from 6 AM to 9 AM. However, it's now enjoyed all day long—for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even as a late-night supper.

Besides pho, what other noodle soup should I try in Hanoi?

Hanoi is a paradise for noodle lovers! You absolutely must try Bun Cha (grilled pork with noodles), Bun Rieu Cua (crab and tomato noodle soup), and Bun Bo Nam Bo (beef noodle salad).

Explore Vietnam Culinary Tour

From the hundred-year-old traditions of pho to the sizzling modern experience of a hot stone bowl, we've journeyed through the incredible diversity of Hanoi's pho scene. We've learned that there is no single "best" pho in Hanoi—instead, there's the best pho for you. Perhaps you're a purist who craves the clean, traditional broth of the Old Quarter. Maybe you're an adventurer drawn to the garlicky, stir-fried masterpiece at Pho Thin. Or perhaps a delicate bowl of chicken pho is your idea of ultimate comfort.

My best advice is this: use this guide as your map, but don't be afraid to wander off the path. If you see a small, crowded stall with steam billowing into the street and locals happily slurping away, step inside. You might just discover your own personal favorite—a place that isn't on any list, but will forever be in your memories of Hanoi.

See more:

• Bun - Rice Vermicelli: A guide to Vietnam's iconic noodle dishes
• The 5 cafés that derve the best egg coffee
• The best Cha Ca Hanoi you will have ever tasted
• Explore the delicious world of Xoi - Vietnamese sticky rice
• Hanoi Travel: When to go? What to visit? How many days?