Finding the best pho in Hanoi is a rite of passage for every traveler. Seriously, walking through the Old Quarter, you’ll see locals hunched over plastic stools, slurping down noodles like it’s an Olympic sport.
It’s not just soup; it’s the soul of the city. Whether you’re craving a rich, bone-simmered beef broth or a light, herbal chicken infusion, this Hanoi culinary journey will help you skip the tourist traps and dive straight into the good stuff.
If you’re planning your full trip, check out this detailed list of things to see and do in hanoi to round out your itinerary.
Top Rated 15 Best Pho in Hanoi
Phở Gà Nguyệt
Located just a stone’s throw from Hoan Kiem Lake, this Michelin Bib Gourmand spot is legendary. I love their free-range chicken, especially the juicy thigh meat. You can even pay an extra 25,000 VND for more chicken, which is worth it for that flavor-packed skin. It is small and cozy, and the broth is naturally sweet and aromatic.
- Address: 5b Phu Doan Street
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 11:30 PM
Phở Bò Việt Hòa Cụ Chiêu
Walking into this family-run haven near Beer Street, I immediately noticed the huge pots of simmering broth. It is super quiet compared to the tourist traps, making it a perfect spot to enjoy authentic beef pho without the crowd. The best part? You won’t find any MSG here, and they are happy to cook your beef exactly how you like it.
- Address: 48 Hang Dong Street
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư
This is a total classic. I’ve seen the line out the door plenty of times, but the Phở Bò Tái Chín (half rare, half well-done) is worth every second of waiting. The interior is modern and spotless, which I appreciate. After your bowl, I highly recommend walking a few meters to Loading T Café for a signature egg coffee.
- Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Phở Tiến
Located in the Truc Bach area, this spot is a local favorite for its exceptional chicken pho. I love their Đặc Biệt bowl, which is loaded with tender chicken, gizzard, and young eggs. It is super clean and the broth is naturally sweet, seasoned simply to let the quality shine.
- Address: 103 Nguyen Truong To Street
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Phở Bò Tư Lùn Ấu Triệu
This place is a total hidden gem with no sign, just pure flavor. They specialize in beef pho with raw minced beef that cooks right in the steaming broth. It creates such a juicy bite, and the simplicity—where only the staff uniforms bear the name—really lets the craft speak for itself.
- Address: 34 Au Trieu Street
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Phở Gà Châm
If you want to see the action, you can watch the staff assemble bowls at the entrance here. It is slightly pricier than average, but the quality of the firm, succulent chicken is undeniable. I suggest showing up before 2:00 PM, or you might miss out on the best cuts.
- Address: 68 Yen Ninh Street
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Phở Khôi Hói
Named after the owner’s “bald head,” this shop has been a staple for over a decade. The broth is a complex blend of ginger, cinnamon, and shallots that hits the spot. Be prepared for a line, though—the stools outside are always packed with locals craving their famous shank cuts.
- Address: 50 Hang Vai Street
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Phở Gà HBO
If you want the true street food aesthetic, this is the place. I grab a plastic stool here for breakfast because it closes early at 1:30 PM. It has been a local favorite for a decade, serving light, authentic chicken pho that pairs perfectly with a glass of soy milk.
- Address: 24 Lan Ong Street
- Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM
PHO Ga 26
I stumbled upon this place by accident and was treated like family. They once served me some mysterious, delicious green fruits with seeds while I waited for my massive bowl of chicken pho. It honestly felt like a home-cooked meal, and we even took a photo together outside.
- Address: 26 Luong Van Can Street
- Opening hours: 07:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 11:30 PM
Huyền Hương Chicken Phở
Located right off Hoan Kiem Lake, this spot is perfect for a post-walk meal. They specialize in mixed chicken pho, which I find super refreshing. You can even pour the savory bone broth over the chicken yourself from a side bowl.
- Address: 20 Bao Khanh Street
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
MET RESTAURANT
For a slightly more polished vibe, I head to MET. It is central, convenient, and they nail both the beef and seafood options. It feels “fancy” without the pretentious price tag.
- Address: 29 Hang Trong Street
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Phở Bò Lâm
If you are a morning person, make this your first stop. They open from 5:30 a.m. and sell out fast, so arrive early! I love that they offer over 10 different beef cuts. The signature heel muscle is served slightly pink, soft, and tender, while the fatty flank is honestly buttery. Pro tip: order it with eggs and fried dough for the full, indulgent local experience.
- Address: 48 Hang Vai Street
- Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Phở Ông Vui – Hàng Giầy
This family-run shop is a hidden gem. I like dipping the fried dough sticks—quẩy—directly into the broth. It is a local experience that feels totally authentic and isn’t usually packed with tourists.
- Address: 25 Hang Giay Street
- Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Phở Bò Yến
Located near West Lake, this is a must-visit for the late-night crowd. I find their broth incredibly fragrant, and the brisket is melt-in-your-mouth good. Afterward, I love heading to the nearby Highlands Coffee Du Thuyền for a view of the lake.
- Address: 86 Cua Bac Street
- Opening hours: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Phở Trộn Cô Liên
Though a bit further from the center near the One Pillar Pagoda, the menu variety here is unmatched. From mixed chicken wings to pork mushroom balls, I never get bored of the options. The vibe is strictly for locals, which makes it feel like an authentic slice of life.
- Address: 16A Ngoc Ha Street
- Opening hours: All Days
FAQs about the Best Pho in Hanoi
Is Pho gluten-free?
Yes, most traditional pho is naturally gluten-free because it uses rice noodles and bone broth.
Should I tip at these restaurants?
Tipping isn’t really a thing in Vietnam, but it’s always appreciated if the service was great.
What time is best for Pho?
Early morning! The broth is freshest, and many local shops close by noon.