Where to Eat Pho in Hanoi: 25 Authentic Spots for Every Budget
Discover the ultimate foodie’s guide to Hanoi’s iconic dish – from hidden family-run stalls to upscale restaurants serving the best broth in Vietnam’s capital.
The Soul of Hanoi in a Bowl: Understanding Authentic Pho
When you step into Hanoi’s bustling streets, you’re entering the birthplace of Vietnam’s most celebrated culinary export. Pho isn’t just food here—it’s cultural heritage simmering in a bowl. The northern-style pho (phở Bắc) that originated in Hanoi differs significantly from what you might find elsewhere in Vietnam or internationally.
What makes Hanoi pho distinct is its commitment to clarity and purity. The broth is meticulously clear yet deeply flavored, simmered from beef bones and marrow for 8-12 hours without the crutch of MSG or artificial enhancers. The aromatics are minimal but precisely chosen: charred ginger, roasted onions, star anise, and cinnamon create a delicate symphony rather than an overwhelming concert of flavors.
Unlike southern variations that come with plates of herbs and bean sprouts, Hanoi pho is served with only essential garnishes—typically just a squeeze of lime, some fresh chilies, and perhaps a dash of garlic vinegar. This minimalist approach places the spotlight squarely on the quality of the broth and noodles.
Speaking of noodles, authentic Hanoi pho features flat rice noodles (bánh phở) that are slightly wider and chewier than their southern counterparts. These noodles aren’t just a vessel for the broth—they’re integral to the textural experience.
Before diving into our comprehensive list of where to eat pho in Hanoi, remember that timing matters. Many traditional pho establishments operate only in the morning hours, sometimes as early as 5 AM, and close once they run out of broth—often by 10 AM. This isn’t just tradition; it’s quality control, ensuring every bowl served is at its peak.
25 Must-Try Pho Destinations in Hanoi for 2025
1. Phở Gia Truyền Bát Đàn (49 Bát Đàn Street, Hoàn Kiếm)
The name translates to “family tradition,” and this legendary establishment lives up to it. Operating since the 1940s, this pho institution creates a broth so rich and complex that it’s worth the inevitable queue forming outside. The shop’s 80-year-old recipe results in a perfectly balanced flavor profile with notes of star anise, cinnamon, and roasted ginger.
What sets it apart: Their broth simmers for exactly 14 hours (not the standard 12), using only beef bones from grass-fed cattle raised in Vietnam’s northern highlands.
Must-try dish: Phở tái nạm (rare beef and flank) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM and 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Pro tip: Arrive before 7 AM to avoid the worst of the queues and score a prime sidewalk seat.
2. Phở Thìn (13 Lò Đúc, Hai Bà Trưng)
Established in 1979, Phở Thìn revolutionized Hanoi’s pho scene with a technique no one had tried before: stir-frying the beef with garlic before adding it to the soup. This seemingly simple innovation creates a caramelized flavor profile and aromatic quality that has made this spot legendary.
What sets it apart: The 460-square-foot open kitchen allows diners to watch their beef being wok-tossed over impressive flames before landing in their bowls.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái lăn (stir-fried rare beef) – 70,000 VND (~$3 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Pro tip: If you’re sensitive to smoke, sit on the upper level away from the kitchen, as the constant stir-frying creates a smoky environment.
3. Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư (10 Lý Quốc Sư Street, Hoàn Kiếm)
Perfectly positioned in the heart of the Old Quarter, this establishment bridges the gap between authentic local experience and tourist-friendly service. Their broth strikes a beautiful balance—robust enough to satisfy purists while remaining accessible to international palates.
What sets it apart: They offer an unusually wide selection of beef cuts, including premium options like tenderloin and bone marrow, allowing diners to customize their experience.
Must-try dish: Phở đặc biệt (special combination) – 75,000 VND (~$3.15 USD)
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pro tip: This is one of the few quality pho restaurants serving throughout the day, making it perfect for late risers or those on irregular schedules.
4. Phở Bát Đàn (49 Bát Đàn, Hoàn Kiếm)
Not to be confused with Phở Gia Truyền on the same street, this smaller establishment focuses on consistency above all else. The owner still personally selects beef from the same supplier they’ve used for over 30 years.
What sets it apart: Their broth is noticeably less oily than most competitors, achieved through a proprietary skimming technique developed over generations.
Must-try dish: Phở nạm gầu (brisket and flank) – 60,000 VND (~$2.50 USD)
Hours: 5:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Pro tip: They provide house-made chili oil that’s significantly more complex than what you’ll find elsewhere—use sparingly!
5. Phở Vui (25 Hàng Giấy, Hoàn Kiếm)
“Vui” means “happy” in Vietnamese, and the mood is indeed jovial at this family-run establishment that’s been serving consistently excellent pho for three generations. While many pho restaurants compete for the clearest broth, Phở Vui’s signature is its slightly cloudy yet intensely flavorful soup.
What sets it apart: Their bone-to-water ratio is higher than average, creating a collagen-rich broth with exceptional body and mouthfeel.
Must-try dish: Phở gầu (fatty brisket) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Pro tip: Ask for a side of quẩy (fried dough sticks) to dip in your broth—a traditional northern way to enjoy pho.
6. Phở Khôi Hói (50C Hàng Vải, Hoàn Kiếm)
Hidden on a quiet street away from tourist routes, this humble establishment prioritizes quality ingredients over ambiance. The chef’s dedication shows in every bowl—particularly in the consistency of the noodles, which are made fresh daily and cooked with scientific precision.
What sets it apart: The broth here includes a subtle hint of cardamom, a spice rarely used in other pho establishments but which adds a distinctive aromatic quality.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái chín (combination of rare and well-done beef) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Pro tip: Unlike most places, they offer a house-made fermented garlic condiment that transforms the flavor profile—absolutely worth trying.
7. Phở Lâm (7 Nam Ngư, Hoàn Kiếm)
Operating since 1968, Phở Lâm maintains a loyal following of local office workers and seniors who appreciate their consistent quality. While the interior is spartan, the depth of flavor in each bowl speaks to decades of refined technique.
What sets it apart: They use a higher percentage of beef marrow bones in their broth, creating a richer mouthfeel without excessive oil.
Must-try dish: Phở tái sách (rare beef with tripe) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Pro tip: If available, try their seasonal special with seasonal wild mushrooms, typically offered between September and November.
8. Phở Sướng (24B Trung Yên Alley, Đinh Liệt, Hoàn Kiếm)
Tucked away in a narrow alley, this hidden gem requires some determination to find but rewards visitors with one of the most fragrant broths in the city. The name means “delightful,” and the experience lives up to it.
What sets it apart: Their unique spice blend includes a higher ratio of star anise and coriander seeds, creating a distinctive aromatic profile.
Must-try dish: Phở tái lăn (stir-fried rare beef) – 70,000 VND (~$3 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM and 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Pro tip: The evening service often features a slightly different broth with more pronounced spices—both versions are worth experiencing.
9. Phở Gánh (Ngõ Trung Yên, Đinh Liệt, Hoàn Kiếm)
Starting as a portable street cart (gánh) decades ago, this now-permanent establishment maintains the traditional cooking methods that made it famous. The decades-old pots have developed a patina that locals swear contributes to the unique flavor.
What sets it apart: The broth is simmered at precisely 95°C (never boiling) for 15 hours, creating exceptional clarity while extracting maximum flavor.
Must-try dish: Phở nạm (flank beef) – 60,000 VND (~$2.50 USD)
Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:30 AM
Pro tip: Come at opening time to watch the full traditional service ritual, including the ceremonial first stirring of the day’s broth.
10. Phở Bò 5 Khúc (126 Khúc Hạo, Ba Đình)
Away from the tourist centers, this local favorite serves a distinctively northern-style pho characterized by a more delicate broth and emphasis on beef quality rather than abundant garnishes.
What sets it apart: They source beef exclusively from Mộc Châu highland cattle, known for their clean flavor and superior marbling.
Must-try dish: Phở tái chín (rare and well-done beef) – 70,000 VND (~$3 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 1:30 PM
Pro tip: Their house-made chili oil is exceptionally good—ask for it on the side rather than added directly to preserve the broth’s clarity.
11. Phở Nguyễn Sơn (5 Nguyễn Sơn, Long Biên)
Crossing the Red River to Long Bien district rewards visitors with this neighborhood institution, beloved for its old-school approach and generous portions. Despite being off the tourist path, it’s worth the journey for pho purists.
What sets it apart: Their broth simmers for a full 18 hours, longer than most competitors, resulting in exceptional depth without bitterness.
Must-try dish: Phở tái nạm gầu (rare beef with flank and brisket) – 75,000 VND (~$3.15 USD)
Hours: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM
Pro tip: If you visit Hanoi’s vibrant markets on a city tour, this makes an excellent breakfast stop before exploring the less touristy Long Bien area.
12. Phở Cuốn Hương Mai (25 Ngũ Xã, Trúc Bạch)
While primarily known for phở cuốn (pho rolls), this establishment also serves excellent traditional pho. Located in Truc Bach district near the lake, it offers a pleasant atmosphere along with quality food.
What sets it apart: They maintain two separate broth pots—one for morning service and one for afternoon—ensuring optimal flavor throughout the day.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái (rare beef) and phở cuốn (rice noodle rolls) – 65,000 VND ($2.75 USD) for pho, 60,000 VND ($2.50 USD) for rolls
Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pro tip: Order both the traditional pho and the pho rolls for a comparative tasting experience showing the versatility of pho flavors.
13. Phở Huyền (20 Ngõ Trung Tự, Đống Đa)
This family-run establishment in a residential area provides a glimpse into everyday Hanoi life while serving exceptionally balanced pho. The small 42-square-meter space creates a cozy atmosphere where you can watch your pho being assembled with precision.
What sets it apart: Their broth incorporates a subtle touch of caramelized palm sugar—not enough to make it sweet, but sufficient to round out the savory notes.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái gầu (rare beef with crispy brisket) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM and 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Pro tip: The evening broth is slightly different from the morning version—local connoisseurs often prefer the evening service for its more developed flavors.
14. Phở Hà Nội (24 Lê Ngọc Hân, Hai Bà Trưng)
Despite its tourist-friendly name, this establishment caters primarily to locals and maintains traditional standards. The bright, clean space offers a more comfortable dining experience than many street stalls without compromising authenticity.
What sets it apart: They use an unusually high ratio of beef bones to water (1:2.5 rather than the typical 1:3), creating a more intense base flavor.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái lăn sốt vang (stir-fried beef in red wine sauce) – 80,000 VND (~$3.35 USD)
Hours: 6:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Pro tip: Their unusual red wine-infused beef option offers a fascinating fusion of French colonial influence with traditional Vietnamese techniques.
15. Phở Xuân (222 Khâm Thiên, Đống Đa)
Operating for over 40 years, this establishment’s longevity speaks to its consistent quality. Located away from tourist areas, it offers an authentic experience with exceptionally tender beef and perfectly cooked noodles.
What sets it apart: They maintain the traditional northern approach of serving just a few classic beef options rather than the extensive menu variations found elsewhere.
Must-try dish: Phở nạm ninh (slow-cooked flank beef) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Pro tip: Request their house-made fermented chili paste, made weekly in small batches and offered only to those who ask.
16. Phở Bò Việt Nam (3 Ngõ Thái Hà, Đống Đa)
This quiet, unpretentious spot serves what many local chefs consider a textbook example of northern-style pho. While the space is basic, the precision in their broth preparation is anything but.
What sets it apart: Their broth clarity is achieved through a specific temperature control technique that keeps the simmer precisely between 94-96°C throughout the cooking process.
Must-try dish: Phở bò chín (well-done beef) – 60,000 VND (~$2.50 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Pro tip: Ask for a side of bone marrow if available—a traditional addition that adds richness to the experience.
17. Phở Huyền Anh (23 Hàng Mã, Hoàn Kiếm)
Perfectly situated for visitors exploring the Old Quarter, this establishment offers a consistently excellent bowl without the long queues found at more famous locations. The chef’s 25 years of experience ensures meticulous attention to detail.
What sets it apart: They prepare a separate fatty broth served on the side that can be added according to personal preference—a thoughtful touch acknowledging different taste preferences.
Must-try dish: Phở đặc biệt (special combo with five cuts of beef) – 80,000 VND (~$3.35 USD)
Hours: 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Pro tip: Their chili oil is particularly complex, incorporating five different types of chilies for a layered heat experience.
18. Phở Thìn Bờ Hồ (61 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoàn Kiếm)
With prime lakeside real estate near Hoan Kiem Lake, this branch of the famous Pho Thin offers the signature stir-fried beef technique with the added bonus of scenic views. While unaffiliated with the original Lo Duc location, they maintain similar quality standards.
What sets it apart: The lakeside location means you can enjoy your pho with cooling breezes and views of Hanoi’s iconic lake—a rare combination of great food and atmosphere.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái lăn (stir-fried rare beef) – 75,000 VND (~$3.15 USD)
Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Pro tip: Come in the early evening to enjoy the sunset over Hoan Kiem Lake while savoring your pho—a quintessential Hanoi experience that combines culinary and visual pleasures.
19. Phở Hồng (8 Lý Thường Kiệt, Hoàn Kiếm)
This establishment, running continuously since 1970, takes pride in maintaining original recipes without adaptation for tourist palates. The small 12-table space fills quickly with locals, always a good sign.
What sets it apart: They use an uncommon combination of cassia bark rather than cinnamon in their broth, creating a more complex woody note.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái gầu (rare beef with crispy brisket) – 70,000 VND (~$3 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Pro tip: Their house-made pickled garlic is exceptional—add a spoonful to your broth halfway through for an evolving flavor experience.
20. Phở Minh (57 Văn Cao, Ba Đình)
Away from central Hanoi, this West Lake area gem serves a distinctively light yet flavorful broth that represents the most traditional northern style. The 30-year-old restaurant retains its original decor and cooking methods.
What sets it apart: They use an unusually high proportion of marrow bones in their broth, creating a silky mouthfeel without excessive fat.
Must-try dish: Phở gân sách (tendon and tripe) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Pro tip: After enjoying your pho, take a short walk to West Lake for a pleasant morning stroll—the perfect post-breakfast activity.
21. Phở Hiền (86 Mã Mây, Hoàn Kiếm)
This Old Quarter establishment balances tradition with accessibility, making it popular with both locals and visitors. Their consistently excellent broth reflects decades of refinement.
What sets it apart: They offer a unique condiment tray featuring house-made pickled shallots, an uncommon but traditional northern addition.
Must-try dish: Phở tái chín nạm gầu (combination of rare, well-done, flank, and brisket) – 75,000 VND (~$3.15 USD)
Hours: 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Pro tip: If you’re planning a Halong Bay cruise, have a bowl here before your departure—it’s conveniently located near many tour pickup points.
22. Phở 24 (Multiple locations)
While purists might dismiss chain restaurants, Phở 24’s consistency and hygiene standards make it a reliable option, especially for visitors with sensitive stomachs. Their standardized approach ensures a solid, if less character-filled, experience.
What sets it apart: Their multiple locations throughout Hanoi offer consistent quality with air conditioning and international hygiene standards.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái (rare beef) – 85,000 VND (~$3.60 USD)
Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Pro tip: This is one of the few places where vegetarian pho (phở chay) is reliably available, making it suitable for mixed dietary groups.
23. Phở Hà (7 Ngõ Văn Chương, Đống Đa)
This tiny establishment hidden in a residential alley has no English signage but is worth seeking out for its exceptional broth clarity. The chef’s 40 years of experience shows in every meticulously prepared bowl.
What sets it apart: They maintain the strictest adherence to northern tradition, including serving only in the morning and using only beef bones (no chicken or pork) in their stock.
Must-try dish: Phở bắp bò (beef shank) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 5:30 AM – 9:30 AM
Pro tip: Arrive by 7 AM—they typically sell out well before their official closing time.
24. Phở Lý Quốc Sư (47 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoàn Kiếm)
Not to be confused with the more famous Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư, this establishment offers a more local experience on the same street. Their broth features a distinctive hint of cinnamon that sets it apart.
What sets it apart: They’re one of the few establishments still making their own rice noodles in-house daily, resulting in exceptional texture and flavor absorption.
Must-try dish: Phở gà (chicken pho) – 65,000 VND (~$2.75 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Pro tip: While beef pho is their mainstay, their chicken version offers an excellent counterpoint—try both to appreciate the versatility of pho.
25. Phở Nho (Street cart near 18 Hàng Vải, Old Quarter)
Sometimes the most authentic experiences come without permanent addresses. This mobile cart has been serving the same corner for over 15 years, with the owner’s distinctive cooking style drawing loyal customers.
What sets it apart: The ultimate street food experience—watch as your pho is assembled from scratch right before your eyes on a cart no larger than 1 square meter.
Must-try dish: Phở bò tái (rare beef) – 45,000 VND (~$1.90 USD)
Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Pro tip: Bring small bills and be prepared to stand or sit on tiny plastic stools—this is as authentic as Hanoi street food gets.
Beyond the Bowl: Understanding Pho Culture in Hanoi
The pho experience in Hanoi extends far beyond just consuming a delicious bowl of soup. To truly appreciate this culinary institution, it helps to understand some cultural context.
The Morning Ritual
For many Hanoians, pho is specifically a breakfast food, consumed between 6:00-8:00 AM before work. This tradition explains why many top establishments close by mid-morning—they’re not dinner restaurants opening early; they’re breakfast specialists. The morning ritual of pho consumption is deeply ingrained in Hanoi’s cultural fabric, with many residents starting their day with the same bowl from the same vendor for decades.
Seasonal Adjustments
True pho connoisseurs understand that the dish evolves with the seasons. In summer months (May-August), broths tend to be lighter and less oily, while winter versions (November-February) incorporate more marrow and fat for added richness and warmth. The best establishments make these adjustments automatically, while some explicitly offer seasonal variations.
Etiquette and Eating Style
When eating pho in Hanoi, observe the locals. You’ll notice they:
- Taste the broth first before adding any condiments
- Use chopsticks and spoon simultaneously, not alternately
- Often consume the noodles first, then the meat, saving broth for last
- Rarely add bean sprouts (a southern addition)
- May dip meat briefly in accompanying sauce rather than adding sauce to the broth
Following these customs marks you as someone who appreciates the cultural significance of the dish.
Planning Your Pho Pilgrimage: Practical Tips
To make the most of your pho exploration in Hanoi, consider these practical suggestions:
Timing Is Everything
The absolute best time for authentic pho is early morning (6:00-7:30 AM), when broths are freshest and locals are having their breakfast. This timing also helps you avoid both tourist crowds and the midday heat.
If you’re visiting Hanoi as part of a larger Vietnam itinerary, consider scheduling at least two mornings specifically for pho exploration. Many travelers who plan Vietnam trips including Halong Bay cruises find that alternating city exploration with culinary mornings creates a well-balanced experience.
Geographic Strategy
Rather than crisscrossing the city, plan your pho exploration geographically:
- Day 1: Focus on Old Quarter establishments (#1, 3, 8, 17, 21, 24, 25)
- Day 2: Explore Hoan Kiem Lake area options (#18, 23)
- Day 3: Venture to less touristy districts for local favorites (#10, 11, 13, 15, 16, 20)
This approach maximizes efficiency and lets you experience different neighborhood atmospheres.
Price Expectations
Authentic local pho typically costs between 45,000-70,000 VND ($1.90-$3.00 USD), while more upscale or tourist-oriented establishments may charge 70,000-90,000 VND ($3.00-$3.80 USD). Prices significantly higher than this range generally indicate tourist pricing rather than superior quality.
Language and Ordering
While many establishments now offer English menus, knowing a few key phrases enhances your experience:
- “Phở bò tái” = Pho with rare beef
- “Phở bò chín” = Pho with well-done beef
- “Phở đặc biệt” = Special combination pho
- “Không hành” = No onions
- “Ít bánh phở” = Less noodles (if you prefer more broth)
Beyond Traditional Pho: Modern Interpretations Worth Trying
While traditional pho remains the standard-bearer, Hanoi’s culinary scene has evolved to include creative interpretations worth experiencing:
Phở Cuốn (Pho Rolls)
These uncut rice noodle sheets wrapped around stir-fried beef and herbs offer the flavors of pho in a different format. Best tried at Phở Cuốn Hương Mai (#12) or the specialized Phở Cuốn Ngũ Xã street.
Phở Chua (Sour Pho)
A regional variation from nearby Lang Son province featuring a tamarind-spiked broth, now available at select Hanoi establishments. The tangy profile offers a refreshing alternative to traditional recipes.
Phở Trộn (Mixed Pho)
This deconstructed, broth-less version features pho noodles tossed with beef, herbs, and a savory dressing. It’s particularly popular during summer months when hot soup becomes less appealing.
The Philosophy of Pho
As you explore Hanoi’s pho landscape, remember that each bowl represents centuries of culinary evolution and cultural significance. The deceptive simplicity of pho—just broth, noodles, meat, and a few garnishes—belies the extraordinary complexity of flavor, technique, and tradition behind it.
The best pho experiences often come from establishments that have focused on a single dish for generations, perfecting every element through consistent repetition and subtle refinement. This dedication to craft reflects Vietnamese cultural values of patience, precision, and respect for tradition.
When you sit down to a steaming bowl in a tiny Hanoi alley, you’re not just having a meal—you’re participating in a cultural institution that connects you to countless others who have shared the same experience across decades. That connection, perhaps even more than the delicious flavors, is what makes exploring pho in Hanoi such a profound travel experience.
After immersing yourself in Hanoi’s vibrant food culture, many travelers find that continuing their journey to the natural wonders of Halong Bay provides a perfect balance of urban and natural experiences in northern Vietnam.
Contact Information
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Email: vietnammarveltravel@gmail.com
Phone: +84.978.358.422
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