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A Local's Guide to Hanoi's Pho (Phở) Scene: Beef, Chicken & Beyond

  • Writer: Tung Pham
    Tung Pham
  • Aug 20
  • 4 min read
Vietnamese beef noodle
ph

After Bún Chả, your next culinary mission in Hanoi is to explore the world of Pho (Phở). As Vietnam's national dish, Phở is more than just a soup; it's a way of life. In Hanoi, you'll find countless variations, from the classic beef and chicken versions to creative modern twists. Let's dive into the best Phở the city has to offer.


Part 1: The Classic - Beef Phở (Phở Bò)


The original and arguably the most famous, Phở Bò is defined by its clear, aromatic broth, simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, and other spices. It's served with flat rice noodles, tender slices of beef, and fresh herbs.

Michelin Stars & City Icons

  • Phở Gia Truyền (49 Bát Đàn): A true Hanoi legend. Be prepared to queue, as this place is perpetually crowded. They are famous for their rich, flavorful broth and high-quality beef. It’s an essential Hanoi Phở experience.

    Fact: Our Bat Dan House is located across from this restaurant. Enjoying the best Pho every morning is just a short walk away. Not bad, right?

  • Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư: Another Michelin-recognized name, this restaurant is very popular with tourists. While some locals find it a bit mainstream, it’s a reliable choice for a good, clean bowl of Phở.

  • Phở Sướng (Ngõ Trung Yên): The name means "Happy" Phở, and it lives up to it. This long-standing spot is known for its consistently delicious and well-balanced broth. A favorite among many Hanoians.

  • Phở Tư Lùn (34 Ấu Triệu): This Michelin-recommended spot is famous for its Phở Sốt Vang (beef stew Phở). It gets incredibly busy, so try to arrive before 9 AM to avoid a long wait.


Old-School & Local Favorites

  • Phở Lâm (48 Hàng Vải): Known for its friendly owner and fresh, delicious beef. This is the place to try a classic bowl with tái gân nạm gầu (a mix of rare, tendon, flank, and brisket).

    Fact: Our Bat Su House & Hang Vai House are just 2 mins walk to reach Phở Lâm & Phở Khôi Hói.

  • Phở Khôi Hói (50C Hàng Vải): A beloved local joint serving up consistently great Phở. A solid, no-frills choice for an authentic taste.

  • Phở "Bưng" (1 Hàng Trống): The name literally means "to carry," as you'll often have to carry your own bowl and eat on a small stool on the sidewalk. It's a unique, rustic experience with a fantastic traditional flavor.


Must-Try Specialties

  • Thế Béo (16 Trần Tế Xương): A bit outside the center but worth the trip. They serve excellent Phở Sốt Vang and are famous for their unique salted egg-stuffed meatballs. The owner is friendly, and there’s plenty of seating.


Part 2: The Lighter Side - Chicken Phở (Phở Gà)


Phở Gà offers a lighter, clearer broth but is no less flavorful. The key is the quality of the chicken—tender, fragrant, and delicious.

Michelin-Recognized & Top Tier

  • Phở Gà Châm (64 Yên Ninh): A legendary spot in Hanoi. The owner is famously eccentric, and prices can be unpredictable, but the quality of the chicken Phở is undeniable. The firm, flavorful hen meat is considered one of the best in the city. It's an experience you'll never forget!

  • Phở Gà Tiến (103 Nguyễn Trường Tộ): Also in the Michelin Guide, this place is run by a very nice couple who serve delicious, high-quality chicken Phở. A much more relaxed and friendly experience.

  • Phở Trộn Nguyệt (21 Phủ Doãn): Famous for its mixed chicken phở (phở gà trộn), this Michelin-recognized spot is delicious but always crowded. A must-try if you like dry/mixed noodle dishes.

    Fact. Our Phung Hung House is very close to this restaurant.


Beloved Local Spots

  • Phở Gà Huyền Hương (Báo Khánh): Serves a delicious, albeit premium-priced, bowl of chicken Phở all day. For the best experience, order the chicken thigh (má đùi).

  • Phở Hạnh (65A Lãn Ông): The go-to spot for mixed/cold chicken phở (phở gà trộn). They only open in the evening (6 PM - 10 PM), making it a perfect light dinner or supper.

    Fact: Another eatery that is very close to Bat Dan House; Bat Su House and Hang Vai House.


Part 3: Phở Reimagined - Creative Variations


Hanoians have taken the core ingredients of Phở and created a whole universe of delicious dishes beyond the soup.

  • Bún Bò Nam Bộ (73-75 Hàng Điếu): Don't let the name fool you! This isn't from the South, nor is it Huế-style beef noodles. This is a classic Hanoi dish of stir-fried beef with noodles, peanuts, and herbs in a light fish sauce dressing. This Michelin-recommended spot is the most famous place to try it.

  • Phở Cuốn & Phở Chiên Phồng Chinh Thắng (25 Ngũ Xã): This is the birthplace of two incredible creations. Phở Cuốn are fresh rice noodle sheets rolled with beef and herbs, while Phở Chiên Phồng is a deep-fried, crispy noodle "pillow" topped with a savory beef stir-fry.

  • Phở Xào (Stir-fried Phở): A classic alternative where the noodles are stir-fried with beef and vegetables. You can find excellent versions at Phở Xào Bát Đàn and on Hàng Buồm Street.

  • Phở Tíu (11 Hàng Chiếu): A very unique and special mixed Phở with sweet and sour sauce, topped with char siu pork, peanuts, and fried shallots. It's a flavor explosion and a must-try for adventurous eaters.


 
 
 

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