Pho in Vietnam: The Bowl That’ll Ruin All Other Noodle Soups for You
- Flexi Tour Centre
- Jan 21, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
G'day mates,
If you’ve ever slurped a bowl of pho back home in Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and thought “yeah, that’s pretty good”, then mate… you haven’t had proper Vietnamese pho yet.
The first time I had authentic pho in Hanoi at 6am on a tiny plastic stool, it honestly ruined every other pho I’d ever eaten. The broth was so clean, fragrant and packed with flavour that I still think about it. That’s the magic of pho done right in Vietnam.
The Origins of Phở
Phở originated in the early 20th century in Northern Vietnam, especially in Ha Noi and Nam Dinh.
What Makes Pho Special?
The essence of Pho lies in its aromatic, slow-cooked broth. This rich, clear soup is crafted by simmering beef bones (or occasionally chicken) with a blend of spices such as star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.
Each region in Vietnam tells its own story through Pho:
Hanoi Pho – subtle, clear, elegant.
Saigon Pho – rich, bold, full of herbs and lime.
Hue Pho – a spicy, royal twist on the classic recipe.
Travelling with Flexi Tour Centre, you can savour these regional flavours on our authentic Vietnam food tours, where we take you off the beaten path to local favourites known only by residents.
Why Pho is So Much Better in Vietnam
Australian pho is usually decent, but in Vietnam it hits different. The broth is lighter, the herbs are fresher, and the balance is just perfect.
Hanoi Pho (North): Clean, subtle, elegant. Less herbs, more focus on the broth. Very refined.
Saigon Pho (South): Bolder, sweeter, loaded with bean sprouts, Thai basil, chilli and lime. A bit more chaotic — in the best way.
Hue Pho: Spicy and royal — you can taste the history in it.
From my own opinion? If you only try pho in one city, make it Hanoi or Nam Dinh. The northern style is closer to the original and it’s bloody addictive.
Where to eat the best Pho in Vietnam?
Pho can be found all across Vietnam, from street food stalls to local family-run restaurants.
Most well-known places to eat Pho in Vietnam based on Flexi Tour Centre's experiences:
Phở Bát Đàn: (only have beef pho)
Address: 49 Bát Đàn, Hoàn Kiếm District
Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư Hà Nội:
Address: 10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoàn Kiếm District
Phở Thìn 13 Lò Đúc Hà Nội
Address:13 Lò Đúc, Hai Bà Trưng District
Pro tip: Order a side of quẩy (fried bread) to dip in the broth. Game changer.
Experience Authentic Vietnam Food Tours with Flexi Tour Centre
At Flexi Tour Centre, we believe travel should be more than sightseeing — it’s about authentic experiences. Our Vietnam culinary tours combine food, culture, and connection. From Pho Vietnam to Banh Mi, Bun Cha, and local coffee experiences, each stop immerses you in daily life.
With our tailor-made itineraries, we handle everything — accommodation, transport, and local guides — so you can relax and travel Vietnam like a local.
Travellers visiting Vietnam often combine food experiences like pho tasting with cultural and historical destinations such as Hanoi, Hoi An, and Da Nang, or immersive journeys through Mai Chau’s rural landscapes.
Tours From Australia
For travellers from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth or Brisbane, our Vietnam tours from Australia provide convenience, with flights, airport transfer, visa guidance, and all logistics carefully arranged. Discover our Vietnam tours from Australia for a smooth and unforgettable adventure.
"For more information regarding travel routes to Vietnam from your location, please click here.
Book Your Tour Today
Plan your Vietnam trip today with Flexi Tour Centre. Enjoy tailor-made itineraries, handpicked accommodation from Flexi Stay, and a flexible, unforgettable Vietnam travel experience designed just for you.
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