The Best Pho in Saigon is part of the Trip Report: The $77,000 Trip Heard Round the World which covers 5 Continents, 13 Countries, and 17 Cities.
- Tokyo, Japan
- Melbourne, Australia
- Wellington, New Zealand
- Sydney, Australia
- Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Maldives
- Saigon, Vietnam
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Hong Kong
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Knysna, South Africa
- Durban, South Africa
- Mauritius
- Johannesburg, South Africa
- Doha, Qatar
- New York, New York
- Helsinki, Finland
Find the nerdy planning here. Find the picture preview here.
I consider myself the king of phở because I have been all around the world in search of the best bowl and have the tee shirt to prove it.
The list of the Top Ten Places to get pho puts Vietnam deservedly at #1. However, the pho in Vietnam varies from city to city, region to region. Indeed, the pho in the north is much different than the pho in the south. This last trip to Vietnam, I stayed in Saigon for three days which was plenty of time to get my fill of pho and come up with the list of the best pho spots in one of my favorite cities.
But first, I start with the worst place to get pho, Pho 2000. I reviewed President Clinton’s Bad Dining Advice already but here’s a quick recap: Bland broth and uninspired meat. It might as well just be a bowl of soup.
Now for the list of great pho in Ho Chi Minh:
5. Pho 24
What’s better than a extra large bowl of pho? An extra large bowl of pho that is delivered. Pho 24 is a fast food pho restaurant but it is still uncomplicated quality.
4. Pho Hung
The bellman at the Sheraton Saigon recommended Pho Hung and I was quite pleased with his recommendation. I advise against the bowl of pho served with blood but the pho tai was so good, I had to get a second helping.
3. Pho Park Hyatt
I usually advise against eating in the overpriced restaurants at the hotel because street food is a much better alternative both for price and for authenticity. However, if you find yourself in the Prison of Posh at 4 in the morning with no street vendors nearby, ordering room service pho is a great option if you’re staying at the Park Hyatt Saigon. The broth came in a tea kettle and it was of great quality. The best part of eating pho besides a hangover cure is the ability to pass out right after. Even better than that is being able to pass out in the comforts of the Park Hyatt.
2. Pho Street
Nothing beats plastic chairs, plastic tables, a cold beer and a hot bowl of pho. The kitchen is a mobile workstation with vats of broth and the patrons are locals from all walks of life. The pho is delicious and the price is perfect. The location of this restaurant is anywhere on the street serving pho.
1. Pho Pasteur
Ask anyone in Saigon the name of the best restaurant for pho and they will undoubtedly say Pho Pasteur. Located in District 2 outside of the city center, Pho Pasteur is a must for any pho enthusiast looking for the perfect bowl. Come early or come late, Pho Pasteur is open, ready to satisfy your pho appetite.
Next time I’m in Saigon, I will try out more restaurants but these should give you a good start. Feel free to list any others you recommend.
Sincerely,
The Pho King
