Top 12+ Places to Try Delicious and Authentic Pho in Hanoi

Authentic pho in Hanoi is more than just a dish, it’s a cultural journey woven into the fabric of the city’s vibrant streets. This iconic harmony of fragrant broth, silky noodles, and fresh herbs has won the hearts of both locals and travelers. Yet, in a city brimming with vendors each claiming to serve the original taste, finding true authenticity can be overwhelming. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or a curious first-timer, navigating Hanoi's pho scene requires a discerning guide. That’s where GTrip comes in - unveiling the spots where tradition and taste meet. Because enjoying a bowl of pho here isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment etched into your travel story.

1. Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su: Hanoi's iconic pho brand

Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su stands as one of Hanoi's most revered pho establishments, earning its iconic status through decades of culinary excellence. What distinguishes this beloved restaurant is its meticulously prepared broth, simmered for over 12 hours with beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, and other secret spices. The result is a clear yet deeply aromatic soup with perfectly balanced flavors that locals consider the quintessential Hanoi-style pho. Their noodles maintain the ideal texture, tender yet with a slight chew, while their beef is sliced paper-thin, cooking gently in the steaming broth when served.

Unlike many modernized pho restaurants, Ly Quoc Su maintains traditional serving methods, presenting each bowl with a side plate of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili. The establishment's location in Hanoi's historic Hoan Kiem district adds to its authenticity, with many customers claiming they've been loyal patrons for generations. The restaurant's enduring popularity speaks volumes about its consistency, even as Hanoi evolves, the taste of their pho remains steadfastly authentic.

• Address: 10 Ly Quoc Su Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price range: 50,000 VND - 100,000 VND | $1.91 - 3.83

Pho Ly Quoc Su stands as one of Hanoi's most revered pho establishments, earning its iconic status through decades of culinary excellence

Read more: Top 30 famous food in Hanoi you must try for your unforgettable trip

2. Pho Bat Dan: Classic beef pho on Bat Dan Street

Pho Bat Dan stands as one of Hanoi's most revered pho establishments, distinguished by its steadfast adherence to traditional cooking methods that have remained unchanged for generations. What sets this iconic spot apart is their meticulous broth preparation, simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, and other secret spices that create a depth of flavor impossible to replicate elsewhere. Bat Dan maintains the authentic Hanoi practice of serving the soup piping hot with minimal garnish, allowing the crystal-clear yet richly flavored broth to take center stage.

The experience at Pho Bat Dan extends beyond just exceptional food. Tourists often find themselves joining the distinctive queuing system. This is a true Hanoi cultural experience where customers first pay, receive a ticket, and then wait their turn for a seat at the communal tables. This ritual has become nearly as famous as the pho itself, with locals and tourists alike patiently waiting in lines that sometimes stretch around the block, especially during breakfast hours.

The pho arrives with tender slices of rare beef that continue cooking in the steaming broth, accompanied by perfectly chewy rice noodles. Each bowl is customized to preference with fresh herbs, lime, chili, and a dash of garlic vinegar that regulars swear elevates the flavor profile to sublime heights. The establishment's enduring popularity despite its strictly limited opening hours speaks volumes about its quality and authenticity.

• Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 AM | 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
• Price range: 50,000 - 60,000 VND | $1.91 - 2.30

Pho Bat Dan stands as one of Hanoi's most revered pho establishments, distinguished by its steadfast adherence to traditional cooking methods

3. Pho Thin Lo Duc: Rich, smoky stir-fried beef pho

Unlike traditional pho establishments that simmer beef directly in the broth, Pho Thin Lo Duc has revolutionized Hanoi's pho scene with its distinctive stir-frying technique. Here, thin slices of beef are quickly seared in a hot wok with garlic before being added to the bowl, creating a rich, smoky flavor profile that's impossible to forget. This culinary innovation dates back to 1979 when Mr. Nguyen Trong Thin first introduced his unique preparation method, making his restaurant a standout in a city filled with pho traditions. The marriage of charred beef with the aromatic broth creates a complex symphony of flavors that has captivated both locals and travelers for decades.

The broth at Pho Thin strikes a perfect balance, clear yet intensely flavorful, with notes of star anise, cinnamon, and charred ginger. Each bowl arrives steaming hot, topped with the signature wok-seared beef, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime. The noodles retain their perfect texture, neither too soft nor too firm, allowing them to absorb the rich flavors of the broth without losing their integrity.

Despite its international acclaim (having been featured in numerous food documentaries and travel shows), Pho Thin maintains its authentic, no-frills atmosphere. The restaurant occupies a modest corner building with simple metal tables and small plastic stools spilling onto the sidewalk, a quintessential Hanoi dining experience. During peak hours, you'll likely share tables with locals, creating an intimate communal dining experience that epitomizes Hanoi's street food culture.

• Address: No. 13 Lo Duc Street, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Price range: 60,000 - 100,000 VND | $2.30 - 3.83

In a city where pho has become a culinary icon, bun cha offers a bold counterpoint - quietly leaving its mark on diners with rich flavors and a distinct character that’s uniquely Hanoi.

Pho Thin Lo Duc has revolutionized Hanoi's pho scene with its distinctive stir-frying technique

Read more: Top 10 Best Bun Cha in Hanoi for Authentic Flavor

4. Pho Suong co Muoi: Traditional Hanoi-style beef pho

Pho Suong co Muoi represents the quintessential Hanoi-style beef pho, characterized by its clear, delicate broth that's simmered for hours with beef bones, charred ginger, and subtle spices. Unlike southern variations, this northern pho emphasizes simplicity and refinement, with a cleaner taste that allows the quality of each ingredient to shine through. The broth is notably less sweet than southern versions, with minimal garnishes. You won't find bean sprouts or basil here, just fresh cilantro, green onions, and perhaps a slice of lime to enhance the natural flavors.

What sets Pho Suong apart is its perfectly balanced broth that carries the essence of star anise, cinnamon, and cardamom without overwhelming the palate. The establishment has maintained its recipe for generations, earning a devoted following among locals who appreciate authentic Hanoi pho. The rice noodles are always fresh and silky, while the beef, whether rare slices (tai), well-done brisket (chin), or flank (nam), is carefully selected and sliced paper-thin to cook perfectly in the hot broth.

• Address: 36B Mai Hac De Street, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi
• Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM
• Price range: 30,000 - 100,000 VND | $1.15 - 3.83

Pho Suong co Muoi represents the quintessential Hanoi-style beef pho, characterized by its clear, delicate broth

5. Pho Ong Vui: Tasty pho in the Old Quarter

Nestled in the bustling Old Quarter of Hanoi, Pho Ong Vui has earned its reputation as one of the most authentic pho destinations in the capital. What sets this establishment apart is its perfectly balanced broth, neither too sweet nor too salty, that reflects the true essence of traditional Hanoi pho. The restaurant maintains the classic clear broth preparation method while using high-quality beef cuts that are sliced paper-thin and cooked to perfection. Unlike southern-style pho, Pho Ong Vui embraces the northern tradition of minimalism, allowing each ingredient's natural flavor to shine without overwhelming herbs or condiments.

The shop's unassuming facade belies the culinary treasure within. A small, family-run establishment, Pho Ong Vui (Mr. Happy's Pho) has been serving residents for over three decades. The current owner inherited the secret broth recipe from his father, who reportedly spent years perfecting the delicate balance of star anise, cinnamon, and other undisclosed spices. What's remarkable about this venue is how it maintains consistent quality despite serving hundreds of bowls daily. The noodles remain silky and fresh, never soggy, while the accompanying herbs are always crisp and vibrant.

• Address: 25 Hang Giay Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 1:00 AM
• Price range: 40,000 - 50,000 VND | $1.53 - 1.91

While dining at Pho Ong Vui, you'll likely be seated alongside locals who frequent this establishment daily, a testament to its authenticity. The restaurant's location in the heart of the Old Quarter makes it easily accessible for travelers exploring Hanoi's historic district. Despite its popularity, prices remain reasonable compared to more tourist-oriented establishments, offering incredible value for what many locals consider some of the finest pho in the capital.

Pho Ong Vui has earned its reputation as one of the most authentic pho destinations in the capital

Read more: Top 20 Restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter for Unforgettable Trip

6. Pho Bo Lam: Local favorite for beef noodle soup

Tucked away from the bustling tourist zones of Hanoi's Old Quarter, Pho Bo Lam stands as a testament to authentic Hanoi-style pho that locals have cherished for generations. What distinguishes this establishment is their commitment to the traditional slow-simmered broth, a rich, clear liquid that requires at least 8 hours of careful preparation. The soup base here achieves a perfect balance between subtle sweetness and savory depth without relying on MSG or artificial flavor enhancers. Their noodles maintain the ideal texture while the beef cuts are notably fresh and sliced paper-thin, cooking perfectly when the hot broth is poured over them.

Unlike some more commercialized pho establishments, Pho Bo Lam embraces a no-frills approach that focuses entirely on quality. The venue fills quickly with locals each morning, creating a genuine atmosphere that's increasingly rare in Hanoi's evolving culinary landscape. Their commitment to consistency means you'll find the same exceptional quality whether you visit during peak hours or just before closing. Remarkably, they've maintained their traditional recipe for over three decades, resisting the temptation to modernize or adjust flavors to cater to changing preferences.

• Address: 48 Hang Vai Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 5:30 AM - 10:00 AM
• Price range: 40,000 - 65,000 VND | $1.53 - 2.49

This establishment particularly excels in their meat preparation technique. The beef is sourced daily from trusted local suppliers and prepared through a meticulous process that includes partial freezing before slicing to achieve the perfect thinness.

Pho Bo Lam stands as a testament to authentic Hanoi-style pho that locals have cherished for generations

7. Pho Bo Goc Gao: Flavorful broth, tender beef

Pho Bo Goc Gao stands as a testament to Hanoi's authentic pho tradition with its remarkably flavorful broth and exceptionally tender beef. What distinguishes this establishment is its commitment to the slow-cooking method. Beef bones simmer for over 12 hours with a careful selection of spices including star anise, cinnamon, and cardamom. The result is a clear yet deeply aromatic broth that carries the essence of traditional Hanoi pho, subtle yet complex, with layers of flavor that unfold with each spoonful.

The beef at Pho Bo Goc Gao deserves special mention. Unlike many commercial establishments, they source their meat from local farms and prepare it using traditional techniques. The rare beef (tai) is sliced paper-thin, cooking gently when the hot broth is poured over it, while the brisket (nam) and flank (gau) offer melt-in-your-mouth tenderness from hours of slow cooking. The noodles maintain the perfect consistency, soft yet retaining a slight chewiness that's characteristic of authentic Hanoi pho.

• Address: 158 Ngoc Ha Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 1:00 PM
• Price range: 40,000 - 50,000 VND | $1.53 - 1.91

Despite its modest appearance with simple metal tables and plastic stools, locals queue early each morning for their fragrant bowls of pho. The restaurant's proximity to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex makes it an ideal breakfast stop before exploring nearby attractions. The owner, Mr. Tuan, often personally oversees the broth preparation and can occasionally be persuaded to share stories about the evolution of pho in Hanoi throughout the decades.

Pho Bo Goc Gao stands as a testament to Hanoi's authentic pho tradition with its remarkably flavorful broth and exceptionally tender beef

8. Pho Bo Phu Xuan: Trusted spot for rich beef pho

Pho Bo Phu Xuan stands as one of Hanoi's most respected establishments for authentic beef pho, distinguished by its remarkably rich and aromatic broth. What sets this venue apart is the deep, complex flavor profile achieved through an extended simmering process that can last up to 12 hours. Local connoisseurs particularly praise the perfect balance of spices, where star anise, cinnamon, and cardamom blend harmoniously without overpowering the natural sweetness extracted from beef bones. The restaurant maintains strict adherence to traditional preparation methods, rejecting flavor enhancers in favor of time-honored techniques that have earned them a loyal following.

• Address: 36 Hang Da Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 12:30 PM
• Price range: 35,000 - 60,000 VND | $1.34 - 2.30

The venue itself embodies the authentic Hanoi pho experience with its humble, no-frills setting. Arriving early is strongly recommended as they frequently sell out before their official closing time, particularly on weekends when locals queue patiently for their morning pho ritual. Unlike more touristic establishments, Phu Xuan preserves the authentic serving style with minimal accompaniments, allowing the quality of their carefully crafted broth and premium beef to take center stage. Their commitment to consistency has earned them respect among pho purists who consider this establishment a benchmark for traditional Hanoi beef pho.

Pho Bo Phu Xuan stands as one of Hanoi's most respected establishments for authentic beef pho, distinguished by its remarkably rich and aromatic broth

9. Khoi Hoi: Hearty bowls of pho at a fair price

Khoi Hoi has earned a reputation among both locals and travelers for serving some of Hanoi's most generous portions of authentic pho at reasonable prices. What sets this establishment apart is their commitment to balancing quality ingredients with affordability. Their broth is particularly noteworthy, simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, and cinnamon, creating a clear yet deeply flavorful foundation that lets the natural sweetness of the ingredients shine through.

Unlike many tourist-oriented establishments, Khoi Hoi maintains a distinctly local atmosphere with its functional decor and brisk, efficient service. The restaurant specializes in both chicken (pho ga) and beef pho (pho bo), with the latter available in various cuts including tender brisket, rare flank, and rich bone marrow. Each bowl comes generously topped with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges, allowing diners to customize the flavor to their preference. The noodles themselves deserve special mention, hand-made daily, they have the perfect chewy texture that holds up well in the hot broth.

• Address: 50 Hang Vai Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Price range: 40,000 - 100,000 VND | $1.53 - 3.83

Regular customers recommend adding a dash of their house-made chili sauce, a balanced blend that adds heat without overwhelming the subtle flavors of the broth. While the restaurant may not have the fame of some century-old establishments, its consistent quality and fair pricing have made it a reliable favorite among Hanoi residents. And on your journey to explore Hanoi’s cuisine, don’t forget that alongside pho, bun rieu is also a renowned noodle soup you shouldn’t miss.

Khoi Hoi has earned a reputation among both locals and travelers for serving some of Hanoi's most generous portions of authentic pho at reasonable prices

Read more: Top 10 Best Bun Rieu in Hanoi Recommended by Locals

10. Pho Bo Ly Beo: Authentic broth, bold flavors

Tucked away on Hang Non Street in Hanoi's bustling Hoan Kiem district, Pho Bo Ly Beo stands as a testament to the city's authentic pho tradition. What sets this modest eatery apart is its distinctive broth, a masterful balance of rich, savory flavors achieved through simmering beef bones for at least 8 hours with a secret blend of aromatic spices. Pho Bo Ly Beo maintains the traditional clear broth that captures the essence of authentic Hanoi pho, allowing the natural beef flavors to shine through without overwhelming the palate. The family-run establishment has preserved their recipe for generations, refusing to compromise on quality or authenticity.

The evening-only hours make this spot particularly special, as it caters primarily to locals finishing their workday and savvy travelers seeking genuine late-night dining experiences. The tender beef slices are cut slightly thicker than at other establishments, absorbing the aromatic broth while maintaining their texture. Fresh rice noodles, made daily, complete the perfect bowl that demonstrates why Hanoi's pho tradition remains unparalleled.

• Address: No. 04 Hang Non Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
• Price range: 50,000 VND | $1.91

Pho Bo Ly Beo stands as a testament to the city's authentic pho tradition

11. Pho Ngoc Vuong: Sweet broth, soft beef cuts

Pho Ngoc Vuong stands apart from other pho establishments in Hanoi with its distinctively sweet broth and exceptionally tender beef cuts. Unlike the more robust and spicy profiles found elsewhere in the city, this restaurant specializes in a gentler, sweeter flavor that highlights the natural essence of beef bones simmered for hours. The broth achieves its signature sweetness without artificial enhancers. Instead, it relies on a careful balance of charred ginger, caramelized onions, and premium marrow bones that release their flavor during the 12-hour cooking process.

What truly distinguishes Pho Ngoc Vuong is their meticulous attention to beef preparation. The restaurant offers various textures of beef, from paper-thin slices that cook instantly in the hot broth to thicker, pre-cooked portions that maintain their tenderness. Each bowl comes garnished with fresh herbs that complement rather than overpower the delicate sweetness of the soup base.

• Address: 106 Huynh Thuc Khang, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 5:30 AM - 11:00 PM
• Price range: 45,000 - 80,000 VND | $1.72 - 3.06

Pho Ngoc Vuong stands apart from other pho establishments in Hanoi with its distinctively sweet broth and exceptionally tender beef cuts

12. Pho Manh Cuong: Classic pho at 23 Hang Muoi

Tucked away on Hang Muoi Street, Pho Manh Cuong exemplifies the distinctive qualities that make Hanoi's pho extraordinary. Unlike southern variations, this establishment serves pho with a clear, delicate broth that's less sweet and more savory, allowing the natural flavors of beef bones and aromatic spices to shine through. The noodles are perfectly tender yet maintain their integrity throughout the meal, while the beef is sliced paper-thin and cooked just right when the hot broth is poured over. Following true Hanoi tradition, Pho Manh Cuong serves their bowls with minimal garnishes, letting diners customize to taste.

The shop's unassuming facade belies the culinary treasure within. A family-run establishment passed down through generations, Pho Manh Cuong has maintained its authentic recipe despite the changing food landscape around it. The broth simmers for hours before dawn each day, creating a rich, aromatic base that locals recognize as the genuine article. Regulars particularly appreciate the balanced flavor profile, not too heavy on star anise or cinnamon, but perfectly harmonized with the subtle notes of charred ginger and onion that define traditional Hanoi pho.

What makes this spot particularly special is the consistency. The owners take pride in maintaining portion sizes and ingredient quality regardless of fluctuating market prices, something increasingly rare in tourist-heavy areas. For visitors seeking to understand the true essence of Hanoi's pho tradition, Pho Manh Cuong offers an authentic experience that bridges the gap between everyday local dining and culinary tourism.

• Address: 23 Hang Muoi Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: All day
• Price range: 50,000 - 80,000 VND | $1.91 - 3.06

Pho Manh Cuong exemplifies the distinctive qualities that make Hanoi's pho extraordinary

13. Pho Stall Hang Chieu Ms. Thoa: Rustic, early morning pho

For the true Hanoi pho experience, there's something magical about enjoying a steaming bowl before dawn breaks. Pho Stall Hang Chieu embodies the authentic street food culture that has defined Hanoi's culinary landscape for generations. This humble sidewalk stall lacks the refinement of established restaurants but delivers an intensely aromatic broth that carries the genuine soul of traditional pho. The setup is quintessentially Hanoi: low plastic stools, small tables, and a no-frills atmosphere where the focus remains entirely on the soup's quality and flavor.

What makes Pho Hang Chieu special is its very early opening time, serving hot bowls of pho to market vendors, locals, and early risers starting their day. It captures the essence of breakfast in Hanoi - simple, flavorful, and deeply rooted in local daily life. The broth here simmers for hours, developing a depth of flavor that's both complex and comforting. Unlike more commercial establishments, this stall maintains traditional cooking methods, using charcoal fires that impart a subtle smokiness to the broth. The meat portions are generous, featuring tender beef slices that practically melt in your mouth.

• Address: 7 Cho Gao, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 3:30 AM - 10:00 AM
• Price range: 50,000 - 60,000 VND | $1.91 - 2.30

Pho Stall Hang Chieu embodies the authentic street food culture that has defined Hanoi's culinary landscape for generations

14. Pho xao Ba Thanh Beo: Stir-fried pho with a rich aroma

Unlike the traditional soup-based pho that dominates Hanoi's culinary landscape, Pho xao Ba Thanh Beo offers an exciting alternative that locals adore. This stir-fried version transforms the familiar rice noodles into a savory, aromatic dish. It is where wide rice noodles are wok-fried with beef and vegetables until they develop a slightly charred, smoky essence. What sets Ba Thanh Beo's stir-fried pho apart is the perfect balance of textures. The noodles remain slightly chewy while absorbing the rich flavors of the seasoning and meat juices. The establishment has mastered the high-heat wok technique that imparts that distinctive "wok hei" (breath of the wok) aroma that Vietnamese food enthusiasts seek out.

• Address: 11 Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 5:30 PM - 4:00 AM
• Price range: 50,000 - 110,000 VND | $1.91 - 4.21

What sets Ba Thanh Beo's stir-fried pho apart is the perfect balance of textures

Nothing quite compares to the experience of savoring authentic pho in Hanoi. This city's vibrant energy and culinary depth transform every bowl into more than just a meal. It’s a gateway to Vietnamese culture and tradition. By exploring these top spots, you’ve positioned yourself for an unforgettable journey laden with rich broths and fresh herbs that dance between subtlety and boldness. Understanding the essence of Hanoi through its pho allows travelers not just to taste, but to feel the warmth and hospitality intrinsic to Vietnamese life. You can book Hanoi tours of GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency to try pho, which is the signature dish of Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general.