Nothing beats the feeling of dipping your spoon into a steaming bowl of pho. The fragrant broth, silky noodles, and delicate slices of beef seem to chase the chill from Lancaster’s brick-paved streets. After a dozen bowls and enough slurping to turn my search into an art, I’ve come to know where the true gems are hiding in this city. Lancaster, PA, may be best known for Amish markets and rolling farmland, but if you know where to look, you’ll find Vietnamese spots serving pho that can hold their own anywhere.
Each restaurant on this list brings its own twist—some brew their broth for hours until it’s deep and mellow, others pack their tables with fresh herbs and house-made sauces. Whether you love your pho purist and clean, or piled high with extras, Lancaster’s best bowls deliver comfort and satisfaction. So, if you’re hungry for the most savory, slurpable pho in town, you’re in the right place. Grab your chopsticks. The warmest, brightest broths in Lancaster are only a few blocks away.
Where to find the best pho in Lancaster, PA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Lancaster, PA:
- Rice & Noodles Restaurant
- Sprout Vietnamese Eatery
- Saigon Cafe
- Noodle King
- Issei + Hi-fi Izakaya
- Pho Pasteur 3
- Issei Noodle & Take-Out
- Cafe East
- Pho Ngoc
- Pho Miss Saigon
1. Rice & Noodles Restaurant
Rice & Noodles Restaurant sits in the heart of Lancaster Shopping Center and always seems to have a comforting buzz. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by bright aromas of broth and herbs. The vibe is relaxed, perfect for laid-back lunches or unrushed dinners.
What sets Rice & Noodles apart is their commitment to fresh ingredients and a menu that caters to everyone. Vegetarian and gluten-free options mean no one is left out, and there’s a dish for every taste.
If you’re here for pho, the Pho Bo (beef pho) is a must. The broth has depth and clarity, with tender beef and noodles that never turn mushy. Try adding fresh basil and lime for extra punch—classic, pure, and utterly satisfying.
2. Sprout Vietnamese Eatery
Sprout Vietnamese Eatery slips seamlessly into Lancaster’s downtown scene with a small but lively dining room. The first time I visited, it was impossible not to notice how fresh the menu feels—every bowl just sings with color and aroma. Sprout is a favorite for those looking for quick comfort food that doesn’t sacrifice quality.
It’s especially friendly for plant-based eaters, with vegetarian and vegan pho options that actually taste rich and satisfying. Their service is brisk without being rushed, so lunch here never feels like a chore.
If you’re trying to decide, order the veggie pho. The broth is clear but packs plenty of flavor, and tastes even better with a handful of bean sprouts and herbs piled on top. Sprout shows how robust Vietnamese flavors can be, even in the simplest dishes.
3. Saigon Cafe
Saigon Cafe gets it right with cozy booths and a friendly team who remember regulars by name. Every visit starts with the gentle aroma of simmering broth and a spread of fresh herbs on the table. Lunchtime or dinner—this is the kind of spot where you can truly settle in.
The menu covers classic Vietnamese comfort food but the pho options really shine. Both beef and chicken pho offer a gentle, rich broth and generous meat portions, making it easy to find your favorite bowl here. Vegetarians and gluten-free guests can order without hesitation; everything is clearly marked and the kitchen is happy to adjust.
Don’t miss their Pho Ga (chicken pho)—the broth feels restorative, with a pinpoint balance of spice and freshness that coaxes out every subtle flavor. It’s classic, done well.
4. Noodle King
Noodle King feels like Lancaster’s best-kept secret for serious pho fans. Step inside and you find a no-frills dining room, but the focus here is all on the food. They take pride in tradition, making it a destination for anyone craving authenticity rather than flash.
The claim to fame is their Pho Bac—the northern Vietnamese original. The broth is crystal clear, deeply savory, and laid back in spice, which spotlights the quality of the beef and classic rice noodles. It’s the kind of bowl you want when you want nothing hidden.
If you appreciate simplicity done right, choose the Pho Bac. Vegetarian and vegan options keep everyone included, but it’s the slow-simmered broths and attention to tradition that set Noodle King apart.
5. Issei + Hi-fi Izakaya
Issei + Hi-fi Izakaya is part ramen house, part late-night listening bar, and all-around memorable. The first time I ducked into the vinyl-filled back room, it hit me—this isn’t your standard noodle spot. The energy is fresh, with playlists as carefully curated as the menu itself.
Issei’s focus leans Japanese, but their pho-inspired noodle bowls blend Southeast Asian flavors with Japanese flair. Expect broths with real depth and toppings that stray from tradition without losing soul. Vegetarian and vegan eaters find lively, creative options here, too.
Try their pho-style beef noodle bowl. It’s a nod to Vietnamese roots, with beef, rice noodles, and a broth that packs subtle umami. The setting and the bowl—both are distinct, layered, and hard to forget.
6. Pho Pasteur 3
(717) 517-7360Call
Pho Pasteur 3 is an unassuming spot on Columbia Avenue that serves up big flavors at a small price. It has that neighborhood feel—quiet, a little tucked away, and always welcoming. The first time I stopped in, it was the clear, aromatic broth that kept me coming back for more.
Here, pho is made with care. The portions are generous, and the herbs and veggies are crisp and fresh. It’s no-frills but never skimps on quality, which is what makes it a steady favorite among those in the know.
The special beef pho is the dish to order. The broth sings with subtle spices, and each bowl is layered with thinly sliced beef and plenty of rice noodles. If you want a classic bowl in a relaxed setting, Pho Pasteur 3 gets it right.
7. Issei Noodle & Take-Out
Issei Noodle & Take-Out, right at the crossroads of Lancaster’s downtown, is one of those places where menu variety meets speedy service without cutting corners. It’s a lifesaver when you’re on the go but need something more satisfying than fast food. Every visit has an energy—a mix of regulars and newcomers scoping out favorite bowls.
Issei is known for its bold broths and balance of Vietnamese and Japanese influences. Vegetarian and health-conscious diners always have standout options here, making it easy to bring a group along.
Try the beef pho for comfort, or branch out with the tofu version. Both deliver on warmth, depth of flavor, and that signature herb garnish. For takeout that actually feels fresh, Issei Noodle is tough to top.
8. Cafe East
(717) 892-3858Call
Cafe East, tucked away in Centerville Square, has quietly built a loyal following thanks to its generous portions and unpretentious atmosphere. The staff welcome you in like an old friend, and there’s always room for a group or a solo bowl after a long day.
With a menu spanning several Asian cuisines, it’s their Vietnamese pho that keeps people coming back. Here, the broth is soothing, gently spiced, and rings with that home-cooked taste that feels both familiar and new.
Order the Pho Tai (rare beef pho) for a rewarding experience. The beef is sliced thin, the noodles springy, and each bowl arrives at the table generously portioned. Cafe East blends flavor and friendliness in every bowl.
9. Pho Ngoc
Pho Ngoc may sit just outside Lancaster, but it’s worth the drive for true pho fans. The vibe here is inviting—family-owned warmth paired with a kitchen that pays attention to every detail. My first visit began with the promise of a rich, satisfying meal and ended with an empty bowl and a new favorite spot.
The bowls are big and brimming with flavor. Each pho order arrives piping hot, with a lovely balance of savory broth, fresh herbs, and silky rice noodles. The chef clearly knows how to coax out deep, vibrant flavors.
Try their classic beef pho if you want the full experience. It’s hearty, aromatic, and loaded with freshness. If you crave genuine Vietnamese comfort, Pho Ngoc delivers in every spoonful.
10. Pho Miss Saigon
Pho Miss Saigon brings a touch of Vietnamese tradition to Hershey, just a short drive from Lancaster. The décor is inviting, but it’s the food that wins you over every time. Every visit reminds me why people don’t mind the quick drive—the aroma alone sets expectations high.
This spot serves classic pho that highlights freshness and well-balanced flavors. The broth is clear but never plain, loaded with subtle spice and a comforting warmth. Service is friendly and unfussy, making it a great place for first-timers and regulars alike.
Order the Pho Tai for a genuine taste of Vietnamese comfort. The rare beef is perfectly sliced and cooks just right in the piping broth. Pho Miss Saigon offers honest, flavorful bowls with a personal touch.
More Things to Try in Lancaster, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the pho in Lancaster unique?
Lancaster’s pho shops blend authentic Vietnamese recipes with local hospitality. Many spots offer traditional broths, house-made noodles, and crisp, fresh herbs, making each bowl feel both classic and a little homegrown.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Lancaster?
Absolutely. Several places—including Rice & Noodles, Sprout Vietnamese Eatery, and Noodle King—offer rich vegetarian broths and plant-based toppings that don’t sacrifice depth of flavor.
Which Lancaster restaurant is best for a first-timer?
Rice & Noodles Restaurant is a great starting point for newcomers. You’ll find clear, comforting broths, helpful staff, and options for every dietary preference.
Is pho available for takeout in Lancaster?
Yes, most pho restaurants in the area—including Issei Noodle & Take-Out, Cafe East, and Saigon Cafe—make it easy to order pho to go. Portions travel well and you’ll usually get all the garnishes on the side.
When is the best time to enjoy pho in Lancaster?
Pho is great any time, but locals especially love it for lunch or dinner—rainy afternoons and chilly evenings turn a bowl of pho into pure comfort.