Pho in Lebanon, PA isn’t just a meal. For some, it’s that bowl of comfort after a long workday. For others, it’s an unexpected introduction to bright herbs, warming broth, and silky noodles. I remember wandering into a tucked-away spot on Walnut Street, steam fogging up my glasses, and finding pure relaxation in a bowl of pho loaded with fresh basil and crisp bean sprouts. That first slurp tasted like a small, aromatic adventure.
Choosing where to go for pho can feel like flipping through a treasure map. Not every place serves the same style, and the magic is in the details. Whether you’re craving layers of slow-cooked broth, rare sliced beef, or want a veggie-packed bowl, this guide decodes Lebanon’s top contenders. Ready to uncover the city’s best pho? Let’s dive straight to the places locals actually go for this satisfying dish.
Where to find the best pho in Lebanon, PA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Lebanon, PA:
- Pho Miss Saigon
- Garden Vietnamese Restaurant
- Pho Cali
- Rice & Noodles
- Saigon Cafe
- Pho #1 Vietnamese Cuisine
- Noodle King
- Pho 3 Mien
- Pho La Vie
- Pho Kim’s
1. Pho Miss Saigon
Pho Miss Saigon brings a slice of Vietnam to Hershey, just a quick drive from Lebanon, PA. This spot feels cozy and comfortable enough for a solo lunch or dinner with close friends. Parking is free and easy, which always makes the experience smoother.
What sets Pho Miss Saigon apart is its deep, aromatic broth. The pho is gently layered with fresh herbs, tender noodles, and ultra-thin slices of beef or chicken. My favorite moment was watching steam curl up from a piping hot bowl, the fragrance hinting at hours of careful simmering in the kitchen.
Try the classic beef pho with extra basil and lime. It’s a great way to taste the kitchen’s care in every spoonful. Vegetarians can ask for the veggie pho, which is just as satisfying and bright with fresh toppings.
2. Garden Vietnamese Restaurant
Garden Vietnamese Restaurant in Harrisburg is worth the short drive from Lebanon, PA. It offers a true family-style atmosphere—think friendly faces and quick service. The space is simple but clean, the kind of place where regulars nod at each other across tables.
The menu leans traditional with a home-cooked feel. Everything here has a comforting, homemade touch, especially the broth. I once stopped in on a rainy day and felt right at home with a big bowl of beef pho, the broth mellow yet rich.
If you’re new, start with their signature pho tai. The paper-thin slices of steak blend into the hot, fragrant soup. For something lighter, the chicken pho packs plenty of flavor without feeling heavy.
3. Pho Cali
(717) 221-1290Call
Pho Cali sits quietly on South 13th Street but draws loyal fans from across the area, including Lebanon. With free parking and a wheelchair-accessible setup, it makes dining out simple for everyone. The space has a welcoming, no-fuss vibe that suits solo eaters or families.
What makes Pho Cali stand out is its sparkling clear broth, a sign of slow, attentive cooking. Every bowl is customized at your table with lime, fresh cilantro, and crunchy bean sprouts. I remember the first time I tried their pho—they don’t rush perfection, and you can taste it in every bite.
The top pick: their pho with brisket and flank. It’s rich without being heavy, and the noodles have just the right bite. Vegetarian pho is also available, layered with seasonal vegetables for brightness and depth.
4. Rice & Noodles
Rice & Noodles in Lancaster makes pho easy for every palate, including vegan and vegetarian eaters. The casual atmosphere and ample parking make stopping in from Lebanon absolutely hassle-free. The menu’s range is broad, yet everything feels genuinely curated.
What sets Rice & Noodles apart is their attention to fresh ingredients and the care shown in their delicate, balanced broth. It’s the kind of place where you taste the difference in every spoonful, and the flavors linger just right. On my last visit, the staff was more than happy to explain their vegan pho option, which was a bright, aromatic surprise.
Try the classic pho tai if you eat beef, or go for the vegan pho packed with tofu and seasonal vegetables. Both serve as excellent examples of how Rice & Noodles delivers variety and quality in equal measure.
5. Saigon Cafe
Saigon Cafe in Lancaster has been a go-to for authentic Vietnamese fare since 2004, offering a laid-back dining experience that feels genuinely welcoming. It’s family-owned, which carries through in the warm service and personal touch to each dish. Stopping here from Lebanon is always worth the trip, especially if you appreciate fresh, quality ingredients.
The menu’s large selection stands out, yet the pho is the star. Each bowl comes steaming hot, brimming with perfectly cooked noodles, fragrant herbs, and gently simmered broth. On my last visit, staff easily accommodated gluten-free requests and even explained their approach to each pho variation.
Order the beef pho for a taste of their signature style: rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying. The vegetarian version is just as comforting, filled with fresh vegetables and a well-balanced, savory broth.
6. Pho #1 Vietnamese Cuisine
Pho #1 Vietnamese Cuisine on Allentown Blvd is one of those spots you remember long after your visit. The space is bright and tidy, making it a good pick for a quick solo lunch or a relaxed dinner after work. It consistently draws guests from all over, Lebanon included, for its reliably flavorful bowls.
What really sets Pho #1 apart is the depth of their broth—it’s layered, gentle, and clearly simmered with patience. When I stopped in recently, the service felt smooth and the food arrived piping hot, just as any proper pho should. There’s care in the small things, like the crispness of bean sprouts and the aroma of fresh Thai basil.
The crowd favorite here is the pho dac biet (house special combo pho). It brings together a variety of cuts for rich flavor and texture, making every spoonful a discovery. Their vegetarian option is also packed with flavor and worthy of a repeat visit.
7. Noodle King
(717) 299-2799Call
Noodle King in Lancaster brings tradition front and center. If you’re seeking pho prepared in the old-school, Northern Vietnamese style, this spot is your answer. The space feels inviting, with quick seating and a steady stream of regulars who clearly know the value of good noodles.
What sets Noodle King apart is their signature Pho Bac. This style of pho celebrates simplicity: clear broth, tender brisket, and fresh green onions, without overpowering extras. My visit left me savoring a bowl that was both delicate and deeply satisfying, much like you’d expect in Hanoi.
Order the Pho Bac for a true taste of tradition. If you prefer something vegetarian, they do a vibrant veg version, but traditionalists will love the authentic broth and balanced flavors here.
8. Pho 3 Mien
Pho 3 Mien in Lemoyne is a spot where authenticity meets comfort. The emphasis on fresh, homemade cooking is evident from the moment you step inside. Friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere always make each visit pleasantly unhurried, which is perfect when you’re after a satisfying meal near Lebanon.
What puts Pho 3 Mien on the map is the balance in their pho—clean, fragrant broth paired with generous proteins and piles of bright, crisp vegetables. I remember how their classic beef pho transformed a quick lunch into a full sensory pause, from the steam rising off the bowl to the carefully sliced onions and herbs.
It’s hard to go wrong with their traditional pho tai, which stays light and aromatic yet still hearty. For something different, their vegetarian pho gets high marks for depth and freshness in every spoonful.
9. Pho La Vie
Pho La Vie, tucked along Allentown Blvd, has an inviting atmosphere that makes the short drive from Lebanon feel worthwhile. There’s a calm energy inside, with attentive service and a focus on delivering consistent quality. Even during busy hours, staff take time to answer questions and make newcomers feel welcome.
The real standout here is their rich, well-balanced pho broth. Each bowl brims with flavor, but it’s never overwhelming. My first visit gave me exactly what I’d hoped for—clean flavors, noodles with just the right chew, and plenty of crisp bean sprouts to pile on top.
If you’re a purist, try the traditional beef pho. For vegetarians, their pho chay arrives vibrant and hearty, layered with tofu and seasonal vegetables, showcasing how Pho La Vie caters to many preferences without sacrificing flavor.
10. Pho Kim’s
Pho Kim’s on Derry Street is a local favorite that keeps it straightforward and satisfying. There’s no pretense here—just hearty bowls of pho, quick service, and prices that make repeat visits easy. The crowd ranges from busy students to families, all drawn by the reliable flavors.
What makes Pho Kim’s memorable is their deeply savory broth, layered with spices that linger nicely without overpowering. It’s the kind of pho that delivers comfort and warmth in every bite. On my last visit, the staff offered helpful tips on customizing the bowl with extra herbs and lime, which brought the flavors alive.
The go-to here is the rare beef pho, thinly sliced and cooked just right in the hot broth. For those looking for a meatless option, the vegetarian pho is bright and comforting, never an afterthought.
More Things to Try in Lebanon, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best pho near Lebanon, PA?
Several Vietnamese restaurants near Lebanon, PA serve excellent pho. Top picks include Pho Miss Saigon, Garden Vietnamese Restaurant, Pho Cali, and Rice & Noodles. Each offers a unique take on classic broth, noodles, and fresh herbs.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Lebanon, PA?
Yes, many spots like Rice & Noodles, Saigon Cafe, and Pho Kim’s offer hearty, flavorful vegetarian or vegan pho, made with fragrant vegetable broth and a mix of tofu and fresh vegetables.
Do I need to make a reservation for these pho restaurants?
Most pho spots in and around Lebanon accept walk-ins and are quite casual. Reservations are rarely needed, though calling ahead for larger groups is helpful, especially on weekends.
Is pho usually spicy?
Pho broth itself is not spicy. However, it’s typically served with sides like chili sauce, fresh jalapenos, and sriracha so you can easily customize the heat to your liking.
What is the most popular type of pho to order?
The classic beef pho (pho tai or pho dac biet) is a favorite. Many also enjoy chicken pho or vegetarian options, all of which highlight flavorful broth and fresh herbs.
Are these restaurants family friendly?
Yes, most pho restaurants near Lebanon offer family-style seating and menus that appeal to both adults and kids. They are relaxed, affordable, and great for all ages.