There’s something magnetic about the aroma of authentic pho simmering in Brooklyn. Maybe it’s the steam curling up from a bowl on a cold night, or the gentle clatter of chopsticks echoing across the table. After months of exploring the borough’s most talked-about spots and nursing more noodles than I care to admit, I’ve figured out where the real gems hide. These aren’t just pretty bowls for Instagram. They’re the kind of meals that make you lean back, sigh, and wonder where you’ve been all your life.
Finding the best pho in Brooklyn isn’t about following the crowd or relying on high ratings alone. It’s about walking into a place where broth simmers behind the counter, the basil is crisp, and the noodles have bite. This guide is born from many evenings chasing that unmistakable combination of savory broth and bright herbs. Whether you’re after something traditional or a clever twist on the classic, you’re about to unlock a list that guarantees you won’t waste a meal.
Where to find the best pho in Brooklyn, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Brooklyn, NY:
- Em Vietnamese Bistro
- 5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi
- Bricolage
- Falansai
- Hanco’s
- Hanoi Vietnamese Kitchen
- Little Mo
- Mama Pho
- Pho Vietnam
- Pho Hoai
1. Em Vietnamese Bistro
Tucked away in DUMBO, Em Vietnamese Bistro feels like a hidden comfort spot with real polish. Chef Ly Nguyen puts genuine care into each bowl, drawing from her time in Saigon and roots in Central Vietnam. The result? You get classic flavors that feel fresh and artful.
My first time here, the scent of simmering broth carried right to my table. The pho at Em is rich without being heavy, with herbs so lively you might start rearranging your schedule to come back. The kitchen’s attention to detail shines with every ladle.
If the Pho Bo is on the menu, it’s a must-order—deep beef flavor, noodles with the right chew, and bright garnishes. If you’re after a lighter take, the vegetarian pho has honest depth and soul.
2. 5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi
5ive Spice Tacos & Banh Mi injects a playful twist into Vietnamese classics and sits comfortably in the heart of Park Slope. The vibe feels relaxed and bright, perfect for a last-minute meal with friends or a solo lunch escape. Every visit here is an invitation to explore combinations you might not find elsewhere in Brooklyn.
It’s no secret that the Chicken Pho here is warming and crisp, with a clear broth that soothes and uplifts. The noodles hold up well and the herbs are as fresh as they come. I’ve made a habit of adding extra lime, which highlights the broth’s depth even more.
This spot also specializes in creative add-ons. Try a side of their avocado spring rolls with your bowl—the contrast makes for a memorable meal.
3. Bricolage
At Bricolage, Vietnamese and French influences meet in a sunlit Park Slope space filled with quirky art. It’s the kind of place where every meal stretches out in good company, whether you’re inside the cozy dining room or out in the garden. The menu manages to surprise even familiar palettes.
I once dropped in during a rainy afternoon and found comfort in their oxtail pho. The broth is clear but deeply layered—a quiet nod to slow, careful cooking. Noodles are delicate yet substantial, making each spoonful feel crafted just for you.
Bricolage’s style shows in the small touches: crisp herbs, tender cuts of meat, and a splash of lime. Don’t skip the house pickles or a pot of jasmine tea with your meal.
4. Falansai
In Bushwick, Falansai feels like the city’s quiet secret. Chef Eric Tran reimagines Vietnamese staples with a Mexican touch, serving flavors that bend tradition in all the right ways. The inside glows with eclectic charm, from vinyl records on crisp white walls to friendly, curious energy at every table.
The pho here tells a story. On my first visit, their vegan pho stole the spotlight—packed with umami, rich mushroom broth, and crisp greens that balance every sip. It’s not just comforting, it’s clever, and reflects how Falansai remixes classic dishes.
If you crave something different in Brooklyn’s pho scene, this spot rewards open minds and adventurous taste buds. Pair your bowl with sesame rice crackers or a sparkling jasmine tea for the full experience.
5. Hanco’s
There’s an effortless charm to Hanco’s. With its bright storefront on Montague Street, this spot is a go-to when you want satisfying pho without dressing up or waiting in line. The space is casual, but what arrives at your table is anything but basic.
You can taste the focus on fresh ingredients in their Pho Tai. It’s served steaming hot, with a broth that’s aromatic and clean, and slices of beef cooked just right. On chilly evenings, this bowl becomes a ritual for many in the area, myself included.
The veggie pho delivers just as much comfort. Toss in extra basil and a splash of lime, and you’ll find yourself savoring every spoonful. Quick service seals the deal for repeat visits.
6. Hanoi Vietnamese Kitchen
Hanoi Vietnamese Kitchen sits on a quiet Park Slope street, focusing on classics delivered with thought and care. It’s the kind of spot where regulars linger and new diners are quickly converted. The dining room buzzes at lunch and hums at dinner, all for good reason.
The Hanoi-style pho stands out for its clarity and delicate balance. Each spoonful layers tender beef, vibrant herbs, and a broth that whispers of slow simmering. My first bowl here felt honest—no shortcuts, just pure comfort done right.
The menu caters to vegetarians as well, with a plant-based pho that impresses on flavor alone. In a borough crowded with options, Hanoi Vietnamese Kitchen sets itself apart with tradition and care for every detail.
7. Little Mo
Little Mo brings a playful, neighborhood feel to Vietnamese dining in Bushwick. The space is unfussy and friendly, yet what really grabs you is the aroma from their open kitchen. Every first bite here feels like a discovery—even when Pho is the main event.
The Mo Pho is their signature bowl and comfortably walks the line between traditional and inventive. The broth is fragrant, beefy, and a little smokier than most, giving each spoonful a unique twist. The toppings—fresh herbs, crisp bean sprouts, and a generous squeeze of lime—pull it all together.
I keep coming back for the tofu pho as well. It’s full-bodied and layered, delivering comfort no matter your mood. For a casual pho outing, Little Mo always feels just right.
8. Mama Pho
Mama Pho is a cozy Williamsburg staple where regulars trade knowing nods over steaming bowls. There’s a calming energy here, fueled by swift service and that familiar scent of simmered spices. On colder days, I drift in for something warm and end up lingering longer than planned.
The Pho Tai is a highlight—delicate beef, a rich and balanced broth, and rice noodles with a perfect bite. It’s the kind of pho that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Their vegetarian pho offers surprising depth, proving that comfort needn’t rely on meat.
Drop by for lunch and you’ll likely spot families and solo diners alike, all pulled in by classic flavors that always deliver.
9. Pho Vietnam
Pho Vietnam on Avenue U is one of those rare finds where the atmosphere feels blissfully unchanged by trends. The room’s energy is always lively, and there’s a quiet confidence in the way staff move between tables. My first visit here was with a friend who refused to call anywhere else their “pho spot”—one spoonful and I understood the loyalty.
The Pho Dac Biet is the main event. This special bowl is plentiful with beef cuts, bright scallions, and an aromatic broth that lands somewhere between light and deeply savory. The flavors mingle without ever overpowering each other, striking a clear, satisfying balance.
Whether you’re a pho purist or just seeking comfort, Pho Vietnam’s bowls come packed with freshness and that unmistakable home-cooked feel.
10. Pho Hoai
Pho Hoai sits just off Avenue U and draws a steady stream of devoted regulars. The interior is no-frills, but the flavors in each steaming bowl do all the talking. I first stopped in on a whim and quickly realized why so many keep coming back.
Their Pho Tai Nam delivers with deep, fragrant broth and perfectly tender slices of brisket. Each bowl is generous, topped with plenty of crisp herbs and toothsome noodles. That honest, straightforward approach is exactly what sets this spot apart in Brooklyn’s crowded pho scene.
Service is brisk and the food always arrives hot, making it easy to pop in for a quick, comforting meal at any time. Don’t forget a dash of chili for an added kick.
More Things to Try in Brooklyn, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in Brooklyn different from other places?
Brooklyn’s pho scene is shaped by diversity. Chefs here blend Vietnamese technique with local flair, fresh ingredients, and inventive touches. Whether you crave classic Hanoi-style or creative reinterpretations, the variety keeps things interesting.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Brooklyn?
Absolutely. Many Brooklyn spots offer hearty vegetarian and vegan pho, using rich mushroom or vegetable broths and plenty of fresh herbs. You’ll find options at places like Em Vietnamese Bistro, Falansai, and Little Mo, among others.
Can I get pho delivered in Brooklyn?
Most pho restaurants in Brooklyn provide takeout and delivery. Spots such as Hanco’s, Mama Pho, and Little Mo make it easy to enjoy a warm bowl at home.
How do I pick the right pho place for me?
Consider what you value most: traditional recipes, creative flavors, vegetarian options, or convenience. The guide above breaks down the best pho in Brooklyn by style and specialty to help you choose.