Nothing steams up a cold day like a good bowl of pho. The search for the best pho in Woodbury, MN is a warm-weather quest and a winter ritual, but it’s never bothered by the seasons. Imagine sipping clear, aromatic broth, tucking noodles and fresh basil around your chopsticks, and finding yourself surrounded by the gentle clatter of bowls on nearby tables. There’s an art to this soup, and the Woodbury area knows it well.
I’ve wandered from tiny neighborhood kitchens to sleek modern bistros, always chasing that balance of spice, tenderness, and soul-soothing flavor. With each spot on this list, I found a reason to linger—some for the broth, some for the bustling vibe, others for a surprising twist on the classic. Curious where to find the real standouts? Read on. Each of these places brings something distinct to the table, and your perfect bowl is likely waiting in one of them.
1. Duc’s Vietnamese & Chinese
Duc’s Vietnamese & Chinese blends comfort and tradition in a low-key setting, with friendly staff who remember regulars. Their pho arrives steaming, fragrant, and rich, layered with subtle notes of star anise and ginger. What caught my attention: the broth has depth without being heavy, a mark of hours spent simmering bones and spices.
Duc’s stands out for their balance—classic flavors, fresh basil, and generous portions that never overpower. I find their pho tai (beef pho) hits the perfect spot, the meat thinly sliced and just tender. For those with dietary restrictions, the vegetarian pho holds its own with a nuanced broth and ample vegetables.
Want to taste why locals keep coming back? Start with any pho. You won’t leave disappointed.
2. Thanh Truc
+1 651-436-3431
Thanh Truc delivers a laid-back vibe paired with polished service, making it a spot I always feel relaxed in. Their pho impresses right away—crystal clear broth, subtle spices, and a mountain of fresh herbs served on the side. It’s the kind of bowl you taste before you even take a sip, thanks to its delicate aroma.
What sets Thanh Truc apart is their attention to small touches. You’ll notice it in the perfectly cooked rice noodles and the plumpness of their beef or tofu. My go-to is the classic Pho Tai Chin—the brisket is savory and never dry, with enough depth in the broth to keep you lingering for another bite.
If you’re after flavor that’s light yet memorable, start your pho journey here.
3. Thanh Truc Restaurant
Thanh Truc Restaurant feels like a neighborhood secret—tucked away, yet always buzzing with loyal diners. The first spoonful of their pho tells you this place takes its broth seriously: it’s light yet full-flavored, never greasy, and the aroma lingers in the best way. The balance of savory and sweet notes hooked me from the start.
The family-style atmosphere and generous portions make this spot stand out. Noodles come silky and perfectly portioned, while the brisket in the Pho Chin is especially tender. Even on a busy night, the service stays quick and welcoming.
If your idea of comfort food is a straightforward, beautifully executed bowl of pho, Thanh Truc Restaurant is your answer in Woodbury.
4. Vietnam Star Restaurant
Vietnam Star Restaurant is a steady favorite where locals stake their claim to a booth, especially during lunch rush. The pho here has a signature clarity and depth, drawing out the best of beef and spice without ever feeling muddy or overpowering. My first bowl hit all the right notes: not too salty, herbs piled high, and noodles just soft enough.
Service moves briskly, but you never feel hurried. The menu is large, but the star is their Pho Dac Biet: a special combination pho loaded with different cuts of beef and tendon, each bringing its own texture and flavor to the bowl. The broth proves their kitchen’s patience—this is pho made by people who refuse to rush.
Try a steaming bowl here if you’re after the perfect trifecta of broth, beef, and lively atmosphere.
5. Destiny Cafe
Destiny Cafe is a cozy spot that manages to feel both bustling and calm, depending on when you visit. The pho here highlights a restrained hand with spices, letting the purity of the broth shine through. You’ll notice the herbs and greens are always crisp, which says a lot about the kitchen’s care with fresh ingredients.
What sets Destiny Cafe apart is their consistency. Each visit, my bowl arrives piping hot, with noodles perfectly springy and slices of brisket cooked just right. The Pho Tai Gan—rare beef with tendon—has become my steady pick for the gentle chew and subtle aromatics that linger in the broth.
If you want pho that feels both nourishing and thoughtfully crafted, Destiny Cafe is a solid bet worth your time.
6. Saigon Express
(651) 774-0379Call
Saigon Express is kind of the neighborhood’s no-frills pho spot, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on quality. Their broth is refreshingly clean and gently fragrant, standing up well even when you load up on bean sprouts and basil. There’s comfort in the simplicity here—no fancy gimmicks, just a seriously good bowl of soup.
Consistency and speed are big pluses at Saigon Express. Even on a busy day, my bowl of Pho Tai arrives steaming and generously filled with tender beef. The noodles are soft without falling apart, soaking up just enough flavor with every bite.
If you crave unpretentious, honest pho at a value, this is a spot you’ll want to remember.
7. Iheart Pho
Iheart Pho lives up to its name, winning over diners with crave-worthy bowls and a bright, lively space. Their pho is memorable for broth that’s both clear and packed with flavor, with a delicate balance of aromatics you can taste in every bite. You can always count on a generous helping of fresh toppings alongside it.
The menu is packed with options, but the signature Pho Combo stands out. It’s loaded with different beef cuts, each cooked just until tender. For a twist, try the chicken pho—light yet hearty, perfect if you like a subtler broth.
Iheart Pho knows how to make classic pho feel special, keeping the standards high from first spoonful to last noodle.
8. Pho #1 Vietnamese Restaurant
Pho #1 Vietnamese Restaurant feels like a downtown staple—busy, welcoming, and straightforward. The pho here starts with a savory, slow-cooked broth that’s got real depth and a faint touch of sweetness, letting the meat and spices shine in every spoonful. It’s a reliable stop after a long day or for that working-lunch recharge.
What I like about Pho #1 is their focus on quality ingredients. Noodles are always silky but springy, while the classic Pho Tai Nam is silky with a generous helping of beef that never tastes bland or overcooked. Service is quick, which matters when you want good food without a fuss.
If you’re in the mood for classic pho done right, Pho #1 remains a favorite for good reason.
9. Tay-Ho Restaurant
(651) 228-7216Call
Tay-Ho Restaurant is the kind of place you stumble upon and end up returning to again and again. Their pho broth sets the standard—light yet layered, with a gentle sweetness that comes from careful simmering, not shortcuts. Sitting near the window watching the neighborhood go by, a steamy bowl in hand, always feels just right here.
Tay-Ho stands out for value and authenticity. The Pho Dac Biet (the house special) is a hefty bowl featuring brisket, rare beef, and tendon. The variety of meats gives the soup an impressive depth, while the noodles are just the right texture—soft with a hint of chew.
For anyone hunting for a straightforward, flavorful bowl of pho in a cozy setting, Tay-Ho is tough to beat.
10. A Taste of Saigon
(651) 773-3008Call
A Taste of Saigon fits snugly into Maplewood’s food scene, balancing approachability with honest flavor. The pho here leans classic—aromatic broth, tender beef, and punchy herbs, all delivered with a smile. Portions are generous, making this spot ideal for both solo diners and groups that love to share.
The service is quick and the atmosphere unfussy, but what really stands out is the consistency from bowl to bowl. The Pho Tai is always fresh, with beef that cooks perfectly upon arrival and noodles that never lose their bite. For those who prefer poultry, the chicken pho holds its own with a clear, inviting broth.
Looking for a reliable, flavorful bowl of pho that doesn’t try too hard? You’ll find it here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in Woodbury, MN unique?
Restaurants in Woodbury often take extra care with their broths and toppings, blending classic Vietnamese flavor with fresh, local touches. Each spot brings something a little different—some focus on long-simmered broth, others on creative add-ins, so you’ll find a good mix of tradition and innovation.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Woodbury?
Absolutely. Many spots offer vegetarian and vegan pho packed with tofu and plenty of fresh veggies. Broths are usually plant-based, so no one’s left out of pho night.
Which pho place in Woodbury has the best broth?
Broth preference is personal, but standouts include Duc’s Vietnamese & Chinese and Vietnam Star Restaurant. Their attention to simmering and seasoning keeps regulars coming back for another bowl.
Can I get gluten-free pho in Woodbury?
Most pho uses rice noodles, which are naturally gluten-free. Still, let your server know if you have dietary restrictions—several restaurants are happy to guide you to the right options.
Is takeout or delivery available for pho in Woodbury?
Yes. The majority of places on this list offer takeout and delivery, making it easy to enjoy pho at home or on the go.
Where can I find halal pho in Woodbury?
While some spots may have halal options, it’s always best to call ahead and double-check to make sure your dietary needs are met.
What toppings should I expect with my pho?
You’ll typically get a plate of fresh basil, bean sprouts, lime, and jalapeños to customize your bowl to your liking.