Pho is more than just a bowl of soup in Philadelphia. It is a city-wide comfort, a balancing act of broth, noodles, and fresh herbs that wakes up your senses—even on the coldest days. If you’ve ever slurped your way through a rich bowl, watched the steam curl around your face, and felt the warmth cutting through the city chill, you know the magic I’m talking about. My first taste came on a rainy afternoon, tucked into a small shop surrounded by the clatter of chopsticks. That blend of spices and beef, with a touch of lime, left me hooked and, honestly, a little obsessed.
Philadelphia isn’t shy about its pho game. Whether you’re wandering through bustling South Philly or sneaking into an unassuming corner spot, the city dishes out plenty of broth-based contenders—all chasing the perfect blend of savory and aromatic notes. I’ve spent cold mornings and late nights sampling ladles of steaming goodness, sorting the satisfyingly slurpable from the so-so. If you’re on the hunt for the best pho in Philadelphia, you’re in the right place.
Where to find the best pho in Philadelphia, PA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Philadelphia, PA:
- Le Viet
- Pho 75
- Vietnam Cafe
- Sang Kee Noodle House
- Pho Cali Vietnamese Restaurant
- Banh Mi and Bottles
- Pho Ha South Philadelphia
- Pho 20
- Pho Ha Saigon
- Pho Saigon
1. Le Viet
Nestled on South 11th Street, Le Viet makes Vietnamese cuisine feel both classic and fresh. The dining room feels modern, but the mood stays relaxed; it’s a place that works for a quick lunch or a lingering evening meal. My last visit started with a friendly greeting and a fragrant rush from open bowls in the kitchen, a detail not easily forgotten.
What sets Le Viet apart is their focus on flavor clarity. The pho broth arrives perfectly clear, but never bland—layers of star anise and cinnamon steal the show with each sip. The pho tai (rare beef) stands out, with beef slices melting into the broth, while the veggie pho surprises with umami depth and springy noodles.
Try the house specials or their signature pho combination if you want to see Le Viet’s quality up close.
2. Pho 75
Pho 75 is where you go in Philadelphia when what you crave is pure, no-nonsense pho. The stripped-down décor and quick service let the food take center stage. There’s a quiet hum in the room—a sign that most people are too busy slurping to chat. I’ve lost count of how many chilly afternoons have been rescued by bowls from Pho 75.
Their approach is honest and unpretentious. The broth is balanced and deep, never oily or overly salty. If you’re new, order the rare steak and brisket combo. The meat comes out impossibly tender, bathing in that steaming, aromatic broth. Every spoonful confirms why this place draws both regulars and newcomers.
Keep it classic and pile on the fresh herbs, jalapeño, and lime. For pho lovers, this spot is a benchmark.
3. Vietnam Cafe
West Philly’s Vietnam Cafe is lively, polished, and always buzzing. Walking in, you notice the energy, from the clatter of chopsticks to the sizzle escaping the kitchen. My first pho here was after a long day—an aromatic refuge under city lights.
Vietnam Cafe’s pho is generous and balanced. The broth comes layered with star anise and fresh herbs, never muddy or heavy. Their pho tai (rare steak) is a must-try, but the tofu and vegetable pho deserves its own spotlight for clean flavors and bright greens.
Order the signature beef pho or mix it up with their veggie variation. No matter which route, you’ll taste how Vietnam Cafe elevates classic Vietnamese comfort.
4. Sang Kee Noodle House
Sang Kee Noodle House is a local legend, always filled with students and families on Chestnut Street. Even on quiet mornings, the gentle clanking of bowls and ladles can be heard before you step in. My visits here are marked by quick, friendly service and an almost ceremonial presentation of noodles and broth.
The pho at Sang Kee stands out for its clarity and deeply savory, beefy base. The broth is poured steaming over chewy noodles and sliced beef, letting the flavor bloom in every spoonful. I’ve often ordered the beef brisket pho—a dish that’s hearty without being heavy, rich yet easy to finish down to the last drop.
Don’t miss their house special pho or the tender brisket version. This is where comfort and tradition come together, right in University City.
5. Pho Cali Vietnamese Restaurant
If you’ve ever strolled near 10th and Arch with a craving for pho, Pho Cali Vietnamese Restaurant is hard to miss. The bright atmosphere is matched by a sense of easy welcome—I’ve found it a perfect spot for a solo lunch or a casual dinner catch-up.
Pho Cali is known for its broth: clear, fragrant, and delicately spiced. The portions are generous, but never overwhelming. A bowl of their pho tai (rare beef) or the beef and brisket combination bursts with fresh herbs and tender meat on every bite.
Vegetarians will appreciate their vegan pho, which manages boldness without heaviness. For a classic experience, order the house special and let the ingredients do the talking.
6. Banh Mi and Bottles
Banh Mi and Bottles draws you in with its playful style and lively South Street location. My first bowl of pho here arrived with a fragrant storm of basil and scallions, paired with a cozy vibe that invites you to kick back and linger. It’s the sort of place you bring both your friends and your appetite.
Their pho stands out for a broth that’s as rich as it is restorative. It balances deep, meaty flavors with a splash of brightness from fresh herbs and lime. The rare steak pho is a highlight, while their veggie pho surprises with layers of clean, comforting notes.
Order a side of spring rolls, then let the generous bowls of pho steal the meal.
7. Pho Ha South Philadelphia
Pho Ha South Philadelphia sits on Washington Avenue, a mainstay for locals and pho-seekers alike. On rainy days, I’ve ducked inside for a quick early lunch, always finding a bustling room and the scent of simmering broth floating through the air.
The pho here is straightforward and consistently excellent. The broth tastes as though it’s been tended for hours—deep and round with just a hint of sweetness from charred onion and spices. I keep coming back for their beef brisket pho, which is extra tender and soaking with flavor.
If you’re in the area, stick with the house special or try the rare steak variety. Pho Ha’s bowls are generous, affordable, and always satisfying.
8. Pho 20
Pho 20 is tucked away in Chinatown, offering a quiet escape from the busy streets. My visits here are always laid-back; the kind of place where service is speedy but never rushed, and the broth arrives piping hot every time.
Pho 20’s broth is among the most vibrant in the neighborhood, with a clean finish and hints of ginger that set it apart. The rare steak and brisket pho is my usual pick, brimming with tender beef and silky noodles that hold up to the heat.
If you’re craving something lighter, try their veggie pho—marked by freshness and plenty of greens. Pho 20 delivers comfort in every bowl.
9. Pho Ha Saigon
Pho Ha Saigon anchors itself on Oregon Avenue and offers a cozy backdrop for both weekday lunches and weekend family gatherings. My last visit was a cold morning, quickly improved by a steaming bowl and a warm greeting from the staff.
The pho here is fragrant and deeply savory, with a broth that stays light yet refuses to fade into the background. The sliced beef pho is a top choice—tender, generously portioned, and layered onto rice noodles that soak in all the right notes.
If you’re undecided, the house special is a safe bet, full of variety and flavor. Pho Ha Saigon’s bowls bring both quality and comfort—just what a true pho spot should.
10. Pho Saigon
+1 267-773-7305
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Pho Saigon sits right on Columbus Boulevard, a welcome stop when cravings hit. After a long day, I’ve dropped in to find hearty bowls and a relaxing atmosphere that takes the edge off city busyness.
Their broth impresses—clear, aromatic, and brimming with subtle spice. The rare beef pho has a perfectly silky texture, while the veggie pho comes colorful and loaded with crisp greens. It’s clear that attention is paid to every bowl, and even the smallest details feel thoughtful.
Start with the classic beef pho or try their vegetable version for a change of pace. Pho Saigon combines generous portions with quality, making it a reliable destination.
More Things to Try in Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best pho in Philadelphia?
Some favorites include Le Viet, Pho 75, Vietnam Cafe, and Pho Ha. Each spot offers a unique broth style and range of options, so it’s all about finding your preferred flavor.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Philly?
Absolutely. Restaurants like Le Viet, Vietnam Cafe, and Pho Cali Vietnamese Restaurant serve flavorful vegetarian or vegan versions, built on fresh herbs and savory vegetable broths.
What makes pho broth in Philadelphia stand out?
The best spots simmer the broth for hours, layering spices like star anise, ginger, and charred onion. That depth and clarity are what separate great pho from the rest.
Is pho served all day?
Yes, many places in Philadelphia serve pho from lunch through dinner. A few even offer it for breakfast—true comfort at any hour.
What’s the difference between pho tai and brisket pho?
Pho tai uses thin slices of rare steak, which cook quickly when added to the hot broth. Brisket pho features slow-cooked, tender slices with a richer flavor. If you can’t choose, try a combination bowl.