Discovering the best pho in Durham, NC, is like embarking on a flavorful journey through fragrant broth and tender noodles. Over the years, I’ve tasted countless bowls, each offering a unique take on this beloved Vietnamese dish. Whether it’s a cozy spot tucked away in a corner or a bustling eatery, Durham’s pho scene is as diverse as it is delicious.
This guide aims to navigate you through the city’s top pho establishments with confidence. Each restaurant listed has earned its reputation for serving up authentic, satisfying bowls that keep locals and visitors coming back. Prepare to explore a culinary landscape where tradition and innovation meet in every steaming spoonful. Dive in to find your next favorite bowl of pho—your taste buds will thank you.
Where to find the best pho in Durham, NC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Durham, NC:
- Pho and Poke House
- Pho 9n9 Vietnamese House
- Secrets Pho & Noodle Bar
- KoKyu Na’Mean
- Banh’s Cuisine
- Shiki Sushi
- Akashi
- Mekong
- Jujube
- Queen of Sheba’s
1. Pho and Poke House
Tucked in a modest plaza near Duke University, Pho and Poke House blends casual charm with a focus on fresh, flavorful Vietnamese fare. I first stumbled in between classes, not expecting much—until that first sip of pho hit with its slow-simmered complexity.
What sets them apart is the depth of their broth, which is both comforting and rich without being heavy. The portions are generous, and the service always feels personal.
Start with the classic pho with brisket and tendon—the meat is tender, and the broth carries hints of star anise and roasted onion. For something lighter but still satisfying, the pho ga showcases their ability to do simplicity well. Either way, you’re leaving full and planning your next visit.
2. Pho 9n9 Vietnamese House
(919) 544-4496Call
Tucked away on South Miami Boulevard, Pho 9n9 Vietnamese House offers a reliable spot for traditional Vietnamese flavors in Durham. I appreciated its cozy atmosphere and the quick, warm service, making it a perfect lunch spot on a busy day.
What makes Pho 9n9 stand out is their variety of classic dishes, from hearty beef noodle soup to vegetarian options that don’t skimp on flavor. Their beef pho is rich and aromatic, showcasing their commitment to authentic tastes.
For a satisfying meal, I recommend the pho with tender brisket and fresh herbs. It’s a comforting bowl that reflects their dedication to well-prepared, flavorful Vietnamese cuisine, all at an affordable price point.
3. Secrets Pho & Noodle Bar
(919) 647-4865Call
With its name alone, Secrets Pho & Noodle Bar invites curiosity—and after my first visit, I understood the buzz. Tucked on 9th Street, the space feels fresh and modern, with a relaxed energy that matches its vibrant menu.
The highlight here is consistency. Every bowl I’ve tried offers clean, bold flavors and meticulous layering. The broth has a subtle sweetness that complements the savory richness, making each spoonful balanced and satisfying.
Go for the pho tai—rare beef gently cooked in the heat of the broth, served with bright herbs and bean sprouts. If you’re feeling adventurous, the special house pho has brisket, tendon, and meatballs, each ingredient crafted with care. Secrets doesn’t try to imitate; it simply delivers.
4. KoKyu Na’Mean
Located on Highway 54, KoKyu Na’Mean offers a fresh twist on Asian-inspired flavors with its unique gourmet sandwiches. I had the pleasure of trying their fusion creations, and I was immediately impressed by how they blend international barbecue with Asian spices.
This small spot packs a punch, delivering big flavors in each bite. Although they don’t specialize solely in pho, their innovative approach to Asian cuisine makes for an exciting culinary experience.
For a taste of their signature style, sample the BBQ pork banh mi or the spicy chicken sandwich. These dishes reflect their commitment to bold, well-balanced flavors and inventive ingredients that stand out among Durham’s Asian eateries.
5. Banh’s Cuisine
Tucked away near Duke’s East Campus, Banh’s Cuisine is the kind of no-frills spot that regulars keep close to the chest. Inside, the setup is modest, but what comes out of the kitchen is anything but.
Their pho is deeply comforting, with a broth that leans clean and aromatic rather than overpowering. The simplicity of the beef pho lets the ingredients speak—perfectly cooked rice noodles, bright herbs, and tender cuts done just right.
I went in expecting decent lunch fare and left wondering why more people don’t talk about this hidden gem. With low prices, cash-only charm, and efficient service, it’s clear they let the food speak for itself.
Start with the pho, and let your palate guide the rest.
6. Shiki Sushi
Located near the Homestead Market, Shiki Sushi is renowned for its diverse Asian cuisine, including sushi, Korean, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese dishes. During my visit, I was impressed by how they fuse traditional flavors with a modern presentation, creating a vibrant dining experience.
While they excel at sushi and seafood, their Pho reflects the same dedication to quality—rich, aromatic broth with perfectly cooked rice noodles and tender beef or chicken. It’s a comforting bowl that captures authentic Vietnamese flavors within a sophisticated setting.
If you’re seeking a place that offers both classic Asian dishes and fresh seafood, Shiki Sushi is a top choice. The attention to detail and diverse menu make it stand out in Durham’s Asian restaurant scene.
7. Akashi
Tucked into Park Terrace Shopping Center, Akashi blends Japanese precision with a pan-Asian menu that includes a few Vietnamese surprises. While it’s best known for sushi and hibachi, the real sleeper hit is their pho, which quietly holds its own in Durham’s competitive noodle scene.
The broth is clean and aromatic, with a depth that suggests long, slow simmering. It’s not overloaded—just the essentials: tender beef slices, fresh herbs, and springy rice noodles. It’s a minimalist take, but one that works when done right.
What makes Akashi stand out is its consistency. Whether you’re there for a sushi roll or a steaming bowl of pho, the ingredients are always fresh, and the service is reliably warm.
If you’re pho-curious but want options beyond Vietnamese fare, Akashi’s pho is a solid, satisfying choice.
8. Mekong
Located in the Morrisville area, Mekong Vietnamese Cuisine offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for lovers of authentic Vietnamese food. During a recent visit, I was impressed by how their pho exemplifies traditional flavors with a rich, fragrant broth and perfectly cooked rice noodles.
Their pho stands out for its depth of flavor and careful balance of herbs and spices—clear evidence of their commitment to quality. The generous slices of beef and fresh accompaniments make each bowl a satisfying experience.
If you’re craving a comforting, authentic bowl, try their pho tai. It reflects Mekong’s dedication to serving flavorful, well-prepared Vietnamese classics that keep both locals and newcomers returning.
9. Jujube
Jujube in Chapel Hill doesn’t serve traditional pho—but it reimagines Southeast Asian flavors with a playful edge that’s worth exploring. The fusion menu feels both familiar and inventive, where Vietnamese undertones meet bold Western creativity. The ambiance? Think cozy lanterns and gentle elegance, especially on the outdoor patio in warmer months.
On my visit, I tried their short rib noodle bowl, inspired by pho but layered with unexpected flavors like garlic-chili broth and pickled vegetables. It’s a dish that pays homage to tradition while confidently breaking the rules. The noodles were silky, the beef tender, and the broth was a standout—complex without overpowering.
Jujube’s charm lies in its fearless fusion. For pho enthusiasts seeking something familiar yet fresh, their noodle creations offer a thoughtful twist that rewards curiosity.
10. Queen of Sheba’s
(919) 903-8280Call
Queen of Sheba’s blends Vietnamese comfort with a quiet Chapel Hill charm. Tucked into Timberlyne Village, it’s a spot that feels both local and inviting. The staff is warm, and the space is modest—no frills, just focus on flavor.
On my visit, I ordered the classic beef pho. The broth was rich and balanced, with hints of star anise and clove. The rice noodles were tender, and the beef slices were lean and well-cooked. It’s a bowl that doesn’t try too hard—it just delivers.
What sets Queen of Sheba’s apart is its consistency. The pho isn’t flashy, but it’s honest. If you’re after a dependable bowl in Durham’s orbit, this one’s worth the drive.
Try the brisket pho if you want something heartier—it’s flavorful without being heavy, and reflects the kitchen’s quiet confidence.
More Things to Try in Durham, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best place to get authentic pho in Durham, NC?
A: Several restaurants, like Secrets Pho & Noodle Bar and Pho 9n9 Vietnamese House, are highly recommended for authentic Vietnamese pho with rich broth and fresh ingredients.
Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Durham?
A: Yes. Places like Akashi and Jujube offer vegetarian pho options made with vegetable broth and plant-based proteins, providing satisfying alternatives for non-meat eaters.
Q: What’s the typical price range for pho in Durham?
A: Most restaurants serve pho within the $10-$15 range, making it an affordable and hearty meal.
Q: Do restaurants in Durham offer gluten-free pho?
A: Many do, especially those that emphasize fresh and healthy ingredients. It’s best to ask when ordering to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
Q: Are there any places with good pho takeout options?
A: Absolutely. Most top pho spots, including Pho and Poke House and Queen of Sheba’s, offer takeout for convenient, quality pho at home.