The world of pho is far bigger than a single steaming bowl, especially in East Hills, NY. When you search for the real thing—the kind that lands with a fragrant cloud, brimming with silky noodles and tender beef—it helps to know where to look. On a chilly afternoon spent wandering local neighborhoods, I made it my business to taste-test nearly every spot boasting a simmering pot in this part of Long Island. Each restaurant had its own crowd, its own aroma, and, thankfully, plenty of character.
If you’re anything like me, you want your pho to do two things: warm you up and win you over. A great bowl doesn’t come from guesswork or luck. It comes from menus steered by family traditions and kitchens that take their broth as seriously as an art form. So, whether you like yours laced with sliced brisket or topped with mountain-fresh herbs, this guide will point you to the best pho near East Hills. Time to find your new favorite slurp.
Where to find the best pho in East Hills, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in East Hills, NY:
- Little Saigon Cuisine
- Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant
- t&j craB cajun seaFood house inc.
- New Saigon Restaurant Inc
- Pho Grand Bayside
- Pho Che
- Pho Choice
- Ginger and Lemongrass
- Jjang Cooks
- Pho Best
1. Little Saigon Cuisine
Little Saigon Cuisine feels like a portal to another place. Tucked along Northern Blvd in Little Neck, it draws in regulars with its inviting vibe and a menu focused on Vietnamese comfort. From my first visit, I noticed that the broth here is clear and aromatic, the sort that whispers of hours spent coaxing flavor from bone and spice.
What sets Little Saigon apart is its attention to detail. Service is warm but unhurried—just right for lingering with a bowl cradled in your hands. Their Pho Tai is bright and layered, with beef sliced thin enough to cook gently in the steam.
For a lighter option, the Pho Ga delivers a soothing finish with its chicken and fresh herbs. Each bowl arrives with a mound of basil, crisp bean sprouts, and a wedge of lime, inviting you to personalize every bite.
2. Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant
Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant feels lively the moment you step inside. The mix of sizzling shabu shabu pots and the soothing aroma of pho captures your senses. My own visits have included tables of friends debating which cut of beef makes the best topping. Consensus always forms after tasting the rich, balanced broth here.
There’s a modern energy to the space, but the flavors keep close to home. The Pho Dac Biet, loaded with a medley of brisket and tendon, leads the menu. Each spoonful marries savory broth with comforting noodles.
For those wanting something lighter, the Pho Bo Vien (with beef meatballs) stands out; it’s simple, honest, and satisfying. The in-house sauces and fresh garnishes let you customize every bowl to your taste.
3. t&j craB cajun seaFood house inc.
(516) 644-5585Call
t&j craB cajun seaFood house inc. blends flavors you might not expect together. The draw here is the fusion of Vietnamese comfort and Cajun zest, an intriguing twist I didn’t see coming until I settled in with a bowl on a rainy day.
Despite the bold seafood on the menu, their pho has a subtle, pleasant depth. The broth is quietly savory and the noodles hold up even with hearty portions. It’s a place where you can explore both classic and creative tastes in one sitting.
The must-try here is the beef pho. It’s warming, thoughtfully built, and perfect if you’re after something that feels homemade without being typical. Ask for extra herbs—the kitchen is generous, and it only adds to the comfort.
4. New Saigon Restaurant Inc
(718) 819-2988Call
New Saigon Restaurant Inc has that classic, cozy feel you want from a neighborhood spot. My visits have always come with quick service and bowls that arrive piping hot. There’s an understated charm to this place, reflected in the way they present each plate.
The main draw is their pho with rare beef. The broth is savory and a bit sweet, layered with spices you’ll want to linger over. The slices of beef land just as you’re ready to dive in, tender and full of flavor.
If you like a little crunch, add in their generous herbs and sprouts. With each mouthful, you taste a hint of tradition that makes New Saigon Restaurant Inc a quiet standout for pho near East Hills.
5. Pho Grand Bayside
Pho Grand Bayside is where I go when I want something both classic and lively. The energy inside is matched by a menu that favors big flavors and fresh ingredients. I’ve brought friends here for their first pho experience, and the reactions are always the same: smiles above fragrant, noodle-laden bowls.
What makes this spot stand out is consistency. The Pho Tai Nam offers soft beef slices with a broth that’s both savory and balanced, with just a hint of star anise. Each table is loaded with crisp bean sprouts and mint, ensuring you can make every bowl your own.
If you’re hoping for something comforting that still has a bit of flair, go for the Pho Ga. The chicken is tender and the soup is bright, letting the simple ingredients shine.
6. Pho Che
Pho Che holds a steady spot on my rotation when I’m craving straightforward, no-frills pho. A visit feels like walking into a spot where broth is treated seriously but there’s nothing intimidating. Service is fast, but you never feel rushed. The staff always seems glad to talk you through the menu.
The star here is the Pho Dac Biet. It arrives with a deep, aromatic broth: the perfect canvas for brisket, tendon, and thinly sliced beef. Every spoonful is balanced and the noodles are perfectly cooked—never mushy, always springy.
If you’re searching for a clean, classic bowl that doesn’t try too hard, Pho Che is a strong choice. Personalize yours with the piles of herbs and crisp greens at every table.
7. Pho Choice
Pho Choice has a down-to-earth appeal that keeps me coming back. The bright, welcoming space makes ordering pho here feel easy, whether I’m settling in for a meal or just grabbing a bowl to go. It’s a spot where regulars chat with staff and the menu feels familiar yet refreshing.
The highlight is their Pho Tai, a fragrant bowl with tender slices of beef and a broth that is light yet full of flavor. Each spoonful gives you a taste of their commitment to quality and tradition. Their portions are generous and the ingredients consistently fresh.
If you’re in the mood for something savory and well balanced, also try the Pho Ga. The chicken is delicate, the herbal notes shine, and it all comes together in a satisfying way that showcases Pho Choice’s simple strengths.
8. Ginger and Lemongrass
Ginger and Lemongrass has a breezy vibe, with sunlight spilling across its tables and an aroma that always hints at something good simmering in the kitchen. My lunches here often turn into unhurried affairs, largely because the food invites you to slow down and savor every bite.
Their pho reflects a light hand and a subtle palette, favoring clean, fresh flavors over bold intensity. The broth is delicate but nuanced, with hints of ginger and herbs shining through without overwhelming the noodles or beef. Every bowl feels layered, but never fussy.
Order the Pho Tai for a bright, well-balanced meal. The beef is sliced thin and presented with a forest of crisp basil and bean sprouts, letting you build your own perfect bite, one spoonful at a time.
9. Jjang Cooks
Jjang Cooks isn’t your typical pho destination, but that’s what makes it interesting. Known mostly for Korean BBQ, this spot surprises with a menu that includes high-quality pho right alongside its sizzling grills. I found myself mixing cultures in one meal, and the experience felt seamless.
What stands out most is the beef pho, which benefits from the same careful sourcing as their famous short ribs. The broth is rich and clear, with a meaty backbone that hints at hours spent simmering bones. Noodles are firm, and the garnishes are crisp and plentiful.
If you’re here with a group, it’s fun to start with some BBQ and end with a hot bowl of pho. It’s a little unexpected, but deeply satisfying in its own way.
10. Pho Best
Pho Best keeps things simple but memorable. Tucked along busy Main Street, it’s a spot I duck into when I need a quick fix for a pho craving that won’t quit. Service is brisk, and you always get a hot, fragrant bowl in minutes.
Here, the Pho Dac Biet is the headliner. The broth is light yet layered, with a lovely balance between savory and just a trace of sweetness. Every spoonful feels like a gentle reset for your palate.
If you like to keep your options open, try their chicken pho as well. The toppings are always fresh, and the bowls arrive with an herbal bouquet on the side—making it hard not to feel a little brighter by the time you leave.
More Things to Try in East Hills, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in East Hills, NY special?
Many pho restaurants in and around East Hills craft their broths from scratch. You’ll find a range of options, with each shop reflecting its own family recipes and approach to fresh herbs, clear broths, and rice noodles.
Can I find halal or vegetarian pho in East Hills?
Yes, several spots offer vegetarian pho with rich vegetable broths and fresh garnishes. Some restaurants can accommodate halal requests—always double-check with the staff when you order.
How spicy is the pho in East Hills restaurants?
Pho is usually served mild, but you’ll get a plate of herbs, limes, and sauces—including sriracha and chili oil—so you can customize the heat to your liking.
Is pho available for takeout or delivery?
Most restaurants now offer takeout and delivery options. Broth and noodles are often packed separately, so your pho stays fresh and the noodles don’t get soggy before you eat.
What should I order if it’s my first time eating pho?
Start with the classic Pho Tai (rare beef). It’s a great introduction: tender beef, bright broth, and simple garnishes. Then explore options like chicken pho or the combo bowls if you want variety.
Are there gluten-free pho options?
Most pho uses rice noodles, which are naturally gluten-free. If you have dietary needs, ask to confirm the broth and sauces meet your requirements.