The quest for the best pho in Garden City, NY can feel a little like hunting for hidden treasure—except the prize is a steaming bowl of aromatic broth, springy noodles, and the kind of fresh herbs that make you want to linger a little longer. I’ve circled Garden City, chopsticks and soup spoon in hand, tasting my way through every bowl that promised comfort and complexity in equal measure. Some spots charm with the depth of their broth, others win hearts with their melt-in-your-mouth brisket, but all echo the gentle hum of a kitchen that takes Vietnamese pho seriously.
Finding a bowl that balances rich, clear flavors with the right textures is no small feat, but you’re in the right place. This guide brings together my own top picks for pho in Garden City and a sprinkle of honest insight. Each restaurant we’ll explore offers something unique—a particular spice blend, a family recipe, or just the kind of atmosphere that reminds you food is meant to be enjoyed. Ready to discover which bowls truly stand out? Let’s dive into the best pho Garden City, NY has to offer.
Where to find the best pho in Garden City, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Garden City, NY:
- Sushi Ya
- Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant
- Little Saigon Cuisine
- Pho Choice
- t&j craB cajun seaFood house inc.
- New Saigon Restaurant Inc
- Pho Grand Bayside
- Pho Che
- Pho Mekong Restaurant Inc
- Jjang Cooks
1. Sushi Ya
(516) 873-8818Call
Sushi Ya draws you in with its polished décor, but it’s the inspired menu that keeps you coming back. While sushi might steal the limelight, those who venture off the beaten path discover that Sushi Ya crafts a memorable bowl of pho. Their broth glows with bold flavors, balanced and clear, while the noodles hold just the right amount of bite.
My first spoonful here proved that a sushi spot can still excel when it comes to Vietnamese comfort food. There’s a subtle influence of Japanese precision in the presentation, and the brisket pho offers a generous helping of tender beef.
Order the brisket pho for its warmth and consistency. The clean, savory broth feels like a well-kept secret—hidden in plain sight on Franklin Avenue.
2. Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant
Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant feels like a little slice of Hanoi tucked into Bayside. One evening, I slid into a corner booth and watched clouds of steam curl over bubbling hot pots, a communal experience that’s both lively and soothing. The chef’s affection for building layers of flavor is clear in every bowl.
Here, pho is given respect—served with fresh herbs, crisp sprouts, and a broth that’s full-bodied yet never overwhelming. The service is prompt and friendly, making each visit feel personal.
The beef brisket and tendon pho is a highlight, with meltingly soft cuts and a subtle spice. If you want to branch out, shabu shabu is a house specialty, but pho remains the star for soul-warming comfort.
3. Little Saigon Cuisine
Little Saigon Cuisine sits quietly on Northern Blvd, but don’t let its modest space fool you. Stepping inside, I was greeted by the aroma of simmering spices and cheerful chatter—instant signs of a good spot. There’s an unmistakable warmth here, both in service and in the comfort food they serve.
The menu is refreshingly approachable, with classic Vietnamese flavors at a price that’s easy on the wallet. What sets them apart is their unabashed sincerity: recipes handed down, ingredients always fresh, and bowls that arrive with all the right accompaniments.
The classic beef pho is a must. It delivers a clear, fragrant broth and tender slices of beef, made complete with fresh basil and lime. It’s honest, satisfying, and unmistakably Little Saigon.
4. Pho Choice
Pho Choice feels like a neighborhood secret, quietly serving up some of the best Vietnamese noodles in Fresh Meadows. My last visit was on a rainy afternoon—the kind of weather that calls for something warm and savory. The staff made me feel right at home, while the kitchen hummed with activity in the background.
This spot stands out for its affordable prices and dedication to authentic flavors. Each bowl arrives steaming, piled with fresh herbs and perfectly tender beef. The portions are generous, so you won’t leave hungry.
The house special pho is the way to go. The broth is aromatic, layered with subtle spices, and the noodles have just the right springiness. It’s comfort food, Pho Choice style.
5. t&j craB cajun seaFood house inc.
(516) 644-5585Call
At first glance, t&j craB cajun seaFood house inc. might seem like a place just for seafood fans, but there’s more to the story. One chilly evening, I wandered in for a bowl of pho and discovered a playful mix of Cajun flair and Vietnamese comfort. The atmosphere is lively, with big tables ready for gatherings and plenty of friendly chatter.
What sets this spot apart is the creative twist—they infuse familiar Vietnamese dishes with bold, zesty notes. The result? A menu that’s fun and just a bit unpredictable, but always rooted in quality ingredients.
The seafood pho is worth a try. The broth is fresh, with a hint of spice and just enough richness to leave you feeling satisfied. It’s a standout bowl in a sea of choices.
6. New Saigon Restaurant Inc
(718) 819-2988Call
New Saigon Restaurant Inc doesn’t strive for flash. Instead, it wins you over with honest cooking and service straight from the heart. On my first visit, I noticed regulars greeting the staff by name—a telltale sign of a place that feels like home. There’s a comfort here that’s hard to find elsewhere in Oakland Gardens.
The kitchen sticks to time-honored recipes, making their pho a quiet standout. Bowls arrive fragrant, garnished with plenty of fresh greens and a generous squeeze of lime. The prices are gentle, inviting you back for more.
Try their traditional beef pho for a taste of subtlety and depth. The balance of herbs and spices lets the beef shine, delivering that signature New Saigon warmth in every bite.
7. Pho Grand Bayside
Pho Grand Bayside offers an easygoing space for pho aficionados, settled right on Bell Blvd. My first visit found me sipping broth by the window as the neighborhood bustled outside. There’s a lightness about the setting that matches the food—nothing fussy, just carefully crafted flavors that speak for themselves.
This spot stands out for its attention to details, especially in the balance of the broth. The portion sizes are generous and the ingredients always taste fresh. Service is quick, yet there’s no sense of being rushed.
The rare beef pho is the highlight here. Tender slices of beef soften in a delicate, aromatic broth that’s best enjoyed with plenty of basil and a twist of lime. It’s pure comfort and unmistakably Pho Grand Bayside.
8. Pho Che
Pho Che has the kind of warmth that makes you want to linger a bit longer than planned. I ducked in on a chilly afternoon and was greeted by the gentle buzz of regulars and the scent of star anise drifting from the kitchen. The setting is welcoming, striking just the right balance between cozy and casual.
What makes Pho Che shine is its devotion to robust, traditional flavors. Portions are hearty and the presentation invites you to dive straight in. Service comes with a genuine smile, adding to the inviting vibe.
The combination pho is the real star—thinly sliced beef, brisket, and delicate rice noodles swimming in a fragrant broth that comforts without being heavy. It’s the bowl you’ll crave when only the classics will do.
9. Pho Mekong Restaurant Inc
(718) 886-2070Call
Pho Mekong Restaurant Inc is the kind of family-run spot where tradition matters and every bowl tells a story. My meal here started with the comforting clatter of chopsticks and ended with a broth so satisfying, I found myself planning my return before I’d even left the table.
There’s nothing flashy—just honest, flavorful cooking that feels like home. The menu covers both Vietnamese and Thai classics, but the pho steals the show with its delicate layers and generous toppings.
The house special beef pho stands out. Tender cuts mingle in a broth that is both clear and deeply aromatic, balanced with crisp herbs and fresh lime. Pho Mekong gets the fundamentals right, and that’s what makes every visit memorable.
10. Jjang Cooks
Jjang Cooks blends the best of Korean BBQ with a surprising Vietnamese twist. The smell of sizzling short ribs wafts through the room, but don’t miss what’s simmering in the kitchen—a rich take on Vietnamese pho. My first bowl here came after a long day, and it delivered serious comfort in every spoonful.
This spot stands out for its commitment to quality, with every dish featuring premium ingredients. The unique pairing of smoky barbecue and delicate pho means there’s something for everyone at the table. The setting is lively, perfect for a hearty meal with friends.
Order the traditional beef pho. The broth is deeply savory, with subtle hints from the kitchen’s barbecue expertise, and the beef is tender and abundant. It’s a fusion worth exploring.
More Things to Try in Garden City, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best pho in Garden City, NY?
You’ll find standout bowls at places like Sushi Ya and nearby favorites such as Pho 32 N Shabu Restaurant and Little Saigon Cuisine. Each spot brings something unique to the table, whether it’s a deep, clear broth or generous helpings of tender beef.
Are there halal or vegetarian pho options in Garden City?
Most pho restaurants offer vegetarian options with vegetables and tofu. For halal specifics, it’s best to call ahead and ask about the meat sources, as offerings vary.
What makes pho in Garden City special?
The diversity of Garden City’s food scene means you’ll find pho prepared with a local twist. Many spots pride themselves on clear broths, fresh herbs, and family recipes brought straight from Vietnam.
Can I get pho for takeout or delivery?
Yes. Nearly all pho restaurants in Garden City offer both takeout and delivery. Check each spot’s website for online orders or give them a call for quick pickup.
What should I add to my pho for the best flavor?
Top your pho with fresh basil, bean sprouts, a squeeze of lime, and a small dash of hoisin or sriracha. Most restaurants serve these fresh on the side so you can season to taste.