Few dishes can compete with a steaming bowl of pho. Its fragrant broth, delicate rice noodles, and thin-sliced beef make it perfect for any mood or season. Houston’s pho scene is as big and bold as the city itself, and after tasting bowls from strip malls and buzzing bistros alike, I’ve found myself dreaming of star anise and fresh basil more than once. If it’s variety and authenticity you’re after, Houston does not disappoint.
Growing up, pho felt less like just food and more like an event. Whether I was cradling a giant bowl after a late-night adventure or sharing stories over beef brisket and tendon, those meals turned into memories. Choosing the best pho in Houston is a personal journey, but you don’t have to travel it alone. I’ve slurped my way through the city’s favorites, and this guide brings together the standout spots for broth, noodles, and everything in between. Curious where the hidden gems and iconic tanks sit? Let’s dig in.
Where to find the best pho in Houston, TX
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Houston, TX:
- Huynh Restaurant
- Conservatory Underground Beer Garden & Food Hall
- Cali Sandwich
- Old Saigon Cafe
- Ba Mien Bistro
- Pho Binh
- Bouray’s Restaurant
- Pho & More Restaurant
- Les Ba’get
- Nom Nom Noodles
1. Huynh Restaurant
Huynh Restaurant shines as a staple for Vietnamese food lovers near downtown Houston. Family-run and warmly casual, it feels more like eating in someone’s home kitchen than in a bustling city. Bright herbs and a rich, homemade broth set their pho apart; even after a dozen visits, the comfort never fades.
The menu pulls from family recipes you’ll crave again and again. The beef pho is the star—tender brisket and aromatic broth, finished with fresh Thai basil and crisp sprouts. Their chicken pho is also worth a try, with a lighter yet deeply satisfying flavor.
Huynh’s laid-back atmosphere makes it perfect for lingering over a big, steaming bowl. It’s that rare spot where authenticity and approachability go hand in hand.
2. Conservatory Underground Beer Garden & Food Hall
If you crave variety but never want to compromise on flavor, Conservatory Underground Beer Garden & Food Hall is a find worth making. Tucked beneath downtown Houston, it offers a modern nod to street food with its vibrant lineup of vendors. I first visited on a rainy day and found my mood lifted with every savory spoonful from their pho stall.
The pho here takes a playful approach: deep, aromatic broth and noodles with all the right toppings. Don’t miss their beef pho, where tender slices pair with a broth that leans both classic and bold. If you prefer, there are vegetarian options that don’t skimp on flavor.
It’s a hub for lunch with colleagues or an early dinner before exploring downtown. The energy inside is contagious, making each bowl a little celebration.
3. Cali Sandwich
+1 713-520-0710
Cali Sandwich delivers classic Vietnamese comfort in a casual Montrose corner. It’s easy to spot regulars here, drawn by the reliable flavors and wallet-friendly prices. The laid-back vibe makes solo meals or group lunches feel effortless.
Though their banh mi gets plenty of deserved praise, it’s the pho that steals the scene. The broth carries a subtle sweetness, balanced with bright herbs and perfectly cooked rice noodles. The beef pho is especially popular, offering generous portions and a depth of flavor that brings repeat visits.
Vegetarian guests aren’t left out, with plant-based options that don’t cut corners. At Cali Sandwich, each bowl feels honest and satisfying, like a good friend’s recommendation you’re glad you followed.
4. Old Saigon Cafe
Old Saigon Cafe has the charm of a neighborhood favorite tucked away on Westheimer. My first visit was by chance, but the warm welcome and rich aromas of simmering broth made me an instant fan. The space feels relaxed, with touches of Saigon nostalgia in the décor and music.
Their pho stands out for its deep, layered flavors. The beef pho comes with tender cuts, clear broth, and a touch of cinnamon that lingers as you eat. Noodle texture hits the sweet spot between springy and soft—no small feat.
Vegetarian and vegan pho options are surprisingly complex and satisfying. If you want a comforting meal that tastes crafted with care, Old Saigon Cafe deserves a spot on your pho list.
5. Ba Mien Bistro
Ba Mien Bistro blends modern dining with time-honored Vietnamese favorites, making it a standout in the Champion Forest area. When I stopped in on a chilly evening, the welcoming staff and inviting atmosphere set the tone for a memorable meal.
The pho here immediately grabbed my attention. The broth is crystal clear, packed with umami, and proof that slow simmering pays off. The beef and veggie pho options are both hearty, layered, and distinctly aromatic. It’s the kind of bowl that makes you stop and savor each spoonful.
Ba Mien’s chic bistro setting never distracts from the quality in each bowl. For pho lovers seeking style and substance, this spot delivers on both fronts.
6. Pho Binh
Pho Binh may have started in a humble trailer, but word of its pho has long outgrown those four wheels. Early mornings here mean brisk bowls of pho surrounded by regulars who know a good thing when they taste it. That’s how I found myself lingering over a bowl here after sunrise, with steam curling around me and nowhere else I’d rather be.
The focus is classic, no-frills pho done with obsessive care. The broth is famous for its depth—rich yet bright, never greasy. Order the beef pho with ribeye: the meat melts while the noodles soak up every note of flavor.
Whether dining in or taking it to go, the experience is always cozy, familiar, and centered around one thing—exceptional pho that makes a morning, or any meal, worth pausing for.
7. Bouray’s Restaurant
Bouray’s Restaurant manages to bring a relaxed vibe right into busy downtown Houston. On my first visit, I wandered in for lunch and was met with quick service and the kind of menu that made choosing tough in the best way. This spot attracts downtown workers looking for a lunch that hits the spot without fuss.
The pho is refreshingly straightforward—no fancy twists, just honest, aromatic broth and generously portioned toppings. The beef pho stands out for its clean flavor and tender slices of meat, balancing comfort and substance perfectly.
Bouray’s has that rare ability to transform a midday break into an easy ritual. If straightforward, dependable pho is what you crave, this place is tough to beat.
8. Pho & More Restaurant
Pho & More Restaurant lives up to its name, serving a loyal following in the Copperfield area with a menu that’s as welcoming as the staff. I stopped by after a long drive, only to be greeted by a fragrant broth so comforting it made Houston’s sprawl feel a little smaller.
The signature beef pho is the highlight here—robust, warm, and balanced with plenty of fresh herbs. The noodles are always perfectly silky, while the brisket and eye of round have a truly melt-in-your-mouth quality. Vegetarian pho is offered too, with a rich, herb-forward broth that doesn’t skimp on depth.
It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners and solo comfort meals alike. If you’re searching for pho where every spoonful tastes considered, Pho & More has you covered.
9. Les Ba’get
Les Ba’get is a modern twist on Vietnamese favorites, rooted in a playful spirit that’s impossible to miss. My go-to here is always the pho—ordered with anticipation, enjoyed with zero regrets. The dining room is lively, the service quick, but the flavors are where they really win loyal fans.
Their beef pho is bold and aromatic, brimming with fresh herbs and a broth that’s practically a meal on its own. The brisket strikes a perfect balance between richness and tenderness, absorbing every ounce of flavor from the soup.
There’s a clear appreciation for quality in the bite and presentation. Les Ba’get is the place to share a bowl with friends or savor an upgraded solo lunch—where playful meets traditional, all in one slurp.
10. Nom Nom Noodles
Nom Nom Noodles quickly makes an impression for those in search of well-executed Vietnamese comfort food out west. My first visit was prompted by a friend’s rave review, and I left understanding the hype. The dining area has a friendly, unfussy vibe—perfect for winding down after a long day.
The pho here excels thanks to a fragrant, clear broth and artfully balanced toppings. The beef pho is a top pick: each slice tender, each spoonful layered with bold yet subtle spice. Vegetarian and vegan pho options prove just as satisfying, rounding out the menu for every taste.
When you want your bowl quick but never rushed in quality, Nom Nom Noodles is the spot. It’s efficient, consistent, and quietly comforting—just what pho should be.
More Things to Try in Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in Houston special?
Houston’s vibrant Vietnamese community means an endless range of pho, from homespun broths to creative takes. You’ll find both traditional flavors and modern twists, all with fresh herbs and deep, aromatic broths.
Where can I find vegetarian or vegan pho in Houston?
Quite a few places cater to plant-based diners, including Old Saigon Cafe, Nom Nom Noodles, Les Ba’get, and Pho & More. Their vegetarian pho comes with rich, well-spiced broths and plenty of vegetables.
Is pho available late at night in Houston?
Some pho spots stay open late, especially near Midtown and Chinatown. Check ahead, since hours change, but you’ll find comforting bowls into the evening at classics like Pho Binh and others.
Does every pho restaurant offer gluten-free options?
Many Houston pho restaurants use rice noodles, which are naturally gluten-free. Broth and sauces sometimes contain gluten, so ask your server for details to be sure.
Which Houston neighborhood has the best pho?
Midtown and Chinatown are famous for their wide selection, but you’ll find standout bowls in the Heights, along Westheimer, and scattered throughout Houston’s suburbs. Each area offers its own character and flavor.