Jacksonville’s pho scene surprises even seasoned food enthusiasts. Hidden behind unassuming shop fronts and woven into busy neighborhoods, countless bowls of steaming noodle soup offer a taste of Vietnamese comfort right in North Florida. Whether you’re chasing that perfect balance of aromatic broth, silky noodles, or fresh herbs, there’s a spot around every corner vying for your chopsticks’ attention.
My own journey for a satisfying bowl began on a drizzly afternoon, unplanned but memorable. The soup arrived clouded with scent—spices, hot broth, and a promise in every slurp. All thoughts of the messy weather faded as I dove in, savoring the way basil brightened each mouthful. The best pho in Jacksonville isn’t just a meal; it’s an open secret among locals, a string of flavorful destinations that draw people back again and again. What follows is a guide lifted from steaming tables and local buzz, made for curious palates and anyone craving Vietnam’s famous noodle soup.
Where to find the best pho in Jacksonville, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Jacksonville, FL:
- Bowl of Pho
- A Bit of Saigon
- Pho King Noodles
- Indochine
- Pho Today
- Yummy Pho
- Pho Dim Sum
- Urban Corner
- Pho Saigon Noodle Grill
- Q Cup Boba Tea
1. Bowl of Pho
Bowl of Pho is a cozy escape on Old Baymeadows Road, loved by regulars and first-timers alike. The atmosphere is welcoming from the moment you walk in, and the staff never rush you, even when the dining room buzzes with conversation.
The broth is crystal clear and aromatic—it’s poured piping hot over noodles just soft enough to twirl around your chopsticks. My favorite, the rare steak pho, arrives with a perfectly pink blush, gradually deepening in flavor as it cooks in the broth.
What sets Bowl of Pho apart is attention to fresh herbs, generous portions, and a menu with vegetarian and gluten-free options. The veggie pho, loaded with crisp greens and silky tofu, is a standout for plant-based diners.
For a classic experience, try the brisket and tendon pho. The rich flavor tells you the broth’s been watched over for hours, a true test of patience and tradition.
2. A Bit of Saigon
Step into A Bit of Saigon, and the aroma alone lets you know you’re in for a treat. This spot values comfort and simplicity, with a menu that doesn’t try too hard yet never fails.
The star here is the pho tai, with silky rare beef and a broth that’s hearty but not heavy. The seasoning feels fine-tuned—enough warmth, a hint of sweetness, and a subtle snap of spice. My go-to order includes their veggie pho, with generous greens and mushrooms adding a satisfying bite.
Service is friendly and fast, perfect for a quick solo lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. And if you’re feeling adventurous, ask for extra basil and lime to brighten each spoonful even further.
3. Pho King Noodles
Pho King Noodles delivers comfort with a bit of whimsy—starting with its memorable name and extending to its friendly, easygoing atmosphere. Every visit feels like a treat, whether you’re a pho newcomer or a regular looking for consistency.
The broth is clear yet savory, with subtle notes of star anise and cinnamon lingering after every sip. Their pho dac biet, a mix of brisket, rare steak, and tendon, is the bowl I return for time and again. Fresh herbs and generous portions round out the meal.
Vegetarian pho is another highlight, loaded with mushrooms and bright vegetables. Each bowl gets a heaping of bean sprouts and lime on the side, letting you customize every bite.
If you want noodles that never get soggy and a broth that warms you through, Pho King Noodles fits the bill.
4. Indochine
Indochine in downtown Jacksonville brings Vietnamese flavors into a modern setting. The décor alone—gleaming tables, warm lighting, and floor-to-ceiling windows—makes it a top choice for a casual lunch or a dinner out.
The pho here leans elegant, with a broth that’s layered and clean. It’s a great spot for those who appreciate subtlety in their soup, plus the kitchen never skimps on the noodle-to-broth ratio.
The vegetarian and gluten-free pho are handled with just as much care, filled with crisp vegetables and generous seasoning. My most memorable bowl featured brisket so tender it melted at the touch of a spoon.
Order extra lime and Thai basil. The fresh herbs are bright and fragrant, giving every spoonful a lift that’s hard to forget.
5. Pho Today
Pho Today feels like a neighborhood secret, tucked into Deer Lake Court and always buzzing with diners hungry for a bright, balanced bowl. The dining room is simple, but the friendly energy sets you at ease right away.
The broth here is rich and never oily, balancing traditional flavors with a light touch. I often start with the pho ga—chicken pho—which arrives with generous slices of chicken and a squeeze of fresh lime to lift the whole dish.
Vegetarians will appreciate their tofu and veggie pho, which comes with an extra portion of crisp greens. It’s clear the kitchen knows how to treat vegetables with care, letting their flavors shine through in every spoonful.
Portions are hearty, and the service is quick. It’s easy to come hungry and leave satisfied.
6. Yummy Pho
Yummy Pho serves up comfort without any pretense, tucked beside Normandy Boulevard. The space is down-to-earth, often filled with a mix of locals on their lunch break and families catching up over big bowls.
Their beef pho stands out for its deeply flavorful broth and thin, tender cuts of beef. The aroma hints at slow simmering and careful seasoning, making the first sip almost as good as the last. Service is brisk but friendly, and your pho arrives at the table piping hot.
If you’re in the mood for something a little lighter, their chicken pho is clean and satisfying, with a delicate broth that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Don’t forget to try the fresh spring rolls for a light start to your meal.
7. Pho Dim Sum
Pho Dim Sum puts a family touch on every bowl that comes out of their kitchen. Nestled in Deerwood Marketplace, this spot offers the rare pairing of Vietnamese pho and classic Chinese comfort food under one roof.
The pho here feels homey and honest, the broth slow-simmered with care and served steaming hot. My favorite is the pho tai—tender slices of beef in a broth that lifts with every bite of fresh basil and lime. Their noodles are always silky and generous.
Craving something extra? Pair your pho with a plate of their handmade vegetarian dumplings. The mix of flavors is unbeatable, highlighting the kitchen’s versatility and consistent quality.
Service is always warm, and portions never leave you wanting more.
8. Urban Corner
(904) 683-2882Call
Urban Corner sits right in the heart of Riverside, mixing local flair with Vietnamese classics. The vibe is lively but never overwhelming—just the right place for a lunch break or easygoing dinner.
Their pho fits the neighborhood energy: bright, comforting, and never short on flavor. I was drawn in by the brisket pho, where each spoonful balanced savory richness with the fresh snap of basil and onions. Bowls arrive steaming, and the aroma hints at hours spent simmering the broth.
What makes Urban Corner shine is consistency—the broth is always clear, not greasy, and the noodles arrive with that perfect spring. Vegetarian options round out the menu, so there’s something for everyone at the table.
Add extra jalapeño if you like a bit of kick. The spice lifts every bite and gives the standard bowl an Urban Corner twist.
9. Pho Saigon Noodle Grill
(904) 361-3919Call
Pho Saigon Noodle Grill feels like a slice of Vietnam on Beach Boulevard. The space buzzes with energy at lunchtime, full of regulars who know where to find a generous bowl of pho that gets the basics just right.
Their classic beef pho comes with a fragrant, amber-hued broth, soft noodles, and a mountain of fresh herbs. The first time I tried it, the flavors felt clean and layered—never fussy, always balanced.
The kitchen isn’t afraid to load up on the extras—think extra basil, lime, and crisp bean sprouts. Even the simple chicken pho delivers with comfort and depth, a popular pick for diners looking for something light yet satisfying.
Service is quick, and the portions are generous. Here, tradition and quality run side by side.
10. Q Cup Boba Tea
Q Cup Boba Tea is more than a boba spot—it’s a relaxing hangout with a Vietnamese menu that goes far beyond tea. The ambiance is playful, and the service always feels attentive without being overbearing.
The pho might surprise you, with a broth that’s delicate but bold and noodles that keep their texture from first bite to last. My preferred pick is the classic beef pho, paired with a crisp boba tea to cut through the richness of the soup.
Vegetarian pho is bright and refreshing, loaded with vegetables and full of clean flavor. It’s easy to stop in for a quick lunch or stay for some quiet study time with a hot bowl resting nearby.
For a unique bite, try their spring rolls as a light, fresh starter alongside your pho.
More Things to Try in Jacksonville, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in Jacksonville different from other cities?
Jacksonville’s pho scene offers a diverse mix of family-run kitchens and modern spots. You’ll find broths with both classic and creative touches—many places use locally sourced herbs and keep the flavors light and clear, suited to Florida’s climate.
Which pho restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Many top spots, like Bowl of Pho, Pho King Noodles, and Indochine, serve vegetarian and vegan pho. These bowls typically come with hearty portions of vegetables and tofu, with broths built just for plant-based diners.
Is pho available for takeout or delivery in Jacksonville?
Almost every pho spot offers takeout, and several provide delivery through their own sites or third-party apps. Call ahead or check restaurant websites for their latest pickup and delivery options.
Do Jacksonville pho restaurants offer gluten-free options?
Yes, several places—such as Indochine and Bowl of Pho—offer gluten-free modifications. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check with your server to ensure your bowl is safe.
What’s the best way to customize my pho order?
Ask for extra herbs, lime, or jalapeños to add a fresh pop and more heat. Prefer your broth lighter or want to skip certain cuts of meat? Just let the staff know—most kitchens are happy to oblige.