Pho is a bit of a secret handshake for food lovers. If you’ve ever lifted a spoon from a bowl of broth crowned with bright herbs and tender beef, you know it. Lincoln, Nebraska, is quietly crafting some of the best bowls outside of Saigon. Here, family-owned kitchens and vibrant little shops simmer up broths that taste like they’ve been waiting days just for you.
My own first taste of Lincoln’s pho involved dodging a cold Nebraska wind and ducking into a cheerful shop. The aroma alone was enough to forget winter. The clash of rich soup, zippy lime, and silky noodles was a revelation—and every bowl since has lived up to that memory. This city offers a tour of Vietnamese flavors with genuine charm and no shortcuts. Let’s get to the names and nooks where you’ll want to pull up a chair—because Lincoln’s best pho is calling your name.
1. Pho Factory
Pho Factory brings comfort in a bowl to Lincoln’s tastemakers. Nestled near the university, it draws students and locals after that signature slow-cooked broth. On my first visit, the scent of star anise trailed out the door and convinced me to stay for dinner rather than takeout.
What sets Pho Factory apart is the purity of its broth—clear, rich and deeply aromatic. The staff offer guidance if you’re new, spotting the difference between brisket and rare steak pho with an easy smile.
Order the classic Pho Tai (rare beef pho). The beef arrives tender, just blushing as it cooks in the broth, while the noodles have just the right bounce. Vegetarian friends rave about the tofu option, which never feels like an afterthought here.
2. Pho Nguyenn Vietnamese Restaurant
Pho Nguyenn Vietnamese Restaurant is a cozy, lively spot where I first discovered just how deeply flavors can linger. The dining room buzzes, yet there’s always time for a warm greeting and a pot of tea at your table.
Pho Nguyenn stands out for its silky, balanced broth and generous portions. The menu covers both classic and contemporary tastes, so anyone can find comfort here. Vegan guests walk away as happy as any pho traditionalist.
For an authentic experience, start with the Pho Dac Biet, their house special, layered with sliced beef and brisket. The vegan pho is praised for deep, earthy notes—plenty of mushrooms, broad rice noodles, and a clean, refreshing finish.
3. Pho 14 Noodles Palace
Pho 14 Noodles Palace is one of Lincoln’s hidden treasures for those craving a straightforward, hearty bowl of pho. The space feels relaxed, with sunlight streaming through big windows, and the kitchen fills the dining area with the fragrance of simmered spices.
What sets Pho 14 Noodles Palace apart is consistency. On each visit, I found the broth sparkling clear and full of flavor, never overwhelmed by salt or oil. The service is quick and polite, making it perfect for an unhurried lunch or an easy dinner.
Try their Pho Chin (sliced brisket pho) if you want classic comfort. The beef is always soft, and the noodles are toothsome and springy. For rice noodle enthusiasts, the house special packs in a medley of meats and fresh herbs.
4. Vung Tau Restaurant
Vung Tau Restaurant is a classic corner stop in Lincoln, where regulars know that patience is rewarded. My first bowl here came after watching the steam rise from many tables—everyone chatting, no one in a hurry. The atmosphere is inviting, with soft lighting and cheerful service.
Vung Tau stands out because they emphasize depth in every broth, using a blend of fresh aromatics and a careful cooking process. Each bowl radiates warmth and attention to detail. There are thoughtful vegan alternatives too, which taste just as comforting as the originals.
Order the Pho Bo for a pure showcase of beef pho, or try the vegan pho, which is fragrant and rich with mushrooms and roasted vegetables. Both reflect the kitchen’s commitment to authentic, honest flavors.
5. Banhwich Cafe
Banhwich Cafe feels like a playful twist on traditional Vietnamese eats. My last visit blended nostalgia with fresh, new flavors—bustling with university students grabbing quick meals or friends chatting on a break. The colorful menu tempts with far more than just sandwiches and coffee.
What makes Banhwich Cafe stand out is its fusion of classic soup recipes with a modern touch. Each bowl of pho here tastes bright and light, with delicate herbs and crisp veggies finished at the last second for peak freshness.
Their House Pho is a smart pick: flavorful beef broth, ribbons of noodles, and a level of customization that lets both meat-lovers and vegetarians find their perfect bowl. This spot proves that even a quick lunch can deliver authentic comfort.
6. Little Saigon Asian Grocery Store
(402) 435-4367Call
Little Saigon Asian Grocery Store is more than a market—it’s a local secret for enthusiastic home cooks hunting for pho ingredients and ready-to-eat delights. On my first visit, I nearly lost track of time browsing fragrant herbs, fresh noodles, and shelves stacked with specialty spices.
What makes Little Saigon unique is its dual personality: part grocery, part small eatery. The steam wafting from the kitchen makes grabbing a bowl of pho irresistible, even when you planned on just shopping.
The beef pho from their counter captures familiar homestyle comfort, with a clear, fragrant broth and perfectly springy noodles. Shoppers also recommend the vegetarian pho, known for its fresh vegetables and aromatic broth. It’s an unexpected spot for a quick, memorable pho fix.
7. Pho And Grill
Pho And Grill is where the balance of flavor and calm atmosphere instantly sets the mood for a satisfying meal. My first stop there was on a rainy afternoon, and within minutes, a comforting bowl of soup made the weather almost irrelevant.
Pho And Grill stands out for its bright, welcoming dining room and a menu that doesn’t cut corners. The dishes feel fresh, and everything from broth clarity to meat tenderness is reliable with each visit.
Order the Pho Ga (chicken pho) if you’re searching for subtlety. The broth is delicate but full-bodied, carrying sweet onion and spice. The combination pho is also a hit, letting you sample brisket, meatballs and more in a single, aromatic bowl.
8. Pho14 Noodles Palace
Pho14 Noodles Palace takes the art of pho seriously, making it a reliable kitchen stop for both regulars and newcomers. Each time I stopped in, I found the space sunny and simple, and always left with the subtle spices of anise and clove lingering on my mind.
The real highlight at Pho14 Noodles Palace is how well they handle tradition. From the careful layering of beef, brisket, and herbs to the perfectly chewy noodles, every detail seems dialed in. The service is attentive, adding to the warmth of the experience.
Go with the Pho Dac Biet, their “special” bowl which piles rare steak, brisket, and tendon into a broth that gleams. For a lighter but equally flavor-packed experience, the vegetable pho hits all the right notes.
9. Golden Wok
Golden Wok is an inviting blend of Vietnamese and Chinese flavors, tucked into a bustling stretch of Lincoln. The first time I dropped by, I noticed the sense of community—diners sharing plates and swapping food tips as familiar faces popped in for their usual orders.
Golden Wok stands out for its comfort-driven approach. The space is welcoming, and the staff makes sure every order arrives just right. Much of their menu leans classic, but the pho is always fresh and balanced, never heavy or greasy.
The Pho Tai (sliced rare beef pho) is a strong choice, arriving steaming hot with bright herbs and a broth that’s notably clear. If you feel like exploring, the vegetarian pho brings deep, savory satisfaction in a simple, wholesome way.
10. Noodle Soup Restaurant
(402) 261-9140Call
Noodle Soup Restaurant is where you find steaming bowls that never disappoint, even on your toughest days. My first visit was on a whim, and the soothing aroma hit me before I even got to my table. Despite the name, the menu offers so much more than noodles alone.
What gives Noodle Soup Restaurant its charm is a no-fuss approach—big flavor, hearty servings, and friendly faces behind the counter. The space feels comfortable, just right for solo diners or families.
The Pho Bo Vien (beef meatball pho) is their standout option, with bouncy meatballs and a broth that sings with subtle spices. Lovers of veggie bowls should try their vegetarian pho, featuring crisp, bright-tasting vegetables and a broth that’s anything but bland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pho?
Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup featuring a savory broth, rice noodles, herbs, and your choice of meats or tofu. Lincoln’s pho scene offers both traditional and creative options for every palate.
Where can I find the best pho in Lincoln, NE?
Lincoln has plenty of great spots for pho, including Pho Factory, Pho Nguyenn Vietnamese Restaurant, and Pho 14 Noodles Palace. Each brings distinct flavors and house secrets to the table.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Lincoln?
Yes, many places like Pho Factory, Vung Tau Restaurant, and Little Saigon Asian Grocery Store offer delicious vegetarian and vegan pho, featuring rich broths and plenty of fresh vegetables.
Is pho usually available for takeout in Lincoln?
Most local pho restaurants provide takeout. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting bowl at home or on the go. Check each shop’s current hours and takeout services online or by phone.
Which pho dish is best for first-timers?
Start with Pho Tai (rare beef pho) or Pho Dac Biet (house special). Both offer a classic introduction to the flavors of traditional pho in Lincoln.