If you’re anything like me, a bowl of steaming, fragrant pho is less of a meal and more of a gentle rescue. Memphis may be barbecue royalty, but when you crave richly spiced broth tangled with tender noodles, there’s a hidden world of Vietnamese gems ready to be discovered across the city. Years ago, I wandered into a small corner spot on a rainy afternoon. One slurp and my idea of comfort food changed for good. Pho in Memphis is not just a trend—it’s a quiet staple, with chefs committed to heart-soothing flavors and time-honored recipes.
Finding the best pho in Memphis shouldn’t feel like a scavenger hunt. Whether you’re new to the city’s Vietnamese food scene or you can tell your brisket from your beef balls, this guide lines up top picks where clear broth, aromatic herbs, and generous portions await. Every spot here holds its own legend, whether it’s a loyal crowd, secret spice blend, or the kind of service that makes you want to linger. Curious where to start? The next bowl might just become your favorite.
Where to find the best pho in Memphis, TN
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Memphis, TN:
- Vietnamese Lotus Restaurant
- Vietnam Restaurant
- Pho Saigon
- The Lotus Restaurant
- Pho Saigon Noodle Grill
- Pho Binh
- Pho House
- Phuong Long
- Little Saigon Restaurant
- Pho So 8
1. Vietnamese Lotus Restaurant
Tucked away on Summer Ave, Vietnamese Lotus Restaurant quietly delivers some of the most soulful Vietnamese fare in Memphis. On my last visit, the cozy dining room was filled with the aroma of simmering broth and freshly chopped herbs—a sign you’re in the right place for pho. The staff here are warm, always quick with a suggestion or a smile.
What sets this spot apart is their unwavering attention to detail. Every bowl of pho arrives with a clear, deeply flavored broth and plenty of fresh basil, bean sprouts, and bright lime wedges. The noodles are tender and the beef is sliced just right, landing at that perfect intersection of comfort and tradition.
Pho Tai is the real draw—think delicate rare steak that cooks gently in broth right at your table. Pair it with an order of vegetarian spring rolls if you want to keep things light. Here, each spoonful offers a taste of Hanoi’s old-world charm without leaving Memphis.
2. Vietnam Restaurant
+1 901-249-5349
Among the Midtown lunch crowd, Vietnam Restaurant is practically a local legend. I remember slipping into a window booth one chilly afternoon and ordering the house special pho; by the second sip, I understood why regulars keep coming back. The inviting space is always bustling, yet service is as attentive as it gets.
This eatery stands out for its thoughtful options—vegetarian and vegan pho included. The broth is fragrant, the noodles light, and every garnish—from cilantro to bean sprouts—tastes impossibly fresh. You’ll never feel like an afterthought here, whether you’re plant-based or not.
If you want a standout meal, order the Pho Dac Biet. It offers up a melody of brisket, steak, and tendon. For something green, the tofu and veggie pho is a bowl that surprises even the most committed carnivores.
3. Pho Saigon
Step inside Pho Saigon and you’re greeted by a comforting buzz—a mix of laughter, clinking bowls, and the unmistakable aroma of star anise. My first taste here was a simple bowl of beef pho that set the bar high with its clear, intensely savory broth and perfectly springy noodles. Even the garnish plate felt generous and thoughtful.
Pho Saigon truly shines because of its well-balanced flavors and consistency. The kitchen doesn’t cut corners, and you can tell the broth has simmered for hours. There are vegetarian and vegan options, but the classic Pho Tai Nam—with rare steak and flank—is a personal favorite. It tastes like the kind of recipe someone jealously guards at home.
4. The Lotus Restaurant
The Lotus Restaurant is a spot where family-style comfort meets classic Vietnamese cooking. I still remember ducking inside on a busy weekday and being met with a table loaded with steaming pho and the kind of warmth that only comes from a family-run kitchen. Their generous portions and friendly faces have a way of making you feel like a regular, even if you’re new.
This restaurant stands out for its balance of affordability and authentic flavor. Every bowl is crafted with care, using traditional herbs and aromatic spices that pop with every slurp. Payment is easy, and the atmosphere is as relaxed as your favorite pair of shoes.
Don’t miss the Pho Ga—a chicken pho with depth and clarity. Or, try the classic beef pho for a more layered flavor. Each sip reminds you why Lotus has earned a loyal following in Memphis.
5. Pho Saigon Noodle Grill
(901) 458-1644Call
Pho Saigon Noodle Grill keeps things simple, affordable, and incredibly satisfying. One rainy evening, I stopped by for a quick bite and left feeling revitalized. The no-frills setting makes this place all about flavor, letting the food do all the talking. You can always count on a steaming bowl, fast service, and prices that keep both your wallet and stomach happy.
What distinguishes Pho Saigon Noodle Grill is its rich, deeply savory broth and generous noodle servings. Each bowl is assembled with attention, featuring plenty of fresh herbs and tender slices of beef or chicken.
A must-try is their Pho Tai. The rare beef slices arrive just barely pink, transformed by the broth right at the table. The combination of simplicity and quality proves you don’t need frills to enjoy standout pho in Memphis.
6. Pho Binh
(901) 276-0006Call
Tucked into Midtown, Pho Binh is the kind of spot where regulars know each other’s orders. My first visit was on a weekday—one of those “just need something soothing” kinda days. The moment I tasted their pho, I understood the loyalty. The setting is unfussy, and the hospitality is as warm as the broth itself.
Pho Binh stands out for its clean, balanced broth and distinct homemade touch. Here, every detail from the sliced beef to the heap of herbs feels intentionally fresh. The portions are hearty without overdoing it, which makes it great for a casual lunch or dinner.
Order the Pho Dac Biet if you want variety—this signature bowl comes loaded with everything, from brisket to meatballs. For something lighter, the chicken pho is equally comforting and rich in flavor.
7. Pho House
(901) 321-5425Call
Pho House sits quietly on Jefferson Ave but deserves a bit of fanfare. I dropped in after a brisk walk, hungry for more than just a snack. The place felt inviting—no crowded chaos, just the sizzle from the kitchen and the kind of aroma that makes you hungry even if you weren’t before you walked in.
What elevates Pho House is its warm service and classic, honest bowls of pho. Here, the broth is both clear and rich, topped with generous portions of beef or chicken and plenty of fresh herbs. They strike a balance between portion size and price that’s hard to beat in Midtown.
The Pho Chin—featuring slow-cooked brisket—stands out for its tender meat and satisfying depth. Try it with extra basil and lime for a bright finish that never feels heavy. This is a spot for those who appreciate authenticity without flash.
8. Phuong Long
Phuong Long on North Cleveland is a neighborhood favorite that takes tradition seriously but never feels stiff. I first wandered in on a whim and found myself welcomed by the gentle hum of conversation and the unmistakable scent of simmering spices. There’s an energy here that feels both lively and laid back, making it ideal for everything from solo meals to family dinners.
Phuong Long distinguishes itself with its meticulously layered broths and portion sizes that never leave you wanting. The staff are quick with a friendly recommendation, and everything on the menu feels homemade—because it is. The care taken in each bowl makes a difference you can taste.
The go-to order is the Pho Bo Vien. The beef meatballs are springy, the noodles have the perfect bite, and the garnishes are fresh enough to brighten any bowl. This spot captures the joyful, communal spirit of Vietnamese dining in Memphis.
9. Little Saigon Restaurant
(901) 794-3544Call
Little Saigon Restaurant on Mount Moriah feels like a best-kept secret for those who crave Vietnamese comfort food on a budget. My introduction to their pho came one lazy Sunday, and the generous portions put most diners to shame. It’s a family-style spot where the mood is easy and the service is genuinely welcoming.
This restaurant stands out for its rich, full-bodied broths and an old-school approach that feels nostalgic yet timeless. There’s an eye for freshness, from the crisp bean sprouts to the bright hits of lime that arrive on the side of your bowl.
If you’re unsure where to start, the Pho Tai is a classic. Thinly sliced beef mingles with silky noodles, resulting in pure comfort that lingers long after you leave. Ideal for both quick lunches and drawn-out dinners.
10. Pho So 8
(901) 366-7827Call
Pho So 8 is the kind of place you find by word of mouth—and once you do, it’s hard not to tell everyone. On my first visit, the dining room was lively with families and solo diners all tucking into steaming bowls. The service was quick, and the focus clearly centered on delivering solid, comforting Vietnamese classics.
The standout here is the robust, fragrant broth that forms the heart of every bowl. Pho So 8 skips shortcuts and it shows; every sip feels like the result of hours in the kitchen, coaxing deep flavors from cinnamon, clove, and star anise.
A local favorite is the Pho Dac Biet. It’s a mix of beef cuts—brisket, round, and tendon—that captures the spirit of traditional pho. Even the herbs feel extra fresh, finishing each bowl with a crisp, aromatic edge.
More Things to Try in Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best pho in Memphis?
Some of the top spots for pho in Memphis include Vietnamese Lotus Restaurant, Pho Saigon, Vietnam Restaurant, and Pho Binh. Each offers distinct broths and a cozy atmosphere, so it’s worth trying a few to discover your favorite.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Memphis?
Yes, several restaurants—like Vietnam Restaurant and Pho Saigon—offer vegetarian and vegan pho. These versions feature rich vegetable broths and plenty of fresh herbs and tofu.
What should I look for in a great bowl of pho?
An excellent bowl of pho should have clear, flavorful broth, tender noodles, freshly sliced beef or chicken, and a plate of herbs and lime on the side for customization. The aroma alone should make you hungry.
Is pho in Memphis expensive?
Pho prices in Memphis are generally quite reasonable. Many spots offer hearty bowls without breaking the bank, making it a favorite for both quick lunches and relaxed dinners.
Are there halal-friendly pho options in Memphis?
While not every spot is halal-certified, you can always ask about halal or non-pork broth options at individual restaurants. Many places focus on beef and chicken pho without haram ingredients.
Can I get pho for takeout in Memphis?
Almost every pho restaurant listed offers takeout and dine-in service. Broth is typically packaged separately to keep your noodles from getting soggy en route.