Searching for the best pho in Palm Springs, CA isn’t just about satisfying a craving. It’s a hunt for those steaming bowls brimming with silky noodles, bright herbs, and that elusive, deep broth that says someone’s grandmother put in extra hours. I remember my first bowl of pho in Palm Springs: I was certain no desert town could simmer anything remotely close to what I’d had in Southern California’s Vietnamese enclaves. But one sip—fragrant, clear, and full of spice—had me convinced the Coachella Valley had kept a few secrets from me.
If you’ve felt the pang for good pho where palm trees and mountain views dominate the skyline, you’re in the right place. I’ve ducked into strip malls, followed the scent of star anise, and sifted through menus, all to spotlight the spots that take their broth seriously. Whether you’re after classic brisket or something a bit more adventurous, this lineup will steer you right to the best pho in Palm Springs, CA. Spoiler: you may find a few new favorites along the way.
Where to find the best pho in Palm Springs, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Palm Springs, CA:
- Rooster and the Pig
- 533 Viet Fusion
- Fuzion Five
- Pho Lan Vietnamese Restaurant
- Pho 533
- Pho-Na Inc
- Pho Vu
- Pho 92 Vietnam Restaurant
- Pho of the desert
- Pho Tho
1. Rooster and the Pig
Rooster and the Pig doesn’t look like your typical pho spot, and that’s the charm. The energy here is always lively, with a buzz that lets you know people come back for more than just the food. I remember my first visit—a packed house, scents of star anise in the air, and a bowl of broth that made me question everything I thought I knew about flavor.
What sets Rooster and the Pig apart is their commitment to clean ingredients and bold flavors, offering both vegan and gluten-free pho options. Their pho is a standout: the noodles are springy, the herbs are bright, and the broth is layers deep with spice and comfort.
I’d point you straight to the Rooster Pho, which arrives steaming, fragrant, and covered in fresh herbs. It tells you, bite by bite, that this place is serious about its soup.
2. 533 Viet Fusion
+17607786595
See Menu
533 Viet Fusion brings a modern twist to Vietnamese cuisine and offers a dining room that feels hip and inviting. Stepping inside, I was greeted by bold art, friendly staff, and a menu that reads like a greatest hits of Vietnamese comfort food—pho included. This spot mixes nostalgia with new flair, and the crowd proves it’s more than just a local secret.
What makes 533 Viet Fusion shine is its use of organic, whole ingredients and a menu filled with clever flavor combinations. There’s a solid selection for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone hunting for gluten-free eats.
If pho is your marker of greatness, their Vegan Pho is a testament to balance, with a broth that manages deep umami without compromise. For meat-eaters, the Classic Beef Pho delivers all those signature herbal notes with absolute finesse.
3. Fuzion Five
Fuzion Five brings an imaginative twist to traditional Vietnamese staples right on Palm Canyon Drive. The interiors are cozy yet modern, making it a comfortable spot for quick lunches or lingering dinners. On my last visit, a bowl of noodle soup so vibrant it begged to be photographed arrived at my table, the broth warming from the first sip.
What truly sets Fuzion Five apart is their variety of pho options and inclusive menu, with dishes for both vegans and carnivores. Their take on pho is layered with herbs and fresh add-ins, letting each bowl feel tailored for you.
The Pho Chay (vegetable pho) shines with a complex, clear broth, while the traditional beef pho is hearty without feeling heavy. Both reflect the kitchen’s attention to detail and dedication to fresh ingredients.
4. Pho Lan Vietnamese Restaurant
(760) 318-8889Call
Pho Lan Vietnamese Restaurant feels like stepping into tradition with a local flair. Nestled in downtown Palm Springs, this spot has quietly built a loyal following for more than 30 years—and for good reason. My last bowl of pho here arrived fragrant and steaming, with unmistakable notes of cinnamon and clove that only come from careful, old-school simmering.
What distinguishes Pho Lan is their dedication to authentic family recipes passed down through generations. The menu is broad, but their pho is the kind that locals whisper about—for its deep, comforting broth and generous toppings.
I always recommend the Pho Tai for its tender slices of beef and bold, clean broth. Vegetarians aren’t left out either, with a vegetable pho that’s both robust and bright. It’s proof there’s mastery in simplicity.
5. Pho 533
Pho 533 sits in Smoke Tree Village, always humming with activity and the aroma of simmering spices. I first wandered in on a hot day and left with a newfound respect for their bold, herbaceous broths. Each bowl of pho is presented like edible art, layered with crisp herbs and bright flavors.
The team at Pho 533 doesn’t cut corners. Every ingredient is hand-selected—think fresh Thai basil, mint, and perfectly cooked noodles. Their menu ranges widely, but you’ll want to focus on the star: Pho Tai, a classic choice known for its delicate slices of beef and a deep, spiced broth.
Vegetarian? The vegan pho is loaded with vegetables and packs a punch with its nuanced, savory broth. Whether you’re a pho purist or enjoy something lighter, you’ll find their approach rewards every type of diner.
6. Pho-Na Inc
Pho-Na Inc sits modestly on Palm Drive, but locals are quick to point out it’s a top spot for comforting, authentic Vietnamese fare. My first visit began with the familiar scent of simmering star anise and ended with an empty bowl and a smile. This is the kind of place where regulars don’t even need to look at the menu before ordering.
What makes Pho-Na Inc a cut above is their generous portions and rich, homemade broth. You can tell each bowl is assembled with care and a gentle hand when it comes to seasoning.
The Pho Ga (chicken pho) comes highly recommended for its fragrant, golden broth and tender chicken. The vegetarian pho delivers the same comfort, stacked high with fresh herbs and crisp vegetables.
7. Pho Vu
(760) 324-1888Call
Pho Vu is discreetly tucked into a Palm Desert shopping plaza but consistently turns out some of the most satisfying pho in the area. The dining room is airy and unpretentious, perfect for casual meals that focus on flavor. I still remember the first time I tried their beef pho—the broth was both clean and deep, and I found myself wishing the bowl was bottomless.
What puts Pho Vu ahead is their attention to freshness and depth of flavor. Every bowl arrives steaming, with vibrant herbs and perfectly cooked noodles waiting underneath a blanket of aromatic broth.
The Pho Tai is an easy favorite, but vegetarians will appreciate the flavor-packed vegetable pho—a rare find with as much heart as the traditional version. It’s a place that quietly wins you over, one bowl at a time.
8. Pho 92 Vietnam Restaurant
Pho 92 Vietnam Restaurant sits a bit off the usual Palm Springs path, but it’s a favorite for anyone serious about a warming bowl of broth. My visit felt like a well-kept secret—every table seemed to know exactly what they wanted, and I was eager to join the ranks. The staff made the experience easy, offering helpful pointers for newcomers.
Pho 92 is known for its fast, friendly service and consistently good flavors, regardless of how busy it gets. The star, of course, is pho, made with aromatic broth that’s both hearty and clean.
If you’re leaning classic, try the Pho Tai: the rare beef is sliced just right, and the herbs are always fresh. Their vegetarian option is big on depth and texture, making it worthy of repeat visits.
9. Pho of the desert
(760) 775-1500Call
Pho of the desert sits in Indio Plaza and quietly draws in locals searching for a comforting bowl of pho after a long day. The space is cozy rather than flashy, which lets the food do all the talking. My visit was marked by friendly staff and that unmistakable steam rising off a fresh bowl—an instant mood boost.
What sets Pho of the desert apart is their quick service and a broth that leans both clean and deeply flavorful. The bowls always arrive generously portioned with crisp herbs and freshly cut veggies.
The signature Pho Tai hits all the right notes: fragrant, lightly spiced, and filled with tender slices of beef. If you prefer a meatless option, their vegetarian pho comes with a surprisingly rich veggie broth and plenty of color on top.
10. Pho Tho
Pho Tho, located on Murrieta Hot Springs Road, is well-known among regulars for its comforting, classic dishes and unpretentious atmosphere. I remember a rainy afternoon spent here, the windows fogged as my bowl of pho arrived—just what you want when you’re craving something nurturing and unassuming.
This spot stands out for its consistently balanced broths and generous portions. The staff have an easy, welcoming manner that makes meals linger and conversations unwind. The kitchen takes its time to coax real depth from every spice and bone.
The Pho Tai comes highly recommended, always arriving with tender beef slices and a bounty of fresh herbs. For those skipping meat, their vegetable pho is both hearty and vibrantly flavored, making every spoonful satisfying.
More Things to Try in Palm Springs, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in Palm Springs unique?
Most Palm Springs pho spots blend traditional recipes with fresh, local ingredients. Some also offer creative twists or fusion touches you won’t find elsewhere in Southern California, making every bowl a bit of a discovery.
Are there vegetarian and vegan pho options in Palm Springs?
Yes, many restaurants—including Rooster and the Pig, 533 Viet Fusion, and Fuzion Five—serve vegetarian and vegan pho. These broths are typically made with simmered vegetables and aromatic herbs for full flavor without meat.
Is pho available gluten-free in Palm Springs?
Several spots cater to gluten-free diners. Rice noodles are naturally gluten-free, and you can request modifications like tamari or gluten-free sauces at places like 533 Viet Fusion and Rooster and the Pig.
Do I need a reservation for pho restaurants in Palm Springs?
For popular spots like Rooster and the Pig or during weekends, it’s smart to call ahead. Many pho restaurants are walk-in friendly, but a reservation can guarantee a table on busy evenings.
What are the most popular pho restaurants in Palm Springs?
Local favorites include Rooster and the Pig, Pho Lan, Pho 533, and Fuzion Five. Each offers a slightly different atmosphere and approach to Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup.