Best Pho in Sacramento, CA

Navigating the endless noodle bowls of Sacramento is a satisfying challenge. If you’ve ever stared at a steaming bowl of pho and wondered if it could get any better, you’re not alone. Sacramento is a quiet giant when it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, and finding the best pho here is as much about discovery as it is about taste. I still remember my first bowl on a cold winter afternoon, swirling basil into the fragrant broth as the city outside faded away. After that, hunting for the city’s best bowls became part city tour, part delicious obsession.

Here, pho is more than soup. It’s the heart of many local tables, with each shop pouring their own soul into the broth and building flavor that lingers far beyond the last bite. Whether you’re a pho devotee or someone new to the ritual of slurping noodles, this guide will walk you through Sacramento’s best. You’ll find both longtime favorites and hidden gems. Read on to discover spots where the broth is rich, the herbs are fresh, and every bowl feels a little bit like home.

Where to find the best pho in Sacramento, CA

Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Sacramento, CA:

  1. Coriander
  2. Pho Bac Hoa Viet
  3. Pho Siagon Bay
  4. Pho Xe Lua
  5. Pho Bac Hoa Viet
  6. Pho Bac Hoa Viet Restaurant
  7. Spices A Taste of Vietnam
  8. Houng Lan Sandwiches
  9. May May Foods
  10. Pho Vung Tau Bay

1. Coriander

Coriander
Image by: TripAdvisor
1899 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95816-7060
+1 916-456-0888
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Coriander sits at the crossroads of comfort and modern flair, making it a solid stop for anyone searching for quality pho in Sacramento. The space is bright and inviting, perfect for both solo slurpers and small groups. The broth here is crystal clear, fragrant, and made with patience—a trait that makes every sip reassuring on a chilly day.

Once, while dodging a Sacramento rainstorm, I ducked into Coriander and discovered their rare steak pho. The beef was meltingly tender, and the broth had gentle layers of star anise and cinnamon that lingered.

The vegetarian pho impresses, too, loaded with fresh vegetables and a broth steeped in earthy aromatics. For a signature experience, try their house special pho, which brings together great cuts and robust, smooth flavors unique to Coriander’s careful kitchen.

2. Pho Bac Hoa Viet

Pho Bac Hoa Viet
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3110 Bradshaw Rd, Sacramento, CA 95827-1605
+1 916-361-3888
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Pho Bac Hoa Viet is where consistency meets comfort, making it a staple for Sacramento’s pho fans. The broth pulls you in with depth—clean, aromatic, and layered with sweet and savory notes. Stepping inside, the buzz of hungry locals hints that you’re in the right spot. My own first visit felt like sitting at a family table, thanks to the quick, friendly service and the sight of bowls bigger than my appetite.

Pho dac biet is the main attraction here, brimming with rare steak, brisket, and tender meatballs, each contributing to a symphony of textures. The fresh basil and crisp bean sprouts only add to the appeal.

Vegetarian or vegan pho lovers are also welcomed with carefully crafted bowls that don’t skimp on flavor. Pho Bac Hoa Viet’s approach blends tradition with small, thoughtful twists, giving every visit a familiar-yet-new feeling.

3. Pho Siagon Bay

1537 Howe Ave, Sacramento, CA 95825-3360
+1 916-922-1288
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Pho Siagon Bay quietly excels in the art of making pho, offering a space where the aroma of simmering broth sets the tone the moment you walk in. This place keeps things simple—focusing on fresh ingredients and genuine flavor. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be.

I still recall a morning when, needing an energy boost, I found comfort in their brisket pho. The broth was soothing and balanced, packing warmth that chased away any traces of grogginess.

Their rare steak and brisket pho is the highlight, with tender slices and aromatic, clear broth. If you’re after an early bowl or a late dinner, their flexible hours mean good pho is never out of reach.

4. Pho Xe Lua

Pho Xe Lua
Image by: TripAdvisor
5331 Stockton Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95820-5411
+1 916-451-8838
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Pho Xe Lua feels like an old friend who knows just how you like your pho. Their bowls come out steaming, deeply aromatic, and generous in size. Regulars know to expect a classic, no-fuss approach that lets the ingredients speak for themselves.

I stopped in one afternoon after a long week, and the signature combo pho made a lasting impression. The beef portions were plentiful, the noodles tender but not mushy, and the broth full of comfort and subtle spice.

If you enjoy tendon and tripe, this is your place. Their cuts are always fresh, adding both texture and tradition. At Pho Xe Lua, each bowl reflects that signature Sacramento warmth—welcoming and real.

5. Pho Bac Hoa Viet

Pho Bac Hoa Viet
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7600 Greenhaven Dr, Sacramento, CA 95831-5604
+1 916-393-0138
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Pho Bac Hoa Viet on Greenhaven Drive is a go-to spot when you want pho done right, every single time. The broth here is consistently clean, robust, and satisfying—never dull or flat. There’s a sense of tradition that runs through each bowl, whether you’re popping in for lunch or winding down with dinner.

On my last visit, I went with their brisket and meatball pho. The brisket was rich and silky, while the meatballs added a hearty bite that kept things interesting.

The house special pho is worth a try, with its generous mix of cuts and lingering, savory broth. This location delivers simplicity and flavor, wrapped up in a warm neighborhood atmosphere.

6. Pho Bac Hoa Viet Restaurant

Pho Bac Hoa Viet Restaurant
Image by: YellowPages
5060 Madison AveSacramento, CA 95841
(916) 331-3888Call

Pho Bac Hoa Viet Restaurant on Madison Ave brings a comfort-food approach to the Vietnamese classics. The broth here is invitingly aromatic, gentle yet complex, making it a favorite for regulars from near and far. The casual, family-style setting feels welcoming, whether you’re taking a solo break or enjoying a group meal.

My first time, I went straight for their combo pho. The rare steak and brisket melded seamlessly with tender noodles, each bite picking up the nuanced spices that define the broth.

The rice noodle pho stands out for its freshness and clarity. With friendly service and a menu that covers all the classic picks, this spot provides a solid, satisfying pho experience in North Highlands.

7. Spices A Taste of Vietnam

1850 Del Paso RdSacramento, CA 95834
(916) 263-9375Call

Spices A Taste of Vietnam brings a splash of brightness to Del Paso Road, delivering pho that’s as vibrant as the room itself. Their broth stands out for its gentle spice and layered aromatics, giving every bowl a subtle lift without overpowering warmth. There’s a refreshing calm that settles in as soon as you sit down, making it a perfect spot to pause and savor.

One afternoon, I ordered their traditional beef pho and was pleasantly surprised by the delicate, balanced flavors and the garden-fresh herbs on the side. Each slurp offered a bit of comfort and a bit of adventure.

The chicken pho is also a house specialty, lighter but no less flavorful. At Spices, every bowl is carefully crafted to let the classic flavors shine in their own style.

8. Houng Lan Sandwiches

Houng Lan Sandwiches
Image by: YellowPages
6930 65th StSacramento, CA 95823
(916) 429-9999Call
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Houng Lan Sandwiches is best known for its banh mi, but its pho deserves more attention than it gets. The small spot on 65th Street blends deli comfort with Vietnamese tradition, serving up pho that’s satisfying and quick. There’s always a lively hum inside, hinting that you’ve come to a local favorite.

I once needed a pick-me-up between errands and tried their beef pho. The broth was light but still full of flavor, with clean spices and vibrant herbs topping each bowl.

Their chicken pho suits days when you want something soothing and not too heavy. Houng Lan’s menu might pull you in with sandwiches, but their pho is just as capable of making you a regular.

9. May May Foods

May May Foods
Image by: YellowPages
6715 Stockton BlvdSacramento, CA 95823
(916) 794-0487Call
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May May Foods stands out for its low-key atmosphere and genuine, homestyle cooking. The pho here has a clean, balanced profile, always served fast and with a smile. Whether you’re a regular or just driving by, the kitchen’s warmth comes through in every bowl.

My first visit was on a whim, and I found myself returning for the brisket pho. The slices were rich and tender, and the broth was fragrant without being heavy. Each bowl felt like something a thoughtful friend would make for you.

The vegetarian pho is a local secret, full of hearty tofu and bright vegetables. At May May Foods, pho isn’t just a dish—it’s a glimpse into simple comfort, executed well every time.

10. Pho Vung Tau Bay

5880 Antelope Rd Ste 200Sacramento, CA 95842
(916) 721-0111Call
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Pho Vung Tau Bay has carved a niche as a neighborhood favorite, thanks to its focus on reliable, deeply flavorful pho. The broth stands out for its clarity and clean finish, making every spoonful taste refreshingly pure. There’s a sense of care in each bowl, reflected in the quality and freshness of their ingredients.

My last visit started with their house special pho, and the tender slices of beef paired perfectly with springy noodles. The herbs came fresh and fragrant, adding lift to the rich broth.

If you want consistency and flavor, this spot delivers. Try their brisket pho for something that leans traditional, or branch out with their seasonal specials when available. Each bowl captures what makes Sacramento’s pho scene thrive.

More Things to Try in Sacramento, CA

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sacramento’s pho scene unique?
Sacramento’s pho stands out thanks to its diverse Vietnamese community and access to fresh local ingredients. Many shops offer regional twists, plus there’s everything from bare-bones classics to creative variations for all tastes.

Are there good vegetarian or vegan pho options in Sacramento?
Definitely. Plenty of pho restaurants in Sacramento serve vegetarian and vegan pho with rich, aromatic broths and fresh toppings. You’ll find standout bowls at spots like Coriander or May May Foods.

Which pho restaurants are open late?
Several pho spots, such as Pho Siagon Bay, often have extended evening hours. It’s a good idea to check current opening times before heading out, as they sometimes change.

What should I look for in great pho?
A great bowl of pho starts with clear, flavorful broth that’s balanced—not too salty or bland—with tender cuts of beef or chicken, and fresh sides of basil, bean sprouts, and lime for extra brightness.

Can I find halal pho in Sacramento?
While not every pho restaurant offers halal options, a few are accommodating or can customize dishes—just ask the staff before ordering. Most focus on traditional beef and chicken pho.

Do Sacramento pho restaurants offer takeout?
Nearly all pho spots in Sacramento offer takeout and some also do delivery. Pho typically travels well, so slurping at home is definitely an option.