Looking for the best pho in Tampa is a quest that borders on obsession for some of us. I still remember my first accidental bowl: a chilly afternoon, steam curling from a broth so fragrant it pulled me right through the door of an unassuming spot. One spoonful and the world faded away—there’s something about the delicate balance of fresh herbs, slow-simmered broth, and rice noodles that hits like a culinary comfort blanket. That experience fueled my hunt, leading me across Tampa, chopsticks-ready and always keen for the next slurp.
Tampa’s pho scene is both lively and refreshingly authentic, shaped by passionate families and innovative chefs, all vying to serve you that unforgettable bowl. Whether you’re chasing the deepest, richest broth or the lightest, most aromatic noodles, the city’s got you covered. I’ve methodically tasted my way through Tampa, charting the highs and hidden gems. What follows isn’t just a list—it’s the roadmap for your next great bowl, guided by experience and a healthy dose of obsession. Dive in, and let’s get to the good stuff.
Where to find the best pho in Tampa, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Tampa, FL:
- Wat Mongkolratanaram Thai Temple Sunday Market
- Pho Quyen Restaurant
- Thinh An Kitchen & Tofu
- Saigon Bay Vietnamese Restaurant
- Restaurant BT
- Asiatic Street Food & Noodle Bar
- Trang Viet Cuisine
- Bamboozle Channelside
- Pho 813
- Pho An Hoa
1. Wat Mongkolratanaram Thai Temple Sunday Market
Wat Mongkolratanaram’s Sunday Market isn’t just a place to eat; it feels like you’ve stumbled into Tampa’s best secret. Lemon trees sway, monks in ochre robes drift by, and there’s the steady hum of neighbors trading stories over hot bowls of pho. My first visit was pure serendipity—a friend dragged me before I’d finished my morning coffee. I never looked back.
This market stands out because it’s as authentic as they come. Everything you order is prepared with reverence, but the pho here is a revelation. The broth is light yet rich, layered with spices and punctuated by bright herbs. It’s the kind of bowl that makes you rethink how good comfort food can be.
Order the pho with tofu and fresh vegetables; it’s a bowl that showcases the market’s commitment to quality and tradition. Vegan and vegetarian options aren’t afterthoughts—they’re crafted with the same care as every other dish.
2. Pho Quyen Restaurant
Pho Quyen Restaurant quietly rules Tampa’s pho scene from its spot on Hillsborough Ave. I first wandered in on a rainy afternoon, drawn by the steady crowd and the clouds of steam rising in the window. The place buzzes with regulars who have favorite tables and even favorite servers, all of whom glide between tables with easy warmth.
What makes Pho Quyen special is their broth. It’s clear, aromatic, and full of depth—a testament to a recipe that’s been refined over years. Every bowl feels carefully considered, never rushed. The menu doesn’t cut corners for vegetarians or vegans, offering a variety of plant-based options that surprise with their richness and flavor.
Try the house special pho loaded with fresh herbs and the right amount of spice. For a lighter option, the vegetarian pho is generous and bright, proof that Pho Quyen takes every bowl seriously.
3. Thinh An Kitchen & Tofu
Thinh An Kitchen & Tofu feels like a well-kept neighborhood secret tucked away on Waters Ave. My first time in, the aroma of simmering broth and freshly baked baguettes caught me off guard—in the best way. Family photos and the hum of conversation set a tone that’s both casual and full of care.
This spot makes its mark by doing everything in-house, especially the tofu, which is downright addictive. Their commitment to freshness is obvious with every bite, from crisp herbs to silken tofu made that morning. It’s the real deal for anyone serious about Vietnamese flavors.
The tofu pho is light, fragrant, and lets the quality ingredients shine. You’ll also find a vegetarian pho that is vibrant with a clean, bright broth. Thinh An Kitchen & Tofu proves that attention to detail transforms a simple bowl into something memorable.
4. Saigon Bay Vietnamese Restaurant
Saigon Bay Vietnamese Restaurant feels like Tampa’s answer to a bustling Saigon corner eatery. On my first visit, the bright décor and friendly staff promised a relaxed vibe—and the food delivered. You’ll spot plenty of regulars chatting over steaming bowls, setting the tone before you even glance at the menu.
This spot’s strength is a broth that signals hours of patient attention, delicate but none too light, and always layered with herbs and spices that build as you eat. Generous portions make every bowl feel like an event, not just a quick meal.
Order the Saigon Bay Special Pho—a harmonious mix of silky noodles, crisp herbs, and a balanced broth. Vegetarian pho options impress with their freshness and bright, soothing flavors, reflecting how Saigon Bay respects tradition and quality in each bowl.
5. Restaurant BT
Restaurant BT brings a touch of modern elegance to Tampa’s Vietnamese dining scene. My first meal here felt like an invitation to linger; serene décor and attentive service set a different pace, one that encourages you to savor each detail. It’s the sort of place where you’re as likely to spot regulars as special-occasion diners.
Chef BT Nguyen’s approach blends tradition with a refined twist. The care in presentation and the quality of ingredients make every bowl feel a bit like edible art. This isn’t your grab-and-go pho—each flavor is balanced for a slow enjoyment.
Try the vegetarian pho. The light, aromatic broth and vivid green herbs are a good example of Restaurant BT’s focus on clean, vibrant flavors that still honor classic comfort.
6. Asiatic Street Food & Noodle Bar
Asiatic Street Food & Noodle Bar in Ybor City is one of those places where the energy hits you long before the first spoonful. My first visit was late on a Saturday—the dining room was a lively swirl of locals, street art, and the clatter of chopsticks meeting bowls. There’s an urban flair here that makes you want to hang out a while.
This restaurant stands out for its creative edge. The kitchen fuses classic Vietnamese techniques with playful twists, giving each bowl of pho its own personality without losing respect for tradition. Expect bright flavors layered over a well-made broth, each sip as easy on the palate as it is on the eyes.
Order the house pho with loads of herbs, or opt for their vibrant veg pho if you’re in the mood for something lighter. Both choices give you a good sense of how Asiatic balances comfort and creativity in every bowl.
7. Trang Viet Cuisine
Trang Viet Cuisine is where familiarity meets surprise, tucked on bustling Fowler Ave. My introduction was as laid-back as their atmosphere—chatting with friends, swapping bites across the table. The staff seemed to know half the customers by name, and there’s an ease here that encourages you to settle in and linger.
What sets Trang apart is the range and consistency. The kitchen turns out fragrant broths, packed with flavor from hours of careful simmering, and manages to balance traditional techniques with a willingness to accommodate modern preferences. Portions are generous, making every meal feel extra satisfying.
The veggie pho is a must-try, brimming with fresh greens, soft tofu, and a delicately seasoned broth. Each bowl makes it clear how Trang Viet Cuisine blends tradition and genuine hospitality.
8. Bamboozle Channelside
Bamboozle Channelside makes Vietnamese fusion feel fresh and effortless. I remember ducking in on a lunch break and leaving genuinely impressed by just how light and full of flavor every dish was. The sleek, modern setting and upbeat staff give the place a welcoming, anything-goes vibe.
This spot’s approach to pho is distinctive: think classic broth, but accompanied by a broad array of crisp veggies and bold, house-made sauces. The health-conscious slant doesn’t mean any less flavor—just more room to feel good about lingering spoonfuls.
Order the vegan pho for a bright, vegetable-forward take or opt for their classic version with a customizable lineup of fresh garnishes. It’s a real showcase of Bamboozle’s knack for balancing tradition with a modern twist.
9. Pho 813
Pho 813 is every bit the reliable neighborhood stop for a steaming bowl of pho, and the relaxed vibe means there’s never any rush. My first visit was on a whim, but I quickly realized why regulars drop by like clockwork. The interior is simple, but the focus is on the food—a decision that pays off from the first sip of broth.
This spot stands out for its no-nonsense approach. Pho here is straight to the point, with a clean, powerful flavor profile that tastes like the result of careful, unhurried cooking. Staff are quick to recommend favorites if you can’t decide, and portions are generous without feeling over the top.
Try their traditional pho if you want the full experience, or opt for the tofu pho for something lighter. Either way, you get an honest bowl that showcases Pho 813’s commitment to doing pho right.
10. Pho An Hoa
Pho An Hoa is a cozy, unpretentious spot where the focus is all about the food. When I walked in for the first time, the warm welcome and the scent of simmering spices set the tone. Regulars call this place a hidden gem, and you instantly see why as bowls of hot pho land on tables around you.
What makes Pho An Hoa stand out is the clarity and depth of their broth—perfectly balanced, never oily, and always nuanced. The kitchen doesn’t rely on gimmicks, just solid technique and good ingredients that speak for themselves.
Order the classic pho with tofu or veggies for a clean, satisfying experience. The portions are hearty, and every bite reflects Pho An Hoa’s quiet pride in tradition.
More Things to Try in Tampa, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What is pho?
Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup. It features a clear, aromatic broth, rice noodles, herbs, and your choice of toppings, often tofu or vegetables if you prefer plant-based options.
Where can I find the best pho in Tampa?
Tampa is home to many standout pho spots, including Pho Quyen, Saigon Bay, and Wat Mongkolratanaram Thai Temple Sunday Market. Each place offers its own style, so exploring a few is the way to go.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options in Tampa?
Absolutely. Most major pho restaurants in Tampa, like Thinh An Kitchen & Tofu and Bamboozle Channelside, offer delicious vegetarian and vegan pho loaded with fresh herbs and flavorful broths.
Which pho restaurant is best for large groups?
Pho Quyen and Trang Viet Cuisine both have spacious seating and are welcoming to groups. It’s still smart to call ahead if you have a big party.
Is pho available for takeout in Tampa?
Definitely. Most places, including Pho 813 and Pho An Hoa, offer takeout, making it easy to enjoy comforting pho at home or on the go.