Finding an exceptional bowl of pho in Washington, DC feels like a small thrill. Slippery noodles, fragrant broth, and thin cuts of herby beef await in corners of the city both hidden and bustling. I’ve spent years trading tips with night-shift cabbies, skeptical locals, and homesick expats, tasting bowls from strip mall gems to family-run kitchens tucked by busy roundabouts. What lingers in memory isn’t just the warmth of the bowl but the pockets of community built above steam and spice.
This guide distills those slow afternoons and late-night hunts into a clear roadmap for pho enthusiasts. If you want brisket that melts at the poke of a chopstick or a broth whose aroma blooms with star anise and char, you’re exactly where you should be. Every spot here is judged not by hype but by spoonfuls, slurps, and the sort of honest enjoyment that keeps people coming back. Each entry balances accuracy and wit, cutting through the noise to help you find that comforting fix throughout Washington, DC.
Where to find the best pho in Washington, DC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pho in Washington, DC:
- Pho Viet
- Simply Banh Mi
- Pho 54 Noodle Bar
- Pho 14
- Froggy Bottom Pub
- Pho 14
- Noodles on 11
- Pho 88 Noodles and Grill
- Sprig and Sprout
- Pho Express
1. Pho Viet
Pho Viet feels like a seasoned secret among DC’s pho lovers. Every visit is a gentle nudge to not judge a bowl by its cover—this spot’s strength sits squarely in the kitchen. The broth comes clear, not cloudy, with a peppery hit and comforting depth that lingers. You’ll hear regulars recommend the rare beef pho, and for good reason: silky slices relax into the piping hot broth, soaking up all that goodness.
Vegetarian pho here isn’t an afterthought. The mushroom-packed bowl draws out flavor without feeling heavy. Grab a spot for quick lunches or unhurried dinners. Drop in for the signature pho, and let the sharp freshness from Thai basil and lime round out your experience.
2. Simply Banh Mi
Simply Banh Mi leans into a minimalist vibe, putting its energy toward flavor rather than fuss. Every bowl and banh mi is tailored for the ingredient-savvy diner—vegan, halal, and gluten-free options line the menu, all without shortcuts. A quick lunch at this spot revealed the pho to be rich but never oily, scented with healing spice and crowned with a tangle of herbs. Their broth carries a homemade patience, never overpowering, just enough to let each element sing.
The vegan pho deserves a nod with tofu and mushrooms soaking up the soup’s signature warmth. Squeeze in some lime, toss on the bean sprouts, and you have a bowl impossible to finish quickly. This is pho built for the pure joy of eating well.
3. Pho 54 Noodle Bar
Pho 54 Noodle Bar turns a simple meal into something you’ll want to linger over. The broth here is a clear, fragrant pool—never greasy, always layered with cloves, cinnamon, and charred onion. It’s the kind of pho you crave on cold, gray afternoons, served with a smile as you watch the world pass by the big front windows.
I found the brisket pho especially winning, with slices so tender they almost dissolve. Don’t skip the rare steak option, which arrives blushing and gently cooks in the broth’s heat. Each bowl comes crowned with basil, cilantro, and crisp sprouts for a fresh punch at the end.
Pho 54 doesn’t distract with frills—here, it’s all about the balance in the bowl and the care in every sip.
4. Pho 14
Pho 14 has become a classic for anyone serious about pho in DC. There’s a laid-back energy here, matched by a kitchen that pours real devotion into its broth. I still remember slurping my first bowl, missing only the chatter of nearby tables to realize how quickly I’d tuned out everything else.
Their combination pho is a crowd-pleaser—brisket, tendon, and rare beef nestle together, every bite revealing new textures. If you prefer plant-forward, the vegetarian pho stays memorable, rich, and balanced with seasoned tofu and fresh vegetables.
Pho 14’s menu lets you build a bowl to your liking, ensuring each visit is as personal as it is satisfying. Here, simple flavors get the stage they deserve.
5. Froggy Bottom Pub
Froggy Bottom Pub delivers a surprising twist—a pub where pho finds a loyal following. It’s an unexpected blend: college hangout meets soulful Vietnamese comfort, all under one roof just steps from downtown. The atmosphere is relaxed, making long lunches or late suppers feel easy.
My go-to is the classic beef pho, especially after a hectic workday. The broth is soothing, with a clean beefy depth that carries well into the evening. Fresh basil and crunchy bean sprouts arrive on the side, letting you tailor each spoonful—enough to keep things lively even on slower days.
Froggy Bottom bridges worlds: whether you want pub fare or authentic noodle soup, it’s all within reach, no passport required.
6. Pho 14
This Pho 14 outpost on Connecticut Ave is a reliable go-to for pho devotees in northwest DC. The dining room hums with warmth and easygoing chatter—a reflection of the friendly staff and steady flow of regulars. I once waited out a rainstorm here, watching as steam curled from an aromatic bowl and washed the city’s gray away.
The brisket pho here deserves its loyal fan base. Slices come tender, steeped in a clear, rich broth that’s both restorative and deeply flavored. The vegetarian pho—with crisp tofu and plenty of greens—shows equal care in its construction.
Pho 14 turns a simple meal into a tradition, serving comfort and quality in every bowl.
7. Noodles on 11
Noodles on 11 finds its edge in consistency and unfussy charm. The space feels modern but never cold—a place where the scent of simmering spices floats past polished tables. Having ducked in for a midweek lunch, I found the service brisk and the steaming bowls even better.
The signature pho won me over right away with its layered broth and generous cuts of brisket. Each serving arrives with the expected lineup of herbs and lime, making personalizing every sip almost ritualistic.
Vegetarian options are well-executed, allowing plant-based diners to join the fun without missing any depth. At Noodles on 11, expecting a solid, satisfying bowl of pho isn’t a gamble—it’s the rule.
8. Pho 88 Noodles and Grill
Pho 88 Noodles and Grill brings a **bustling, no-nonsense energy to Chinatown, where aromatic bowls land fast and full.** I once escaped a biting winter wind by stepping inside, greeted by a sharp lemongrass aroma and the hum of satisfied chatter.
The rare steak pho is a local favorite—tender slices unfurl in a clear, light broth flecked with fresh herbs. The vegetarian pho here isn’t an afterthought, offering mushrooms and veggies in a balanced, fragrant soup. Pho 88’s attention to detail extends even to their bubble tea, a fun way to round off your meal.
This spot keeps things classic and strong, serving up crowd-pleasers for every appetite without overcomplicating the basics.
9. Sprig and Sprout
Sprig and Sprout feels both familiar and fresh—a place where traditional pho meets contemporary flair. Two floors split the difference between quick counter bites and relaxed, table-service evenings. I grabbed a bowl for lunch by the herb bar, adding handfuls of basil while catching up on emails. The modern setting never distracts from the food’s unmistakable authenticity.
The signature beef pho stands tall, with a broth that’s clear, deeply savory, and never muddy. Vegetarian options are thoughtful, letting mushrooms and fresh greens star in their own right. If you’re seeking balance between speed, quality, and a little neighborhood personality, Sprig and Sprout delivers—right down to the last slurp.
10. Pho Express
(202) 484-1700Call
Pho Express makes a busy lunch break feel like a quick escape. Tucked into L’Enfant Plaza, it’s a lifesaver for downtown workers craving real comfort instead of routine sandwiches. My last visit started with a quick scan of the menu and ended with me hunched over a steaming bowl, grateful for the spicy, warming broth and the minimal wait.
The brisket and rare beef pho gets top marks for its generous slices and hearty flavor, capturing the essentials of a classic pho experience. Each order comes with extra herbs and lime so you can tweak every bite to your liking.
Pho Express keeps the process simple, but the flavors are anything but rushed—a rare find in the neighborhood’s fast-paced shuffle.
More Things to Try in Washington, DC
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes pho in Washington, DC unique?
Pho in DC reflects both classic Vietnamese tradition and the city’s global personality. You’ll find family recipes, modern twists, and plenty of options for dietary needs—including vegetarian and halal pho—across the city’s diverse neighborhoods.
Is pho in DC good for vegetarians or vegans?
Absolutely. Many spots, like Pho Viet and Sprig and Sprout, offer flavorful vegetarian and vegan pho, drawing on rich vegetable broths and plenty of fresh herbs and greens.
Where can I find halal or gluten-free pho in DC?
Several restaurants—including Simply Banh Mi—feature halal and gluten-free options clearly marked on their menus. Always ask staff for the latest offerings, as kitchens are often flexible.
Can I get pho for takeout or delivery in DC?
Yes. Nearly every top pho restaurant, from Pho 14 to Pho 88, offers takeout and delivery, so you can enjoy a bowl wherever you’re most comfortable.
What should I order besides pho?
If you’re in the mood for something different, try fresh rolls, banh mi, or vermicelli noodle bowls—popular extras at most pho spots and a great way to round out your meal.