Pho Phuong is one of the most popular pho restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, loved for its flavorful broth, fresh ingredients, and authentic family recipe. Famous for its signature oxtail pho, this eatery has become a must-visit spot for anyone searching for the best pho in Saigon. With generous portions, high-quality beef, and a welcoming atmosphere, Pho Phuong continues to attract both locals and international travelers looking for a true Vietnamese dining experience.

Located at: 25 Hoang Sa Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Open from 05:30 AM – 8:30 PM

Pho is a familiar dish in Vietnam, and the Michelin Bib Gourmand list, published annually, always highlights quality pho restaurants with reasonable prices. In 2023, Pho Phuong was one of eight pho restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City honored. Interestingly, Pho Hoang, run by the owner’s sister, was also included. Both sisters use a family pho recipe that has won the hearts of locals and travelers alike. For both domestic and international tourists visiting Saigon, this restaurant is a must-try for a unique and captivating pho experience.

Ms. Phuong shared that their pho originated from a family recipe in Nam Dinh province in northern Vietnam. Her mother, a native of Nam Dinh, moved to Saigon in the 1960s and opened a pho stall to support her family. To suit southern tastes, she adapted the traditional Nam Dinh-style pho, creating a distinct flavor that became the hallmark of the family’s recipe.

Here is Mrs. Phuong, the owner of Pho Phuong

Her mother ran the stall for more than 20 years until she passed away, leaving the pho business to her two daughters. Ms. Phuong, who had been selling pho since the age of 17, became the main cook. She has now been in the business for over 40 years. At first, business was tough with only a trickle of customers. She operated on Nguyen Binh Khiem Street for 10 years, then moved to Dien Bien Phu roundabout for about 20 years, before finally relocating to her current spot along Hoang Sa canal.

Through decades of hard work, she has faced many challenges but never thought about switching to another dish. For her, preserving her mother’s pho legacy was essential. Encouragement from loyal customers also gave her the strength to keep going and build today’s well-loved brand.

Her sister, Ms. Hoang, also contributed to the family business. In 2004, she got married and opened another pho shop, Phở Hoàng, which has now been running for 20 years. The fact that both sisters’ pho shops were recognized by Michelin proves the quality and tradition they have preserved for decades.

Since she has no children of her own, Ms. Phuong is now passing down the pho-making craft to nieces and nephews. She hopes her family’s recipe will grow more famous and thrive, taking the Phở Phượng brand further on Vietnam’s culinary map.

The broth recipe

The most important factor that earned Pho Phuong a place on the Michelin list is its richly flavored broth. Ms. Phuong revealed that the broth is made entirely from beef bones and simmered continuously for 20 hours. She personally handles every step, including preparing ingredients, seasoning, and controlling the fire, to ensure the broth reaches perfection.

In addition, the restaurant insists on using only fresh Vietnamese beef, butchered the same day and never imported or frozen. This guarantees each bowl is not only delicious but also safe and nutritious.

Signature dishes at Pho Phuong

Back in the day, her mother’s pho did not include oxtail. Later, Ms. Phuong decided to add oxtail to enrich the broth. The chewy, gelatinous texture of the oxtail became a customer favorite, making oxtail pho the restaurant’s best seller.

This dish is also the most expensive, priced at 110,000 VND per bowl. Preparing oxtail is labor intensive, requiring meticulous cleaning, burning off hair, blanching, and several other steps before it is ready. Despite the high price, customers consider it worth every penny. However, because of its popularity, it often sells out early and is usually only available in the morning.

Other pho bowls cost around 70,000 to 90,000 VND, and diners can choose up to three toppings. Each bowl comes with fresh herbs and vegetables, and extra greens are provided free of charge. Many diners praise the portions as generous and well worth the price, especially given the central District 1 location.

The airy dining space

Situated on Hoang Sa Street, overlooking the Nhieu Loc Canal, the restaurant enjoys a breezy and pleasant atmosphere. In the evenings, guests can sit outdoors to enjoy the cool canal breeze. Despite the constant crowd, staff keep the place clean and tidy, ensuring a comfortable dining experience.

The staff are also known for their friendliness and attentiveness. Special requests regarding flavor can be made when ordering.

Since being recognized by Michelin in 2023, Pho Phuong has become even more popular. More than a year later, it still maintains strong appeal. Its enduring success comes not just from the Michelin honor but from the consistent quality of its food. Many first time visitors say they are eager to return again and again.

What is Pho Phuong famous for?
Pho Phuong is best known for its oxtail pho and rich, long-simmered beef broth.

How much does pho cost at Pho Phuong?
Regular bowls cost 70,000 – 90,000 VND, while the signature oxtail pho is 110,000 VND.

What are Pho Phuong’s opening hours?
The restaurant is open daily from 05:30 AM – 8:30 PM.

Where is Pho Phuong located?
Pho Phuong is at 25 Hoang Sa Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, overlooking the Nhieu Loc Canal.

Why did Michelin recognize Pho Phuong?
The Michelin Guide awarded Pho Phuong a Bib Gourmand in 2023 for its exceptional pho, consistent quality, and affordable prices.

Is Pho Phuong good for tourists?
Yes. It’s a popular stop for both locals and international visitors who want an authentic Vietnamese pho experience in Saigon.