Dining

A Taste of Hanoi: The Story of Pho

The recent Michelin Guide recognition has shone a spotlight on Hanoi's beloved pho, bringing this cherished dish to the international stage and highlighting its unique appeal.

Administrator

5 December, 2024

Pho, a beloved Vietnamese dish, holds a special place in Hanoi’s cultural tapestry. While not unique to the city, it has become an integral part of its culinary landscape. Many attest that Hanoi’s pho tastes exceptional, a testament to the capital’s culinary prowess.

A bowl of mouth-watering beef pho from Pho Bat Dan, located at 49 Bat Dan Street, Hanoi. Photo: Mia

Exploring Hanoi’s Pho Culture

Pho, Vietnam’s iconic dish, is more than just a meal in Hanoi; it’s an experience. This culinary masterpiece, consisting of fragrant broth, delicate rice noodles, and savory toppings, has earned global acclaim. Hanoi’s pho eateries have even secured spots in the prestigious Michelin Guide, solidifying the city’s status as a culinary destination.

In Hanoi, pho is a way of life. Mornings are filled with the enticing aroma of broth and the gentle clatter of chopsticks. The city is dotted with vendors and family-run quan pho (pho shops), each guarding their secret recipes. The simplicity and complexity of pho, with its broth, noodles, and choice of beef or chicken, create a culinary symphony.

It’s the subtle nuances in preparation and the use of quality ingredients that elevate a bowl of pho into a memorable dining experience. Hanoi’s pho has gained international recognition, with tourists flocking to sample this delicious dish.

Famous US attorney David H. Gehrke enjoys a bowl of pho at Pho Ly Quoc Su, Hanoi. Photo: The Hanoi Times

Hanoi’s Pho Honored by Michelin

Six pho restaurants in Hanoi have been recognized in the Michelin Selected category: Pho Bat Dan, Pho Au Trieu, Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, Pho Ga Nguyet, Pho Khoi Hoi, and Pho Ga Cham. Five of these restaurants are nestled in the bustling Hoan Kiem District, known for its vibrant Old Quarter and delectable street food.

The Michelin Guide’s acknowledgment of Hanoi’s pho has shone a spotlight on this beloved dish, celebrating its quality, tradition, and innovation. It has put Hanoi on the map for food enthusiasts, sparking a renewed interest in traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The Michelin-listed pho restaurants elevate this humble dish into a gourmet experience while preserving its authenticity.

The art of making pho, a delicate and flavorful dish.

Pho Bat Dan and Pho Ly Quoc Su have established solid reputations over the years, while Pho Khoi Hoi, located at 50 Hang Vai Street, has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s name is inspired by the owner’s playful nickname, given his bald forehead. Their menu boasts a wide variety of beef pho, and their secret lies in the exquisite broth, infused with carefully selected spices.

Pho Au Trieu, situated next to St. Joseph’s Cathedral, is a branch of the renowned Pho Tu Lun restaurant. The owner, Ngo Phi Nga, proudly carries on the family tradition, using the original Pho Tu Lun recipe known for its flavorful broth. The rice noodles melt in your mouth, complementing the rich broth. Nga’s dedication to quality and safety has made the restaurant a popular destination, even without a signboard.

Chicken pho (pho ga), believed to have emerged after beef pho, also shines in Hanoi. Out of the six Michelin-nominated restaurants, two specialize in chicken pho and are acclaimed as the best in the city. Ph Ga Cham in Yen Ninh Street is known for its exquisite flavor and upscale pricing, while Pho Ga Nguyet in Phu Doan Street remains a beloved favorite among locals.

Locals indulging in a bowl of pho, a staple in Hanoi’s culinary culture.

Hanoi’s pho has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century. From 1907 to 1910, pho was sold by street vendors all over the city. Notably, Hanoi’s pho has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.

The Hanoi People’s Committee proposed including the traditional knowledge of Hanoi’s pho in the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List. This proposal acknowledges the individuals and families who preserve and pass down the art of making pho, as well as the community that cherishes this delicious dish.

As of 2023, a survey by the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports identified approximately 700 pho shops across 18 districts and towns that met food safety and hygiene standards. Traditional pho brands, often specializing in beef or chicken pho, are predominantly found in the districts of Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, and Hai Ba Trung.