Top 5 Phở Restaurants in Hanoi: A Must-Try Guide & Eco Tours

The Heart of Vietnamese Culinary Heritage

Phở, Hanoi’s iconic noodle soup, is a culinary masterpiece that embodies Vietnam’s rich food culture, offering a steaming bowl of rice noodles, fragrant broth, tender meat, and fresh herbs. Pronounced “fuh,” it’s a staple across Hanoi, from Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter to Ba Đình Ward’s quieter streets, priced at $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND) per bowl. Traditionally featuring beef (Phở Bò) or chicken (Phở Gà), its umami-rich broth, simmered for hours with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger, is customized with basil, chili, lime, and bean sprouts, creating a harmonious, nutrient-packed meal perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Originating in northern Vietnam, likely Nam Định, in the early 20th century, Phở became Hanoi’s hallmark, blending French and Chinese influences with local ingenuity. Hanoi’s clear, savory broth contrasts southern sweeter versions, making it a must-try for travelers seeking authentic flavors. Vendors source fresh ingredients from markets like Dong Xuan, often using reusable bowls, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Ideal for the city’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), Phở’s warmth and versatility captivate food lovers. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours guide travelers to Hanoi’s best Phở spots, ensuring a sustainable, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Phở restaurants using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly food tours across Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic culinary adventures. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share Phở’s history, preparation secrets, and sustainable dining practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local vendors, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and savor Phở responsibly!

Phở, born in northern Vietnam around the early 1900s, became Hanoi’s culinary icon by the 1930s, evolving from a street snack to an all-day dish. Its broth, simmered for 6–12 hours with beef or chicken bones, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, is paired with flat rice noodles, thinly sliced meat (rare beef, brisket, or chicken), and garnishes like green onions, cilantro, basil, and bean sprouts. Hanoi’s Phở Bò is prized for its clear, savory broth, unlike southern sweeter versions, while Phở Gà offers a lighter alternative. Vegan Phở Chay, using vegetable broth, caters to plant-based diets. Vendors source fresh ingredients locally, often using reusable bowls to reduce waste, reflecting Hanoi’s sustainable ethos. This communal dish, customized with lime, chili, and herbs, is a cultural ritual, embodying Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene.

Hanoi’s Phở scene is legendary, with bowls priced at $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND). Below are five top restaurants, selected for authenticity, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, with ward-based addresses:

1. Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư (10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Michelin Bib Gourmand winner near St. Joseph’s Cathedral, famous for Phở Bò with tender rare beef (tái) and brisket (nạm), best at 7:00 AM. Uses reusable bowls and local beef, offering a bustling sidewalk vibe.

• Cost: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal plastic.

• Tip: Order Phở Tái Nạm for variety; arrive early to avoid queues.

2. Phở Sướng (24B Trung Yên Alley, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A historic Old Quarter gem, rumored to be Anthony Bourdain’s favorite, serving savory Phở Bò, best at 6:00 PM. Biodegradable trays and local beef, with a cozy alley setting.

• Cost: $1.20–$2.50 (30,000–62,500 VND); bánh quẩy $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 5:30 AM–12:15 PM, 5:00 PM–9:30 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local ingredients; eco-packaging.

• Tip: Pair with fried breadsticks; expect crowds.

3. Phở Bát Đàn (49 Bát Đàn, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Hanoi institution since the 1960s, known for Phở Bò Tái, best at 8:00 AM. Reusable bowls and sustainable herbs, famous for its queueing culture.

• Cost: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–8:30 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local beef; minimal waste.

• Tip: Order Phở Tái; bring patience for lines.

4. Phở Gà Nguyệt (5B Phú Doan, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A Michelin-recognized stall for Phở Gà with succulent bantam chicken, best at 12:00 PM. Local chickens and reusable bowls, near Hoan Kiem Lake.

• Cost: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.

• Tip: Request extra green onions; ideal for lunch.

5. Phở Nho (65A Lãn Ông, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A vegan-friendly spot offering Phở Chay with aromatic vegetable broth, best at 9:00 AM. Sustainable ingredients and biodegradable trays, popular with locals.

• Cost: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); trà đá $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local produce; eco-packaging.

• Tip: Add chili sauce for depth; great for plant-based diets.

Note: These restaurants focus on traditional Phở Bò, Phở Gà, or Phở Chay, reflecting Hanoi’s authentic flavors. Phở Thin (13 Lò Đúc, Hai Bà Trưng Ward) and Phở Sướng’s other branches (e.g., 1/26 Nguyễn Hồng) were considered but excluded due to location or inconsistent eco-practices, prioritizing central, sustainable spots.

To savor Phở authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:

1. Customize Your Bowl: Squeeze lime, add chili sauce, fresh chili, or garlic vinegar, and toss in herbs (basil, cilantro) and bean sprouts for freshness.

2. Slurp Loudly: Use chopsticks for noodles and meat, and a spoon for broth, slurping to show appreciation—a Hanoian norm.

3. Eat Piping Hot: Consume immediately for optimal flavor; cold broth loses its vibrancy.

4. Pair with Sides: Enjoy with trà đá ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) or bánh quẩy (fried breadsticks, $0.20 or 5,000 VND) for crunch.
   Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring a reusable spoon or chopsticks; request minimal condiments to reduce waste, supporting Hanoi’s green ethos.

Enhance your Phở adventure with these sustainable activities in Hanoi:

1. Phở Tasting Tour

Join a 2–3-hour eco-friendly cyclo tour, tasting Phở Bò at Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư at 7:00 AM, learning its cultural roots.

• Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports vendors.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Visit Dong Xuan Market (Hoan Kiem Ward)

Explore Hanoi’s largest market (1 km from Bát Đàn) for Phở herbs at 10:00 AM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake (Hoan Kiem Ward)

Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (200 m from Lý Quốc Sư) post-Phở at 8:00 AM, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity.

• Cost: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Phở Cooking Class

Learn Phở broth-making in a 2-hour eco-friendly class at 11:00 AM, using local ingredients.

• Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable sourcing; compostable waste.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

5. Explore Old Quarter Night Market (Hoan Kiem Ward)

Visit the Weekend Night Market (500 m from Phú Doan) at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for souvenirs and snacks.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; walkable.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150).

Phở restaurants, like 10 Lý Quốc Sư in Hoan Kiem Ward, are accessible in 5–20 minutes from central Hanoi:

• By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND); transfer to Ba Đình via Route 33 (10 min). Walk 5 minutes. Every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From central Hanoi (5–15 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• By Bicycle or Walking: Bicycle rental ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND); walk 5–10 minutes in Hoan Kiem Ward or cycle to Ba Đình (15 min).

• By Taxi or Grab: To Lý Quốc Sư, $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND). Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people).

• By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoan Kiem Ward”).

Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits; comfortable shoes for walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, spoon, chopsticks to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for dining notes; cash for restaurants.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes; request reusable bowls at restaurants.

Costs for Phở Experience

Food and Drink Fees

• Phở (Bò, Gà, Chay): $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND per bowl).

• Sides (trà đá, bánh quẩy, lime juice): $0.20–$0.40 (5,000–10,000 VND).

• Guided Food Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Market Purchases (herbs): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Night Market Snacks (bánh mì): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Central Hanoi)

• Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Walking: Free (Hoan Kiem Ward).

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND).

• Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)

• Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Phở, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, food tour, hotel).

• Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel).
  Tip: Order one bowl per person; inquire about prices to avoid overcharges.

• Timing: Dry season (November–April) for outdoor dining; rainy season (May–October) for indoor spots. Morning (6:00–9:00 AM) for freshest Phở Bò; lunch (11:30 AM–1:30 PM) for Phở Gà or Chay.

• Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons; arrive early at Phở Bát Đàn to avoid long queues.

• Sustainability: Walk or cycle ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); use reusable utensils. Buy local herbs ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) at markets.

• Navigation: Use offline maps with addresses like “10 Lý Quốc Sư, Hoan Kiem Ward.”

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Old Quarter; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.

• Weather: Dry season for sidewalk seating; rainy season needs waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; tip vendors $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND). Slurp loudly to show appreciation.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); ensure meat is cooked. Apply mosquito repellent.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hanoi’s Phở culture:

• Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư at 7:00 AM, tasting Phở Bò, visiting Dong Xuan Market. Includes guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Food Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Phở Sướng, Night Market, Phở cooking class, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Phở Nho, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
  Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Hanoi’s top five Phở restaurants—Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sư, Phở Sướng, Phở Bát Đàn, Phở Gà Nguyệt, and Phở Nho—offer authentic noodle soup priced at $1.20–$4 across Hoan Kiem and Ba Đình wards. With clear broths, fresh ingredients, and reusable bowls, these spots embody Hanoi’s culinary heritage and sustainable ethos. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to Phở’s cultural heart, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience filled with flavor and tradition. Whether slurping Phở Bò in the Old Quarter or savoring Phở Chay, these restaurants promise an unforgettable Hanoi adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic Phở? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.