Types of Phở in Hanoi: A Complete Guide to Varieties & Eco Tours

A Culinary Icon with Diverse Flavors

Phở, Hanoi’s iconic noodle soup, is a cultural cornerstone of Vietnamese cuisine, celebrated for its fragrant broth, rice noodles, 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), modern variations include vegan, pork, and seafood options, catering to diverse palates. Each type, from classic Phở Tái (rare beef) to innovative Phở Chay (vegan), offers a unique taste of Hanoi’s evolving food scene, rooted in a broth simmered for hours with spices like star anise and cinnamon.

Originating in northern Vietnam, likely Nam Định, in the early 20th century, Phở became Hanoi’s culinary emblem, blending French and Chinese influences with local ingenuity (en.wikipedia.org). Vendors source fresh ingredients from markets like Dong Xuan, often using reusable bowls, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike southern Phở’s sweeter broth, Hanoi’s versions emphasize clarity and balance, perfect 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). Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly food tours guide travelers to savor Phở’s varieties authentically, 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 hotspots using ward-based maps (en.wikipedia.org).

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! TripAdvisor Reviews

Phở, born in northern Vietnam around the early 1900s, likely in Nam Định, became Hanoi’s culinary icon by the 1930s, evolving from a street snack to an all-day dish (vinpearl.com). Its broth, simmered for 6–12 hours with beef or chicken bones, star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, is paired with flat rice noodles, meat, and garnishes like green onions, cilantro, and chili. Hanoi’s Phở is known for its clear, savory broth, contrasting southern sweeter versions (bestpricetravel.com). While traditional Phở Bò and Phở Gà dominate, modern variations reflect Hanoi’s innovative food scene, catering to vegan, seafood, and pork preferences. Below are the key varieties:

1. Phở Bò (Beef Phở)

• Description: The classic Hanoi Phở, featuring a clear beef broth with cuts like tái (rare steak), chín (well-done beef), nạm (flank), gầu (brisket), or bò viên (meatballs). Served with thin rice noodles and herbs, it’s savory and balanced (en.wikipedia.org).

• Best For: Traditionalists seeking Hanoi’s authentic Phở.

• Price: $1.50–$4 (37,500–100,000 VND).

• Tip: Order Phở Tái Nạm for a mix of rare and brisket cuts; add chili for spice.

2. Phở Gà (Chicken Phở)

• Description: A lighter alternative with chicken broth, shredded free-range chicken, and thin noodles. Hanoi’s version uses local bantam chickens for tender meat and a subtle, aromatic broth (bestpricetravel.com).

• Best For: Those preferring milder flavors or avoiding beef.

• Price: $1.20–$2.50 (30,000–62,500 VND).

• Tip: Request extra green onions; pair with bánh quẩy (fried breadsticks, $0.20 or 5,000 VND).

3. Phở Chay (Vegan Phở)

• Description: A plant-based version with vegetable broth, tofu, mushrooms, and herbs, popular at spots like Phở Nho. It retains Phở’s aromatic essence without meat (vinpearl.com).

• Best For: Vegans or health-conscious travelers.

• Price: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND).

• Tip: Add fresh chili for a kick; ideal for lighter meals.

4. Phở Xào (Stir-Fried Phở)

• Description: A dry, broth-less variation where noodles are stir-fried with beef, chicken, or seafood, plus vegetables and soy sauce. It’s a hearty, savory option for humid evenings (hanoi.for91days.com).

• Best For: Those seeking a non-soup Phở experience.

• Price: $1.50–$3 (37,500–75,000 VND).

• Tip: Try at Phở Xào Phú Mỹ; pair with trà đá ($0.20 or 5,000 VND).

5. Phở Hải Sản (Seafood Phở)

• Description: A modern twist with a seafood broth, shrimp, squid, or fish, and rice noodles. Less common in Hanoi, it’s found at innovative stalls like Phở Vui (antoursvietnam.com).

• Best For: Seafood lovers wanting a unique Phở.

• Price: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Tip: Request extra lime for brightness; best for dinner.

Note: Traditionalists argue Phở Bò and Phở Gà are the “true” Phở, as pork or shrimp versions deviate from Hanoi’s beef-chicken roots (en.wikipedia.org). However, modern variations reflect evolving tastes, and quality depends on fresh ingredients and skilled broth-making, not just meat type.

Hanoi’s Phở scene offers diverse varieties, with bowls priced at $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND). Below are five top spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, covering various wards:

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

A legendary stall near St. Joseph’s Cathedral, famous for Phở Bò with tender tái and nạm, best at 7:00 AM. Uses reusable bowls and local beef, with 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; arrive early to avoid queues (antoursvietnam.com).

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

A historic Old Quarter spot, 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 (local-insider.com).

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

A Hanoi institution since the 1960s, offering Phở Bò Tái, best at 8:00 AM. Reusable bowls and sustainable herbs, known 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 (bestpricetravel.com).

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

A Michelin-recognized stall for Phở Gà with tender 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 cilantro; ideal for lunch (antoursvietnam.com).

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

A vegan-friendly stall 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 (local-insider.com).

To find the best Phở in Hanoi, focus on these quality indicators:

1. Broth Clarity: A clear, aromatic broth signals hours of simmering with fresh bones and spices (vinpearl.com).

2. Fresh Ingredients: Look for lean, deep-red beef or free-range chicken; avoid processed meats. Herbs should be crisp and vibrant.

3. Noodle Texture: Thin, soft, but not mushy rice noodles are ideal (bestpricetravel.com).

4. Specialization: Stalls focusing on one type (e.g., Phở Bò or Phở Gà) often perfect their craft, though some versatile spots like Phở Vui excel at multiple varieties (antoursvietnam.com).

5. Eco-Friendly Practices: Choose stalls with reusable bowls or local sourcing for sustainable dining. Tip: Ask locals for recommendations; busy stalls with long queues, like Phở Bát Đàn, often indicate quality.

To savor Phở authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:

1. Customize Your Bowl: Add lime, chili sauce, fresh chili, or garlic vinegar to taste. Toss in herbs (cilantro, basil) 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 the best flavor; cold broth loses its charm.

4. Balance with Sides: Pair with trà đá ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) or bánh quẩy ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) to complement the broth. Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring a reusable spoon or chopsticks to reduce waste; request minimal condiments to avoid excess packaging.

Enhance your Phở adventure with these sustainable activities across 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 to make Phở broth 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 stalls, 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 Trúc Bạch (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 stalls. Tip: Carry small VND notes; request reusable bowls at stalls.

Costs for Phở Experience

Food and Drink Fees

• Phở (Bò, Gà, Chay, Xào, Hải Sản): $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 stalls; 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.

• 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 dining; 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 varieties:

• 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! TripAdvisor Reviews

Phở in Hanoi, from classic Phở Bò (beef) and Phở Gà (chicken) to modern Phở Chay (vegan), Xào (stir-fried), and Hải Sản (seafood), is a culinary treasure priced at $1.20–$4 (30,000–100,000 VND) at iconic stalls like Phở 10 Lý Quốc Sưand Phở Nho across Hoan Kiem, Ba Đình, and Trúc Bạch wards. With aromatic broth, fresh ingredients, and reusable bowls, Phở reflects Hanoi’s heritage and sustainable ethos, drawing thousands yearly. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to these diverse flavors, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience with eco-friendly practices like locally sourced ingredients and visits to Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly Phở adventure today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic Phở varieties? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure!

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

Sources:

• Phở in Hanoi Information: By Tony Bui at Legend Travel Group