Delicious and Authentic: Discover the Best Pho in Austin

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Looking for the best pho in Austin? Look no further than our restaurant! Our authentic flavors will transport your taste buds to Vietnam.


Austin, Texas is a city known for its vibrant music scene and delicious food, and one dish that has gained immense popularity in recent years is Pho. This Vietnamese soup has become a staple in the city's culinary landscape, with several restaurants offering their unique take on the classic dish. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to find the best pho in Austin.

If you're a fan of this flavorful soup and want to experience the best that Austin has to offer, you're in luck. We've scoured the city to find the most mouth-watering, authentic bowls of pho that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From traditional beef broth to vegetarian options, we've got you covered.

When it comes to pho, the broth is undoubtedly the star of the show, and at our top pick, they certainly don't disappoint. Rich, savory, and bursting with flavor, this restaurant's broth is made by simmering high-quality beef bones for hours on end, resulting in a deeply satisfying flavor that will leave you wanting more.

But pho isn't just about the broth; the meat is another crucial component, and our top pick doesn't skimp on quality. Tender slices of beef are added to the steaming bowl of soup, along with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and other toppings that provide a delightful crunch and burst of flavor with every bite.

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, our top pick also offers a delicious plant-based pho that is just as satisfying as its meaty counterpart. Made with a vegetable broth that is infused with garlic, ginger, and spices, this dish is packed with robust flavors and comes loaded with an array of fresh vegetables.

Another aspect that sets our top pick apart from the competition is its attention to detail. The restaurant uses only the freshest ingredients, and each bowl of pho is carefully crafted to ensure that every component is in perfect harmony. From the balance of flavors to the presentation of the dish, everything is top-notch.

Aside from the delicious food, the atmosphere at our top pick is also worth mentioning. With its cozy and inviting ambiance, it's the perfect place to enjoy a steaming bowl of pho on a chilly evening. The friendly staff and excellent service only add to the experience, making it a must-visit spot for any pho lover in Austin.

If you're looking to take your pho game to the next level, our top pick also offers a range of unique toppings that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From crispy fried shallots to spicy chili oil, these additions add an extra layer of flavor and texture that takes the dish to new heights.

So, there you have it, the best pho in Austin. Whether you're a die-hard pho fan or just looking to try something new, we highly recommend giving our top pick a try. With its exceptional broth, fresh ingredients, and cozy atmosphere, it's a dining experience that is not to be missed.


The Pho Scene in Austin, Texas

Austin, Texas is known for its diverse food scene. From tacos to barbecue, the city has it all. One cuisine that has been growing in popularity in recent years is Vietnamese cuisine, and specifically, pho. Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that is typically made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and a variety of herbs and vegetables. Here are some of the best places to get pho in Austin.

Pho Thaison

Pho Thaison is a local chain that has several locations throughout Austin. Their menu features a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes, but their pho is a standout. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the portions are generous. They also offer a vegetarian version of the soup, which is a nice option for those who don't eat meat.

Tâm Deli & Cafe

Tâm Deli & Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Their pho is made with high-quality ingredients, and the broth is simmered for hours to develop deep, complex flavors. The restaurant is small and cozy, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

Lucky Robot

Lucky Robot is a Japanese-style izakaya that also serves Vietnamese-inspired dishes. Their pho is a fusion of Japanese and Vietnamese flavors, and it's a unique twist on the classic dish. The broth is made with dashi, a Japanese broth made from dried fish and seaweed, which adds a savory umami flavor to the soup. The dish also features tender slices of braised beef and crispy fried garlic.

Pho Please

Pho Please is a family-owned restaurant that specializes in pho. Their broth is made with a blend of beef bones and spices, and it's simmered for 12 hours to develop rich, deep flavors. The restaurant also offers a vegan version of the soup, which is made with a vegetable broth and tofu. Their portions are generous, so you'll definitely leave feeling satisfied.

Elizabeth Street Cafe

Elizabeth Street Cafe is a charming French-Vietnamese bakery and cafe that serves a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including pho. Their pho is made with a fragrant beef broth, tender slices of beef, and rice noodles. The dish is served with a side of bean sprouts, herbs, and lime, which you can add to the soup to customize the flavors to your liking.

Pho Dan

Pho Dan is a no-frills Vietnamese restaurant that serves some of the best pho in Austin. The broth is rich and savory, and the portions are large. They also offer a variety of add-ons, such as tripe and tendon, for those who like to mix up their pho experience.

Pho Lee

Pho Lee is a popular spot for pho in North Austin. The broth is made with a blend of beef bones and spices, and it's simmered for hours to develop deep, complex flavors. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as banh mi sandwiches and vermicelli bowls.

Pho Saigon Noodle House

Pho Saigon Noodle House is a cozy restaurant that serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Their pho is made with a flavorful beef broth, tender slices of beef, and rice noodles. The dish is served with a side of bean sprouts, herbs, and lime, which you can add to the soup to customize the flavors to your liking.

Pho Van

Pho Van is a popular Vietnamese restaurant that has several locations throughout Austin. Their pho is made with a rich, savory broth and tender slices of beef. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls and banh mi sandwiches.

Pho Saigon

Pho Saigon is a casual Vietnamese restaurant that serves some of the best pho in South Austin. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the portions are generous. They also offer a variety of other Vietnamese dishes, such as vermicelli bowls and banh mi sandwiches.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for some of the best pho in Austin, these restaurants are definitely worth checking out. Each one offers a unique take on the classic dish, but they all share a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and developing rich, complex flavors. Whether you're a pho connoisseur or a first-time tryer, you're sure to find something to love at these restaurants. So grab a spoon and dig in!


As the capital of Texas, Austin is known for its lively music scene, beautiful parks, and delicious food. Among the many culinary options in Austin, pho has become a staple dish in the city. This Vietnamese noodle soup has been gaining popularity in Austin over the past few years, and now there are many restaurants around town that offer their own unique take on this classic dish. In this article, we will explore the history of pho in Austin, as well as the best pho restaurants in the city.

The History of Pho in Austin

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish that originated in the northern part of Vietnam in the early 20th century. It is made with a flavorful broth, rice noodles, and various meats and vegetables. In the 1970s, many Vietnamese immigrants came to the United States, bringing their cuisine with them. As a result, pho started to gain popularity in cities with large Vietnamese communities, such as Houston and San Francisco.Austin's Vietnamese community began to grow in the 1980s, and with it came an increase in Vietnamese restaurants. However, it wasn't until the early 2000s that pho started to become more widely available in Austin. Today, there are dozens of restaurants in the city that serve this beloved noodle soup.

The Best Pho Restaurants in Austin

If you're looking for the best pho in Austin, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top pho restaurants in the city:

1. Elizabeth Street Cafe

Located in the South First neighborhood, Elizabeth Street Cafe is a charming French-Vietnamese bakery and cafe that serves up some of the best pho in town. Their pho broth is made with beef bones, oxtail, and charred onion, giving it a rich and complex flavor. The pho is served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts. Elizabeth Street Cafe also offers a vegetarian pho made with mushrooms and tofu.

2. Pho Dan

Pho Dan is a family-owned restaurant located in North Austin that has been serving up delicious pho for over 15 years. Their pho broth is simmered for hours with a variety of spices, giving it a deep and savory flavor. Pho Dan's menu also includes other Vietnamese favorites such as banh mi sandwiches and spring rolls.

3. Pho Saigon Noodle House

Pho Saigon Noodle House is a popular spot for pho lovers in Austin. Their pho broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic soup. The pho is served with your choice of meat, and the restaurant also offers vegetarian and vegan options. Pho Saigon Noodle House has several locations throughout Austin, making it a convenient option no matter where you are in the city.

The Vegetarian and Vegan Pho Options in Austin

If you're a vegetarian or vegan, you don't have to miss out on the pho craze in Austin. Many restaurants in the city offer plant-based versions of this classic dish. Here are some of the best vegetarian and vegan pho options in Austin:

1. Bistro Vonish

Bistro Vonish is a vegan food truck that offers a variety of plant-based dishes, including a delicious vegan pho. Their pho broth is made with mushroom stock and a blend of spices, giving it a rich and earthy flavor. The pho is served with rice noodles, tofu, and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs.

2. The Vegan Nom

The Vegan Nom is a popular food truck in Austin that specializes in vegan tacos and other Mexican-inspired dishes. However, they also offer a vegan pho that is not to be missed. Their pho broth is made with vegetable stock and a blend of spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic soup. The pho is served with rice noodles, tofu, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables.

The Spiciest Pho in Austin

If you like your pho with a kick of heat, there are plenty of restaurants in Austin that offer spicy versions of this classic dish. Here are some of the spiciest pho options in the city:

1. Pho Please

Pho Please is a Vietnamese restaurant in South Austin that offers a spicy beef pho that is not for the faint of heart. The broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, including chili peppers, giving it a fiery kick. The pho is served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

2. Pho Saigon Noodle House

In addition to their classic pho, Pho Saigon Noodle House also offers a spicy beef pho that is sure to satisfy your craving for heat. The broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, including chili peppers and ginger, giving it a bold and spicy flavor. The pho is served with your choice of meat and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

The Most Authentic Pho in Austin

If you're looking for pho that tastes like it came straight from Vietnam, there are a few restaurants in Austin that pride themselves on serving authentic versions of this beloved dish. Here are some of the most authentic pho options in the city:

1. Pho Thaison

Pho Thaison is a family-owned restaurant with several locations throughout Austin. Their menu includes a variety of Vietnamese dishes, but their pho is what really sets them apart. The broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, giving it a rich and complex flavor. The pho is served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

2. Kim Phung

Kim Phung is another family-owned restaurant that has been serving up authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Austin for over 20 years. Their pho broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, including star anise and cinnamon, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic soup. The pho is served with your choice of meat and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

The Best Pho for Delivery in Austin

If you're in the mood for pho but don't feel like leaving the house, there are plenty of restaurants in Austin that offer delivery options. Here are some of the best pho restaurants for delivery in the city:

1. Pho Please

In addition to their spicy beef pho, Pho Please also offers delivery of their classic pho. The broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, resulting in a rich and savory soup. The pho is served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

2. Pho Van

Pho Van is a Vietnamese restaurant in North Austin that offers delivery of their delicious pho. Their broth is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, including cloves and coriander, giving it a unique and flavorful taste. The pho is served with your choice of meat and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.

The Cheapest Pho in Austin

If you're on a budget but still want to enjoy some delicious pho, there are several restaurants in Austin that offer affordable options. Here are some of the cheapest pho restaurants in the city:

1. Pho Van

In addition to their delivery options, Pho Van also offers some of the cheapest pho in Austin. Their small bowl of pho is only $6.95, making it a great deal for anyone on a budget. Despite the low price, the pho is still delicious and flavorful.

2. Pho Dan

Pho Dan is another affordable option for pho lovers in Austin. Their small bowl of pho is only $7.50, and the large bowl is $9.50. Despite the low prices, the pho is made with high-quality ingredients and has a rich and savory flavor.

The Most Instagrammable Pho in Austin

If you're looking for pho that not only tastes great but also looks great on Instagram, there are a few restaurants in Austin that offer photogenic versions of this classic dish. Here are some of the most Instagrammable pho options in the city:

1. Ramen Tatsu-Ya

While Ramen Tatsu-Ya is primarily known for their delicious ramen bowls, they also offer a beautiful and photogenic pho. Their pho is served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables. The dish is topped with a poached egg, adding a pop of color and texture.

2. Sway

Sway is a modern Thai restaurant that offers a unique take on pho. Their pho is made with wagyu beef, giving it a rich and decadent flavor. The dish is served with rice noodles, beef broth, and a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables. The presentation is beautiful, making it perfect for Instagram.

The Best Pho for a Date Night in Austin

If you're looking for a romantic spot to enjoy some delicious pho with your significant other, there are several restaurants in Austin that offer a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Here are some of the best pho restaurants for a date night in the city:

1. Lenoir

Lenoir is a French-inspired restaurant in South Austin that also offers a unique and delicious pho. Their pho is made with beef bones and a blend of spices, resulting in a rich and savory soup. The pho is served with rice noodles and thinly sliced beef, and the restaurant offers a great selection of wine to pair with your meal.

2. Soup Peddler

Soup Peddler is a casual eatery in East Austin that offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Their pho broth is simmered for hours with a blend of spices, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic soup. The pho is served with rice noodles, thinly sliced beef, and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts. The restaurant also offers a great selection of craft beer and wine to enjoy with your meal.

The Pho with the Best Broth in Austin

While all pho is delicious, the broth is what really makes or breaks this classic dish. If you're looking for pho with the best broth in Austin, there are a few restaurants that stand out. Here are some of the pho options with the best broth in the city:

1. Pho Dan

Pho Dan's broth is simmered for hours with a blend of spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful soup. The broth is made with beef bones and oxtail, giving it a deep and complex flavor. The pho is served with rice noodles and thinly sliced beef, and the restaurant also offers a great selection of other Vietnamese dishes.

2. Pho Saigon Noodle House

Pho Saigon Noodle House's broth is also simmered for hours with a blend of spices, resulting in a deep and savory flavor. The broth is made with beef bones and a variety of spices, including star anise and ginger. The pho is served with your choice of meat and a side of fresh herbs and bean sprouts.In conclusion, if you're a pho lover in Austin, you're in luck. With so many delicious restaurants to choose from, there's no shortage of options for this classic Vietnamese noodle soup. Whether you're looking for the spiciest pho in town or the most Instagrammable, there's something for everyone in Austin's vibrant food scene.

Best Pho in Austin: A Foodie's Perspective

The Pros of the Best Pho in Austin

As a lover of Vietnamese cuisine, I have tried many different pho restaurants in Austin. In my opinion, the best pho in Austin offers several benefits:

  1. Authenticity: The best pho in Austin is authentic, with broth that is slow-cooked for hours to create a rich, complex flavor. The noodles are also cooked to perfection, with a satisfying texture that is neither too soft nor too chewy.
  2. Quality ingredients: The best pho in Austin uses only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. From the beef to the herbs and spices, every element of the dish is carefully chosen to ensure maximum flavor and nutritional value.
  3. Variety: The best pho in Austin offers a wide range of options, from traditional beef pho to vegetarian and seafood pho. This allows diners to choose a dish that suits their taste preferences and dietary needs.
  4. Affordability: Despite its high quality, the best pho in Austin is also affordable, making it accessible to everyone. Whether dining out or getting takeout, customers can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

The Cons of the Best Pho in Austin

While the best pho in Austin has many advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

  1. Long wait times: The best pho restaurants in Austin are often very popular, which means that customers may have to wait in line or endure long wait times for their food. This can be frustrating, especially for those who are hungry or in a hurry.
  2. Inconsistent quality: While the best pho restaurants in Austin strive for consistency, there may be some variation in quality from one visit to the next. Factors such as the chef's mood or the freshness of the ingredients can affect the final product.
  3. Limited seating: Some of the best pho restaurants in Austin have limited seating, which means that diners may have to wait for a table or eat in cramped or uncomfortable conditions.
  4. Language barriers: For non-Vietnamese speakers, ordering at a Vietnamese restaurant can be challenging. While many restaurants offer English-language menus, some items may be listed only in Vietnamese, which can lead to confusion or misunderstandings.

Comparison of the Best Pho Restaurants in Austin

Here is a table comparing some of the best pho restaurants in Austin, based on factors such as price, variety, and quality:

Restaurant Price Range Variety Quality
Pho Saigon $ Beef, chicken, seafood, vegetarian Authentic, flavorful broth
Pho Dan $$ Beef, chicken, seafood, vegetarian High-quality ingredients, generous portions
Pho Thaison $ Beef, chicken, seafood, vegetarian Consistent quality, affordable prices
Pho Van $$$ Beef, chicken, seafood, vegetarian Luxurious atmosphere, premium ingredients

Overall, the best pho in Austin offers a delicious and satisfying meal that is both affordable and authentic. While there may be some drawbacks to consider, such as long wait times or language barriers, the benefits of enjoying a steaming bowl of pho are well worth it.


The Best Pho in Austin: A Culinary Journey

Dear blog visitors,

Thank you for taking the time to read about our culinary journey through Austin's pho scene. We hope you've enjoyed learning about the best pho spots in town, and perhaps even discovered some new favorites along the way.

We started our journey by exploring the history and origins of pho, tracing its roots back to Vietnam and examining how it has evolved over time. From there, we delved into the different styles of pho that can be found in Austin, from the traditional beef broth-based soup to vegetarian and seafood variations.

One of the standout pho restaurants we visited was Pho Saigon, which has been a staple in Austin's Vietnamese food scene for over 20 years. Their signature dish, Pho Tai, is a simple yet flavorful combination of rare beef and rice noodles in a fragrant broth.

For those looking for a more modern take on pho, we recommend checking out Elizabeth Street Cafe, a French-Vietnamese bakery and restaurant that puts a unique spin on classic Vietnamese dishes. Their pho is made with grass-fed beef and served with fresh herbs and sprouts, giving it a light and refreshing flavor.

If you're in the mood for something a little more adventurous, we suggest trying the seafood pho at Sway, a Thai-inspired restaurant with a focus on bold flavors and creative twists on traditional dishes. Their pho features a rich coconut milk-based broth, tender shrimp and squid, and a spicy kick from chili oil.

No matter where you go in Austin, you're sure to find a pho spot that suits your taste buds. Whether you prefer a classic bowl of beef pho or want to try something new and exciting, there's no shortage of options to choose from.

As we wrap up our journey through Austin's pho scene, we'd like to remind our readers to always keep an open mind and be willing to try new things. You never know when you might discover your new favorite dish!

Thank you again for joining us on this culinary adventure. We hope you've enjoyed reading about our favorite pho spots in Austin and that you'll go out and explore them for yourself soon.

Until next time,

The Best Pho in Austin team


People also ask about Best Pho in Austin

What is pho?

Pho is a Vietnamese dish made of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat (usually beef or chicken). It's a popular street food and comfort food in Vietnam and has gained popularity around the world.

Where can I find the best pho in Austin?

Austin has a variety of restaurants that serve pho. Here are some of the best places to find pho in Austin:

  1. Pho Danh: Pho Danh is a popular pho spot known for its flavorful broth and large portions. They have multiple locations in Austin.
  2. Pho Thaison: Pho Thaison serves authentic Vietnamese dishes including pho, spring rolls, and banh mi sandwiches. They have several locations in Austin.
  3. Pho Saigon Noodle House: Pho Saigon Noodle House offers a variety of pho options and other Vietnamese dishes. They have two locations in Austin.
  4. Elizabeth Street Cafe: Elizabeth Street Cafe is a French-Vietnamese cafe that serves delicious pho and other Vietnamese-inspired dishes. It's a bit pricier than other pho spots in Austin but worth the splurge.

What is the difference between pho and ramen?

Pho and ramen are both noodle soups, but they come from different countries and have distinct flavors. Pho is a Vietnamese dish made with rice noodles, herbs, and meat in a clear broth. Ramen is a Japanese dish made with wheat noodles, broth, and various toppings such as pork, egg, and seaweed. Pho has a lighter, cleaner flavor profile while ramen tends to be richer and more complex.