In his latest culinary adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, French YouTuber Romain Bouffe Tout tried two bowls of pho with drastically different price tags - one at a humble street stall for 30,000 VND (about $1.20), and another at a Michelin-starred restaurant costing 100 USD (about 2.5 million VND).

Romain, known for his passion for Vietnamese cuisine, has explored everything from affordable street eats to upscale interpretations of traditional dishes. In a recent video, he showcased this unique pho comparison, highlighting not just the flavors but the contrasting atmospheres and dining experiences.

The first stop was a popular sidewalk pho stall on Tran Khanh Du Street (Tan Dinh ward). Guided by a local friend, Romain ordered a regular bowl of pho and was pleasantly surprised by its generous portions and fragrant presentation.

He tucked in like a local, seasoning his bowl with fresh herbs, lime, chili, and black pepper. As he took his first bite, he immediately expressed delight at the depth of flavor. He also appreciated that the stall opens from early morning until late at night, offering flexibility for pho lovers at any hour.

Romain praised the street pho for its bold taste, fresh ingredients, and unbeatable value. But beyond flavor, he highlighted the unfiltered atmosphere of eating on the sidewalk as part of the experience: warm, lively, and authentically Vietnamese.

Later, Romain visited a Michelin-starred restaurant on Ton That Dam Street (Ben Thanh ward), which specialises in pho and its creative reinterpretations. Here, diners must book in advance, and the dish is served as part of a full-course pho experience for two.

The premium meal included a bowl of pho, a pho-inspired cocktail, two molecular pho bites, tea, and a dessert. It opened with a mojito infused with pho spices - topped with a charred cinnamon stick, dried star anise, and fresh chili - offering an aromatic prelude.

Next came the “molecular pho,” which resembled a jelly-like sphere served on a spoon. As it burst in his mouth, Romain was impressed by how the flavor of pho filled his palate in an unexpected way.

Then the main dish arrived: the noodles served separately in a porcelain bowl, while the richly scented broth, slow-simmered for two days, was presented in a stone bowl alongside various cuts of beef and a side of raw wagyu. A tray of dipping sauces and a raw egg yolk completed the lavish setup.

Romain described the flavor as "hard to put into words" - clean yet intense, aromatic yet subtle. He noted that while the price is steep, the experience is unique and worth trying at least once for its creativity and attention to detail.

His final verdict? If you’re after tradition, bold flavor, and comfort, street pho is unbeatable - affordable, hearty, and full of character. But for those seeking a refined culinary experience, elevated presentation, and immersive service, the Michelin-starred pho offers a modern twist that’s hard to forget.