Hanoi is home to numerous chicken pho (phở gà) restaurants, attracting both locals and tourists. Below are five of the most popular and highly-rated spots for this beloved dish in the city.
1. Cham Chicken Pho (Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh District)
Despite its higher prices, Cham Chicken Pho remains a crowd favorite, even earning recognition in the 2023 Michelin Selected category.
Prices: Standard bowls start at 75,000 VND, with options for extra chicken wings or drumsticks at 115,000 VND. Deluxe versions with additional meat and soft-boiled eggs range from 160,000 to 200,000 VND.
Unique Features: The broth is slow-cooked for seven hours using chicken bones and herbs. Handmade flat rice noodles are used for a softer texture, though they must be served fresh due to the lack of preservatives.
2. Dipping Chicken Pho (Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem District)
Located in a small alley at 40 Nha Chung Street, this restaurant is famed for its unique dipping chicken pho (phở gà chấm).
Prices: 40,000 VND per serving.
Unique Features: Thick, rectangular rice noodles are served cold, accompanied by a bowl of rich chicken broth with dried bamboo shoots and a tangy dipping sauce.
Customers can order specific chicken cuts, including breast, wings, and drumsticks, all prepared with glistening golden skin.
3. Nguyet Chicken Pho (Phu Doan, Hoan Kiem District)
A recipient of the Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition in 2023, Nguyet Chicken Pho is celebrated for its high-quality yet affordable dishes.
Prices:
Chicken breast pho: 50,000 VND
Chicken back pho: 55,000 VND
Drumstick or wing pho: 60,000 VND
Special combinations: 75,000 to 100,000 VND
Unique Features: A rich broth made from pork and chicken bones simmered for 12 hours creates its signature taste. The menu includes both soup-based pho and mixed chicken pho served with a side of broth.
4. Ba Anh Chicken Pho (Hang Dao, Hoan Kiem District)
Despite its modest, dimly lit location in a narrow alley, Ba Anh Chicken Pho enjoys consistent patronage thanks to its flavorful dishes.
Prices: Starting at 40,000 VND per bowl.
Unique Features: The pho is known for its firm, naturally sweet chicken meat with crispy, golden skin. The menu also includes other chicken-based dishes, such as shredded chicken salad and stir-fried chicken with vermicelli.
5. Van Mieu Chicken Pho (Van Mieu Street)
Though relatively new, Van Mieu Chicken Pho has quickly gained a reputation for its traditional flavors.
Prices: 45,000 to 120,000 VND per bowl, depending on the toppings.
Unique Features: The broth is light yet flavorful, while the chicken is thick, tender, and fresh. Diners can add a variety of extras, such as soft-boiled eggs, chicken organs, and gizzards.
Thao Trinh