2025-04-08

[Must-see for Vietnamese travel beginners] Introducing the types of pho, how to eat it, and recommended restaurants in an easy-to-understand manner!

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[Must-see for Vietnamese travel beginners] Introducing the types of pho, how to eat it, and recommended restaurants in an easy-to-understand manner!

After all, the best part of traveling abroad is enjoying authentic gourmet food!

This time, we focused on “pho” in Vietnam.

Pho is expected to have beauty and health benefits, and has a friendly flavor. Let's get closer to its appeal!

A must-see for those who are new to Vietnam!

What is the history and roots of Vietnamese pho?

What is Vietnamese pho? History and charm

Pho is also Vietnam's national food. The chewy rice noodles and the soup with several spices are exquisitely intertwined, and you can enjoy it until the last bite.

It has now grown into a popular food until I saw pho specialty stores.

The origin of pho and the influence of French culture

How did Pho, which continues to be loved around the world, come about?

There seem to be various opinions, but according to one theory, it is said that it originated from “pot-au-feu,” which was part of the food culture that came from France in the late 19th century to the beginning of the 20th century when Vietnam was colonized by France.

The birth of pho was triggered when Vietnamese people added noodles to stew beef, chicken, and vegetables that were eaten as food for factories in Vietnam at the time.

Why is it good for beauty and health?

In modern times, there is a good nutritional balance between protein, lipids, and carbohydrates.

Furthermore, collagen obtained from beef broth is said to be good for the skin, and is also emphasized as a beauty food.

Also, the GI value, which indicates a rapid rise in blood sugar levels, is also said to be low, making it ideal as a diet food.

What are the types of pho and what are the characteristics of each region?

The difference between beef and chicken

The types of pho can be broadly divided into 2 types.

It's beef (forge), chicken, (fogger).

The ingredients used are mainly rice noodles, soup, meat, vegetables, and herbs.

Locally in Vietnam, every restaurant has its own personality, starting with soup.

It's very similar to the part where ramen shops in Japan are particular about soup.

The first bite was completely different, just because the taste of the soup was different. It is carefully simmered for about 10 hours with beef or chicken bones and several spices.

So much so, soup is the key to determining the flavor of pho.

Differences in taste between North and South

The region of Vietnam is broadly divided into the northern and southern parts, and the types of pho are different.

The northern part of the country is characterized by its clear soup and light taste.

In contrast, in the south, fish sauce and sugar are used for soup, and the overall flavor is sweet and rich.

How do you eat Vietnamese pho?

How to eat northern style

Pho in northern Vietnam is a simple way to eat it topped with green onions or lime as garnish.

Southern Style Eating and Manners

When you go to a pho shop in the south, many people may be confused about how to handle a large amount of herbs and sauces appearing right in front of them.

It is common to say that herbs, chili peppers, and coriander that come out in a separate serving are sprinkled as desired and finished into a dish of one's choice.

Since herbs have detoxifying effects and the function of promoting digestion, they can also be expected to have health benefits.

Also, it is Vietnamese table manners to transfer the garnish sauce to a small plate and put it in the soup instead of directly sprinkling it on.

An attractive menu of Vietnamese pho with a wide variety

In addition to beef and chicken, Pho has a wide variety of menus.

For example, in the seafood category, there are those that use fish or shrimp, and there are also vegetarian pho, etc. made based on fruits and vegetables.

Differences from other noodle dishes (Bun Mien, etc.)

Furthermore, there are different types of noodles, and in addition to the orthodox pho, they are called bun bo fe.

Examples include noodles made from starch from non-glutinous rice, like somen called “bun,” which can be put into soup with a sour and spicy flavor, and Vietnamese vermicelli called “mien,” which originated in China.

I think you often see them at local street food.

Why don't you try eating and comparing things other than pho.

Vietnamese pho is loved as a beauty and health food

Pho is a meal that is low in fat and has a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, which are the three major nutrients. Therefore, it has been attracting attention in recent years as a diet food.

Also, the ingredients used as toppings for pho are also packed with nutritional value.

For example, “coriander,” which is used as a topping herb, is said to have the ability to promote digestion and enhance immunity.

Also, lemons and limes contain vitamin C, which has beauty benefits.

It seems that support from women will increase even more in that their stomachs are satisfied and that nutrition can be taken evenly.

The 3 Best Authentic Pho Restaurants You Can Eat in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

3rd Four24

Pho chain stores operating in Vietnam.

Four was first branded as a result of this store's exhibition.

There is no doubt that even people who have the courage to suddenly eat food from a street stall will be able to eat it with peace of mind if it is a chain store.

Business hours: Retanton store 9:00 to 22:00

Access: Le Thanh Tong Store: Vietnam 72 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 Vincom B, Ho Chi Minh

※There are several stores in Ho Chi Minh

2nd for Vietnam

A famous restaurant that was also listed in the Michelin Guide.

Affiliates are scattered all over Ho Chi Minh City. At this restaurant, which is more crowded with tourists than locals, the main way to eat is to cook your own noodles, meat, vegetables, and seasonings by adding them to a hot stone bowl.

Be sure to try your favorite pho.

Business hours: 6:00 to 12:00

Area: 14 Phạm Hồng Thái, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

#1 Forsow

A long-established store that has been in business for over 60 years is proud of its “beef broth pho.”

Raw vegetables are not served as garnishes here, and a special sauce is included.

The Forsow style is to have the beef in the bowl soak in the sauce.

Business hours: Early morning to 12 p.m.

Area: 288 M1, 288J1 Nam Ki Nghĩa, Ward 8, Quận 3, Ho Chi Minh 700000 Vietnam

summary

How was it?

This time, I've introduced the history of pho in Vietnam, the types, ways to eat it, and recommended restaurants by region. “Food” is an inseparable part of a trip to Vietnam.

Since you're traveling hard, wouldn't it be a good idea to go on an adventure where you can experience a new food culture rather than what you're used to eating?

I hope you have a wonderful “food” encounter during your Vietnam trip!

Would you like to have the ultimate healing experience on your trip to Vietnam? WellBe's curated spa guide

If you want to unwind after a trip to Vietnam, enjoy the best time at one of the local luxury spas and relaxation salons.

This is the season when people often get tired from walking due to heat, humidity, and sightseeing. At such times, a spa where you can refresh yourself with professional techniques is perfect. Here are some recommended spa and relaxation facilities in Vietnam carefully selected by WellBe.

Please enjoy a luxurious time to heal your mind and body in a tropical atmosphere!

The best spas in Ho Chi Minh City

Located in southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is the economic center of Vietnam and one of the largest cities in Southeast Asia.

Ho Chi Minh City is a very attractive city with a beautiful colonial cityscape, and many buildings influenced by Western culture were built during the French colonial period.

Here are some highly rated recommended spas in Ho Chi Minh City, which continues to attract many tourists.

Ho Chi Minh City/ “Evolve Wellness Center Pullman Saigon”

A luxury spa at the 5-star hotel hotel “Pullman Saigon”.

We offer a wide range of menus such as slimming, facials, and scrubs.

You can experience the ultimate relaxation with the finest treatments and first-class hospitality.

Ho Chi Minh City/ “An's Spa”

Support your health from within with shiatsu massages based on Oriental medicine!

Made with 100% organic oil, it has an excellent relaxing effect!

Head massages supervised by Oriental medicine experts are very popular.

Ho Chi Minh City/"WE SPA”

We offer a wide range of menus from body massages to whitening facials.

A relaxing space where both mind and body can be healed in a quiet space.

The high technical capabilities and high repeater rate are attractive!

Ho Chi Minh City/"Anam QT Spa”

A superb spa experience in a sophisticated space with a “Zen” theme!

Natural treatments using natural ingredients are popular.

Take care of your mind and body with authentic techniques directly handed down by French therapists.

Ho Chi Minh City/ “MOMIJI Spa”

Enjoy superb relaxation in a modern Japanese atmosphere.

We offer an extensive menu, such as hot stones and foot massages.

Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation with treatments using 100% natural ingredients.

Ho Chi Minh City/ “SEN SPA”

A luxury spa that combines modern and classic.

Approximately 30 therapists perform treatments using international standard techniques!

Why don't you enjoy a luxurious treatment experience that heals your five senses in a comfortable space?

Written by

acco: Apparel brand management, Writer

acco: Apparel brand management, Writer

She loves Southeast Asia, especially Thailand. It all started when she was fascinated by Thai architecture. She currently owns a shop selling skirts featuring traditional embroidery from the Hmong people, who are found in Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. In the future, she plans to spread the appeal of local Thai life through media such as videos, photos, and blogs. Her hobbies are drawing, singing, and visiting spicy curry restaurants.

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