1. About Chicken Pho

Chicken pho, or Phở Gà, is a fragrant and comforting noodle soup made with a clear, aromatic broth, tender chicken, and silky rice noodles. Unlike beef pho, chicken pho offers a lighter, cleaner flavor profile, making it a favorite for breakfast or a light meal.

1.1 The Origins of Chicken Pho

Pho originated in Northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, with beef pho being the dominant variety. However, chicken pho emerged as a popular alternative, especially during times when beef was scarce or too expensive.

The broth is simmered for hours with chicken bones, ginger, onions, and spices like star anise and cinnamon, resulting in a delicate yet flavorful base.

1.2 What Makes the Best Chicken Pho?

A perfect bowl of chicken pho hinges on three key elements:

• Broth: Clear, golden, and aromatic—never cloudy or overly greasy.
• Noodles: Thin, flat noodles that are soft but not mushy.
• Chicken: Tender, shredded or sliced, with a balance of white and dark meat.

Garnishes like fresh herbs, lime, chili, and fish sauce allow diners to customize their bowl to their liking.

1.3 Why Hanoi’s Chicken Pho Stands Out

Hanoi’s chicken pho is distinct for its simplicity and purity of flavor. Unlike Southern versions, which may include more herbs and sweetness, Hanoi’s style focuses on a clean, savory broth with minimal distractions.

Many of the city’s best spots have been perfecting their recipes for decades, earning them spots on lists of the best chicken pho in Hanoi.

2. Top 5 Chicken Pho in Hanoi

Hanoi boasts countless pho restaurants, but only a few stand out as truly exceptional. Below, we’ve curated the top 5 chicken pho in Hanoi, including Michelin-recognized eateries and beloved local favorites.

2.1 Nguyet Chicken Pho (Phở Gà Nguyệt) – Michelin Bib Gourmand

Location: 5B Phu Doan, Hoan Kiem District / Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 1:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 0:30 AM

Nguyet Chicken Pho is one of Hanoi’s most celebrated spots, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its outstanding quality and affordability.

The Broth: The broth here is simmered for over 12 hours, extracting deep umami flavors from chicken bones, ginger, and traditional spices. It’s light yet intensely flavorful, with a subtle sweetness that lingers on the palate.

The Chicken: Tender, free-range chicken is used, ensuring a rich taste and firm texture. The meat is shredded by hand, preserving its juiciness.

Why It Stands Out: Beyond its Michelin recognition, Nguyet’s pho is beloved for its consistency. Every bowl delivers the same high standard, making it a must-try for anyone seeking the best chicken pho in Hanoi. Besides, their mixed chicken pho (phở gà trộn) is especially popular among locals and tourists alike.

2.2 Pho Tien (Phở Tiến) – Michelin Selected

Location: 103 Nguyen Truong To, Ba Dinh District /  Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Another Michelin-listed gem, Pho Tien, has been serving chicken pho since the 1980s, maintaining a loyal following.

The Broth: Their broth is naturally sweet, made from free-range chicken bones and enhanced with grilled shallots, ginger, shiitake mushrooms, and a touch of fish sauce. It's exceptionally clear and aromatic.

The Noodles: Freshly made every morning, the rice noodles are chewy and slightly thick, holding up perfectly in the hot broth.

Why It Stands Out: Pho Tien is known for its premium ingredients and precise technique. With customizable toppings like chicken thigh, gizzard, and soft-boiled eggs, it appeals to both purists and adventurous diners seeking the top 5 chicken pho in Hanoi.

2.3 Cham Chicken Pho (Phở Gà Châm) – Michelin Selected

Location: 68 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh District / Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Cham Chicken Pho combines culinary precision with a deep respect for tradition, earning a well-deserved spot in the Michelin guide.

The Broth: Made with organic chicken and simmered with aromatic spices, the broth is light, clean, and packed with depth. No single flavor overpowers, resulting in perfect balance.

The Presentation: Simple yet elegant—tender chicken slices rest on al dente noodles, topped with herbs like coriander and Thai basil. The piping-hot broth is served in ceramic bowls to enhance the experience.

Why It Stands Out: Pho Ga Cham is a top choice for those seeking the best chicken pho in Hanoi with Michelin credibility.

2.4 Huyen Huong Chicken Pho (Phở Gà Huyền Hương)

Location: 20 Bao Khanh, Hoan Kiem District / Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM

Often dubbed the most expensive chicken pho in Hanoi, Huyen Huong justifies its premium with unmatched flavor and diversity.

The Broth: Simmered with fresh chicken bones and seasoned with lemongrass and ginger, the broth is mild, fragrant, and not greasy.

The Menu: From classic shredded chicken pho to bowls topped with soft-boiled eggs, chicken meatballs, or even beef, the menu is extensive and caters to many preferences.

Why It Stands Out: This family-run eatery has stayed true to traditional Hanoi recipes for over 30 years. Its consistency, generous portions, and handmade noodles have earned it a loyal local following.

2.5 Pho Hanh (Phở Hạnh)

Location: 65B Lan Ong, Hoan Kiem District / Opening hours: 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM

A beloved dinner-time spot, Pho Hanh is known for its hearty servings and street-style charm.

The Broth: Rich and savory, the broth is made from chicken bones, onions, and garlic with a subtle MSG boost to enhance depth.

The Highlights: Along with traditional pho, Pho Hanh serves standout dishes like chicken sticky rice and mixed chicken pho (phở gà trộn), a dry version tossed with scallion oil and soy sauce.

Local Atmosphere: Its low stools and sidewalk setting offer an authentic Hanoi street food experience. For a casual but flavorful chicken pho in Hanoi, Pho Hanh is a true gem.

3. Conclusion

Exploring best chicken pho in Hanoi is a journey through history, culture, and culinary mastery. From Michelin-starred establishments like Nguyet Chicken Pho to local favorites such as Pho Hanh, each bowl tells a story of tradition and passion. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a lifelong Hanoian, these top 5 chicken pho in Hanoi offer an unforgettable taste of Vietnam’s iconic dish. Don’t miss the chance to savor the best chicken pho in Hanoi—each spoonful is a celebration of flavor.

Tasting the best chicken pho in Hanoi is just one part of your Hanoi adventure. Make the most of your trip by staying at JM Marvel Hotel, ideally located near Hoan Kiem Lake. Whether you are craving city views from a rooftop sky bar, or a bowl of pho at one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Old Quarter Hanoi, JM Marvel delivers it all.
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