Top 8 Most Famous Traditional Pho Restaurants in Nam Dinh Province

Pho Tao is well-known for its delicious and unique pho bo, rich with the natural taste of the broth. The pho here doesn’t require any MSG, yet it is flavorful, sweet, and completely free from the common unpleasant odor found in some other restaurants. According to the owner, the most challenging part of making the perfect pho is mastering the art of preparing the broth. The beef bones are carefully cleaned and boiled for just the right amount of time to create a sweet, clear broth. The careful simmering process also ensures that the broth doesn't become cloudy. The pho noodles are prepared in each bowl, while the broth is kept simmering in small pots to maintain its rich flavor. The secret to the deliciousness of Pho Tao lies in the way the spices are blended, a time-honored technique passed down through generations to create the restaurant's distinctive taste.

Nam Dinh is a culinary haven that often leaves diners torn between many famous spots, each offering tempting choices. When visiting Nam Dinh, there’s a small pho shop that has been a local favorite since the 1970s – Pho Dong Nguyen. Located on May To Street, opposite the famous bread stand by the Do Quan Bridge, the shop is now run by the owner’s children, who took over the family business and moved it to Tran Nhat Duat Street.

Pho Dong Nguyen has been serving delicious pho for over 20 years. The shop specializes in both rare and well-done pho, with its pan-fried pho being particularly popular. The meat is expertly seasoned, and the broth is sweet and flavorful even without MSG. If you prefer to avoid MSG, simply ask for a bowl of “pho without MSG.” The pho’s taste lingers on the palate long after you’ve finished.

Pho Dan has been a beloved institution in Nam Dinh for decades and is considered one of the most famous pho spots in the city. The pho here combines a clear, subtly sweet broth with tender, silky noodles and the deliciously tender, flavorful beef. With over 30 years of history, Pho Dan is known for its naturally sweet, aromatic broth, and the thinly sliced beef is always soft and succulent. The restaurant's affordable prices and the friendly, welcoming service make it even more beloved by locals.

Pho Dan offers just two main options: rare or well-done beef pho and chicken pho. However, the beef pho is the standout dish. First-time visitors may find it challenging to locate Pho Dan, as it doesn’t have a prominent sign. Instead, a modest cardboard sign with the restaurant's name is hung from a tree branch at the entrance.

Pho Cu Tang is one of the most famous traditional pho shops in Nam Dinh. Despite its small size of just 17-18 square meters, the restaurant is always bustling with customers. The current owner, Ms. Le Thi Thu Ha, is the granddaughter of Cu Tang and the third-generation heir of the family’s secret pho recipe. The unique technique for preparing beef is what makes Pho Cu Tang so special. Although the beef is cut into thick rectangular chunks, it remains tender, sweet, and never tough or overcooked.

Pho Cu Tang is best known for two signature dishes: pan-seared beef pho and beef stew pho. The pan-seared beef pho may sound unusual at first, but it actually features beef that is lightly stir-fried, tender and sweet, just slightly cooked, and then mixed with herbs, greens, and spices before being added to the pho bowl. The key to a great pho is the broth, and Pho Cu Tang's broth is rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. The beef is tender yet chewy, and the noodles are soft and flavorful. The steaming bowl of pho stays hot from the first bite to the last, with steam rising from the bowl. The beef stew pho here is a family secret. The beef is cut into thick, square pieces and sourced from a secret supplier who specializes in premium cuts. The meat is tender and easy to chew, without being overcooked or mushy.

Located under the shade of trees in a quiet alley, Pho Xuyen exudes a charming, rustic simplicity. However, the bold flavors of each bowl of pho have left an unforgettable impression on the hearts of Nam Dinh’s residents. Pho Xuyen has become a beloved spot for those far from home, and a comforting destination for travelers seeking a taste of warmth. Among the variety of dishes offered, Pho Bo Stew stands out as a brilliant fusion of Eastern spices and Western influences. The distinctive aroma of this beef pho makes it a unique and irresistible culinary experience.

The beef tendons are carefully marinated with garlic, five-spice powder, turmeric, and a special touch of wine, creating a rich and fragrant flavor. The tendons are stir-fried with garlic, enhancing their savory depth. Sautéed tomatoes are blended with tender beef tendons and bone marrow, resulting in a mouthwatering harmony of tastes. Beyond its rich flavor, Pho Xuyen impresses with its serene atmosphere and friendly service. Dining here is more than just a meal; it’s a full sensory experience that stirs the soul.