
Chicken Pho
Phở Gà
Hanoi's lighter, fragrant chicken noodle soup
Photos
What's in it
- Rice noodles
- Chicken broth
- Poached chicken
- Shredded chicken
- Ginger
- Scallions
- Cilantro
- Fish sauce
- Lime
Best moments to enjoy it
Best in the morning or at lunch, but widely available throughout the day in Hanoi
Origin & history
Pho developed in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, and chicken pho became a popular variation because chicken was more accessible and quicker to prepare than beef. In Hanoi, phở gà is now a classic breakfast and all-day comfort dish, especially valued for its clean broth and simple, balanced flavors.
How to order & pay
For solo diners, order 'phở gà' and ask for 'ít bánh' if you want a smaller noodle portion, or 'thêm thịt' for extra chicken. Say 'không da' to skip chicken skin, and 'tái' is not used here because chicken should be fully cooked. If you want a cleaner bowl, ask for 'nước trong' (clear broth).
Small neighborhood stalls often prefer cash, so carry 20,000-100,000 VND notes. Many casual restaurants now accept QR payments and local e-wallets, but foreign cards are still less reliable at street-level vendors.
Allergens, nutrition & health
Allergens
Contains chicken and fish sauce; may be served with soy sauce, chili sauce, or shared condiments that can contain sesame or gluten traces
Nutrition & benefits
Provides lean protein, hydration from broth, and a lighter meal option with herbs and ginger
Health notes
Choose a busy stall with fast turnover for the freshest broth and chicken. If you have a sensitive stomach, go easy on chili, vinegar garlic, and raw herbs, and drink the broth while it is hot.
How to eat it
Add lime, herbs, and a little chili to taste, then stir gently. Use chopsticks for the noodles and chicken, and a spoon for the broth. If the chicken is served on the side, mix it into the soup gradually so the broth stays clear and fragrant.
Best spots in Hanoi
- 4.7
Huyền Hương Chicken Phở
Phở Gà Huyền Hương
20 P. Báo Khánh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
- Hours
- 6:00 AM–9:00 PM
- 4.2
Pho Ha Hang Hom
Phở Hà Hàng Hòm
15 P. Hàng Hòm, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
- Hours
- 6:00 AM–11:30 PM

