In Houston, Texas, the city with one of the largest Vietnamese populations in the U.S., Vietnamese phở noodle soup has developed a rich variety of local, regional, and innovative interpretations. We do our best to honor classic Vietnamese pho flavors and meld them with local flavors with modern takes.
If you weren’t aware, phở is the iconic Vietnamese noodle soup… kind of like menudo for a lot of us Texans from all kinds of ethnic backgrounds. The soup originated in the early 20th century in northern Vietnam, around Hanoi, and its creation was influenced by both local and foreign culinary traditions, including Chinese rice noodle dishes and French cuisine introduced during colonial rule. The use of beef in pho, which was uncommon in traditional Vietnamese diets, probably came from the French demand for beef, and locals making the most of bones and cuttings to make broth. Over time, pho evolved into a uniquely Vietnamese dish characterized by its aromatic broth, flat rice noodles, and herbs.
In the states, pho has evolved from a niche ethnic dish in small, family-run restaurants that catered primarily to the Vietnamese community to a mainstream culinary staple, reflecting both tradition and adaptation. As American palates have become more adventurous, phở has gained popularity across diverse urban populations. And lately restaurants began experimenting with all kinds of nontraditional ingredients like brisket, oxtail, tofu, and even vegan broths with in California or barbecue-based meats in Texas.
In Texas, and especially in Houston, pho has developed a rich variety of regional variations. Though not served at our restaurants in the Houston area, the city’s diverse culinary scene and Texas-barbecue traditions has brought about variations with smoked brisket or beef ribs. Some spots even offer fusion versions like pho with Cajun spices. On the other side of the pho-spectrum are traditional northern-style pho, with a clear, delicate broth and minimal garnishes, and the more herb-heavy, robust southern-style pho commonly served in Pho Ben Vietnamese restaurants.
At Pho Ben Vietnamese Restaurants
Amazing Bowls of pho
Depending on location, guests can choose from 20 or so options of Pho at our Vietnamese restaurants. What makes them stand out from all the options available to diners today?
Rich, Clear Broth
The hallmark of great pho is a flavorful, aromatic broth that’s been simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and other spices that makes for a clear but complex soup with a natural sweetness and depth of savory flavors.
High-Quality, Fresh Ingredients
From the cuts of meat (rare beef, brisket, or tendon) to the fresh rice noodles and vibrant herbs (basil, cilantro, and bean sprouts), top-tier pho features ingredients that are fresh, well-prepared, and balanced in portion. When you serve as many bowls of pho as we do, ingredients are guaranteed to be the freshest.
Proper Balance + Customization
The best pho is all about balance of salty, sweet, spicy, and sour. When you add the accoutrements that should come with the soup, an awesome bowl allows for personalization with hoisin sauce, sriracha, lime, and chili. When the broth is top-quality and the noodles are cooked just right, the toppings harmonize to deliver a soul satisfying bowl of soup.
Find A Bowl of Pho Near You
