Pho is arguably the most famous Vietnamese dish, loved for its flavorful broth, tender rice noodles, and aromatic herbs. Whether you’re planning a trip to Vietnam or simply curious about the local food scene, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: What is the pho price in Vietnam? In this article, Asian Link Travel breaks it down for you from street stalls to high-end restaurants.
What Is Pho?
Pho (pronounced “fuh”) is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup typically made with beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà). It’s served with rice noodles in a clear, fragrant broth, topped with green onions, coriander, lime, and bean sprouts. Pho is eaten at all times of the day in Vietnam, especially for breakfast and late-night meals.
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Average Pho Price in Vietnam
If you’re visiting Vietnam and wondering how much is a bowl of pho in Vietnam, the answer may pleasantly surprise you. Pho is one of the most affordable and delicious meals you can enjoy across the country. On average, the pho price in Vietnam ranges from:
| Type of Establishment | Price Range (VND) | Approx. in USD |
| Street vendor / local stall | 30,000 – 40,000 VND | $1.00 – $1.60 |
| Casual eatery / noodle shop | 40,000 – 60,000 VND | $1.60 – $2.50 |
| Mid-range restaurant | 60,000 – 90,000 VND | $2.50 – $3.80 |
| Tourist restaurant / cafe | 80,000 – 120,000 VND | $3.20 – $5.00 |
| Hotel / luxury venue | 120,000 – 200,000+ VND | $5.00 – $8.50+ |
So, how much is pho in Vietnam depends on where you eat. A bowl from a humble street cart might cost as little as $1, while pho served in a high-end hotel restaurant can be 5–8 times more expensive. Despite this, pho remains a cheap, hearty, and satisfying meal across all budgets.
What influences pho prices in Vietnam?
While pho is a beloved and generally affordable dish, the pho price in Vietnam can vary quite a bit depending on a range of factors. Whether you’re paying 25,000 VND ($1) at a roadside stall or 200,000 VND ($8.50) at a luxury restaurant, each bowl reflects the cost of ingredients, environment, and experience.
So, how much is pho in Vietnam and what determines its cost? Let’s break it down:
Geographic location
The first and biggest factor affecting pho prices in Vietnam is where you’re eating:
- Urban vs. Rural: In big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang, a bowl of pho tends to be more expensive than in rural or provincial areas. This is due to higher rent, labor costs, and the demand from both locals and tourists.
- Tourist Zones vs. Local Neighborhoods: Pho served near tourist attractions often costs 1.5–2 times more than the same dish in a non-tourist neighborhood. Restaurants in the Old Quarter of Hanoi or District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City typically charge more for the same portion.
Example:
- Pho in a small town = 30,000 VND (~$1.20)
- Pho near Ben Thanh Market, HCMC = 80,000 VND (~$3.40)
Type of food establishment
The venue where you eat significantly impacts how much is a bowl of pho in Vietnam:
| Place | Typical Price (VND) | Experience |
| Street stall (vỉa hè) | 25,000 – 40,000 | Basic seating, quick, authentic |
| Local noodle shop | 40,000 – 60,000 | Small eatery, mostly locals |
| Mid-range restaurant | 60,000 – 90,000 | Comfortable, air-conditioned |
| Tourist restaurant/café | 90,000 – 120,000 | Menu in English, service charge |
| Hotel/high-end venue | 150,000 – 250,000+ | Premium ingredients, elegant decor |
Note: Paying more doesn’t always mean better taste—it often reflects service, setting, or branding.
Ingredients & quality of meat
The meat used in your bowl of pho can drastically affect the price:
- Standard Cuts: Brisket (nạm), flank (gầu), and rare beef (tái) are most common and affordable.
- Premium Cuts: Oxtail, bone marrow, wagyu beef, or tenderloin push prices higher.
- Chicken Pho (Phở Gà): Slightly cheaper than beef pho in most places.
Other high-cost ingredients include:
- Slow-simmered bone broth (12+ hours)
- Organic herbs
- Poached egg, imported spices, or unique toppings (like truffle oil)
A bowl with premium toppings could cost twice as much as a regular one.
Portion size & add-ons
Some eateries offer portion sizes such as:
- Small ~35,000 VND
- Medium ~45,000 VND
- Large ~55,000 VND or more
Toppings:
- Extra meat
- Egg
- Tendon
- More noodles
It can add 5,000 – 30,000 VND to your total.
Tip: Always check the menu or ask if prices vary by size or topping.
Branding & reputation
Famous pho chains or restaurants that appear in travel guides, food vlogs, or social media tend to charge more. Why?
- They invest in branding, packaging, and consistent quality.
- Many are located in high-rent areas.
- They cater to tourists who are willing to pay for “trusted” quality.
Ambience & customer experience
- A bowl of pho served on a plastic stool in a bustling alley costs less than one in a well-lit, air-conditioned room with polished service.
- Paying for comfort and service (like air conditioning, music, clean restrooms, card payments) is reflected in the final bill.
Is Pho worth the price?
Yes — pho is one of the best-value meals in Vietnam. For just $1–$2, you get a hearty bowl with flavorful broth, rice noodles, quality meat, and fresh herbs. Even in upscale restaurants, pho rarely costs more than $5–$8, making it affordable at every level.
Whether from a street stall or a sit-down eatery, pho offers excellent taste and nutrition for the price, which is why it’s a daily favorite for millions in Vietnam.
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Where to try Pho in Vietnam?
Pho is available throughout Vietnam, from humble street stalls to upscale restaurants. Below are some great spots to enjoy it, along with the average pho price in Vietnam converted to USD for your convenience.
Hanoi
- Pho Thin (13 Lo Duc): Famous for its smoky, rich broth. Price: 60,000 VND (approx. $2.40)
- Old Quarter street stalls: Local flavor at budget-friendly prices. Price: 30,000–40,000 VND (approx. $1.20–$1.60)
Ho Chi Minh City
- Pho Hoa Pasteur: A well-known pho destination with generous portions. Price: 80,000–100,000 VND (approx. $3.20–$4.00)
- Pho Le (District 5): Popular for southern-style pho. Price: 60,000–70,000 VND (approx. $2.40–$2.80)
Da Nang and Other Cities
- Local markets and small eateries: Affordable and authentic. Price: 25,000–50,000 VND (approx. $1.00–$2.00)
- Tourist cafés and beachfront restaurants: Higher-end presentation and service. Price: 70,000–120,000 VND (approx. $2.80–$4.80)
Summary
The pho price in Vietnam is extremely reasonable, making it one of the best culinary experiences for travelers and locals alike. Whether you’re savoring a street-side bowl or enjoying pho in a stylish eatery, you’ll be tasting a delicious slice of Vietnamese culture.
