From traditional beef pho to hot and sour-style pho with prawns and pineapple and even plant-based adaptations for vegans and vegetarians, find out where you can order up a bowl of the Vietnamese staple, here
A big, warm bowl of pho (or phở) can bring immense comfort on even the coldest of days. With a broth much lighter and cleaner than rich Asian noodle soups like ramen or laksa, the Vietnamese staple is far more delicate in flavour—and, when done right, boasts a wonderfully intricate balance. Traditionally prepared with beef broth, rice noodles, thinly sliced rare beef, and a variety of vibrant vegetables and herbs to garnish, pho has evolved to include other iterations, including heftier bowls with meatballs and other cuts of beef, chicken-based soups, seafood varieties, and even plant-based adaptations.
Find out where to get your taste of pho in and around Metro Manila, below:
1. Flowerboy
Don’t be mistaken—this isn’t your typical pho, nor is it pretending to be. The “di pho noodle soup” from Flowerboy (available through Lowbrow and The Grid Food Market) bridges the gap between pho and ramen, presenting a richer broth with a greater umami punch. Expect big, bold flavours from the get-go from the slow simmer of brisket, oxtail, and tendon, which all feature generously in the bowl in addition to pork balls, fried onions, basil, and bean sprouts.
See also: Why Do Chefs Hate the Word “Fusion”?
