What is pho? At first glance, it is a comforting bowl of rice noodles, fragrant broth, herbs and tender meat. But phở is also one of Vietnam’s most recognisable dishes: a meal shaped by patience, balance and regional tradition.
Whether you already love pho or are asking “what is pho?” before planning your first bowl in London, this guide explains what makes the dish distinctive, how its main elements work together and how to enjoy it at its best.
What is pho, exactly?
Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup built around flat rice noodles called bánh phở, a clear aromatic broth and, most commonly, beef or chicken. It is usually finished with spring onions, coriander and other fresh accompaniments that bring colour, fragrance and contrast.
Vietnam Tourism describes phở as a rice-noodle soup served with beef or chicken broth, herbs and spices. Its apparent simplicity is part of the appeal: every component needs to be carefully prepared because there is nowhere for an unbalanced broth or overcooked noodle to hide.
The four elements that make a memorable bowl
1. A clear, aromatic broth
The broth is the foundation of pho. Beef bones or chicken are gently simmered while aromatics and warming spices build depth without making the soup feel heavy. A good broth should be savoury and fragrant, with a clean finish that invites another spoonful.
2. Flat rice noodles
Unlike the wheat noodles used in ramen, pho uses soft, flat rice noodles. They should be tender while keeping enough structure to carry the broth. Their mild flavour allows the stock, herbs and meat to remain the focus.
3. Carefully prepared meat
Different bowls can feature rare beef, brisket, beef balls, ribs or chicken. Each cut brings a different texture and richness. At An Pho, our Special Combination Beef Pho brings together beef ribs, brisket, beef balls and rare beef for guests who want to experience several textures in one bowl.
4. Fresh herbs and finishing touches
Spring onion, coriander, bean sprouts, lime, chilli and fragrant herbs can brighten the broth and let each guest adjust the final balance. The aim is not to cover the broth, but to complement it.
Northern and southern styles of pho
Pho has developed many regional and family variations. Northern-style pho is often associated with a clearer, restrained broth and a focused selection of garnishes. Southern bowls may arrive with a larger plate of herbs, bean sprouts and sauces, giving diners more ways to customise each mouthful.
These are broad traditions rather than strict rules. Recipes travel with families and change with local ingredients. The MICHELIN Guide’s exploration of pho also highlights how the dish has evolved while remaining closely connected to Vietnamese food culture.
How to enjoy pho
- Taste the broth first. Try a spoonful before adding sauces, lime or chilli so you can understand its original balance.
- Loosen the noodles gently. Use chopsticks to separate the rice noodles without breaking them.
- Add herbs gradually. A little at a time keeps the herbs fresh and prevents them from overwhelming the soup.
- Adjust to your taste. Lime adds brightness, chilli adds heat and sauces can add sweetness or savoury depth.
- Enjoy it while hot. Pho is at its most aromatic when the broth is steaming and the noodles are freshly served.
Is pho gluten-free?
The noodles in pho are traditionally made from rice, but that does not automatically make every bowl gluten-free. Stocks, seasoning sauces and kitchen preparation can vary, and cross-contamination may be possible. If you have an allergy or intolerance, always speak to the restaurant team before ordering.
Why pho feels made for London
London weather makes a hot bowl of pho especially satisfying, but the dish works beyond cold days. The broth is warming without feeling overly rich, while rice noodles and fresh herbs make it suitable for lunch, dinner or a relaxed meal with friends and family.
It is also a dish that rewards repeat visits. One day you may want rare beef and brisket; another day, chicken or a bolder combination of cuts. Small changes in herbs and condiments can make every bowl feel personal.
Try pho at An Pho in North London
If you have been wondering “what is pho?” and where to try it in London, visit An Pho at 267 Edgware Road, London NW9 6NB. Alongside our pho selection, we serve Vietnamese street food favourites, rice dishes, cold rice vermicelli, Vietnamese coffee and more.
Explore our full Vietnamese menu, or plan your visit to An Pho for directions, public transport information and opening hours.
Have a question about ingredients or allergies? Please speak to our team before ordering and we will do our best to help.
