Quick answer
The comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of pho has found its enthusiastic home in Amsterdam's vibrant food landscape. From cozy, unassuming eateries tucked away in historic alleyways to bustling modern restaurants, the city's love affair with this iconic Vietnamese noodle soup is undeniable. Whether you're seeking a hearty lunch or a soothing dinner, Amsterdam delivers a diverse and delicious pho experience.
- Best overall
- Pho Vietnam
- Top pick
- Pho Vietnam — Consistently praised for its authentic, rich broth and traditional atmosphere.
Top verdicts
- Pho Vietnam: Pho purists seeking an authentic, classic bowl of pho in a bustling city center location.
- Pho 91: Diners looking for a contemporary Vietnamese experience with excellent pho and a bustling atmosphere.
- Saigon Culinair: Groups or families wanting to explore a wider range of authentic Vietnamese dishes alongside a classic bowl of pho.
Rooted in Vietnamese culinary tradition, pho is more than just soup; it's a cultural cornerstone. Originating in Northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, its rich, aromatic broth, tender noodles, and fresh herbs reflect centuries of culinary evolution. The dish's complexity comes from hours of simmering bones and spices, creating a deeply satisfying flavor profile that has captivated palates worldwide.
In Amsterdam, you'll discover a spectrum of pho styles, primarily focusing on Pho Bo (beef) and Pho Ga (chicken). While traditionalists can find classic renditions featuring rare steak, brisket, and meatballs, many establishments also offer contemporary twists, vegetarian options, and regional variations that showcase the breadth of Vietnamese cuisine beyond the familiar. Each bowl promises a unique journey of taste, from subtle sweetness to herbaceous zest.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pho Vietnam | Traditional Vietnamese | mid | Centrum |
| 2 | Pho 91 | Modern Vietnamese | mid | De Pijp |
| 3 | Saigon Culinair | Authentic Vietnamese | mid | Jordaan |
| 4 | Little V | Upscale Vietnamese | splurge | Leidseplein |
| 5 | Viet View | Casual Vietnamese | budget | Centrum |
| 6 | Mister Vietnamese | Traditional Vietnamese | mid | Jordaan |
| 7 | Mama Pho | Local Vietnamese | budget | Westerpark |
| 8 | Pho & Rice | Modern Vietnamese | mid | De Pijp |
| 9 | Lotus Vietnamese Deli | Authentic Vietnamese | budget | Jordaan |
| 10 | Restaurant Pho | Local Vietnamese | mid | Oost |
1Pho Vietnam
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Pho purists seeking an authentic, classic bowl of pho in a bustling city center location.
- Strengths
- Centrum
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Widely regarded as Amsterdam's original pho destination, Pho Vietnam offers a consistently rich and aromatic broth that transports diners straight to the streets of Hanoi. Its no-frills atmosphere focuses entirely on the quality of the dish.
- What to order
- Pho Bo Dac Biet (Special Beef Pho) – a generous mix of rare beef, brisket, and beef balls in their signature broth.
🕐 Opening hours
2Pho 91
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners looking for a contemporary Vietnamese experience with excellent pho and a bustling atmosphere.
- Strengths
- De Pijp
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Located in the lively De Pijp district, Pho 91 offers a modern take on Vietnamese cuisine with a bright, welcoming ambiance. Their pho is known for its fresh ingredients and well-balanced, flavorful broth, attracting a younger crowd.
- What to order
- Pho Ga (Chicken Pho) – highly praised for its clean, savory chicken broth and tender shredded chicken.
🕐 Opening hours
3Saigon Culinair
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Groups or families wanting to explore a wider range of authentic Vietnamese dishes alongside a classic bowl of pho.
- Strengths
- Jordaan
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- A long-standing favorite in the Jordaan, Saigon Culinair offers an authentic Vietnamese dining experience with a broad menu that extends beyond pho. Their pho is celebrated for its traditional flavors and generous portions.
- What to order
- Pho Bo Tai Nam (Beef Pho with Rare Beef and Brisket) – a classic combination with tender meat slices and robust broth.
🕐 Opening hours
4Little V
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners seeking a stylish and modern Vietnamese dining experience with delicious pho and cocktails.
- Strengths
- Leidseplein
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Nestled near Leidseplein, Little V provides a more upscale and chic dining experience with beautifully plated Vietnamese dishes. Their pho, while on the pricier side, is crafted with high-quality ingredients and a refined broth, perfect for a special occasion.
- What to order
- Pho Bo – their signature beef pho is prepared with prime cuts of beef and a delicate yet flavorful broth.
🕐 Opening hours
5Viet View
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Budget-conscious travelers or anyone craving a quick, authentic, and satisfying pho fix in the city center.
- Strengths
- Centrum
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Offering a quick, casual, and incredibly satisfying pho experience, Viet View is perfect for a delicious meal on the go or a relaxed sit-down. Their broths are light yet flavorful, and the ingredients are always fresh.
- What to order
- Pho Chay (Vegetarian Pho) – a surprisingly rich and savory option for non-meat eaters, packed with fresh vegetables and tofu.
🕐 Opening hours
6Mister Vietnamese
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a warm, intimate dining experience with authentic pho flavors away from the main tourist bustle.
- Strengths
- Jordaan
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Tucked away in the charming Jordaan, Mister Vietnamese offers a cozy, intimate setting with a focus on authentic, homemade-style pho. Their broth is deeply comforting and meticulously prepared, making it a true hidden gem.
- What to order
- Their classic Pho Bo with a side of Cha Gio (crispy spring rolls) for a perfect combination.
🕐 Opening hours
7Mama Pho
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Locals and visitors in the Westerpark area seeking a reliable, hearty, and affordable bowl of pho.
- Strengths
- Westerpark
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- A beloved local spot in the Westerpark area, Mama Pho is known for its no-frills approach and consistently good pho at reasonable prices. It's a great place to experience comforting Vietnamese flavors in a relaxed setting.
- What to order
- Pho Bo Hue – a spicy and sour beef noodle soup that's a fantastic alternative to traditional pho.
🕐 Opening hours
8Pho & Rice
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners who appreciate both excellent pho and a selection of other well-executed Vietnamese rice dishes.
- Strengths
- De Pijp
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- As the name suggests, Pho & Rice specializes in the two staples of Vietnamese cuisine, excelling in both. Their pho broth is crafted with care, offering a clean and savory taste, complemented by a range of fresh toppings.
- What to order
- Their signature Pho Bo – choose your preferred cuts of beef, and consider adding an extra egg for richness.
🕐 Opening hours
9Lotus Vietnamese Deli
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- A quick, delicious, and budget-friendly pho experience, especially if you're exploring the Jordaan or grabbing food to go.
- Strengths
- Jordaan
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- This small, unassuming deli in the Jordaan is a local secret for its incredibly authentic and flavorful pho, often enjoyed for takeaway but with a few spots for a quick bite. The broth here is deeply satisfying and made with obvious care.
- What to order
- Their classic Pho Bo Tai – simple, flavorful, and perfectly executed rare beef pho.
🕐 Opening hours
10Restaurant Pho
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families or groups seeking a relaxed, reliable, and authentic Vietnamese meal in the eastern part of the city.
- Strengths
- Oost
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- A straightforward and welcoming Vietnamese restaurant in Amsterdam Oost, Restaurant Pho delivers consistent quality and a comfortable dining experience. Their pho is hearty, flavorful, and a popular choice among neighborhood residents.
- What to order
- Their Pho Bo with extra herbs and a side of chili for an added kick.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What is the average price of a bowl of pho in Amsterdam?
The average price for a standard bowl of pho in Amsterdam typically ranges from €12 to €22. Budget-friendly options can be found for as low as €10-€15, while more upscale restaurants or larger portions might cost up to €25-€30. Prices can vary based on the type of pho (beef, chicken, vegetarian) and the specific restaurant's location and ambiance.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options available in Amsterdam?
Yes, many Vietnamese restaurants in Amsterdam cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. Most places offer a Pho Chay (vegetarian pho) with a vegetable-based broth, tofu, and an assortment of fresh vegetables. It's always best to inquire with the staff to ensure the broth is entirely meat-free, as some traditional broths may contain animal products.
Do I need to make reservations for pho restaurants in Amsterdam?
For smaller, casual pho eateries, reservations are generally not required. However, for more popular or upscale Vietnamese restaurants, especially those located in central or trendy areas like De Pijp or Jordaan, it is highly recommended to make a reservation, particularly if you plan to dine during peak hours (evenings, weekends) to avoid waiting.
What are the traditional condiments served with pho?
Traditionally, pho is served with a plate of fresh garnishes including lime wedges, bean sprouts, fresh chili (often bird's eye chili), and various herbs like Thai basil and culantro. You'll also typically find Sriracha (chili sauce) and Hoisin sauce (sweet, savory sauce) on the table to customize your bowl to your taste preferences.
Is pho a healthy meal option?
Pho can be a relatively healthy meal option, especially if you opt for lean protein and load up on fresh vegetables and herbs. The broth, often simmered for hours, contains collagen and nutrients. However, it can be high in sodium, so moderating added sauces is recommended. Vegetarian options tend to be lighter.
What's the difference between Northern and Southern Vietnamese pho?
Northern Vietnamese pho (Phở Bắc) typically features a clearer, simpler broth with wider noodles and less garnish, focusing on the pure beef flavor. Southern Vietnamese pho (Phở Nam) tends to have a richer, sweeter broth, thinner noodles, and is served with a more extensive array of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and sauces for a customizable experience. Amsterdam's pho generally leans towards the Southern style.
Can I get pho for takeaway or delivery in Amsterdam?
Absolutely! Most pho restaurants in Amsterdam offer takeaway services, and many are also available on popular food delivery platforms like Thuisbezorgd.nl (Just Eat Takeaway), Uber Eats, and Deliveroo. This makes enjoying a comforting bowl of pho at home or in your accommodation incredibly convenient.
What other Vietnamese dishes should I try besides pho?
Beyond pho, Amsterdam's Vietnamese restaurants offer a delicious array of dishes. Popular choices include Bún Chả (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), Gỏi Cuốn (fresh spring rolls), Nem Rán or Cha Gio (fried spring rolls), Bánh Mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwiches), and Bún Bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup).