Quick answer
Dublin's evolving food landscape has seen a remarkable surge in demand for the warming, aromatic embrace of pho, making it a beloved staple for locals and visitors alike. From bustling street-food style eateries to more refined dining experiences, the city now boasts a diverse array of venues serving up this iconic Vietnamese noodle soup.
- Best overall
- Pho Viet
- Top pick
- Pho Viet — Consistently praised for authentic Northern-style broth and fresh ingredients.
Top verdicts
- Pho Viet: Those seeking the most traditional and deeply flavourful pho bò or phở gà, often praised as Dublin's best.
- Aobaba: Diners seeking a quick, satisfying, and affordable pho experience with a lively, authentic street-food vibe.
- Pho Ta: Connoisseurs who appreciate a nuanced, deeply aromatic pho broth and a slightly quieter dining atmosphere compared to its bustling neighbours.
Originating in Vietnam in the early 20th century, pho is more than just a dish; it's a cultural cornerstone. Traditionally a breakfast food, its rich, clear broth, delicate rice noodles, fresh herbs, and choice of beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà) have captivated palates worldwide, embodying comfort, complexity, and culinary heritage.
In Dublin, you'll encounter various styles, from the classic northern-style (Phở Bắc) with its clearer broth and simpler garnishes, to the more robust and herb-laden southern-style (Phở Nam). Many establishments also offer contemporary twists, vegetarian options, and regional specialities, ensuring there's a bowl to satisfy every craving and dietary preference.
Area map
All 10 spots at a glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pho Viet | Vietnamese | mid | Parnell Street |
| 2 | Aobaba | Vietnamese | budget | Capel Street |
| 3 | Pho Ta | Vietnamese | mid | Parnell Street |
| 4 | Falls Restaurant | Vietnamese | mid | Dame Street |
| 5 | Saigon City | Vietnamese | mid | Parnell Street |
| 6 | Banh Mi & Pho | Vietnamese | budget | Parnell Street |
| 7 | Hanoi Habor | Modern Vietnamese | mid | South Great George's Street |
| 8 | Vietnom | Modern Vietnamese | mid | Clanbrassil Street Lower |
| 9 | Asian Street Food | Casual Asian | budget | Dorset Street Lower |
| 10 | Kimchi Hophouse | Casual Asian | mid | Parnell Street |
1Pho Viet
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking the most traditional and deeply flavourful pho bò or phở gà, often praised as Dublin's best.
- Strengths
- Parnell Street
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Pho Viet consistently earns top marks for its authentic Northern Vietnamese pho, boasting a clear, complex broth simmered for hours. Their commitment to fresh ingredients and traditional recipes makes it a must-visit for purists.
- What to order
- Phở Bò Tái Nạm (rare beef and flank pho) – the broth is incredibly aromatic and beef is tender.
🕐 Opening hours
2Aobaba
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners seeking a quick, satisfying, and affordable pho experience with a lively, authentic street-food vibe.
- Strengths
- Capel Street
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Aobaba is a bustling, no-frills spot celebrated for its incredible value and consistently delicious, generously portioned pho. It's a favourite among students and locals looking for authentic flavours without breaking the bank.
- What to order
- Phở Gà (chicken pho) – the broth is light yet flavourful, and the chicken is always tender. Pair it with their fresh spring rolls.
🕐 Opening hours
3Pho Ta
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Connoisseurs who appreciate a nuanced, deeply aromatic pho broth and a slightly quieter dining atmosphere compared to its bustling neighbours.
- Strengths
- Parnell Street
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Pho Ta offers a delightful pho experience with a beautifully balanced and aromatic broth that truly stands out. Their attention to quality ingredients and careful preparation makes each bowl a comforting masterpiece.
- What to order
- Phở Đặc Biệt (special combination pho) to sample a variety of meats and experience their signature broth at its best.
🕐 Opening hours
4Falls Restaurant
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Tourists and city workers looking for a convenient, quality pho in the heart of Dublin with a diverse Vietnamese menu.
- Strengths
- Dame Street
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Located centrally on Dame Street, Falls Restaurant provides a reliable and satisfying Vietnamese dining experience, with their pho being a consistent crowd-pleaser. It’s a great option for a hearty meal after exploring the city.
- What to order
- Their classic Beef Pho is a solid choice, known for its comforting broth and tender meat. Try their summer rolls as an appetizer.
🕐 Opening hours
5Saigon City
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Groups or families seeking a comfortable dining experience with a broad menu that includes well-executed pho and other Vietnamese specialities.
- Strengths
- Parnell Street
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- A long-standing presence on Parnell Street, Saigon City offers a spacious and comfortable setting for enjoying traditional Vietnamese cuisine, with their pho providing a reliable and flavourful option for all diners.
- What to order
- Phở Tái (rare beef pho) paired with their crispy Vietnamese pancakes (Bánh Xèo) for a diverse meal.
🕐 Opening hours
6Banh Mi & Pho
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners craving both a stellar pho and a delicious bánh mì, ideal for a casual and authentic Vietnamese meal.
- Strengths
- Parnell Street
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- As its name suggests, Banh Mi & Pho excels in two Vietnamese staples. Their pho offers a comforting and authentic experience, perfect for a quick, flavourful lunch or dinner in a relaxed setting.
- What to order
- Any of their pho bowls, especially the beef, and absolutely get a bánh mì on the side – the combination is unbeatable.
🕐 Opening hours
7Hanoi Habor
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a slightly more upscale and modern Vietnamese dining experience, ideal for a date night or a relaxed evening meal.
- Strengths
- South Great George's Street
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Hanoi Habor brings a contemporary twist to Vietnamese dining with a sleek, stylish interior and a menu that balances traditional flavours with modern presentation. Their pho is a refined version of the classic, served with elegance.
- What to order
- Their signature Seafood Pho offers a refreshing alternative to traditional beef or chicken, packed with fresh ingredients.
🕐 Opening hours
8Vietnom
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners seeking creative, well-executed Vietnamese dishes and a lively, buzzy atmosphere popular with younger crowds.
- Strengths
- Clanbrassil Street Lower
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- Vietnom is known for its vibrant, innovative approach to Vietnamese street food, and their pho is no exception. They offer exciting variations while maintaining the soulful essence of the dish, making it a firm favourite south of the Liffey.
- What to order
- Their Phở Chay (vegetarian pho) is highly acclaimed, offering a rich and savoury broth for non-meat eaters, alongside their excellent beef pho.
🕐 Opening hours
9Asian Street Food
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those who appreciate a wide selection of Asian dishes alongside a dependable and generous bowl of pho, perfect for a casual lunch.
- Strengths
- Dorset Street Lower
- Price / value
- $
- Why it made the list
- Asian Street Food provides a broad menu of Asian favourites, with their pho consistently praised for its hearty portions and comforting flavours. It's a reliable choice for a satisfying meal in a relaxed setting.
- What to order
- Their large Phở Bò (beef pho) is a filling and flavourful option, and don't hesitate to explore their other Asian offerings.
🕐 Opening hours
10Kimchi Hophouse
restaurantQuick comparison
- Best for
- Groups where some members might prefer Korean BBQ or other Asian dishes, but still offers a reliable pho option for those craving it.
- Strengths
- Parnell Street
- Price / value
- $$
- Why it made the list
- While primarily known for its Korean BBQ, Kimchi Hophouse also offers a well-regarded Vietnamese menu, including a comforting pho that surprises many. It's a great spot for groups with diverse culinary preferences.
- What to order
- Their Beef Pho alongside some Korean fried chicken for an interesting East Asian fusion experience.
🕐 Opening hours
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical price for a bowl of pho in Dublin?
The price for a standard bowl of pho in Dublin typically ranges from €12 to €18. Budget-friendly options like Aobaba might be closer to €12-€15, while more modern or centrally located establishments like Hanoi Habor could be €15-€19, especially for larger or specialty bowls.
Are there vegetarian or vegan pho options available in Dublin?
Yes, many Vietnamese restaurants in Dublin are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan pho options. Places like Vietnom are particularly noted for their flavorful Phở Chay (vegetarian pho) with rich vegetable broths and tofu or mushroom protein. It's always a good idea to check the menu or ask staff upon arrival.
Which Dublin pho restaurant is best for an authentic Vietnamese experience?
For an authentic Vietnamese experience, Pho Viet on Parnell Street is widely regarded as the top choice. It's praised by many for its traditional Northern Vietnamese broth, fresh ingredients, and commitment to classic recipes, making it a favourite among the Vietnamese community itself.
Can I find spicy pho in Dublin?
Absolutely! While traditional pho broth is mild, many establishments offer chili oil, fresh chilies, or sriracha at the table for you to customise your spice level. Some places, like Banh Mi & Pho, might even offer a specific 'spicy pho' option on their menu for those who like an extra kick.
Is pho a suitable option for a gluten-free diet?
Pho is generally a good option for a gluten-free diet as its primary ingredients – rice noodles, broth, meat, and herbs – are naturally gluten-free. However, cross-contamination can occur, and some broths might use soy sauce (which often contains wheat). It's best to inform the restaurant of your dietary needs to ensure safe preparation.
Are Dublin's pho restaurants generally child-friendly?
Most pho restaurants in Dublin, especially the more casual ones like Pho Viet or Asian Street Food, are quite child-friendly. Pho can be a great option for kids, with its mild broth and customizable toppings. High chairs might be available, but it's always advisable to call ahead for specific needs or during peak hours.
Do I need to make reservations for pho restaurants in Dublin?
For casual, counter-service style pho spots like Aobaba or Banh Mi & Pho, reservations are typically not necessary or even possible. For slightly more upscale or sit-down restaurants such as Hanoi Habor or Saigon City, particularly for evening meals or weekend visits, making a reservation is recommended to guarantee a table and avoid waiting.
What's the best area in Dublin to find a concentration of pho restaurants?
Parnell Street and Capel Street in Dublin 1 are widely considered the epicentre of Vietnamese cuisine in the city. You'll find a high concentration of excellent pho restaurants, including top picks like Pho Viet, Pho Ta, Saigon City, and Aobaba, making it an ideal area for a pho crawl.