What Is Pho?

Pho (pronounced "fuh") is Vietnam's most iconic dish — a fragrant, hearty soup of rice noodles, rich broth, and tender meat, topped with an abundance of fresh herbs and condiments. It's breakfast, lunch, dinner, and comfort food all rolled into one steaming bowl.

The History of Pho

Pho originated in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, likely in the Nam Dinh and Hanoi regions. It's believed to be a fusion of Vietnamese and French culinary influences — the long-simmered bone broth echoing the French pot-au-feu.

After the fall of Saigon in 1975, Vietnamese refugees brought pho to the United States, where it quickly gained popularity, especially in cities with large Vietnamese communities like San Jose, Houston, and Orange County.

Types of Pho

Pho Bo (Beef Pho)

The classic. Made with beef bone broth simmered for 12-24 hours with star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Common toppings include:

Tai — Rare sliced eye of round
Chin — Well-done brisket
Nam — Flank
Gau — Fatty brisket
Gan — Tendon
Sach — Tripe

Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)

A lighter alternative with chicken broth. Often served with shredded or sliced chicken breast and thigh.

Pho Chay (Vegetarian Pho)

Made with vegetable or mushroom broth, tofu, and an array of vegetables.

How to Eat Pho

Start with the broth — Take a sip to appreciate the base flavor
Add your herbs — Tear basil leaves, add bean sprouts, squeeze lime
Customize with sauces — Hoisin and sriracha on the side (never directly in the broth for purists!)
Use chopsticks and spoon — Chopsticks for noodles and meat, spoon for broth
Slurp away — It's expected and encouraged!

Where to Find the Best Pho in San Jose

San Jose is home to one of the largest Vietnamese communities outside of Vietnam, and the pho scene here is world-class. At Vietnoms, our pho is made with a 24-hour simmered bone broth using a traditional family recipe.

Order our classic pho online and taste the difference.

Pho Nutrition Facts

A typical bowl of pho contains:

400-600 calories (depending on protein and portion)
Rich in protein from the meat and broth
Low in fat compared to many comfort foods
Packed with vitamins from fresh herbs and vegetables

Pho is often recommended when you're feeling under the weather — the hot broth, ginger, and herbs are naturally soothing.

Ready to try the best pho in San Jose? Visit us or order online today.

The Ultimate Guide to Vietnamese Pho