Vietnamese cuisine, particularly pho spots, has taken Los Angeles by storm. Once a niche dish, pho is now a staple comfort food for Angelenos, offering warmth and heartiness on any given day. Whether it’s a chilly morning or a late-night craving, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of Vietnamese beef noodle soup to satisfy the soul.
L.A. boasts some of the most authentic pho experiences outside of Vietnam. With its diverse food scene and large Vietnamese communities, the city offers a wide range of flavors, from traditional recipes to inventive fusion bowls. Below, we explore 13 of the best pho spots in Los Angeles for every type of craving, from bone broth lovers to late-night seekers.
Phở 87 – Downtown’s Go-To Pho Institution
Location: 1019 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Nearby Landmarks: Steps away from the heart of Chinatown, Phở 87 has become an iconic part of the area’s dining culture.
What Makes It Special:
Phở 87 is a legacy Pho spots that’s been serving bowls of pho for decades. It’s a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a no-frills, authentic pho experience. With its traditional approach to flavors and a commitment to high-quality ingredients, Phở 87 has stood the test of time, even as many newer spots pop up across the city.
Signature Dish: The classic Pho spots Tai, a simple yet flavorful broth filled with rare beef slices and fresh herbs, embodies everything great about traditional pho.
Ambiance:
The ambiance is casual and bustling, resembling an old-school diner. It’s a place where you come for the food, not the décor.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to avoid the lunch rush; this place fills up quickly.
Pho Saigon Pearl – Westside’s Hidden Gem
Location: 519 S Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Nearby: Located near UCLA, this Westwood gem is tucked away from the more crowded parts of the Westside.
Why It Stands Out:
Pho Saigon Pearl delivers authentic flavors and large portions in a cozy, unpretentious setting. It’s popular with students, families, and anyone looking for a hearty meal without the pretension.
Menu Highlights: The Oxtail pho and beef brisket pho are standout options, along with some great choices for vegetarians and plant-based diners.
Vibe:
The vibe is laid-back and warm, perfect for casual dining.
Insider Tip: Don’t skip the Vietnamese iced coffee. It’s the perfect companion to a rich bowl of pho spot and will give you an extra kick to get through your day.
KTown Pho – Late-Night Comfort in Koreatown
Location: 974 S Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90006
Nearby: Located in Koreatown, known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse food scene.
What Makes It Unique:
If you’re craving pho in the middle of the night, KTown Pho has you covered. Open late, it’s the perfect post-club or karaoke refuel spot. The pho here is hearty, flavorful, and ideal for satisfying those late-night cravings.
Must-Try Dish: The spicy beef pho is a fan favorite. It has just the right balance of heat and rich flavor, making it an excellent choice for those who love a kick.
Atmosphere:
The restaurant has a relaxed, laid-back vibe with a steady stream of the nightlife crowd stopping in for a bowl of pho spot after a long night out.
Bonus: Free parking is a rare treat in Koreatown, but KTown Pho offers it—making your late-night trip hassle-free.
Pho Gyu Vietnamese Noodle House – West L.A. Pho Fusion
Location: 705 S Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Nearby: A short drive from Santa Monica and Culver City.
Special Feature:
Pho Gyu brings a creative twist to traditional Vietnamese pho by offering Japanese-inspired broth options. This fusion spot perfectly marries the best of both culinary worlds, making it an exciting choice for adventurous eaters.
Highlight Dishes: Their pho with short ribs and miso-based broth is a unique take on the classic, while still delivering the comfort you’d expect from a good pho bowl.
Environment:
With bright, modern décor and an urban aesthetic, the atmosphere at Pho Gyu feels fresh and lively.
Pro Tip: Start your meal with their fusion appetizers, such as gyoza, before diving into the pho.
Phở 79 – Little Saigon’s Iconic Spot
Location: 9941 Hazard Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92844
Nearby: Just a short drive from Los Angeles in Little Saigon, Westminster.
What Sets It Apart:
Phở 79 is a James Beard Award-winning restaurant and widely considered one of the best pho spots in the country. If you’re serious about your pho, this is a pilgrimage-worthy spot.
Signature Bowl: The beef pho with tendon, tripe, and well-done brisket offers a satisfying, traditional experience for pho purists.
Ambiance:
The atmosphere is family-friendly and bustling. It’s a no-frills kind of place where the focus is squarely on the food.
Fun Fact: Phở 79’s national recognition makes it one of the most celebrated pho restaurants in the U.S.
The Sisters Cafe – Vietnamese & Asian Fusion (PHO)
Location: 5910 Sunset Boulevard Unit A, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Nearby: Close to The Americana shopping center in Glendale.
Why It’s a Must-Visit:
This family-run spot offers fusion dishes alongside pho, so if you’re in the mood for variety, The Sisters Cafe has you covered. Their take on traditional pho with unique twists keeps locals coming back.
Standout Options: Pho with beef shank, seafood variations, and fusion bowls featuring Korean flavors are popular menu items.
Atmosphere:
The ambiance here is small and charming, with personal touches that make you feel like you’re dining in a family’s kitchen.
Tip: Keep an eye on their daily specials for interesting takes on pho, combining flavors from across Asia.
Thank U Pho – East Hollywood’s Best-Kept Secret
Location: 3522 B W 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90005
Nearby: Located in East Hollywood, with easy access from Silver Lake and Los Feliz.
Unique Angle:
Thank U Pho is a local favorite known for its rich broth and friendly, personable service. It’s a small spot but offers some of the best pho in the area, particularly for those looking for a lighter, yet flavorful, bowl.
Menu Highlights: Their chicken pho is a lighter option, while their vegan broth alternatives are popular among plant-based eaters.
Vibe:
The restaurant has a cozy, intimate feel with minimalist décor that lets the food take center stage.
Bonus: It’s one of the more affordable options on this list, but the quality of the ingredients remains top-notch.
Pho REDBO – An Elevated Pho Experience
Location: 7725 Garden Grove Boulevard, Garden Grove, CA 92841
Nearby: Located in the San Gabriel Valley, an area celebrated for its diverse and vibrant food culture.
Why It’s Special:
Pho REDBO takes pho to another level by offering premium cuts of meat and extensive customization options. If you’ve ever dreamed of a bowl of pho with wagyu beef and bone marrow, this is your spot.
Highlight Dish: Their pho with wagyu beef and rich, flavorful bone marrow broth is a must-try for those seeking a high-end pho experience.
Ambiance:
The sleek, upscale setting adds a modern twist to the traditional pho experience, while still maintaining affordability for the average diner.
Insider Tip: Visit during lunch hours for faster service and a quieter dining experience.
Pho Legend – Best for Broth Lovers
Location: 209 Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Nearby: Just off Sunset Blvd in Echo Park.
What Makes It Special:
Pho Legend places its focus squarely on the broth, which is slow-cooked for a full 12 hours to extract maximum flavor. This dedication to crafting the perfect base ensures that each bowl is as satisfying as possible.
Signature Dish: The bone broth pho with brisket and rare steak showcases the restaurant’s dedication to crafting the perfect pho.
Atmosphere:
It’s casual and clean, with modern touches that make it an inviting place for a sit-down meal.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, they offer fantastic to-go options, making it a great choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
Phở 2000 – Low-Key Pho Perfection
Location: 215 N Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90004
Nearby: Right in the heart of Chinatown, L.A.
What Stands Out:
Phở 2000 is known for its no-fuss approach to pho. You won’t find any fancy frills here, but what you will get is a deep, rich, and flavorful bowl of pho that hits the spot every time.
Must-Try: Their combination beef Pho spots, loaded with all the fixings, is perfect for those who like a bit of everything.
See also https://travelpeto.com/best-pho-in-los-angeles/
John Davis is a seasoned travel guide expert with years of experience exploring some of the world’s most exciting destinations. As the lead author at Travel Peto, he offers practical tips, destination insights, and travel advice to help adventurers plan their perfect trips. His passion for discovering new places shines through in every guide.