Oakland's Best Pho [Updated 2025]

Having sampled the rich and aromatic bowls from a variety of local spots, I can confidently say that Oakland is a hidden gem for pho lovers.

With 12 different restaurants now reviewed, I've delved into the depths of flavor and uniqueness each has to offer.

From traditional recipes to creative twists, each bowl tells a story that speaks to the heart of Vietnamese cuisine.

Join me as I share my favorite pho destinations that reflect both authenticity and the vibrant culture of our beloved city!

Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar

Highlights
Thoughtful and careful recipes
Fresh and high-quality ingredients
Unique regional Vietnamese dishes
Delicious banh xeo and banh bot
Outdoor patio for dining

Tay Ho Oakland Restaurant & Bar has genuinely captured my heart—and my taste buds! Nestled in a vibrant corner of Oakland, this delightful gem stands out with its thoughtful and careful recipes, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both homely and exciting. As I stepped inside, I was immediately drawn to the scent of simmering broth—the hallmark of a great pho.

The star of the show, the pho itself, is crafted from fresh and high-quality ingredients. Each bowl tells a story rich in flavor, with tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, and a broth that's both aromatic and deeply satisfying. But don't let the pho steal all the thunder! Their unique regional Vietnamese dishes, like banh xeo and banh bot, are must-tries that add an extra layer of culinary joy to my dining experience.

Dining in their outdoor patio is a lovely bonus, blending the freshness of the outdoors with the warmth of Vietnamese hospitality. Overall, my visit to Tay Ho was nothing short of delightful, making it a top contender for the best pho in Oakland. I left with a satisfied palate and a smile, eager to return!

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Phở Vy Vietnamese Cuisine

Highlights
Delicious grilled pork dishes
Amazing spring rolls
Reasonable prices
Friendly family-operated
No frills, authentic dining

Phở Vy Vietnamese Cuisine is a hidden gem in Oakland that truly captures the heart of authentic Vietnamese flavors. When I walked through the doors, I was greeted by a warm atmosphere that felt both inviting and relaxed, typical of a family-operated spot. The menu boasted a delightful array of options, and I couldn’t resist trying their perfectly cooked pho—it had a broth that was rich, aromatic, and bursting with flavor.

The grilled pork was an absolute highlight; it was succulent, tender, and complemented the pho wonderfully. And let’s not forget the spring rolls. Crispy, fresh, and packed with taste, they were the ideal starter to whet my appetite.

What I appreciated the most was the no frills approach to dining here. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it accessible for anyone craving a comforting bowl of pho.

Overall, Phở Vy stands out for its authentic taste and friendly service, making it one of the best spots for pho in Oakland. I left with a full belly and a happy heart, eager to return again for another delightful meal! If you’re in the area, don’t miss out on this culinary treasure!

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Co Nam

Highlights
Juicy grilled chicken
Creative menu options
Fresh and flavorful
Excellent late-night food
Great cocktails and service

Visiting Co Nam in Oakland was a delightful adventure for my taste buds! From the moment I stepped in, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fresh herbs and spices wafting through the air. I couldn’t resist starting with their juicy grilled chicken—a perfect companion to the star of the show.

The pho here isn't just a bowl of broth; it's a celebration of flavors. Each slurp was rich and vibrant, with just the right amount of herbs to elevate the experience. I couldn't help but appreciate their creative menu options that cater to both traditionalists and those looking for something a bit different.

And let’s not forget the great cocktails that seamlessly complemented my meal. After all, who doesn’t enjoy winding down with a refreshing drink alongside their pho? The service was impeccable, adding to the inviting atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot for a late-night indulgence.

In short, Co Nam is a gem in Oakland’s culinary scene. Whether you’re a pho aficionado or a curious newcomer, this place is a must-visit for anyone craving an unforgettable bowl!

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Pho Huyen & Banh Mi

Highlights
Rich and flavorful pho broth
Amazing grilled pork
Perfectly balanced banh mi
Tender BBQ chicken sandwich
Soft and crunchy bread

Pho Huyen & Banh Mi has quickly earned a special spot in my heart—and my taste buds—since my recent visit. The moment I entered, the rich and flavorful pho broth enveloped me like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This hearty concoction danced on my palate, beautifully balanced and expertly spiced, making it an absolute delight. I couldn’t help but pair it with some amazing grilled pork that struck the perfect harmony between sweet and savory.

But we’re not just talking about pho here! Their banh mi was a revelation, with its soft yet crunchy bread creating a delightful contrast and ensuring each bite was a textured masterpiece. The tender BBQ chicken sandwich was another triumph, bursting with flavor and leaving me in a state of pure bliss.

In a city saturated with options, Pho Huyen & Banh Mi manages to rise above the fray with its dedication to authentic flavors and quality. If you find yourself in Oakland with an appetite for pho, this gem is certainly worth a visit. Your taste buds will thank you—and so will I!

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Phở Ao Sen Restaurant

At Phở Ao Sen, the aroma hits you like a warm hug the moment you step inside. Their broth is a flawless blend of savory and aromatic, simmered to perfection with fresh herbs. I opted for the Vietnamese classic—the Phở Bò, and it was a delightful explosion of flavors. The beef was tender, and the rice noodles were perfectly slurp-worthy! The atmosphere is cozy and inviting; it feels like home. If you're on the hunt for delicious pho that warms both heart and soul, Phở Ao Sen should be at the top of your list!

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Monster Phở

Monster Phở in Oakland is an unmissable delight that truly lives up to its name! Upon entering, I was greeted by an ambiance that buzzed with enthusiasm, setting the stage for a nourishing adventure. Their beef pho is a bowl of umami bliss, with perfectly simmered broth and tender, flavorful meat. Each slurp was like a warm hug, complemented by fresh herbs and zesty lime. Don’t skip the side of fried egg rolls—crisp, golden perfection! If you’re seeking an unforgettable pho experience, Monster Phở is a must-visit that transforms a simple meal into a memorable feast.

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Pho King

Visiting Pho King was a delightful journey into the heart of Vietnamese cuisine. The aromatic broth danced on my palate, rich with an exquisite balance of spices. Each bowl brimming with tender beef and fresh herbs felt like a warm embrace. The bánh phở noodles were perfectly cooked—silky and satisfying. I couldn't resist the crispy spring rolls on the side, which added a satisfying crunch. The ambiance is lively yet cozy, making it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions. If you’re in Oakland and craving pho, Pho King surely reigns supreme!

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Rayman's Nudough

Tucked away in the vibrant streets of Oakland, Rayman's Nudough serves up a delightful twist on traditional pho. As I slurped the rich, aromatic broth, the delicate dance of herbs and spices transported me straight to Vietnam. The tender noodles—silky and perfectly cooked—paired harmoniously with succulent meat. What truly stole the show was the house-made chili oil, offering a flavorful kick that lingered long after each spoonful. The cozy, inviting atmosphere only enhanced the experience. If you're seeking a pho adventure that excites the palate, Rayman's Nudough is a must-visit gem in Oakland’s culinary landscape!

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Vien Huong Restaurant

Stepping into Vien Huong Restaurant, I was met with the intoxicating aroma of spices and simmering broth. The pho itself was a delightful symphony of flavors; each spoonful revealed tender beef, fresh herbs, and a rich, savory broth that warmed my soul. The squirt of lime added a refreshing zest, while the generous portion of noodles had a delightful chewiness. The ambiance, though cozy, buzzed with energy, making each visit feel like a communal experience. Truly, this gem in Oakland has found its way into my heart—and my top pho destinations list! Don't miss their incredible spring rolls, too! 🍜✨

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Pho Huong Que

Tucked away in a cozy corner of Oakland, Pho Huong Que is a treasure trove of flavor. From the moment I slurped my first bowl, the rich, aromatic broth enveloped my senses, making it clear why so many locals rave about it. The fresh herbs and perfectly cooked rice noodles danced together in a delightful harmony, while generous portions of tender meat left me utterly satisfied. The ambiance is casual yet inviting, perfect for a laid-back meal. If you’re hunting for the best pho in Oakland, this gem deserves a spot on your must-try list! 🍜✨

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Mẹ Và Con Vietnamese Kitchen

At Mẹ Và Con Vietnamese Kitchen, I was immediately greeted by a warm ambiance that felt like home. Their pho is a delightful blend of rich broth and tender meat, capturing the essence of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. The balance of spices was just right, leaving my taste buds dancing. I adored the fresh herbs and crisp bean sprouts, enhancing each comforting slurp. The attentive service added to the experience, making me feel cherished. If you’re on a quest for authentic pho, this gem is a must-visit! Trust me, your palate will thank you!

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Cam Huong

Cam Huong offers a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. From the moment I stepped in, the aroma of simmering broth enveloped me—an enticing welcome! I ordered the pho ga, and it was nothing short of spectacular: tender chicken, perfectly balanced herbs, and a fragrant broth that felt like a warm embrace. The fresh garnishes brought an irresistible crunch, elevating each spoonful. The casual vibe kept the experience light and enjoyable. For pho enthusiasts, this place is a must-visit; it’s not just a meal, it’s a culinary experience that definitely deserves a spot on your foodie map!

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