San Mateo's Best Pho [Updated 2025]

Having reviewed twelve different establishments, I've tasted everything from rich, aromatic broths to perfectly cooked noodles and tender meats.

Each bowl tells a story of tradition, culture, and the passion that goes into crafting this beloved Vietnamese dish.

In this article, I will share my top picks, highlighting the unique flavors and experiences that make each one stand out.

Whether you’re a pho enthusiast or a newcomer to this delightful cuisine, my goal is to help you discover your next favorite bowl in San Mateo!

Pho Element

Highlights
Flavorful noodle soup
Busy, small restaurant
Generous shrimp portions
Tasty grilled chicken
Friendly and fast service

Pho Element has quickly become one of my favorite spots for a fantastic bowl of pho in San Mateo! As soon as I stepped inside the busy, small restaurant, I felt the vibrant energy surrounding me. The aroma of simmering broth filled the air, enticing me to dive in headfirst.

When I finally dug into the flavorful noodle soup, I was pleasantly surprised by how rich and aromatic the broth was—definitely a winner! One of the highlights of my visit was the generous shrimp portions. Each bite was a delightful burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the perfectly cooked noodles.

I can't forget to mention the tasty grilled chicken that I indulged in alongside my bowl. It complemented the pho beautifully, adding layers of taste that made my meal even more exciting.

What truly stood out was the friendly and fast service; the staff was attentive and made me feel right at home. If you’re seeking a delicious and hearty pho experience, Pho Element is the place to be! If my taste buds could talk, they would sing the praises of this delightful spot.

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Taishoken Ramen

Highlights
Specialty in Tsukemen
Bold and Indulgent Flavors
Quick and Efficient Service
Casual, Spacious Ambiance
A-Tier Ramen Experience

Taishoken Ramen in San Mateo isn't your typical pho spot. Instead, this treasure specializes in tsukemen, a dipping noodle experience that dances on the palette. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by a casual yet spacious ambiance, perfect for a laid-back meal.

The bold and indulgent flavors of their ramen broth are nothing short of captivating. Each bite seemed to summon a hearty warmth that warmed both my heart and my soul. The noodles—thick, chewy, and utterly satisfying—complemented the rich broth perfectly. I found myself in a delightful dilemma: should I savor the broth solo or go in for the dip?

What truly stood out was the quick and efficient service. It was refreshing to have my bowl filled in no time, leaving me with ample opportunities to explore the vibrant flavors without delayed gratification.

While it's a departure from traditional pho, my experience at Taishoken Ramen delighted my tastebuds in unexpected ways. If you find yourself in San Mateo, don't miss out on this pasta-rrific twist that promises to tickle your culinary fancy!

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Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi

Highlights
Extremely fresh raw fish
Creative and big sushi rolls
50% off sashimi deal at 5pm
Generous portions of starters
Better for casual group outings

Review of Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi

Nestled in the heart of San Mateo, Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi gives off an effortlessly cool vibe that’s perfect for a casual outing with friends. While my quest was to find the best pho, I couldn’t resist diving into their sushi offerings since the name alone piqued my curiosity!

Upon entering, I was shocked at the extent of their fresh raw fish and ‘rock & roll’ style sushi rolls; they weren’t just creative—they were enormous! At 5 PM, snagging their enticing 50% off sashimi deal felt like winning the lottery. Each bite was a celebration of flavor while the generous portions of starters set the stage perfectly.

Although I didn’t uncover the ultimate pho here, Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi is more than worthy of a visit if you’d like to switch gears from noodle soups to sensational sushi. The relaxed atmosphere encourages laughter and enjoyment, making it a great spot for casual group outings. For diners seeking delectable fish and playful rolls, this place rocks, and will definitely have you comin’ back for more!

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Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry

Highlights
Banging delicious food
Cozy and inviting atmosphere
Great value for prices
Perfect for a quick meal
Family-friendly dining option

Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry, nestled in the heart of San Mateo, is a delightful find that elevates comfort food to new heights. As I stepped in, the cozy and inviting atmosphere wrapped around me like a warm embrace, perfectly setting the stage for a delicious meal. The décor strikes a balance between traditional Japanese aesthetics and a modern vibe, making it an ideal spot for a family-friendly dining option or a casual outing with friends.

Now, let’s talk about the food. While the menu leans heavily on ramen and curry, the pho here is a hidden gem. The broth is rich and flavorful, and the garnishes are fresh, giving it the banging deliciousness I crave. I appreciated the great value for prices, especially considering the generous portions. It was the kind of quick meal that leaves you feeling satisfied without emptying your wallet.

Overall, Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry deserves a pat on the back for their culinary delights. If you’re in the mood for a satisfying bowl of pho, this spot is definitely worth a visit!

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Pho Little Saigon

Highlights
Great service
Delicious food
Clean dining environment
Fast food delivery
Helpful staff

Visiting Pho Little Saigon was like stepping into a flavorful oasis right in the heart of San Mateo. As soon as I entered, I was greeted by the warm smiles of the helpful staff, which set the tone for a delightful dining experience. The clean dining environment was an added bonus, making it the perfect spot to savor a steaming bowl of pho.

I must confess, the moment my bowl arrived, I could hardly contain my excitement. The aroma wafting from the broth was nothing short of enchanting, hinting at the delicious flavors that awaited me. With each slurp of the tender noodles and perfectly cooked ingredients, I could feel the culinary love that goes into every bowl.

What truly impressed me, however, was how quickly the food arrived. I don’t know about you, but in my world, good fast food delivery can be a game-changer, especially when I’m craving pho! The attentive service made me feel like a cherished guest, and I left with a happy heart (and a stuffed belly). If you’re hunting for top-notch pho, Pho Little Saigon should undoubtedly be at the top of your list!

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Bangkok Patio Restaurant

Highlights
Super flavorful dishes
Generous portion sizes
Fast and friendly service
Complimentary traditional tea
Great for dining with friends

Bangkok Patio Restaurant is a true gem in the bustling world of pho. From the moment I stepped in, the ambiance struck me—the perfect blend of comfort and casual elegance. They ushered me to my seat with a warm smile, and before I even looked at the menu, I was presented with a complimentary cup of traditional tea, setting a welcoming tone for the meal ahead.

Now, let's talk about the pho. The broth was a flavorful revelation—rich, aromatic, and laden with herbs that danced on my palate. Each slurp was an adventure, with perfectly cooked noodles that had just the right bounce. The portion sizes could only be described as generous; I left feeling gloriously satisfied, yet there was still room to enjoy the delightful spices wafting from my bowl.

The friendly staff were attentive without being intrusive, ensuring that my dining experience was seamless. It was also an excellent spot for gathering with friends—easy to converse and share the enticing dishes. Overall, Bangkok Patio achieves the delicate balance of delicious food and stellar service, making it a standout destination for pho enthusiasts in San Mateo!

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Gao Viet Kitchen

Gao Viet Kitchen is a delightful gem where flavors dance and comfort reigns supreme. The pho is exceptional, with a broth that sings with depth and warmth, laced with fragrant herbs. Each slurp transports you to culinary bliss. The thinly sliced beef practically melts in your mouth, marrying perfectly with the fresh herbs and bean sprouts. I adored the lively atmosphere, making it an inviting spot for a casual meal. If you're searching for a pho experience that’s both satisfying and enjoyable, look no further than Gao Viet Kitchen—you'll leave with a smile and a happy belly!

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Saigon City Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of San Mateo, Saigon City Restaurant is a delightful gem that serves up a truly authentic pho experience. The rich, aromatic broth danced with flavors, each slurp inviting more warmth. I was particularly taken with the tender brisket and perfectly cooked noodles, a testament to their attention to detail. The ambiance was cozy, ideal for a casual meal. Whether you’re a pho veteran or a newcomer, Saigon City offers a unique charm that makes every bowl noteworthy. For anyone seeking the best pho in town, this spot is an absolute must-visit!

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Rin-Tei

At Rin-Tei, the aroma of simmering broth enveloped me as soon as I stepped inside. Their pho is an absolute delight—rich, savory, and perfectly balanced. I savored every sip of the luscious broth, which danced with notes of star anise and fresh herbs. The tender slices of beef melted in my mouth, complementing the texture of the rice noodles beautifully. To top it off, their crispy spring rolls offered a delightful crunch that made for a perfect pairing. If you're on the hunt for the ultimate pho experience, Rin-Tei should definitely be on your list—you won’t be disappointed!

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New Thai Elephant

At New Thai Elephant, I was pleasantly surprised to find their pho was a delightful twist on tradition. The rich broth, simmered to perfection, was infused with aromatic spices that danced on my palate. Each slurp of the tender noodles felt like a warm hug on a chilly day! With fresh herbs and lime on the side, I couldn't resist adding my own flair. But the star of the show? The succulent meat that melted in my mouth. While their Thai offerings shine, this restaurant proves its pho can hold its own. A must-try for any pho enthusiast!

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Vespucci Ristorante Italiano

While Vespucci Ristorante Italiano dazzles with its authentic Italian charm, it's not exactly a pho hotspot. The aromatic herbs and spices of Vietnamese cuisine take a backseat here, making way for classic pasta dishes and delightful pizzas. The ambiance invites you to settle in for a hearty meal, but I found myself reminiscing about the pho I had elsewhere. If you're craving a warm bowl of rich broth and tender noodles, you’ll need to explore other corners of San Mateo. For Italian cuisine, however, Vespucci is undoubtedly a delightful choice! Keep searching, fellow pho enthusiasts!

Ox 9 Lanzhou Handpulled Noodles

At Ox 9 Lanzhou Handpulled Noodles, the pho experience was delightfully unexpected! While they specialize in hand-pulled noodles, their pho offers a unique twist. The broth is rich and aromatic, perfect for slurping alongside the tender, savory slices of beef. The freshness of the herbs adds a zesty kick that elevates the dish. Although it’s not your traditional pho, the fusion of flavors ensures every bite is a culinary adventure. The ambiance is inviting, making it a great spot for a casual meal. If you're in the mood for delicious creativity, don’t miss this gem in San Mateo!