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Phở
Phở · Hanoi, Vietnam (north)
A noodle soup that appeared in northern Vietnam only in the early 20th century, shaped by French and Chinese influences.
Know before you go
- Don't stand your chopsticks upright in the bowl
- don't drop used tissues back into the soup
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
Phở is a noodle soup of clear broth, rice noodles, herbs and meat (usually beef, sometimes chicken). It is a relatively new arrival in Vietnamese cuisine: it first appears in written records in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century and is generally thought to have been created by people from Nam Định. Both French and Chinese food traditions are thought to have shaped its development and its name. Northern Hanoi phở and southern Saigon phở differ in noodle width, the sweetness of the broth, and herbs and sauces.
Local customs
- Taste the broth first, then add lime, chilli and herbs to taste
- northerners often eat it with fried dough sticks
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
Vietnam: don't take photos near military bases
- Put your camera away when you see a military area
- Taking photos near military bases
Travel near military bases is also restricted.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Vietnam travel advice
Vietnam: helmets are compulsory on motorbikes
- Riders and passengers must both wear helmets
- Riding or being a passenger without a helmet
- Drink-driving
Riding without a helmet is illegal; drink-driving can bring a fine or even prison, and after an accident you may be barred from leaving the country.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Vietnam travel advice
Vietnam: e-cigarettes are banned
- Leave your e-cigarette at home before you travel
- Bringing in or buying e-cigarettes
E-cigarettes and related products are banned.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Vietnam travel advice
Don’t DON'T
- Don't stand your chopsticks upright in the bowl
- don't drop used tissues back into the soup
Locals appreciate DO
Vietnamese appreciate visitors who get up early for a bowl at an old street-side shop.
Plan your visit
Practical info
Travel tips
- Morning phở shops in Hanoi's Old Quarter are the most authentic and often close when they sell out. Prices and opening hours are set by each shop
- popular old places often have queues, so go outside peak mealtimes.
Sources & verification notes
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