Finding the “Best Pho in Toronto” is no small feat in a city teeming with diverse culinary delights, but after countless bowls and numerous restaurant visits, I’ve narrowed down the contenders. As a pho enthusiast who’s spent years exploring Toronto’s vibrant food scene, I’m excited to share my top picks that truly stand out in terms of flavor, authenticity, and overall dining experience. Whether you’re a longtime pho lover or a curious newcomer, these spots promise to deliver a bowl of pho that will warm your soul and leave you craving more.
6 Best Pho Restaurant Toronto
1. UFO Restaurant
If you’re looking for an unassuming gem in the heart of a residential area, UFO Restaurant is a must-visit. At first glance, it might not catch your eye, but this is a classic case of not judging a book by its cover. UFO is a charming hole-in-the-wall spot that offers some of the best Vietnamese food in the downtown area.
The pho here is a standout. The broth strikes the perfect balance between spice and richness without being overwhelming. I ordered the special pho, which came generously loaded with meat and fresh ingredients. Although there was a time when the meat was a bit dry and the sprouts weren’t as fresh, those instances were rare. For the most part, the noodles are never overcooked, and the vegetables are consistently fresh.
The fresh spring rolls are another highlight. They’re packed full and serve as the perfect vehicle for their delicious peanut sauce. And don’t even get me started on their smoothies—always a refreshing treat!
UFO isn’t just about Vietnamese cuisine; they also offer some Greek and American options, like their poutine, which is surprisingly good. Everything on the menu is a hit, and I find myself ordering from UFO at least twice a month. It’s a testament to their consistency and quality.
While the interior might not be the cleanest or the most modern, the outdoor seating area is quite nice, making it a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal. Whether you’re dining in or taking out, the UFO team never fails to deliver a satisfying experience. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Contact info
- Address: 241 Niagara St, Toronto, ON M6J 2L5, Canada
- Hours:
| Monday | 8:30 AM–4 PM |
| Tuesday | 8:30 AM–7 PM |
| Wednesday | 8:30 AM–7 PM |
| Thursday | 8:30 AM–7 PM |
| Friday | 8:30 AM–7 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | 9 AM–3 PM |
- Phone: +1 416-703-0888
2. Pho 90 on QueenWest
If you’re wandering around Queen West and have a craving for some flavorful Vietnamese cuisine, Pho 90 is definitely worth a visit. I’ve had the pleasure of trying their rare beef pho on multiple occasions, and it consistently impresses with its rich and deep broth. The portions are generous, and the beef is done just right, making it one of the best northern beef pho experiences I’ve had in Toronto.
The service at Pho 90 is another highlight. On different visits, both Nhi and John have been exceptionally friendly and attentive, ensuring that my dining experience was smooth and enjoyable. Whether dining in or taking out, the staff’s warmth adds a nice touch to the meal.
While I did notice that the usual accompaniments like lime, mint, and bean sprouts were missing from the takeout order, the pho’s flavor more than made up for it. Still, having those extras would elevate the experience even further.
Overall, Pho 90 on Queen West delivers delicious Vietnamese dishes with great service, making it a spot I highly recommend to anyone in the area.
Contact info
- Address: 500 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2B6, Canada
- Hours:
| Monday | 12–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 12–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12–10 PM |
| Thursday | 12–10 PM |
| Friday | 12–10:30 PM |
| Saturday | 12–10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 12–10 PM |
- Phone: +1 416-901-5439
- Menu: pho90.ca
3. Pho Metro
After hearing so many rave reviews about Pho Metro, I decided it was finally time to see what all the fuss was about. We arrived around 11:30 am, and the place was already buzzing with activity. Despite having a large group, we were seated in about 30 minutes, which wasn’t bad considering how popular the spot is.
We also tried their house pho and the Vietnamese spicy broth pho. The beef pho had a rich and flavorful broth, with generous slices of beef that made it a standout dish. The spicy broth pho was decent, though it could use a bit more heat for those who like a kick.
One dish that really surprised me was the banh xeo. It was super thin and crispy, filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. The texture was delightful, and I later realized it’s best enjoyed as a lettuce wrap with pickled veggies.
Overall, Pho Metro offers great value with large portions and authentic flavors. It’s a reliable spot for delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and the grilled chicken is another favorite of mine, offering a satisfying balance of taste and texture. Plus, they offer a discount if you pay in cash, which is always a nice perk.
I highly recommend Pho Metro for both dine-in and takeout, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit to explore more of their menu. It’s definitely a must-visit for pho lovers in the area!
Contact info
- Address: 2057 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON M1R 2Z4, Canada
- Hours:
| Monday | 11 AM–8:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–8:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–8:30 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–9 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–8:30 PM |
- Phone: +1 416-750-8898
4. Madame Saigon (Midtown)
Having been a fan of pho for years, I thought I’d tried it all until I visited Madame Saigon in Midtown. My husband and I usually frequent the location near Vaughan Mills, but after our first experience at the Midtown spot, we knew we had found a new favorite.
We visited on a chilly Friday evening, and despite the bustling atmosphere, the staff was incredibly friendly and efficient. They managed the crowd with ease, and we were seated quickly. The restaurant itself is spacious and clean, a refreshing change from the often cramped Vietnamese eateries we’re used to.
We ordered the Rare Beef Pho and the Lemongrass Tomato Soup, both of which arrived promptly. The portions were generous, and the soup bases were rich and flavorful. I particularly loved the chewy noodles and the ample amount of meat in each bowl. The prices were reasonable, making it a great value for the quality.
What really caught my attention was the presentation—fancy bowls and even gold chopsticks added a touch of elegance to the dining experience. We also tried the fresh shrimp roll and the pork spring roll vermicelli bowl. While the vermicelli was slightly undercooked, it was still tasty, and the flavors more than made up for it.
I can’t forget to mention the crispy chicken wings, which were absolutely delicious and a perfect side dish. Overall, the authenticity and quality of the food at Madame Saigon have made it our go-to spot for Vietnamese cuisine. We’ve already recommended it to family and friends and can’t wait to return to explore more of their menu.
Contact info
- Address: 2038 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4S 1Z9, Canada
- Hours:
| Monday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM–11 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM–11 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Saturday | 11 AM–10 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM–10 PM |
- Phone: +1 416-322-9797
- Menu: madamesaigonviet.com
5. Green Bamboo Vietnamese Cuisine
On a spontaneous visit to Green Bamboo Vietnamese Cuisine, I discovered what might just be my new favorite pho spot in the Bloordale area—and possibly the entire city. From the moment I walked in, the host greeted me with warmth and friendliness, setting the tone for a delightful dining experience.
I decided to try the Special Combo Beef Pho, or pho dac biet, and it exceeded my expectations. The broth was clear and flavorful, striking the perfect balance without being overly salty. The quality of the meat was impressive, and they included a generous amount of tendon, which I personally love. The noodles were perfectly chewy, and the portions were more than generous, especially for the extra-large size I ordered.
The prices are incredibly affordable, making it a great spot for anyone looking for a hearty, tasty bowl of pho without breaking the bank. One suggestion I have is to include the Vietnamese dish names on the menu, which would add an authentic touch for those familiar with the cuisine.
Overall, Green Bamboo Vietnamese Cuisine offers a fantastic pho experience with high-quality ingredients and excellent service. I highly recommend it to anyone in the area or anyone willing to travel for a truly satisfying bowl of pho. I’ll definitely be returning soon!
Contact info
- Address: 1266 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N8, Canada
- Hours:
| Monday | 12–10 PM |
| Tuesday | 12–10 PM |
| Wednesday | 12–10 PM |
| Thursday | 12–10 PM |
| Friday | 12–10 PM |
| Saturday | 12–10 PM |
| Sunday | 12–10 PM |
- Phone: +1 437-225-3118
- Menu: greenbamboo-toronto.com
6. Nang Saigon
From the moment I stepped into Nang Saigon, I knew I was in for something special. This place has quickly become one of my favorite spots, and it’s easy to see why. The atmosphere is a bit more upscale than your typical pho joint, and the cleanliness and attention to detail are immediately apparent.
The service was impeccable—probably the best I’ve ever experienced in a Vietnamese restaurant. The staff was incredibly attentive, even bringing extra napkins without being asked and happily accommodating any special requests we had. It was clear they truly cared about making our dining experience exceptional.
As for the food, every aspect was spot on. The flavors and textures of the soup, noodles, and meats were exactly as they should be. While the rare beef and brisket were delicious, it’s the house rib pho that truly stole the show. The beef rib was cooked to perfection—tender, juicy, and bursting with beefy flavor without being overly salty. The broth was rich and flavorful, with a unique balance that was just right for my palate.
I also tried the vermicelli with beef, which was very good, but it’s the beef rib pho that keeps me coming back. The portion was generous, and the meat was melt-in-your-mouth tender. I enjoyed it so much that I found myself wishing for more noodles by the end!
Overall, Nang Saigon impresses on all fronts, from the quality of the food to the exceptional service. Whether you’re a pho aficionado or just looking for a great meal, I highly recommend giving Nang Saigon a try. You won’t be disappointed!
Contact info
- Address: 450 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1X8, Canada
- Hours:
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM–9 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM–9 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM–9 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM–9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM–12 AM |
| Sunday | 12–9:30 PM |
- Phone: +1 416-536-5966
In conclusion, the journey to uncovering the “Best Pho in Toronto” has been as heartwarming as the bowls themselves. Each restaurant offers its own unique take on this beloved Vietnamese dish, and I’ve been thrilled to share my personal favorites with you. As a food blogger at FoodVietnamese.com, my name is Kelly Thuy, and I am passionate about exploring and celebrating authentic Vietnamese cuisine. I hope this guide inspires you to embark on your own pho adventure in Toronto, discovering the rich flavors and comforting warmth that this iconic soup has to offer. Happy slurping!
