During our time in Hanoi, we made the obligatory stop at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su, one of the most well-known pho spots in the city. It’s located right in the heart of the Old Quarter, so it’s a convenient stop if you're already exploring the area.
The restaurant was busy when we arrived, with a steady flow of both locals and tourists. It’s a no-frills kind of place—simple tables, quick service, and a shared table setup if needed. We didn’t wait long before getting seated and placing our order.
We went with the pho tai—the version with half-done beef. The broth was clean and well-balanced, with a light, savory flavor that didn’t rely on overwhelming seasoning. The beef was tender but still had that slight chew you expect with pho tai. Nothing mind-blowing, but definitely enjoyable.
We also ordered quay (fried dough fritters) on the side, which added a fun texture to dip into the broth. If you’ve never tried it, it’s worth the extra order.
Overall, Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su didn’t blow us away, but it delivered a solid, classic bowl of pho in a central location. It’s a reliable choice—especially if you’re staying nearby or want to squeeze in a quick meal between sightseeing. Not the best pho we've had in Vietnam, but certainly not a bad stop either. Sometimes, solid and satisfying is exactly what you need.
