Intro
Imagine slurping a steaming bowl of pho on a bustling Saigon sidewalk at sunrise, then, later that night, savoring a Michelin-starred pho experience in an elegant dining room.
In Ho Chi Minh City, pho isn’t just food — it’s a journey through Vietnam’s culture, history, and creativity. Recently, French YouTuber Romain took on this flavorful adventure, comparing a humble 30,000 VND street pho with a 2.5 million VND Michelin creation. Here’s what he discovered — and why every foodie should try both.
The Street Pho Experience – Affordable, Authentic, and Full of Flavor
Romain’s first stop was a small street stall on Tran Khanh Du Street in the Tan Dinh area. Guided by a local friend, he ordered a regular bowl of pho for just 30,000 VND (~$1.20) and was surprised by the generous portion of fresh ingredients.
Like a local, he seasoned his pho with black pepper, a squeeze of lime, chili, and fresh herbs. The first sip of broth left him stunned — rich, fragrant, and deeply comforting. He loved that the stall was open from early morning until late at night, making it perfect for any craving.
The Michelin-Star Pho – A Culinary Performance
For his second experience, Romain visited a Michelin-starred restaurant on Ton That Dam Street, specializing in pho and pho-inspired dishes. This was not a walk-in spot — reservations and pre-orders were required.
The 100 USD pho set was designed for two people, including:
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A signature pho bowl
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A pho-inspired cocktail with cinnamon, star anise, and chili
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Two “molecular pho” spheres that burst with broth flavor
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Wagyu beef served raw on the side
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A tray of sauces, herbs, and raw egg yolk
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Tea and a dessert to finish
The broth, simmered from bones for two days, was clear yet deeply aromatic. The noodles were served separately from the beef cuts in a hot stone bowl, allowing diners to combine them at their own pace.
“The flavor is hard to put into words — refined, aromatic, and unlike any pho I’ve had before,” Romain shared.
Which Pho Should You Try?
If you’re after traditional flavors, budget-friendly meals, and the buzz of Saigon’s street life, street pho is unbeatable.
If you have the budget and want fine dining, creative presentation, and a unique twist on tradition, the Michelin pho offers a memorable culinary performance.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a budget traveler hunting for authentic street flavors or a culinary explorer chasing refined, one-of-a-kind dining, Ho Chi Minh City delivers. Pho, in its many forms, tells the story of Vietnam on a single spoonful — rich, layered, and unforgettable.
So next time you’re in Saigon, follow Romain’s lead: start at a sidewalk stall, end in a Michelin-starred dining room, and let your taste buds write their own travel diary.
