James MartinYesterday, I was walking through Halifax on a chilly day, craving a steaming bowl of pho. Then I remembered my first experience eating it—slurping noodles while trying to master the chopsticks, with broth spilling everywhere.
That’s when I realized how Vietnamese cuisine has made its mark in the area.
I bet you’re craving for pho right about now. Well, you’re in for a treat! Stick around, as I’ll share my top picks for the best Vietnamese restaurants in Halifax.
1. Pho Maniac
Media from: phomaniacofficial
Address: 1252 Hollis St
Contact details: +1 902-444-1366
Website: https://phomaniac.com/
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 11 AM – 8 PM
Must-order: Pho Maniac Special
Pho Maniac is a welcoming restaurant that offers a warm embrace. Their cozy vibe draws you in, making it the perfect spot to unwind and share stories over a steaming bowl of pho.
I love how the family-run restaurant puts so much heart into their food; it truly shows in every bite.
Try the Pho Maniac Special. This isn’t just any bowl of pho; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that makes your taste buds come alive. The fresh herbs, including bean sprouts, cilantro, and lime, perfectly enhance the broth’s flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of their homemade chili oil to your pho for an extra kick—it beautifully enhances the already rich flavors.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to ask about their daily specials, which often feature unique twists on traditional dishes. |
2. Man Bean
Address: 1284 Barrington Street
Contact details: +1 902-830-2005
Website: https://www.facebook.com/manbeanvietnamese
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 12 – 10 PM
- Monday: Closed
Must-order: Vietnamese Coffee
Man Bean’s menu is packed with Vietnamese classics, and I can’t recommend the pho enough. Each bowl is filled with tender meat and fresh herbs, served in a rich, simmered broth.
Other than its classic soup, I love sipping their Vietnamese coffee. It’s bold and rich, providing just the right pick-me-up. For me, it perfectly captures the essence of Vietnamese coffee culture.
Another must-try here is their banh mi sandwiches, which boast crispy bread and savory fillings that provide a delightful crunch in every bite.
| Pro Tip: Check out their homemade chili oil. It adds a fantastic kick to any dish. |
3. Banh Mi A&B
Media from: banhmi.anb
Address: 6172 Quinpool Rd
Contact details: +1 902-989-8185
Website: https://banhmiab.com/
Operating Hours:
- Sunday – Tuesday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Thursday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 10 AM – 10 PM
Must-order: Banh Mi Thit Nuong
Dining at Banh Mi A&B is a delightful experience from start to finish.
You can start your meal with fresh spring rolls, which is a must-try. The delectable rolls are deliciously wrapped in rice paper and filled with rice noodles, shrimp, cold cuts, fresh herbs, cucumber, mango, and carrots.
For the main course, order the Bun Cha. This dish comes with seasoned pork patties and caramelized pork belly served in a savory broth alongside rice noodles and fresh veggies.
Their Banh Mi Thit Nuong, a grilled pork sandwich, bursts with flavor, thanks to its marinated meat and crunchy veggies, complemented by homemade mayo that adds a creamy touch.
| Pro Tip: Always check with your server about the availability of their cakes! |
4. Beyond Pho Halifax
Media from: beyondpho_halifax
Address: 5518 Spring Garden Rd
Contact details: +1 902-425-3133
Website: https://www.beyondphohalifax.com/
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Must-order: Beyond Pho
The moment you walk into Beyond Pho Halifax, you’ll be greeted by an energetic buzz of happy conversations and the aroma of delicious food wafting through the air.
One dish you won’t want to miss here is their signature Beyond Pho, with its rich broth, packed with layers of flavor. Each sip will warm you from the inside out.
Their homemade noodles have the ideal chewiness, absorbing all the rich flavors. Each bite feels like a celebration, enhanced by adding fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a splash of lime.
If you’re looking for a crunchy appetizer, try their Vietnamese Spring Rolls. They are crispy outside, contrasting the vibrant, fresh vegetables inside. And don’t forget the dipping sauce—it adds a tangy kick to your meal.
| Pro Tip: It would be best to arrive hungry and ready to share! The portions are generous, making it perfect for trying multiple dishes with friends. |
5. I Love Pho
Media from: itsmarieduong
Address: 746 Bedford Hwy
Contact details: +1 902-407-6767
Website: https://www.ilovepho.ca/
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Must-order: Pho Bo Vien
The variety of dishes at I Love Pho is impressive, but the Pho Bo Vien truly stands out. You can customize your bowl with extra herbs and lime for that fresh zing.
Their signature Pho Dac Biet is another signature dish. Its rich aroma is both inviting and invigorating. The rich broth of the dish reveals tender beef brisket and tasty meatballs with perfectly cooked rice noodles, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts on top.
To enhance your meal, don’t miss the irresistible golden spring rolls. Paired with the tangy sauce, they add a satisfying crunch that beautifully complements the pho.
| Pro Tip: Be sure to ask staff for recommendations on the appetizer, main dish, and beverage pairings. |
6. Indochine Banh Mi
Media from: indochinebanhmi
Address: 1551 South Park St
Contact details: +1 902-407-1222
Website: https://www.indochine.ca/
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 11 AM – 8 PM
Must-order: Bahn Mi
Indochine Banh Mi is a perfect spot for both a quick bite and a leisurely meal.
You won’t be able to resist their signature Banh Mi. You’ll be satisfied by the crunch of the baguette, complementing the marinated chicken.
To complement the culinary adventure, try their Vietnamese iced coffee. This rich and smooth beverage offers a caffeinated punch and a refreshing respite.
| Pro Tip: Try their daily specials. Each day features unique creations that showcase seasonal ingredients and bold flavors. |
7. Star Anise Vietnamese Noodles
Media from: downtownhalifax
Address: 1571 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-431-0095
Website: https://staraniserestaurant.com/
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 11 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 12 AM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Must-order: Pho Bo and Spring Roll
Star Anise Vietnamese Noodles boasts a wide range of best-selling dishes.
One must-try here is their Pho Bo, a classic beef noodle soup with a rich, slow-simmered broth. The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the fresh herbs and lime add a burst of flavor.
Their Pho Xao is also irresistible— stir-fried rice noodles paired with tender shrimp that practically melts in your mouth.
Don’t forget the Banh Mi, which boasts a crispy baguette filled with savory meats and crunchy veggies.
| Pro Tip: Try arriving during lunch hours to enjoy the special combo offers. It’s a great way to sample multiple dishes for a reasonable cost. |
8. Pho Hoang Minh Restaurant
Media from: enjoyinglifewithedward
Address: 172 Wyse Rd
Contact details: +1 902-465-6868
Website: https://phohoangminh.com/
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 12 AM – 8 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday – Saturday: 12 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 4 – 8 PM
Must-order: Beef Pho
At Pho Hoang Minh Restaurant, you’ll feel right at home as soon as you walk in for their specialties.
They have the Beef Pho, a dish that locals rave about. Each spoonful reveals layers of flavor, with tender slices of beef in a savory broth.
Their Vermicelli Noodles with Spring Roll and Grilled Pork Shish Kabob is also a must-try. The variety of flavors and textures is eye-captivating.
And don’t leave without tasting the crowd-favorite Vegetable Spring Roll. Then, make sure to pair it with a side of their homemade dipping sauce to elevate the flavor.
| Pro Tip: Arrive early during lunchtime for a lighter crowd. |
9. Just Pho You
Media from: justphoyouhalifax
Address: 1571 Barrington St
Contact details: +1 902-431-0095
Website: https://justphoyou.ca/
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 11 AM – 8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday: 12 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 12 – 9 PM
Must-order: Vietnamese Straw Hat Hot Pot
The inviting vibe of Just Pho You will draw you in for lunch, with the buzz of chatter from fellow diners adding to the space’s vibrant energy.
One highlight is their Rare Beef Pho, featuring a slow-cooked homemade broth. The noodles are perfectly cooked—smooth and chewy—while the fresh herbs and lime add a refreshing brightness to the dish.
For another steamy dish, try their Vietnamese straw hot pot—served in traditional bamboo baskets. You’ll be surprised with its bubbling, fragrant broth, filled with fresh vegetables and tender meats.
| Pro Tip: If you can, grab a seat by the window. Watching the hustle of Halifax outside while enjoying a steaming bowl of pho adds to the experience. |
