Few dishes in the world hold the same cultural and emotional weight as a bowl of pho. For many Vietnamese families, pho is not just a meal—it’s a memory, a tradition, and a symbol of warmth. But where did it all begin? How did this humble noodle soup become a global favourite?
In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through the history of beef pho, from its origins in the countryside of northern Vietnam to its worldwide popularity today. Along the way, we’ll touch on how this simple bowl of broth, beef, noodles, and herbs tells a story of migration, adaptation, and national pride.
If you’re curious about the origins of traditional beef pho, don’t miss our deeper dive into its essential ingredients and their health benefits, brought to you by Pho7, your go-to Vietnamese restaurant in Abu Dhabi.
The Roots of Pho: Born in Northern Vietnam
Pho, pronounced “fuh,” first appeared in the early 20th century in the northern region of Vietnam, particularly around Hanoi. At the time, Vietnam was under French colonial rule, and this greatly influenced the local cuisine.
The French loved their pot-au-feu (a hearty beef stew), and many historians believe this dish inspired the creation of pho. Vietnamese cooks took the concept and made it their own, adding spices from Chinese and local culinary traditions and serving it with rice noodles instead of potatoes or bread.
Initially, the dish was made using leftover cuts of beef and bones, slow-simmered into a rich, clear broth. It was often sold by street vendors in Hanoi in the early morning, making it a popular breakfast option. As Vietnam’s economy grew and transportation improved, pho started spreading beyond the capital.
A Dish That Travelled South
One of the most important chapters in beef pho history began after 1954, when the country was divided into North and South Vietnam. This split led to major migration, and with it came regional adaptations of pho.
In the South, particularly in Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City), pho evolved into a more lavish dish. Southerners added more herbs and toppings, like Thai basil, bean sprouts, lime, hoisin sauce, and chilli. The broth also became sweeter, and the serving style more generous. This version of pho is what many people outside Vietnam are familiar with today.
While northern pho (pho bac) is more minimalist—focusing on the purity of the broth and fewer garnishes—southern pho (pho nam) is vibrant, bold, and rich in flavour. Each style is a beautiful reflection of the region it comes from.
The Rise of Pho Across the World
After the Vietnam War ended in 1975, many Vietnamese families moved abroad—settling in countries like the United States, France, Canada, and Australia. With them, they brought their recipes, cooking skills, and love for pho.
In the early days, pho was mainly enjoyed within the Vietnamese community, but it didn’t take long for it to catch on. As more people discovered Vietnamese cuisine, pho became a global sensation. Today, you can find pho restaurants in nearly every major city, from New York to London to Sydney.
Each of these restaurants adds its own spin on the dish—sometimes fusing local flavours or adjusting the spice level—but the soul of the dish remains the same.
More Than Just a Bowl of Soup
The beauty of pho lies in its simplicity and balance. It’s a complete meal that’s light yet filling, comforting yet complex. But its impact goes beyond taste.
Pho is a dish tied to memory. For Vietnamese people, it often brings back childhood mornings at home, family gatherings, or casual breakfasts from a street cart. For many immigrants, it’s a way to stay connected to their roots and introduce their culture to others.
It’s also worth noting that pho plays a role in Vietnam’s national identity. It’s featured in travel ads, cultural celebrations, and even political speeches. In a country shaped by both hardship and resilience, pho is a quiet reminder of what endures—flavour, family, and pride.
Key Elements That Make Beef Pho Special
While this blog focuses on the beef pho history, you can’t fully appreciate the story without knowing what goes into the bowl. Traditional beef pho is made with hours of care, combining beef bones, brisket, and eye round with star anise, cloves, cinnamon, ginger, and fish sauce.
The rice noodles are soft but firm, soaking up all the savoury broth. Onions, fresh herbs like Thai basil and coriander, and a dash of lime or chilli give it that extra kick.
It’s this perfect blend of slow cooking and fresh toppings that gives beef pho its depth and warmth. And even though it’s now enjoyed worldwide, the best versions still stick to the essence of its original form. That’s exactly what we serve here at Pho7—authentic flavours rooted in tradition and made fresh daily for our guests in Abu Dhabi.
H2: The Modern-Day Pho Craze
Today, pho is more than a traditional meal—it’s a trend. You’ll see it featured in food documentaries, Instagram reels, and even high-end fusion restaurants. Some places offer vegan pho, chicken pho, or short rib pho. Others let you customise every element—from the broth to the toppings.
And while purists may raise an eyebrow at some of these changes, it’s all part of the dish’s journey. Pho, like the people who created it, continues to adapt, evolve, and thrive.
H2: Why Knowing the History Matters?
Understanding the Beef Pho history helps us see pho as more than just another trendy dish. It’s a bowl full of culture, migration, adaptation, and resilience. It tells the story of a nation’s colonial past, wartime struggles, and global diaspora—all through the lens of food.
When you eat pho, especially when it’s lovingly prepared the traditional way, you’re tasting more than beef and broth. You’re taking part in a cultural experience that has travelled across time and continents.
H3: Final Thoughts
So next time you sit down with a steaming bowl of pho, take a moment to appreciate everything it represents. From its humble beginnings in northern Vietnam to its place on menus across the world, pho is a dish that unites history, heritage, and heart.
And if you’re ever in Abu Dhabi looking for a bowl that honours this beautiful tradition, visit Pho7. Our pho isn’t just delicious—it’s authentic, comforting, and made with the same love that’s defined this dish for over a century.
