We’ve all been there, standing at a restaurant, flipping through the menu, trying to find something that suits everyone’s taste. Some want something light and healthy. Others crave something hearty and filling. Then there’s the eternal debate between spicy and mild. Finding one dish that can please such a range of palates feels almost impossible.

That’s where pho comes in. Vietnamese pho has quietly become one of the world’s most loved dishes because it somehow manages to tick every box. Whether you want something comforting, refreshing, rich, or light—there’s always a pho for you. At places like Pho7, where you can try the famous rare beef pho in Abu Dhabi, you’ll quickly realise that pho isn’t just a soup—it’s an experience.

What Exactly Is Vietnamese Pho?

Pho is Vietnam’s national dish and a true reflection of its culinary philosophy: balance, simplicity, and soul. At its core, pho is a noodle soup made with rice noodles, aromatic broth, and your choice of protein, usually beef or chicken.

But it’s the broth that sets pho apart. It’s not something made in a hurry. Traditional Vietnamese chefs simmer beef or chicken bones for hours with spices like star anise, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves. The result? A clear, golden broth that smells as comforting as it tastes.

The noodles are silky and light, the meat tender, and the fresh herbs—basil, coriander, mint, and bean sprouts, add brightness with every bite. When you sit down with a bowl of pho, you’re not just eating a meal; you’re tasting years of culinary heritage perfected through patience and care.

From Hanoi to the World: Pho’s Global Journey

Pho began in Northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, as a humble street food sold from small roadside stalls. Over time, it spread southward, where it picked up new ingredients and variations. The southern version became more fragrant and colourful, often served with fresh herbs and lime.

When Vietnamese communities migrated across the world, they took their beloved pho with them. Today, you’ll find pho restaurants everywhere—from the streets of Los Angeles to the heart of Abu Dhabi. Each bowl may vary slightly, but the spirit of pho remains the same: warmth, simplicity, and connection.

Its global rise can be credited to one thing, its adaptability. No matter where you’re from or what your taste preferences are, pho always finds a way to make you feel at home.

Why the Vietnamese Pho Menu Appeals to Everyone

The Vietnamese pho menu has a unique charm: it offers something for every type of eater. Its appeal lies in three things—flavour, versatility, and comfort.

1. Layers of Flavour in Every Spoonful

The broth is both light and rich, a rare combination. You get the depth of slow-cooked meat with the freshness of herbs and citrus. It’s savoury without being greasy, and fragrant without being overpowering.

Vietnamese cuisine follows the rule of balance: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and spicy must all exist in harmony. Pho achieves that beautifully, giving you a broth that satisfies the senses without overwhelming them.

2. Endless Customisation

Pho is a dish that invites you to play. On the side, you’ll find lime, chili, bean sprouts, and herbs—so you can build your own perfect bowl. Want it spicy? Add chili. Prefer it tangy? Squeeze in more lime.

It’s also adaptable for every diet. You’ll find meat-based pho, chicken pho, seafood pho, and even vegetarian pho made from vegetable broth. The menu gives everyone a chance to enjoy pho their way.

3. A Bowl of Comfort

Pho is comfort in liquid form. The warmth of the broth and the soft noodles make it perfect for when you’re tired, unwell, or simply craving something soothing. It’s light enough for lunch and filling enough for dinner.

Plus, it’s seen as a healthy choice. With lean protein, low-fat broth, and fresh greens, pho nourishes both body and mind.

The Top 5 Famous Pho Bowls That Everyone Loves

Let’s take a closer look at the stars of the Vietnamese pho menu, each one crafted to satisfy a different craving.

1. Rare Beef Pho – The Star of Abu Dhabi

The rare beef pho (phở tái) is the best-seller at Pho7—and for good reason. Thin slices of premium beef are placed on top of steaming hot broth, gently cooking to perfection as you stir. The meat stays tender, the broth rich, and the aroma unforgettable. It’s the perfect balance of elegance and comfort.

2. Beef Offal Pho – The Chef’s Recommendation

This one’s for the adventurous eaters. The beef offal pho combines different cuts—brisket, tendon, and tripe—for a deeper, more complex flavour. Each spoonful gives you a new texture and taste, making it a must-try for those who love exploring the authentic side of Vietnamese cuisine.

3. Chicken Pho – Light and Refreshing

If you prefer something milder, chicken pho (phở gà) is the perfect pick. It’s light, fragrant, and incredibly satisfying. The clear broth and tender chicken pieces create a meal that feels comforting without being heavy. It’s especially popular among those who enjoy a clean, delicate flavour.

4. Super Tempura Pho – A Modern Twist

Pho7’s super tempura pho takes tradition and gives it a fun twist. Crispy tempura sits atop the silky noodles, soaking just enough broth to stay crunchy on the edges while melting into the soup’s warmth. It’s a mix of textures, crisp and soft that turns an everyday bowl into something exciting.

5. Traditional Pho – The Original Classic

For those who love authenticity, nothing beats traditional pho. Made with slow-cooked beef bones, herbs, and spices, this version stays true to the roots of Hanoi street food. It’s the taste that started it all—pure, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.

Pho: A Dish That Brings People Together

In Vietnam, pho isn’t just a meal—it’s a part of daily life. Families gather around steaming bowls in the morning. Friends meet over pho for lunch. It’s a dish that brings warmth and connection, no matter the occasion.

That same spirit lives on in Abu Dhabi. Whether you’re trying the rare beef pho, the comforting chicken pho, or the hearty beef offal pho, each bowl tells a story of tradition and togetherness.

The Vietnamese pho menu truly offers something for everyone, a reminder that great food doesn’t just fill the stomach, it nourishes the soul.

Exciting News: Pho7 Expands in Abu Dhabi

Here’s something pho lovers in the capital will be thrilled about — Pho7 is opening a brand-new Vietnamese restaurant in Abu Dhabi, located in the Dhana area, just behind Holiday Inn on Airport Road.

This new location promises the same authentic flavours that Pho7 is known for, with a refreshed menu that celebrates Vietnam’s most beloved dish in all its forms. From hearty beef pho to light chicken broth, diners in Dhana can look forward to enjoying the full Vietnamese pho menu in a warm, welcoming space designed to bring people together over good food.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a first-time visitor, this new branch will let you experience Vietnam’s comfort cuisine right in the heart of the city.

Final Thought

The beauty of pho lies in its simplicity. A bowl of rice noodles, a clear broth, and a few slices of meat might sound ordinary, but together they create something extraordinary. Whether you’re chasing comfort, adventure, or just a good meal after a long day, there’s always a pho waiting for you.

So the next time you find yourself torn between light or filling, spicy or mild—remember, pho doesn’t make you choose. It simply gives you the best of everything in one beautiful, steaming bowl.