Why Uptown Chicago is the City's Premier Pho Destination
When searching for the best pho uptown chicago, you'll find a vibrant culinary scene centered around the West Argyle Historic District, often called "Asia on Argyle." This neighborhood serves as Chicago's official hub for Southeast Asian culture and cuisine.
Top Pho Restaurants in Uptown Chicago:
- Hai Yen - Highest-rated pho in Uptown with balanced broth and quality meat cuts
- Pho 777 - Classic choice with lighter, sweeter broth and generous portions
- Pho 888 - Perfectly balanced bowls with warming spice notes
- Nha Hang Vietnam - Community favorite known for sweet, rock sugar-forward broth
According to The Infatuation, there are at least 5 highly-rated pho restaurants in Chicago's Uptown and West Argyle Historic District neighborhoods, with an average rating of 7.92 out of 10. Hai Yen leads the pack as the highest-rated spot with a score of 8.2 out of 10.
The magic of Uptown's pho scene lies in its authenticity. These aren't trendy interpretations of Vietnamese cuisine - they're family-run establishments serving recipes passed down through generations. The aromatic broths, simmered for hours with warming spices like star anise and cinnamon, create the perfect comfort food for Chicago's harsh winters.
Most restaurants in the area offer both dine-in and delivery options, making it easy to enjoy steaming bowls of this beloved Vietnamese soup whether you're exploring Argyle Street or staying cozy at home.
What Makes Argyle Street a Pho Destination?
When you're hunting for the best pho uptown chicago, all roads lead to Argyle Street. This isn't just marketing talk - there's something genuinely special happening in the West Argyle Historic District that makes it Chicago's undisputed pho capital.
The secret ingredient? Authenticity that runs deep. Walk down Argyle Street and you'll find that most pho spots are family-owned restaurants serving recipes that have been carefully guarded and passed down through generations. These aren't trendy interpretations of Vietnamese cuisine - they're the real deal, prepared by families who brought their culinary traditions directly from Vietnam.
What really sets these kitchens apart is their dedication to the aromatic spices that make pho legendary. Each restaurant has its own blend of warming spices like star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and clove. The broths simmer for hours, sometimes overnight, creating layers of flavor that simply can't be rushed. You can smell the difference as soon as you step inside any of these establishments.
The casual dining atmosphere throughout the district makes every meal feel welcoming. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a leisurely dinner, these restaurants focus on what matters most - exceptional food served without pretense. It's this relaxed, community-focused approach that has made Argyle Street a true Vietnamese community hub where locals and visitors gather daily.
There's also a fascinating piece of culinary history at play here. The French colonial influence on Vietnamese food is evident throughout the district, creating unique flavor profiles that blend European techniques with Southeast Asian ingredients. This historical fusion adds another layer of complexity to the already rich dining landscape.
Living near this incredible food scene means you're never more than a few blocks away from an authentic Vietnamese meal. More about the neighborhood and find why Uptown's culinary culture is one of its greatest assets.
The Top Spots for the Best Pho in Uptown Chicago
When the craving for a steaming, fragrant bowl of pho strikes, Uptown Chicago offers some of the city's most exceptional options. We've explored the culinary landscape to bring you our top picks for the best pho uptown chicago, each with its unique characteristics and flavors.
Hai Yen: The Neighborhood's Highest-Rated Bowl
Hai Yen consistently stands out as a top contender for the best pho uptown chicago, earning the highest rating in Uptown from The Infatuation with an impressive score of 8.2 out of 10. It's often cited as a neighborhood favorite, and for good reason. Their signature pho is celebrated for its beautifully balanced broth – savory yet light, with a harmonious blend of traditional aromatics.
Beyond the broth, Hai Yen excels in its execution of the core components. The brisket is perfectly cooked, tender and flavorful, while the tendon is supple and melts in your mouth. For those looking to explore beyond pho, Hai Yen also offers other notable Vietnamese dishes, such as the delectable Bò lá lốt, seasoned beef wrapped in fragrant betel leaves, and Bò 5 món, a beef feast prepared five ways. It's a truly classic establishment that delivers a consistently excellent pho experience.
Pho 777: A Classic Choice for the Best Pho in Uptown Chicago
Pho 777 is arguably one of the most frequently mentioned and highly regarded pho restaurants in Uptown Chicago, appearing in numerous local guides and discussions. It's a classic choice that has earned its reputation as a cornerstone of the West Argyle Historic District. Their pho is characterized by a lighter, often sweeter broth profile, which many find incredibly comforting and easy to slurp.
Customers consistently praise Pho 777 for its generous portions, ensuring you get a satisfying meal every time. While their signature pho bowls are ranked among the best in Chicago, anything involving noodles here is a guaranteed hit. Beyond pho, we recommend trying their Banh xeo, a savory Vietnamese crepe that's crispy and flavorful. Pho 777 also offers convenient delivery services, making it easy to enjoy their delicious pho from the comfort of your home.
Pho 888: The Perfectly Balanced, Spice-Forward Slurp
Pho 888 is another excellent option in Uptown for those seeking a wonderfully balanced and spice-forward pho experience. Their broth is noted for its equilibrium, achieving a savory-sweet harmony that delights the palate. What sets Pho 888 apart for many is the distinct and warming spice punch in their broth, often featuring prominent notes of ginger, star anise, and other aromatics that contribute to a rich and complex flavor profile.
This spot offers a casual atmosphere, making it a great choice for a relaxed meal. It's known to be walk-in friendly, so you can easily satisfy your pho craving without a reservation. Their special bowl is often described as understanding "soup diplomacy," providing a perfectly integrated and satisfying experience.
Nha Hang Vietnam: The Community's Cherished "Secret"
Nha Hang Vietnam holds a unique place in the hearts of Uptown locals, often playfully referred to as the community's cherished "secret" spot for exceptional pho. While some might jokingly tell you "don't go there, it sucks" to keep it less crowded, the truth is that Nha Hang is highly regarded for its distinctive pho broth. It's known for being on the sweeter side, with rock sugar front and center, and a unique, subtle licorice finish that sets it apart from other pho broths in the area.
This "hole-in-the-wall" spot has a loyal following who appreciate its authentic flavors and charming, unpretentious atmosphere. Beyond their celebrated pho, we've heard rave reviews for other dishes like their duck noodle soup, a comforting and flavorful option, and their pan-fried rice noodles with beef, which are perfectly executed. If you're looking for an authentic and beloved local gem, Nha Hang Vietnam is a must-try.
Beyond the Broth: Other Vietnamese Delights to Try
While hunting for the best pho uptown chicago might bring you to Argyle Street, you'd be missing out if you didn't explore the incredible variety of other Vietnamese dishes waiting to be finded. The neighborhood's culinary scene extends far beyond steaming bowls of pho, offering a delicious journey through Vietnam's rich food culture.
Banh mi sandwiches are perhaps the most famous Vietnamese export after pho, and for good reason. These crispy French baguettes stuffed with savory fillings showcase the beautiful fusion of French colonial influence with Vietnamese flavors. Nhu Lan Bakery stands out as a local favorite, where the bread is baked fresh daily and the fillings are generous and flavorful. Whether you choose grilled pork, lemongrass tofu, or one of their other creative combinations, you're in for a treat.
When the weather warms up, fresh spring rolls become irresistible. These translucent rice paper wraps filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli noodles offer a lighter, refreshing alternative to heavier dishes. Dipped in that signature peanut sauce, they're the perfect start to any Vietnamese meal.
And let's talk about Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) – this isn't your average coffee shop brew. Made with a traditional phin filter and sweetened condensed milk, then poured over ice, it's strong enough to wake you up and sweet enough to satisfy any dessert craving. It's the perfect companion whether you're exploring the neighborhood or relaxing at home.
Danang Kitchen deserves a special mention for their light, flavorful broths that go beyond traditional pho. Their approach to Vietnamese cooking emphasizes fresh ingredients and balanced flavors that make every dish memorable.
The beauty of living near this vibrant food scene means you can easily explore these flavors whenever the mood strikes. From quick banh mi lunches to leisurely dinners featuring multiple courses, Uptown's Vietnamese restaurants offer something for every craving.
Frequently Asked Questions about Uptown's Pho
We know exploring a new neighborhood's food scene can bring up lots of questions. Here are the answers to what people ask us most about finding the best pho uptown chicago.
What is the West Argyle Historic District?
The West Argyle Historic District is Chicago's vibrant heart of Southeast Asian culture. This special neighborhood, lovingly nicknamed "Asia on Argyle," serves as the city's official hub for Vietnamese, Laotian, Cambodian, and Thai communities.
Walking down this stretch of Argyle Street feels like stepping into a different world. You'll find an incredible concentration of authentic restaurants, traditional bakeries, specialty grocery stores, and cultural shops all within a few blocks. The aromatic scents of star anise and ginger drift from restaurant kitchens, while colorful signs in Vietnamese beckon you to find family recipes that have been perfected over generations.
This isn't just a dining destination - it's a living, breathing community where culture and cuisine come together beautifully. The district has earned its reputation as Chicago's "Little Saigon" through decades of authentic tradition and genuine hospitality.
Do most pho restaurants in Uptown offer delivery?
Absolutely! We understand that sometimes you want to enjoy a steaming bowl of comfort from your own cozy apartment. The good news is that nearly all of Uptown's beloved pho spots have acceptd modern convenience while maintaining their traditional flavors.
Most restaurants offer multiple ordering options to make your life easier. You can often call directly for pickup or delivery, which many locals prefer because it supports the restaurants more directly. Many establishments also partner with popular delivery apps, so you can browse menus and track your order right from your phone.
Whether you're battling Chicago's brutal winter weather or just want to enjoy your pho while relaxing at home, these restaurants make it incredibly simple to get your hands on authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
What should I look for in a great bowl of pho?
A truly exceptional bowl of pho is like a perfectly orchestrated symphony - every element needs to work in harmony. Here's what transforms a good bowl into something unforgettable.
The broth is absolutely everything in pho. Look for a clear, aromatic liquid that's been lovingly simmered for hours with beef bones and traditional spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. The best broths have incredible depth - they're savory with subtle sweetness and leave you feeling warm from the inside out.
Quality meat cuts make all the difference too. Whether you choose rare steak, tender brisket, or silky tendon, the meat should be fresh and properly sliced. The broth should be hot enough to gently cook raw beef right at your table - that's part of the magic.
Fresh rice noodles should have the perfect texture - not mushy, not chewy, but with just the right bite. They should eagerly soak up all those complex broth flavors.
Finally, a generous plate of fresh garnishes lets you customize each spoonful. Crisp bean sprouts, fragrant Thai basil, bright lime wedges, and spicy jalapeños all add layers of flavor and texture that make each bowl uniquely yours.
Conclusion: Your Uptown Culinary Trip Awaits
The journey through Uptown Chicago's pho scene reveals something truly special - a neighborhood where authentic Vietnamese flavors thrive just steps from your front door. Whether you're craving the perfectly balanced broth at Hai Yen, the generous portions at Pho 777, or the warming spices at Pho 888, each bowl tells a story of family recipes and time-honored traditions.
What makes this culinary trip even more exciting is having it all within walking distance. The West Argyle Historic District isn't just a dining destination - it's a vibrant community where the aroma of simmering pho broth mingles with the energy of a true cultural hub.
Living at The Sally Apartments by FLATS® means you're perfectly positioned to explore the best pho uptown chicago has to offer whenever the craving strikes. Picture this: a chilly Chicago evening, and instead of a long commute to find great Vietnamese food, you simply stroll down the street to find your new favorite bowl.
The modern amenities at The Sally - from in-unit laundry to the stunning rooftop terrace - provide the perfect home base for your culinary explorations. After a satisfying meal on Argyle Street, you can return to pet-friendly comfort, complete with a dog run and pet spa for your four-legged dining companions.
The beauty of Uptown's food scene extends far beyond pho, of course. From fresh banh mi at local bakeries to Vietnamese iced coffee that rivals any trendy cafe, your taste buds will never be bored. This is what makes calling Uptown home so rewarding - every day offers a new opportunity to find flavors that transport you halfway around the world.
Your Uptown culinary trip is waiting, and it starts right outside your door.
