If you've never had phở (say it “fuh,” like “duh”), you're in for a treat. It's Vietnam's most famous dish: a steaming bowl of rich, aromatic broth, soft rice noodles, and tender meat, finished with fresh herbs you add yourself. It's comforting like chicken soup, but with a depth of flavor all its own — and it's become one of the most-loved comfort foods in America.
What's actually in a bowl of phở?
- The broth — the heart of it all, gently simmered for hours with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. This is where the magic is.
- Rice noodles — soft, silky, and slurpable.
- The protein — usually thin-sliced beef or chicken.
- The garnish plate — fresh basil, bean sprouts, lime, and jalapeño that you add to taste. Half the fun is building your own bowl.
How to eat phở like a pro
- Taste the broth first — plain, before you add anything. It's that good.
- Add your herbs a little at a time. Squeeze the lime, tear in the basil, toss in sprouts, add chili if you like heat.
- Use both hands — chopsticks for the noodles, spoon for the broth. Slurping is allowed (and encouraged).
- A little hoisin and sriracha on the side is classic — dip your meat or stir a bit in.
Wait — phở at a donut shop? Yep. It surprises people, but it's one of the best things about us. At Donuts Pho Bagels, the same kitchen that fries your morning donut simmers a real, from-scratch bowl of phở. Bring the kids for donuts, get yourself a bowl of phở, and everyone leaves happy.
Where to get real phở in New Bern, NC
Come find us at 1505 S. Glenburnie Rd, right off Highway 70 in New Bern. We're open Tuesday–Sunday, 5 a.m.–6 p.m., with a drive-thru, a walk-up window, and delivery. Whether it's a cold day and you need something warm, or you're just curious to try Vietnam's famous soup, we'd love to make you a bowl.