The Best Pho Spots in Kowloon You Shouldn't Miss

It was the first sip of that broth that got me hooked. The steam rising from the bowl, the rich aroma wafting through the air, and the perfect balance of flavors. But here's the thing: I wasn't even planning on eating pho that day. I was in Kowloon, on a mission to find a new dim sum spot. Yet, somehow, I ended up sitting in a small pho shop, completely captivated by what can only be described as one of the best bowls of pho I’ve ever tasted.

So how did I get here? And more importantly, where can you find the best pho in Kowloon? Let's dive into the backstory, and along the way, I’ll reveal the top spots you should hit up.

I had just spent the morning wandering the busy streets of Mong Kok, the heart of Kowloon. You know how it goes—overwhelming neon signs, packed markets, the smell of roasted chestnuts filling the air. I was tired, hungry, and craving something that would hit the spot. That’s when a friend of mine, who’s somewhat of a local food connoisseur, suggested we try a place off the beaten path, Pho Le Gia. Tucked away from the main roads, this unassuming little shop was nothing special at first glance. But the moment I stepped in, the intoxicating scent of simmering beef bone broth told me everything I needed to know.

The pho here? Phenomenal. The broth was deep, layered with the kind of umami that only comes from hours of cooking. The noodles were tender yet firm, the beef slices melted in your mouth, and the herbs—mint, cilantro, Thai basil—were all fresh and fragrant. This place wasn’t trying to be flashy, but that’s what made it so good. Locals frequented it, and you could tell by the steady stream of people that this was a hidden gem.

Pho Le Gia wasn’t the only standout, though. Let’s talk about some other must-visit pho joints in Kowloon:

• Pho Saigon: Located in Tsim Sha Tsui, this spot offers pho that’s as authentic as you’ll find outside of Vietnam. Their secret? They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and they take their time—24 hours of slow simmering ensures a broth that’s rich in flavor but not overly heavy. The vibe is cozy, with minimalist décor and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Kowloon’s busy streets.

• Happy Pho: This one’s a bit of a twist. Found in Sham Shui Po, Happy Pho offers a modern take on traditional Vietnamese pho. Their beef pho comes with a fusion touch, incorporating ingredients like wagyu beef and organic greens. The broth still stays true to its roots, with the perfect blend of star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, but there’s a sophistication here that sets it apart from the rest.

• Pho Viet: If you’re a night owl, this place will hit the spot. Open late and located in Jordan, Pho Viet caters to the after-party crowd. Don’t let the late hours fool you; the quality here is top-notch. The beef pho is tender and savory, with a broth that will warm you up after a long night out.

Why Kowloon?

What makes Kowloon such a great place to hunt for pho, though? The area is known for its culinary diversity. You can find everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to tiny hole-in-the-wall shops, all within a few blocks of each other. Many Vietnamese immigrants settled in Kowloon over the decades, bringing with them a taste of home. As a result, pho culture blossomed in the area, and now you can find some of the best bowls of pho in Hong Kong here.

But don’t just take my word for it—let's look at some data to back this up. According to a survey by Hong Kong’s Tourism Board, Kowloon ranks as one of the top three districts in Hong Kong for Vietnamese food, with pho being the most popular dish. On social media, hashtags like #PhoInKowloon and #BestPhoHK have thousands of posts, many praising the unique twists local shops bring to the classic dish.

The Science of Pho

Ever wondered why pho tastes so comforting? Let’s break it down. Pho broth is packed with glutamates, compounds responsible for that umami flavor we all crave. These glutamates come from slow-cooking beef bones, vegetables, and spices like cinnamon, star anise, and clove. When done right, this process releases amino acids like glutamine, which enhance flavor perception, making pho not only delicious but also a comforting meal that warms both the body and the soul.

In Kowloon, the pho shops have mastered this art. By using local ingredients and centuries-old cooking techniques, they’ve created bowls of pho that are not just meals, but experiences.

So, here’s the bottom line: if you’re in Kowloon, you need to try the pho.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pho enthusiast, Kowloon’s vibrant culinary scene offers something for everyone. From traditional bowls of beef pho to modern twists on the classic dish, there’s no shortage of options. Just follow the aroma, find a spot that locals rave about, and let the rich, complex flavors of pho take you on a culinary journey.

Oh, and if you find yourself wandering through Mong Kok or Tsim Sha Tsui, hungry and unsure of what to eat, remember this: The best meals are often the ones you never planned for.