8 Best Pho Restaurants in The State of Maine?

Slurping Through the Pine Tree State: A Guide to Maine's Best Pho Restaurants

This aromatic Vietnamese noodle soup, with its rich broth, tender noodles, and fresh herbs, is the perfect dish to warm up with during a chilly Maine evening or to simply satisfy a craving for complex, soulful flavors. Here’s a guide to some of the best and most highly-regarded pho restaurants across the state of Maine.

What Makes Great Pho?

A truly exceptional bowl of pho is a symphony of flavors and textures, built on these key elements:

• The Broth: The soul of the dish, a great broth is clear yet deeply flavorful, simmered for hours with beef or chicken bones and a secret blend of aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
• The Noodles: Soft, flat rice noodles that are tender but not mushy.
• The Protein: Typically thinly sliced rare steak (that cooks in the hot broth), brisket, meatballs, or chicken.
• The Fresh Toppings: A crucial component! A platter of fresh bean sprouts, basil leaves, lime wedges, and sliced jalapeños is served alongside for you to customize your bowl.

8 Top-Rated Pho Restaurants in Maine

1. Pho Co. (Portland)

   • Why It's a Top Spot: Located in Portland's Public Market House, Pho Co. is a go-to spot for a quick, delicious, and authentic bowl of pho. It's praised for its flavorful and aromatic broth and fresh ingredients.
   • What to Expect: A casual, market-style setting perfect for a satisfying lunch while exploring downtown Portland.
   • Location: 28 Monument Sq, Portland, ME 04101

2. Phoever Maine (Portland)

   
   
   
   • Why It's a Top Spot: This aptly named restaurant is a local favorite, consistently earning high marks for its generous portions and deeply flavorful broth. They offer a wide variety of pho options, including different cuts of beef and chicken.
   • What to Expect: A welcoming, casual atmosphere that's all about celebrating the love of pho.
   • Location: 269 St John St, Portland, ME 04102

3. Saigon Restaurant (Portland)

   • Why It's a Top Spot: As one of Portland's long-standing Vietnamese restaurants, Saigon has a loyal following for its traditional and authentic cuisine. Their pho is a classic rendition, known for its rich and comforting broth.
   • What to Expect: A diverse menu of Vietnamese classics in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
   • Location: 795 Forest Ave, Portland, ME 04103

4. Veranda Noodle Bar (Portland)

   • Why It's a Top Spot: While offering a broader Asian menu, Veranda Noodle Bar's pho is a standout. It's a great option for groups with diverse tastes who still want a high-quality bowl of Vietnamese noodle soup.
   • What to Expect: A modern, stylish atmosphere in the heart of Portland's Old Port, perfect for a night out.
   • Location: 24 Veranda St, Portland, ME 04103

5. Pho Hoa Grill (South Portland)

   • Why It's a Top Spot: Located just across the bridge from Portland, Pho Hoa Grill is a gem known for its consistently delicious and authentic pho. It's often praised by locals as being well worth the short drive for its flavorful broth and fresh ingredients.
   • What to Expect: A casual, unassuming spot that focuses on delivering high-quality Vietnamese food.
   • Location: 150 Target Rd, South Portland, ME 04106

6. Little Vietnam Restaurant (Brunswick)

   
   
   
   • Why It's a Top Spot: A beloved fixture in Brunswick, Little Vietnam serves up authentic Vietnamese cuisine, with their pho being a customer favorite. It's known for its comforting, home-style preparation.
   • What to Expect: A cozy, welcoming restaurant perfect for a satisfying meal after exploring the charming town of Brunswick.
   • Location: 224 Bath Rd, Brunswick, ME 04011

7. Pho Vietnamese Restaurant (Bangor)

   • Why It's a Top Spot: Bringing authentic Vietnamese flavors to the Bangor area, this restaurant is a go-to for locals craving a quality bowl of pho. It's praised for its flavorful broth and friendly service.
   • What to Expect: A straightforward and authentic Vietnamese dining experience.
   • Location: 570 Stillwater Ave, Bangor, ME 04401

8. Wassabi Modern Japanese & Thai Cuisine (Lewiston)

   • Why It's a Top Spot: While primarily a Japanese and Thai restaurant, Wassabi in Lewiston also offers pho that receives positive mentions from diners looking for their noodle soup fix in the Lewiston-Auburn area.
   • What to Expect: A modern dining setting with a diverse Asian menu, making it a good option for groups with varied preferences.
   • Location: 1134 Lisbon St, Lewiston, ME 04240

Maine's culinary scene is full of delicious surprises, and its excellent pho restaurants are a testament to the state's growing diversity of flavors. Whether you're in Portland, Bangor, Brunswick, or beyond, a comforting, aromatic bowl of Vietnamese pho is never too far away. So next time you're in the Pine Tree State, be sure to seek out one of these top spots and enjoy a slurping-good meal!