Best Pho in Ottawa
Most of Ottawa's best pho lives on Somerset Street in Chinatown. From a 30-year veteran to a modern spot doing banh mi on the side, here are 4 places that get the broth right.
Ottawa's pho scene is anchored on Somerset Street in Chinatown, where Vietnamese restaurants have been serving the city for decades. The broth-to-restaurant ratio here is unmatched — you can walk a few blocks and hit several solid pho spots.
Here are the 4 that locals keep coming back to.
1. Pho By Night — The ByWard Market Legend
Pho By Night has been on Dalhousie Street for over 25 years. It's the pho spot that people outside of Chinatown know about, and for good reason. The beef bone broth simmers for hours and the result is a deeply flavoured bowl that rewards patience.
What to order: Beef pho. The broth is the star. Keep it classic.
Good to know: The only one on this list outside of Chinatown. Located in the ByWard Market. Open until 10pm on weekends.
Price: $
2. Pho Thu Do — The 30-Year Veteran
Pho Thu Do on Somerset Street has been serving Chinatown for over 30 years. The broth here is rich and deeply flavoured, with tender meats and generous portions. A true institution.
What to order: The special combination pho with multiple cuts of beef. Or try the Bun Bo Hue if you want something spicy.
Good to know: Open late on weeknights. Call ahead to confirm hours.
Price: $
3. Saigon Boy Noodle House — The Big Bowl
Saigon Boy is where you go when you're really hungry. The portions are almost comically large, the service is fast, and the prices are low. It's a no-frills noodle house on Somerset Street that delivers on volume and flavour.
What to order: The large pho. You've been warned about the size. Pad thai is also well-made.
Good to know: Quick service. Good for a fast lunch.
Price: $
4. Co Cham — The Modern One
Co Cham is the newer face of Vietnamese food on Somerset Street. While the veterans focus on tradition, Co Cham adds a modern touch — vibrant plating, creative combinations, and one of the better banh mi in Ottawa. The pho stays authentic.
What to order: The banh mi is a must. Follow it with a bowl of pho if you're hungry.
Good to know: Closed Mondays. Closes by 8pm other days.
Price: $
The Quick Comparison
| Spot | Style | Best For | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pho By Night | Classic | ByWard Market convenience | Dalhousie St |
| Pho Thu Do | Traditional | Late-night pho | Somerset St |
| Saigon Boy | Noodle house | Biggest portions | Somerset St |
| Co Cham | Modern | Banh mi + pho combo | Somerset St |
About Chinatown's Pho Strip
Ottawa's Chinatown runs along Somerset Street West between Bay and Preston. It's home to the highest concentration of Vietnamese restaurants in the city. Most of the spots on this list are within a 5-minute walk of each other. If you're serious about pho, spend a Saturday afternoon here and try more than one.
Tips
- All 4 spots are affordable. You're looking at $12-18 for a large pho
- Chinatown parking can be tight. There's a city lot on Somerset near Arthur, and some spots have parking behind
- Co Cham is closed Mondays and closes by 8pm. Don't show up late expecting a bowl
- Pho By Night is the easiest to get to if you're already downtown or in the Market
🍴Featured Restaurants
Pho By Night
A ByWard Market institution for over 25 years. Known for slow-simmered beef bone broth pho and late-night weekend hours. One of Ottawa's most recognized Vietnamese restaurants.
Pho Thu Do
A Chinatown veteran of over 30 years on Somerset Street. Rich, flavourful broth and tender meats. Open late on weeknights.
Saigon Boy Noodle House
A Chinatown noodle house on Somerset Street known for giant portions and quick service. Great for a fast lunch or dinner. The pho bowls are big, the prices are small.
Co Cham
A modern Vietnamese spot on Somerset Street blending tradition with creativity. Known for vibrant banh mi, comforting pho, and beautifully plated dishes that stay true to authentic flavours.
Information may change. If you spot anything outdated or incorrect, let us know.