The vibrant atmosphere at What The Pho Restaurant in Duluth welcomes guests with the enticing aroma of simmering broths and fresh herbs. Diners can explore an extensive menu featuring expertly crafted bowls of pho, each one showcasing a harmonious balance of savory depth and bright, aromatic ingredients.
Whether seeking the rich complexity of traditional beef broth, the subtle warmth of chicken pho, or inventive seasonal specials, every option reflects dedication to quality and authenticity. Engaging service and thoughtful presentation ensure each visit feels like an immersive culinary journey through Vietnam’s most beloved comfort dish.
Signature Pho Varieties
The heart of the menu revolves around several signature bowls of pho, each defined by its unique broth and protein. Guests often find themselves drawn to time-honored preparations as well as creative interpretations that highlight seasonal ingredients and local produce.
Traditional Beef Pho
The traditional beef pho features a clear, richly seasoned broth simmered for hours with star anise, cinnamon, and ginger. Tender slices of rare steak, brisket, and beef meatballs rest atop silky rice noodles.
Fresh garnishes add brightness and texture, creating a balanced, soul-warming bowl.
“The depth of flavor in the beef broth comes from patient, slow cooking—this defines an exceptional pho,” notes the head chef.
Chicken Pho
This lighter option highlights a gently seasoned chicken broth cooked with charred onion and garlic for subtle sweetness. Shredded chicken breast, delicate rice noodles, and a scattering of chopped green onions deliver a satisfying but refined experience.
The clarity of flavor makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a gentler taste profile.
- Succulent shredded chicken
- Fragrant ginger and garlic
- Fresh cilantro and basil
- House-made jalapeño slices
Broth Comparison
| Variety | Flavor Profile | Spice Level |
| Beef Pho | Rich, aromatic, umami-forward | Medium |
| Chicken Pho | Light, delicate, subtly sweet | Low |
| Vegetarian Pho | Earthy, herbaceous, layered | Low |
Appetizers and Small Plates
A variety of starters offers the perfect way to set the tone for an exceptional meal. Each bite is designed to awaken the palate with contrasting textures and flavors.
Spring Rolls
Rice paper wraps house crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and your choice of shrimp or tofu. Served alongside a tangy hoisin-peanut dipping sauce, they provide a refreshing counterpoint to warm soups.
The vibrant colors and clean flavors make for a delightful beginning.
Egg Rolls
Crispy golden shells encase seasoned pork, cabbage, and carrots, resulting in a satisfying crunch. Paired with a sweet-and-sour chili sauce, these rolls highlight careful layering of textures and seasoning.
Each bite balances savory richness with bright, zesty notes.
- Vegetarian summer rolls with glass noodles
- Spicy chicken wings tossed in sweet chili glaze
- Sesame tofu bites with scallion dipping sauce
Quality ingredients and attention to detail transform simple bites into memorable experiences.
Rice and Noodle Specialties
Beyond pho, the menu celebrates a range of rice and noodle dishes that showcase regional Vietnamese flavors. These thoughtfully composed plates offer versatility for diners seeking both comfort and excitement.
Shaking Beef (Bò Lúc Lắc)
Cubed marinated sirloin sears to a perfect medium-rare, then “shakes” in a hot pan with garlic and onion. Served over a bed of jasmine rice with crisp greens, it creates an elegant yet hearty entrée.
The balance of tender meat and refreshing salad components exemplifies dynamic Vietnamese cooking.
Pad Thai-Inspired Noodles
Rice noodles tossed in a tamarind-based sauce mingle with shrimp, egg, and bean sprouts. Crushed peanuts and fresh lime wedges elevate the dish with crunch and bright acidity.
This playful interpretation bridges Thai and Vietnamese noodle traditions.
- Stir-fried vermicelli with lemongrass chicken
- Pad see ew with Chinese broccoli
- Spicy garlic noodles with pork belly
The variety of noodle thicknesses and sauce bases ensures something for every preference, from silky to robust, mild to fiery.
Key takeaway: Each specialty blends contrasting ingredients for harmonious flavors.
Banh Mi and Sandwiches
Handcrafted sandwiches on crisp baguettes deliver a satisfying on-the-go option. These bánh mì feature traditional French baking techniques married with Vietnamese fillings, resulting in bold, fresh combinations.
Classic Bánh Mì
Thinly sliced cold cuts, house-pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and jalapeños layer neatly inside a toasted baguette. A slather of creamy pâté adds depth, while a drizzle of Maggi seasoning brings an umami punch.
The interplay of crunch, spice, and savory richness defines the signature sandwich.
Grilled Pork Bánh Mì
Sweet and savory marinated pork shoulder grills to caramelized perfection. It meets cool cucumber ribbons, crisp lettuce, and bright green onion for a textural contrast.
This version highlights the restaurant’s skillful balance of charred and fresh elements.
- Tofu banh mi with lemongrass marinade
- BBQ chicken banh mi topped with pickled daikon
- Spicy meatball banh mi with chili aioli
Each sandwich is an artful fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary heritage.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
A dedicated selection of plant-based dishes ensures all guests feel included. Creative use of tofu, mushrooms, and vegetables provides vibrant textures and flavors.
Vegetarian Pho
The broth simmers with an assortment of root vegetables, dried mushrooms, and aromatic spices. Soft tofu cubes, baby bok choy, and enoki mushrooms create layers of umami and freshness.
A side of chili oil and hoisin sauce allows personalized depth and heat.
Vegan Rice Bowl
Marinated tofu steaks rest atop purple sticky rice and pickled carrots. Roasted peanuts and fresh mint offer crunch and brightness.
A drizzle of tamari-ginger sauce completes the bowl with balanced saltiness and complexity.
- Stir-fried morning glory with garlic
- Grilled eggplant in sweet soy glaze
- Fresh mango salad with chili-lime dressing
Important note: Attention to detail ensures vegan dishes are never an afterthought but shine on their own merits.
Beverage Selection
A wide range of beverages complements the food, from traditional Vietnamese coffees to refreshing teas and juices. Each drink is crafted to enhance specific menu items and offer palate-cleansing qualities.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Bold dark roast filters through sweetened condensed milk, producing a rich, chilled beverage. The balance of bitterness and sweetness provides the perfect foil for savory soups.
Served over crushed ice, it invigorates and satisfies.
Jasmine Tea
Fragrant jasmine blossoms steep into a delicate brew that refreshes the palate between bites. Light, floral notes cleanse the senses and prepare diners for the next burst of flavor.
Its simplicity underscores the artistry of Vietnamese tea culture.
- Fresh sugarcane juice with lime
- Passion fruit lemonade with mint
- House-made soursop tea
Subtle flavors in beverages allow the boldness of food to take center stage.
Desserts and Sides
Sweet endings and complementary sides round out the meal experience, offering playful textures and bright flavors. These small plates ensure that every element of the dining journey feels complete.
Chè Ba Màu (Three-Color Dessert)
Layers of sweet beans, green jelly, and coconut milk create a colorful, textural treat. Served over shaved ice, it provides cooling relief and gentle sweetness.
Each spoonful balances creamy, chewy, and icy elements for an engaging finale.
Banana Fritters
Ripe bananas dip in light tempura batter and fry to crispy perfection. A dusting of powdered sugar and a side of coconut caramel transform humble fruit into an indulgent snack.
The contrast between warm fritters and cool sauce delightfully surprises the palate.
- Steamed bao buns with coconut custard
- Seasonal fruit platter with mint syrup
- Yuzu sorbet with fresh basil
Well-crafted desserts highlight the restaurant’s commitment to balanced flavors from start to finish.
The menu at What The Pho Restaurant in Duluth offers an inspired selection of dishes designed to satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous diners. From the moment guests step inside, they are greeted by aromas that promise authenticity and care in every dish.
The breadth of options—from time-honored pho bowls to creative vegetarian plates and vibrant sides—ensures that every palate finds delight. Thoughtful beverage pairings and artful desserts complete the culinary voyage, leaving guests eager for their next visit.
Whether seeking comfort, celebration, or discovery, each element of the menu contributes to a memorable dining experience that honors the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine.
