Parisian Pho: A Taste of Vietnam in the City of Lights
I'm revisiting some content I originally shared anonymously. I recently explored three fantastic Vietnamese restaurants during my February stay in Paris and wanted to share my experiences.
1. Song Heng
Located in the 3rd arrondissement, just north of the Marais district, Song Heng is surrounded by many Chinese restaurants. This small eatery is incredibly popular. I arrived 15 minutes before opening, and there was already a queue!
The menu is simple: pho and bún bò nam bộ. You can also order individual spring rolls. Many diners enjoy a combination of pho and bún. I appreciated the option of a "petit" (small) serving. Takeout is also available. The staff are friendly, and the restaurant has a stylish Parisian charm.
2. Ha Noi 1988
Situated on Île de la Cité, Ha Noi 1988 is easily accessible from both the Right and Left Banks via the Pont Neuf bridge.
Like Song Heng, the main dishes are pho and bún bò nam bộ, but the pho offers choices like beef or chicken. Other dishes are also available. The location is superb, offering views of the Seine River. It's a perfect stop before or after visiting Notre Dame Cathedral. Note that there are no restrooms.
3. Xin Gainian
Xin Gainian is on the Left Bank, along the road from Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church towards the Pont Neuf.
While the menu includes Chinese dishes like ramen and fried rice, the staff appear to be Vietnamese. They have a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I visited alone late at night and felt comfortable. I even witnessed a touching moment where a homeless man came in to ask for something, and the staff handled it with kindness and a smile. The street is filled with Asian restaurants, including yakitori, Korean BBQ, and even an authentic onigiri shop.
All three restaurants are excellent and delicious! If I had to rank them, they would be in the order presented. During a long stay in Paris, it's nice to have options beyond bread. These Vietnamese restaurants offer a touch of Parisian flair and are highly recommended!
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