Because just about half of the year is rather gloomy in Michigan, a therapeutic bowl of Vietnamese pho is needed from time to time. Thanks to a wave of Vietnamese refugee migration some 40-plus years ago, metro Detroit, especially Madison Heights is home to many delicious options. Increasingly, this hearty dish can be found in other parts of the region as well. Here, have a look at some of our favorites.
Flowers of Vietnam, 4430 Vernor Highway
Tucked inside the Vernor Coney Island, this weekend-only Vietnamese eatery is a strong contender for pho within the city limits. Pair it with some messy caramel chicken wings and the live DJ set in the background.
Photo via IG user @annie_the_animalFlowers of Vietnam
Photo via IG user @flowers_of_vietnamFlowers of Vietnam
photo via IG user @takeamegabitePho Lucky, 23838 Joy Road, Redford; 39777 Grand River Ave., Novi; 3111 Woodward; 23808 Telegraph Southfield
This growing chain achieves a near perfect balance of spices in its broth. Plus, don’t forget to indulge in a glass of Vietnamese iced coffee, which offers a stealthy kick of caffeine and sweet condensed milk.
Photo via IG user @mungbeanPho Lucky
Photo via IG user @knfeprtyPho Lucky
Photo via IG user @foodiegirlventuresDa Nang Vietnamese, 1 S. Main St., Clawson
Madison Heights has the stronghold in Oakland County pho spots, but this place in nearby Clawson has found a decent following. Known for having a extremely clean broth, ideal for folks who can’t handle more complex soups. We recommend the beef broth.
Photo via IG user @dave_mossDa Nang Vietnamese
Photo via IG user @lifeiskitschDa NangVietnamese
Photo via IG user @sarahluciaelizabethPho Hang, 30921 Dequindre, Madison Heights
The pho here is prepared with chicken broth, which when combined with the essence of ginger and clove, the makes for a lighter taste. With dark fatty chicken, or choice of beef cuts, it’s a hearty choice. For the non pho fans in your dinner party, the menu also features an array of Chinese fare.
Photo via IG user @joshcollesanoPho Hang
Photo via IG user @tablefortwodetroitPho Hang
Photo via IG user @xoxo_nessQue Huong Restaurant, 30820 John R Road, Madison Heights
The broth here is loaded with flavor, and the meatballs – oh-so-heartwarming on a dreary day. What we love about this spot, too, is that we can also score a banh mi, a Vietnamese-style sandwich made with a crusty French bread that packed with tasty meats and veggies.
Photo via IG user @avedolichQue Huong Restaurant
Photo via IG user @triviumpaoloQue Huong Restaurant
Photo via IG user@ishawtayyThang Long, 27641 John R Rd., Madison Heights; 248-547-6763 Thang Long’s menu has all the variations: beef slices, beef tendon, beef meatballs, beef tripe, plus chicken.
photo via IG user @gillianonairThang Long
Photo via IG user @letheros2008Thang Long
Photo via IG user @hochi666Thuy Trang Restaurant, 30491 John R Road, Madison Heights
Each pho place does their broth a little bit different. Here, you’ll find a richer, more savory broth.
Photo via IG user @d_mwalkThuy Trang Restaurant
Photo via IG user @heyanggThuy Trang Restaurant
Photo via IG user @keanu_reeves_sneezeThe Fly Trap, 22950 Woodward Ave., Ferndale
Because technically, pho is traditionally a breakfast food, this brunchy spot has an inspired vegetarian-friendly version in its Lemongrass Faux Bowl. Loaded with lemongrass and Thai chili-infused broth, flat noodles, sesame, and plenty of veggies, it’s a tasty meat-free choice (you can add chicken, tofu, or shrimp, if you insist).
Photo via IG user @quipjestpunThe Fly Trap
Photo via IG user @sativasyborg
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