A Day Trip Breakfast Guide: 5 Most Well-Known Places to Try Pho Ga in Halong

5 Most Well-Known Places to Try Pho Ga (Chicken Pho) in Halong

Day trip well know places for Pho — Well know places for Pho

If you’re planning a Halong day trip, chances are you’ll start your morning early, ready to explore one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking UNESCO sites. But before boarding a cruise or strolling along the bayfront, there’s no better way to fuel up than with a steaming bowl of pho ga (chicken pho) — Vietnam’s most beloved comfort food.

While beef pho often gets the global spotlight, locals in Halong often prefer chicken pho, especially in the morning. It’s lighter, more aromatic and perfectly balanced for breakfast before a busy day of sightseeing. Whether you’re wandering through the lively streets of Bai Chay or exploring Hon Gai, you’ll find cozy family-run shops where broth simmers for hours, noodles are silky and chicken is tender and flavorful.

To help you make the most of your Halong breakfast experience, here are five well-known places to try pho ga in Halong.

Why Pho Ga Is Perfect for a Halong Day Trip

A lighter start before exploring Halong Bay

Unlike beef pho, which can feel hearty and heavy, chicken pho has a cleaner, more delicate broth. Made by simmering chicken bones, ginger and onion for hours, it results in a clear soup that is savory but never overwhelming — the perfect way to begin a long day of cruising around limestone karsts.

The comfort of northern-style chicken broth

Northern Vietnamese pho, especially in Quang Ninh province, tends to emphasize clarity and balance. The broth is not overly sweet or oily; instead, it’s fresh, herbal and comforting. Pair that with flat rice noodles, shredded free-range chicken and fresh herbs and you have a simple but unforgettable dish.

When locals eat pho and how tourists can join in

Pho shops in Halong are busiest in the morning, often opening as early as 5:00 AM to catch early risers and workers before their day begins. Tourists who want to experience pho like a local should aim for breakfast between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM — perfect timing before boarding a Halong Bay day cruise.

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5 Well-Known Pho Ga Spots in Halong

1) Pho Ga Halong – Le Thanh Nghi, Hong Ha

A long-standing favorite among locals, this shop is tucked away in Hong Ha but is worth the visit for its crystal-clear broth and tender, shredded chicken. Portions are generous, and the noodles are cooked just right — soft but never mushy.

Why go: Famous for clean, well-balanced broth.
What to order: Pho ga ta (free-range chicken pho).
Practical info: 38 Le Thanh Nghi Street, Hong Ha Ward. Opens from 6:00 AM.
Nearby attraction: Quang Ninh Museum and Library, a quick 10-minute drive.

2) Pho Ga & Bun Suon Chua – Van Lang

If you’re an early riser, this small but popular shop on Van Lang is your go-to. Locals line up here from 5:00 AM for both chicken pho and bun suon chua (sour pork rib noodle soup). The broth is light yet flavorful and the atmosphere feels truly authentic.

Why go: Perfect for breakfast before an early cruise.
What to order: Pho ga tron (dry chicken pho with a side of broth).
Practical info: 07- 09 Van Lang Street, near Hon Gai. Opens from 5:00 AM.
Nearby attraction: Halong Market, great for exploring after breakfast.

3) Quan Ngon Ha Noi – Bun Thang & Pho Ga, Le Thanh Tong

For those who want variety, this eatery specializes in both pho ga and bung thang (a Hanoi specialty with chicken, egg and pork). The pho here has a slightly richer broth, making it a nice option if you prefer something more filling.

Why go: Combines two Hanoi classics in one spot.
What to order: Pho ga long non (pho with chicken giblets).
Practical info: 79 Le Thanh Tong Street, near Vincom Plaza. Opens from 6:30 AM.
Nearby attraction: Halong Bay cruise port (just a short ride away).

4) Pho Ga Lien Beo – Bai Chay

Located in the heart of Bai Chay, this no-frills eatery is always buzzing with both locals and tourists. Known for its budget-friendly prices and hearty servings, Lien Beo serves pho that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Why go: Affordable, filling, and convenient for tourists staying in Bai Chay.
What to order: Pho ga dui (pho with chicken thigh).
Practical info: 378 Halong street, Bai Chay area, open from early morning until 10:00 AM.
Nearby attraction: Sun World Halong Park, a fun post-breakfast activity.

5) Pho Ga Hanoi – Co Ha, Bai Chay

A newer but well-reviewed spot, Co Ha’s restaurant is more spacious and slightly more polished than the smaller stalls. The chicken here is free-range and very tender and the shop is known for friendly service — great for travelers not familiar with Vietnamese ordering styles.

Why go: Tourist-friendly with authentic flavor.
What to order: Pho ga trung non (pho with young egg yolks).
Practical info: Located on Vinh Thuc, Cai Ram, Bai Chay, open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Nearby attraction: Bai Chay Beach, perfect for a morning stroll.

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How to Fit a Chicken Pho Breakfast Into Your Day Trip

Best time to eat pho in Halong

If you’re planning a Halong Bay day trip, aim to eat pho between 6:00 and 8:00 AM. This gives you enough time to enjoy breakfast, walk around and reach the cruise port before departure.

Average price & serving size

A bowl of pho ga in Halong typically costs 30,000–60,000 VND ($1.5–3 USD). Servings are generous and you can always order extra chicken or egg for a small fee.

Pro tips for travelers

Order by saying “pho ga xe” (shredded chicken) or “pho ga dui” (chicken thigh).
Ask for “it mi” if you prefer fewer noodles.
Don’t skip the lime and chili — they balance the broth beautifully.

Sample Itinerary: Morning Pho + Halong Bay Cruise

6:30 AM – Start the day with chicken pho at a local shop in Bai Chay or Hon Gai.
7:30 AM – Walk along Halong’s seaside promenade or browse a morning market.
8:30–9:00 AM – Head to the cruise terminal and board a Halong Bay day cruise.
12:30 PM – Enjoy seafood lunch onboard.
4:30 PM – Return to shore, then sample more local food like banh cuon cha muc or grilled seafood.

This way, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: authentic breakfast and world-class scenery.

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FAQs About Pho Ga in Halong

Is chicken pho in Halong different from Hanoi?
Yes — Halong’s broth tends to be slightly lighter and less oily, perfect for coastal weather.

Can vegetarians find alternatives nearby?
Some shops offer vegetarian noodle soups, but it’s best to confirm beforehand.

How spicy is the broth — do tourists need to worry?
The broth itself isn’t spicy. Chili is optional and served separately, so you can adjust to taste.

Final Recommendations

For authenticity: Pho Ga Halong in Hong Ha.
For tourists in Bai Chay: Co Ha’s pho shop.
For early risers: Van Lang’s pho stall.

Whether you’re here for just a Halong day trip or staying longer, don’t miss the chance to start your morning like a local with a steaming, aromatic bowl of pho ga. It’s more than just breakfast — it’s a taste of northern Vietnam’s culinary soul.

Start with breakfast at one of these pho stalls, then hop on a Halong Bay day cruise.