Explore the Best Pho in Edmonton at Grain of Rice

Pho: A Taste of Vietnam, Brought to Edmonton

At Grain of Rice, we are more than just a restaurant – we are a small, family-run business rooted in tradition, hospitality, and the flavours of Saigon. Our pho journey began as a humble family recipe passed down from our grandmother in Vietnam, we are proud to bring that same comforting, soul-warming bowl to Edmonton.

In 1990, our family visited Vietnam and sat down to enjoy a bowl of pho that reminded us of everything we missed – home, warmth, and connection. Taught by our grandmother, we learned how to make pho the traditional way, from scratch. That recipe would travel back to Canada with us and eventually become the heart of what we serve today at Grain of Rice.

After years of refining our broth and ingredients at our first restaurant, we launched Grain of Rice to continue our story. Every bowl we serve carries our family’s journey – from Vietnam to Edmonton – with care, authenticity, and unforgettable flavours.

What is Pho?

Phở (pronounced fuh)is a Vietnamese noodle soup that has become a staple across generations and cultures. It is more than just a soup, it is tradition in a bowl. At it’s core, pho is made of:

• An aromatic bone broth, slow-simmered for 10 hours using Alberta beef bones, torched onions, coriander seeds, star anise, cinnamon, and our house spice blend.

• Silky rice noodles.

• Tender slices of Alberta flank beef.

At Grain of Rice, we make every bowl with the same intention: to create a meal that is a comfort food staple, and for many, the ultimate cure-all. Whether you’re feeling under the weather, recovering from a hangover, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, pho has a way of reviving your soul with every sip.

Where Did Pho Originate?

Pho originated in northern Vietnam in the early 20th century, with its roots tracing back to Nam Định and Hanoi during the French colonial era. While the exact origins remain unclear, the history of phở has been passed down orally through generations. Regardless of its beginnings, phở has become a beloved dish across Vietnam, with each region adding its own unique twist to the ingredients and flavors.

One common theory behind the name "phở" is that it evolved from the French word "feu" (fire), referencing the classic French dish pot-au-feu (French beef stew). When the French colonized Vietnam, they introduced beef consumption, which was not a staple in traditional Vietnamese diets. The Vietnamese adapted the concept of slow-simmering beef bones to create their own version—thus, pho was born.

Like pot-au-feu, pho broth is made by simmering cartilaginous and marrow-rich beef bones for hours, extracting deep flavors. However, unlike the French stew, vegetables such as carrots and leeks were omitted, and instead, bean sprouts, basil, and a squeeze of lime became the go-to garnishes.

Northern vs. Southern-Style Phở: What’s the Difference?

As pho made its way from the north to the south, two distinct styles emerged—phở Bắc (northern pho) and phở Nam (southern pho).

Northern-Style Pho (Phở Bắc) – The Original Hanoi Pho

• Minimal garnishes – No sauces or herbs served on the side.

• Simple and clean broth – A light, clear broth.

• Basic toppings – Only rice noodles and thinly sliced rare beef, cooked directly in the hot broth.

• No added sweetness – The focus is on the natural umami flavors from the bones and spices.

Phở Bắc is considered the most traditional form of pho, reflecting its humble beginnings in Hanoi.

Southern-Style Pho (Phở Nam) – The Saigon Take on Pho

Unlike the north, food was more abundant in southern Vietnam, leading to a bolder, more flavourful interpretation of phở. Key differences include:

• Richer, sweeter broth – Enhanced with additional spices and seasonings.

• More toppings – Includes tripe, brisket, and tendon, in addition to rare beef.

• Lots of fresh herbs – Served with basil, bean sprouts, lime, and cilantro.

• Dipping sauces – Southern pho is often paired with hoisin sauce, fish sauce, and sriracha for extra flavor.

While northern pho is known for its simplicity, southern pho is all about variety and customization, making it a favourite for those who love bold flavors and fresh herbs.

Our Pho Options:

• Phở Bo (Beef Pho): Traditional slow-simmered beef broth with thinly sliced steak flank. Deep, savoury, and rich.

• Phở Ga (Chicken Pho): A lighter chicken broth made with chicken bones, onions, and ginger. Fragrant and comforting.

• Phở Sate (Satay Pho): Your choice of beef or chicken broth, spiced up with a bold chili-peanut satay sauce. Served with thinly sliced steak flank.

o   Please note: Our Beef Sate Pho is not gluten-free.

Gluten-Free Options

One of the wonderful things about Vietnamese cuisine is its naturally gluten-free foundation, thanks to the use of rice noodles. All of our broths are made without gluten-containing ingredients, making our pho a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.

• Our Beef Pho and Chicken Pho are both gluten-free.

• Please note again: The Beef Sate Pho is not gluten-free.

Ready to dig in?

Order Now and experience a bowl of pho, it’s your sign to try it.