Pho Viet's
"Best pho in the BU area, hands down. The banh mi puts Subway to shame for half the price. Perfect for when you're sick, hungover, or just cold (so basically October through April)."
Last verified: 2024-12-20
What to Order
- Pho Tai - rare beef pho, the signature dish
- Banh Mi Dac Biet - the special combo sandwich with all the meats
- Bun Bo Hue - spicy beef noodle soup for adventurous eaters
- Vietnamese Iced Coffee - strong and sweet, basically dessert
What to Avoid
- Skipping the fresh herbs/bean sprouts - they make the pho
- The Americanized options - go authentic
- Peak lunch (12-1pm) - small space gets very crowded
The Full Review
Pho Viet's is a family-owned gem that's been serving authentic Vietnamese food to hungry BU students for years. When it's freezing outside (so, October through April), there's nothing better than a massive bowl of their pho.
The pho is the real deal - rich, complex broth that's been simmering for hours. Get the rare beef (pho tai) and watch the thinly sliced meat cook in the hot broth. Add the fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and hoisin - don't skip them, they're essential.
The banh mi is the real star though - crispy bread, generous fillings, and that perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy that you can't get at Subway. At around $8-9, it's one of the best lunch values near campus.
The space is small and no-frills, so don't expect ambiance. You're not here for the decor - you're here because you're cold, hungry, or recovering from last night's decisions. Pho Viet's has you covered on all fronts.
Pro tip: Get the Vietnamese iced coffee. It's basically dessert in liquid form - strong coffee with sweetened condensed milk that hits different.
Details
Hours
Location
1095 Commonwealth Ave, Allston
Allston * 0.4 mi from campus
Delivery
Features
Best For
What Students Say
"Pho Viet's cured my cold, my hangover, and my sadness about that midterm grade. It's medicinal."
"The banh mi is like $8 and it's better than any $15 sandwich downtown. Best kept secret near BU."
"Vietnamese iced coffee here got me through finals week. I owe them my degree honestly."
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best pho near Boston University?
Pho Viet's on Commonwealth Ave in Allston is widely considered the best pho near BU - authentic, affordable, and perfect for cold days.
Is Pho Viet's good for vegetarians?
Yes! They have vegetable pho and vegetarian banh mi options.
How much is a banh mi at Pho Viet's?
Banh mi sandwiches are around $8-9, making them one of the best lunch values near campus.
Is Pho Viet's cash only?
They prefer cash but do accept cards. Having cash can speed up your order.