Pho Binh

This unassuming restaurant that serves bowl after bowl of delicious soup hides a rich historical legacy, Pho Binh - which ironically enough means Peace Noodles - was the secret headquarters for the Vietnamese Communists while they were planning the Tet Offensive in 1968. Upstairs are a series of photographs that provide a glimpse into the the restaurant's involvement in the nation-building.

If you're in the mood for a steaming hot bowl of Pho while delving into the history of a revolution that saved Vietnam, this small shop tucked away in the Ly Chinh Thang street of Saigon, is the place to be. The restaurant is quite aptly, yet ironically named Pho Binh, which translates to "Peace Soup". Because it was over these steaming hot bowls of noodle soup, that members of the Viet Cong devised a strategy that helped overthrow the American troops and end the war that spanned roughly 2 decades, finally bringing peace to a war-torn nation. But it was also the site where for 3 straight years many weapons were smuggled in and out, and hence the irony.

There are two floors at Pho Binh. The ground floor back in the day was frequented by unassuming American soldiers to slurp on delicious bowls of noodle soup. And it is still open to this date to curious visitors, loyal patrons and just good ol' Pho lovers. And then there's the second floor, which was the venue of the Viet Cong meetings; and has now been converted into a museum. Moving aside from this slice of history aspect of the restaurant, let's get to the food. The restaurant to this date offers only two varieties of Pho, one variant with chicken and one with beef; served alongside an array of toppings and seasonings like chillies, kaffir limes, breadsticks and herbs. Quite simple yet delectable.

How to Reach Pho Binh

Pho Binh is located at 7 Ly Chinh Thang, Phuong 8 in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City. It's a pretty popular place in the city, so both Google Maps or the locals will be able to guide you.

Pho Binh is a place worth a visit for both its food and its history. You will leave with a belly full of delicious Pho, and knowing a lot more about Vietnam's War.