5 late-night pho spots for Hanoi Midnight runners

As the city winds down and the streets fall quiet, the glow of many pho stalls still lingers. Their rich aroma drifts through narrow alleys, drawing night owls and early risers alike. For marathoners pacing through Hanoi’s midnight race, these late-night spots serve as local refueling stations, offering warmth, nostalgia, and nourishment long after the finish line.

Pho bowls at Pho Ganh Hang Chieu. Photo courtesy of Pho Ganh Hang Chieu

Pho Huy 67 - 6C Cua Dong street

Open from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m., Pho Huy serves clear, fragrant broth simmered for hours with a variety of beef cuts including rare, well-done, brisket and tendon, priced from VND55,000 (US$2.20).

The cozy, steaming atmosphere mixed with the scent of scallions and ginger delivers a quintessential experience. On chilly nights, a hot bowl topped with crispy crullers and slices of red chili makes for a soul-warming treat post-run.

Van Den stir-fried pho - 76 Tran Nhat Duat street

Unlike traditional noodle soup, Van Den specializes in stir-fried pho, offering both soft and crispy styles from 6 p.m. to midnight, priced at VND70,000-80,000 ($2.80-3.20).

The soft version absorbs rich flavors, while the crispy one features a golden crust paired with mustard greens and a thick soy-based sauce. It's an ideal choice for runners looking to refuel with a twist on classic pho flavors.

Nguyet chicken pho - 5B Phu Doan street

Pho Nguyet, a Michelin Guide pick in 2023 and 2024, offers firm chicken with mildly sweet broth. The eatery runs from 6:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to midnight.
Diners can choose chopped, shredded or mixed dry chicken pho.
The traditional cooking style highlights thin noodles, lightly crispy chicken skin, and a refreshing touch of pepper and lime - light but satisfying after a race.

Nguyet chicken pho on Phu Doan Street, Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Hai Long

Train-track beef pho, 3 Tran Phu street

Tucked beside Hanoi’s railway, this beef pho spot has been serving since the 1970s and operates from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Its options include rare, well-done beef and wine sauce pho, cooked with red wine for extra depth and warmth.
The passing midnight train creates a memorable dining atmosphere.

Pho Ganh Hang Chieu - 7 Cho Gao street

Formerly a pho cart on Hang Chieu Street, the eatery now serves customers at 7 Cho Gao from 3:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. - perfect timing for post-marathon recovery.
Though the location has changed, the original spirit remains: early risers slurping hot pho in the misty dawn. Beyond the flavor, regulars return for nostalgia, the comforting memory of Hanoi mornings shared over a steaming bowl.

VnExpress Marathon Hanoi Midnight powered by Puma will kick off on the night of Nov. 30, marking the race’s fifth year. The route will take runners through Hanoi’s Old Quarter, across Long Bien Bridge and around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Crossing the finish line and sitting down at a glowing pho stall may be the best way to celebrate a sleepless night in Hanoi. Late phase tickets for the marathon are available here.

Hải Long