Pho Nam Lua
Pho Nam Lua — reliable vietnamese in Devon Avenue. The recipes feel handed down, not invented. Good service that doesn't feel rehearsed, and moves fast. "The broth was incredibly rich, deeply flavorful, and perfectly balanced—comforting and delicious in every way" — Arek Gazda [$$, patio]
What 846 diners keep saying
What 846 diners keep saying
verbatim, from Google
“I’m really glad I had the chance to eat at Pho Nam Lua before it burned down — this place was genuinely good. The broth had that deep, comforting flavor you only get from a kitchen that knows what it’s doing, and every dish felt like it was made with real care. You could taste the pride in the food. It’s sad to see it go, but I know this isn’t the end for them. A spot with this much heart always comes back stronger. I’m already looking forward to the day Pho Nam Lua returns, better than ever.”

“Hey Pho Nam Lua! I love your place but could you please improve your take out container? Also please stop including tax on suggested tip.”

“Best pho in the city. The broth is so flavorful. The portions are huge. Highly recommended.”

“It was busy tonight when we went, but it's a Saturday night, so that's to be expected. It was only 2 of us and we only waited about 15 minutes for a table. Our food arrived very quickly despite how busy it was. I ordered the Kobe Pho and my husband had the oxtail Pho. We also ordered egg rolls and crab rangoon. Everything was delicious.”

“My first time trying pho, and it was too damn good. I got the Kobe beef pho, wings, fried squid, spring rolls, and the fried rice all were really good. Definitely will come back and try new items.”

“We had pho at Pho Nam Lua, and it was hands down the best pho we’ve ever had. The broth was incredibly rich, deeply flavorful, and perfectly balanced—comforting and delicious in every way. The noodles and meat were fresh and well prepared, and each bowl was packed with authentic flavor. If you’re looking for truly outstanding pho in Chicago, this place is a must. Highly recommended!”

“The best damn pho in IL!!!! Since this is just my first try, I’d have to come back for Bun Bo Hue. I had pho suon bo & gan and it took me to heaven and back. Will come back for more!!!! Update, Now that i have been going here for about three months, regularly, i can definitely say that this place offers one of the best pho and bun bo hue here in IL.”

“When you crave for phở first thing in the AM. This place got you...”

“Our regular Pho spot is closed on Thursday so we tried these guys out and were not disappointed at all We both got Pho Tai the Broth was on point with lots of depth and flavor The Rare beef was still pink so very fresh and the noodles weren't stuck together this was a perfect meal We both left full and very satisfied that we have a backup to our usual stop This is a small place with limited space so be patient if it busy it filled up while we were eating. just wish they made fruit smoothies for my husband.”

“Cute place. Very cozy. Staff is very efficient and attentive. We had the Super Bowl, lemongrass chicken and vietnamese iced coffee. It was good, lots noodles but, unfortunately my wife did not taste the lemongrass. Will try something different next time. Priced a tad higher usual. Will come back for another try. 2/23/23 we returned and things have changed. We ordered the super bowl, salty ck fried rices and vietnamese iced coffee. The staff was very gracious and the food was flavorful. Best of all, I feel the priced paid justified. So, changing 4 to 5 stars. 11/23/24, we had the beef ribs pho and salt and pepper shrimps. Delicious. Great staff.4/12/26, update. Ordered the beef ribs plus oxtail. Somewhat disappointed. It seems like the quantity on both meat and noodles has significantly reduced. Flavors and service still great.”
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