For years, Bridgeport’s Vietnamese food scene was defined by a handful of humble pho shops tucked into strip malls. But that’s no longer the case. While locals still stand by those classic bowls, the landscape has expanded dramatically. Today, you’ll find modern bánh mì cafes alongside traditional family-run spots, with lines forming for artisanal spring rolls and craft-brewed Vietnamese iced coffee. This guide honors the classics while celebrating the new wave.
Pho Saigon
$ | (203) 334-8812 | WEBSITE
Dining at Pho Saigon—a cozy Vietnamese spot in Bridgeport—is more of a comforting ritual than just a quick meal. You’ll settle into the warm, casual space, surrounded by the rich aroma of simmering broth and sizzling pork chops, and watch the kitchen staff prepare fresh summer rolls with peanut paste or ladle steaming bowls of pho. Place your order at the counter, find a seat at one of the simple tables, and wait for the friendly, attentive service to bring your food.
You’ll find the usual Vietnamese favorites, plus crispy fried noodles, seafood pho, and aromatic Bun Bo Hue, but plan on trying the must-try pork chop or the popular #31 noodle bowl. And heads up, the Vietnamese coffee is a highlight—rich and strong, it might just replace your usual coffee shop run. This place is for savoring, relaxing, and feeling like family, all at very reasonable prices.
Thai Mi Noodle
$ | (203) 261-6611 | WEBSITE
This cozy Thai noodle spot offers some of the more flavorful and satisfying dishes in Bridgeport—there’s something for every craving, too, starting with the Pad Thai, which is more like comfort food than just another noodle dish. Stir-fried rice noodles are the base for tofu or chicken, bean sprouts, crushed peanuts, and a perfect balance of sweet and tangy sauce. Adventurous eaters should order the Thom Kha Gai soup with coconut milk, lemongrass, galangal, and tender chicken.
While you can get your standard Thai iced tea, zero in on the crispy tofu appetizer, fried to golden perfection, or the fried chicken wontons with their savory dipping sauce. At the end of the meal, you can grab your fortune cookie on the way out and spend the rest of the evening bragging about how many delicious bites you savored in this friendly local gem.
Phở Nha Trang
$ | (475) 999-8433 | WEBSITE
Phở Nha Trang is divided into a straightforward dining area and a bustling kitchen turning out authentic Vietnamese soups. They’re some of the most flavorful and comforting in Bridgeport, rich with herbs, spices, and savory broth, and topped with fresh herbs and lime for brightness.
The best way to experience Phở Nha Trang is to settle into the simple space with its quirky glass lettuce sculpture, then order from a menu of steaming pho bowls starting at $9.99, vermicelli dishes like the perfectly executed Bun Thit Nuong at $11.99, and Vietnamese coffee that’s a must-try. It’s also welcoming to those looking for a relaxed meal if you need to unwind after a busy day.
House of Pho
$$ | (203) 290-4912 | WEBSITE
Finding authentic Vietnamese pho in Bridgeport wasn’t really a thing until House of Pho arrived, opened by a family determined to bring the noodle-soup staple to the city. House of Pho’s pho dac biet combo is textbook perfection (close your eyes, and you’ll be in Hanoi), with a perfect noodle-soup ratio, melt-in-your-mouth tendon, and the option to add bone marrow for a decadent treat.
You can get it on its own, with vegetarian pho for dietary restrictions, or with unique edamame with rosemary as a standout side. The restaurant has evolved to also include other Vietnamese classics like Fried Wonton Soup with chili oil or Spring Rolls with peanut sauce, and excellent vegetarian and vegan options all day long (think wonton noodle soup or edamame), even for a late lunch (they’re open through dinner).
And if you’re spending time with others in Bridgeport, you can also pick up next-level lemonade. There’s a welcoming atmosphere throughout, but the service from staff like Jess is exceptional and not rushed by large groups using their outdoor voices indoors.
Pho Hong Thom
$ | (203) 690-1533 | WEBSITE
You can find Vietnamese pho in many Bridgeport spots, but if you’re craving the most satisfying and authentic experience, head straight to Pho Hong Thom. It presents itself as a classic family-run Vietnamese eatery with warm, minimalist decor featuring bamboo accents and soft lighting, and serving incredible pho, summer rolls, and stir-fried noodles.
The standout is the Chicken Pho, which arrives with perfect noodles, aromatic broth, and generous toppings that feel sized for a hearty American meal. There are other Vietnamese restaurants around Bridgeport, but Pho Hong Thom tends to have the most consistent quality (though arriving early is a smart move). It also offers a thoughtful 3-item vegan menu with a filling fried yellow noodle dish, and the service is fast, comfortable, and friendly throughout.
I Luv PHO Vietnamese Noodle House
$ | (203) 283-7603 | WEBSITE
I Luv PHO’s simple dining room (no reservations needed) overlooks a quiet residential street set far back from the main road, so you can leisurely slurp noodles while watching the neighborhood’s gentle rhythm. The pho menu, served daily until 8pm sharp, is fairly straightforward—the usual beef, chicken, and vegetarian options—but don’t expect fusion twists.
Their signature dish, called Pho Dat Biec, is a broth-meets-noodle revelation: rich and aromatic beef broth filled with tender slices, soaked in that perfect balance of spices instead of just salt. The restaurant is family-themed, so expect warm smiles, homey touches everywhere, and regulars in their most comfortable clothes. There are hooks available for hanging coats (you could probably squeeze a takeout container in there) while you eat.
TD Vietnam Palace
$ | (475) 282-9268 | WEBSITE
If TD Vietnam Palace were a color, it’d be orange. There are warm orange lanterns scattered across the ceiling, orange-tinted dipping sauces, and the signature Orange Moose dessert baked fresh on premises. Even if you typically steer clear of the hue, their flavorful dishes, which seem tailored to anyone who appreciates cozy neighborhood spots, will win you over.
The satisfying Chicken Pho with tender meat, customizable spiciness, and rich broth will satisfy your comfort food craving for the day, while the more savory starters, like the pork potstickers, a delicious mix of seasoned pork and crispy wrapper with that perfect sweet and savory sauce, are filling enough to hold you through an afternoon in Bridgeport. The entire selection of fairly priced appetizers (like pancake scallions or various pork options) also deserves your attention.
Pair your meal with a recommendation from the attentive staff to match your mood—hearty pho, unique desserts, or their other delicious Vietnamese specialties.
