Pho is a dish deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, celebrated for its rich, aromatic broth and tender slices of beef. It’s a comfort food that many locals and travelers alike enjoy for a few dollars per bowl. However, a new version of pho has emerged, taking this humble dish to unprecedented heights of luxury. Priced at nearly 4 million VND (approximately $170), this extravagant bowl, known as “Phở King” or “Phở Chọc Trời,” is now Vietnam’s most expensive pho, served exclusively at Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City. Let’s explore what makes this pho so special and why it has become a subject of both fascination and controversy.
What Makes the “Phở King” So Expensive?
The “Phở King” was officially launched on April 2, during the “Month of Pho” event at the Oriental Pearl restaurant on the 66th floor of Landmark 81. The dish is a fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors and some of the world’s most luxurious ingredients. Chef Lê Trung, the executive chef at Oriental Pearl, is the mastermind behind this creation, striving to balance the traditional essence of pho with opulent enhancements.
Key Ingredients of “Phở King”:
- Wagyu Beef: This premium beef, known for its rich marbling and tenderness, costs around 3.5 million VND per kilogram, making it one of the most expensive cuts of beef in the world.
- Fresh Truffle: At a staggering 45 million VND per kilogram, the truffle is the most expensive component of the dish. Sourced from Australia, these earthy mushrooms are shaved directly onto the pho right in front of diners, adding a unique and decadent aroma.
- Foie Gras: Priced at around 2.5 million VND per kilogram, this French delicacy adds a rich and buttery flavor to the pho.
- 24K Gold Leaf: To top it all off, a delicate layer of 24K gold leaf, costing around 3.5 million VND per packet, is added to the dish, making it not just a meal but a luxurious experience.
The Controversy: Traditionalists vs. Innovators
The debut of “Phở King” sparked a heated debate among food lovers. While some praised the creativity and culinary artistry, others were concerned that this luxurious version might overshadow the simplicity and authenticity of traditional Vietnamese pho.
Chef Lê Trung addressed these concerns by emphasizing that despite the high-end ingredients, the foundation of the dish remains true to its roots. The broth is prepared using a traditional recipe with beef bones, beef tails, and chicken bones simmered for 48 hours. It’s seasoned with familiar Vietnamese spices like star anise and cinnamon, accompanied by hand-cut rice noodles to preserve the authentic pho experience.
A Dining Experience Unlike Any Other
Ordering the “Phở King” is more than just a meal—it’s a complete dining experience. When served, fresh truffle is shaved onto the pho in front of the diner, followed by a pour of steaming hot broth. The staff provides a detailed explanation of each high-quality ingredient, enhancing the overall experience.
How Does It Compare to Traditional Pho?
Traditional pho, enjoyed by millions across Vietnam and beyond, costs only a fraction of the “Phở King” and features a clear, fragrant broth with thin slices of beef and fresh herbs. It’s a street food staple that can be found in every corner of the country, offering comfort and warmth in its simplicity.
- Broth: Traditional pho is made with a broth simmered from beef bones and spices, while the luxury pho incorporates imported beef bones and a 48-hour simmering process to enhance the flavor.
- Beef: Instead of regular beef cuts, the luxury version uses Wagyu beef, known for its exceptional quality and marbling.
- Toppings: While traditional pho is served with bean sprouts, lime, and herbs, the “Phở King” features foie gras, truffle, and gold leaf.
Is It Worth the Price?
The question remains—will you pay $170 for a bowl of pho? For some, the experience of savoring such luxurious ingredients in a classic Vietnamese dish, combined with the stunning views from Landmark 81, makes it worthwhile. For others, the appeal of pho lies in its simplicity and accessibility.
Whether you’re curious to try the most expensive pho in Vietnam or prefer to stick to the traditional flavors, the “Phở King” has certainly added a new chapter to the story of this beloved dish.
Other Pho Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City
If the $170 price tag is beyond your budget but you’re still craving a memorable pho experience, here are some top pho restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City that are well worth a visit:
1. Pho Le
Address: 413-415 Nguyen Trai, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Price Range: 50,000 – 80,000 VND
2. Pho Hoa Pasteur
Address: 260C Pasteur, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Price Range: 60,000 – 100,000 VND
3. Pho Phu Vuong
Address: 339 Le Van Sy, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Price Range: 45,000 – 85,000 VND
For a more immersive experience, join Vespa Adventures’ Saigon Foodie Experience, where you can explore the city’s vibrant food scene and try other local delicacies.
A Luxurious Take on a Classic Dish
The pho at Landmark 81 isn’t just about the price—it’s a celebration of culinary creativity, a fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors with luxury ingredients. Whether or not you decide to try it, this dish has certainly added a new chapter to the story of pho, showing how this humble bowl of noodles can be transformed into an extraordinary dining experience.
