Pho 96 is easily some of the best Vietnamese food I've had on the East Coast and such a hidden gem in Poughkeepsie. If you are anywhere near the area, this place is an absolute must-visit.
What makes this restaurant so special is not just the food, but the heart behind it. This is a true small business where you can genuinely feel the care and warmth the moment you walk through the door. The owner, Khan, was one of the sweetest and funniest people we've met in a long time. He was incredibly welcoming and full of personality. Talking with him felt less like dining at a restaurant and more like visiting a family friend's home. You can tell he pours himself into this place and truly appreciates every customer who walks in.
We ordered the chicken pho and it was heartwarming. The broth was beautifully clear, light, and deeply comforting without feeling heavy or greasy. You could taste the care that went into it. The chicken was incredibly tender and soft, soaking up all the flavor of the broth, and every spoonful felt nourishing and cozy. It was the kind of pho that warms you from the inside out.
I ordered the grilled tofu with egg roll over vermicelli since we just finished our walk on the Walkway Over the Hudson, and honestly, it could not have been a more perfect meal afterward. The cold vermicelli noodles were refreshing and silky, paired with crisp fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs that made the whole dish feel bright and vibrant. The grilled tofu had a delicious char on the outside while staying soft inside, and the crispy egg roll added the perfect crunch and savory richness. But the real standout was the fish sauce -- slightly sweet, salty, tangy, and filled with little bits of chili that slowly built into the perfect spicy kick. Once poured over the bowl, every bite became addictive.
We also shared the pork banh mi, and it was incredible. The bread was perfectly crisp on the outside while still soft and airy inside with that satisfying crackle when you bite into it. The stewed pork was juicy, flavorful, and deeply savory, balanced beautifully with the fresh vegetables and herbs. It was one of those sandwiches where every texture and flavor came together perfectly.
Even our 1.5-year-old absolutely loved the food and ended up eating one of the biggest lunches he's had in a while, which says everything.
Places like this deserve all the support they can get. Amazing food, genuine hospitality, and the kind of small business experience that is getting harder and harder to find. We will absolutely be back. read more