Eat Pho is a family-run Vietnamese restaurant on Old Christchurch Road, a short stroll from Bournemouth’s East Cliff and the town centre. It’s a small, unpretentious kitchen that has built a loyal following for one thing above all — properly made phở, the fragrant rice-noodle soup at the heart of Vietnamese cooking.
The food
The clue is in the name. Phở is the house speciality, simmered into a deeply savoury broth and served over soft rice noodles with your choice of toppings — the duck version is a particular favourite among regulars. Around it sits a wider menu of Vietnamese staples: fresh summer rolls, crispy spring rolls, grilled skewers, wok-fried noodle dishes, curries and rice plates. Portions lean generous and dishes are cooked fresh to order, so they tend to arrive as they’re ready rather than all at once.
Recipes here are family ones, and the kitchen keeps things fresh and unfussy rather than heavily styled. If you’re eating with dietary needs in mind, there’s plenty of scope — vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices run right across the menu. As with any kitchen, preparations can change, so it’s always worth flagging allergies to staff and checking the current menu directly.
Atmosphere
This is casual, no-frills dining — a simple, welcoming room where the focus is squarely on the cooking rather than elaborate decor. That relaxed feel makes it an easy choice for a low-key lunch, a quick and warming bowl on a cold day, or an informal dinner with friends and family. Service is friendly and hands-on, in keeping with its independent, family-run character.
Handily, you don’t have to eat in to enjoy it. Eat Pho does a brisk trade in takeaway, and you can also order for delivery through the usual apps, so a bowl of pho can just as easily land at home.
Where it is
You’ll find Eat Pho on Old Christchurch Road, the long, lively street that links Bournemouth Square with the Lansdowne. It’s an easy walk from the beach, the Lower Gardens and the main shopping area, which makes it a natural stop if you’re already exploring the town centre or heading down towards the seafront. Bus routes and the town-centre car parks are close by, and it sits within the cluster of independent eateries that give this part of Bournemouth its character.
Good to know
Eat Pho is a well-regarded local independent — it has picked up a Travellers’ Choice award on Tripadvisor off the back of consistently strong reviews, and it’s known for good value. For a casual weekday visit you can usually just turn up, though weekends and peak times get busier, so booking ahead is sensible for groups. Opening hours and the full menu are best confirmed on the restaurant’s own channels before you go.
For more places to eat nearby, browse the rest of our food & drink guide — and if you’re making a day of it, pair a visit with time on the beach or in the gardens just down the hill. For the latest menu, opening hours and to book a table, contact Eat Pho directly.