Delicious Pho Noodles at Saigon Shack in West Village, NYC
Delicious Pho Noodles at Saigon Shack in West Village, NYC
Do you love Vietnamese pho? New York City, home to many Vietnamese immigrants, offers countless pho restaurants. While Chinatown used to be the main spot for authentic pho, today you can enjoy it all over Manhattan. This time, I visited Saigon Shack, a cozy and highly recommended Vietnamese restaurant in West Village, with my friend from Vietnam—she swears it’s one of the best in the city.
I love coming here a lot!
Where Is Saigon Shack Located?
Saigon Shack is just a 5-minute walk from West 4th Street Station, located on lively MacDougal Street, a block lined with stand-up comedy clubs, live music venues, and bars.
The entrance is easy to spot, with a welcoming vibe that draws you in.
Inside Saigon Shack
Stepping inside, you’ll see a cute menu board near the entrance. The restaurant is warmly lit with an orange glow, creating a bright and cheerful atmosphere. It’s a favorite hangout for NYU students and always bustling with people.
Orders are placed via QR code scanning, and note that the restaurant is cash only. There’s also a ramen-style counter bar, making it a great spot for a quick solo lunch.
Why Saigon Shack’s Pho Stands Out
My Vietnamese friend is very particular about pho, and she especially praised the texture of the noodles here. Unlike some Chinatown spots where the noodles can be overcooked and mushy, Saigon Shack’s noodles are firm, chewy, and hold their shape perfectly.
The broth is equally impressive. It’s simmered with beef bones, cinnamon, and aromatic spices until rich and flavorful. To finish, diners can add classic condiments like sriracha and the sweet black hoisin-style sauce that you’ll find at every authentic Vietnamese restaurant. The result is a comforting bowl of pho that hits the spot every time.
A Bit of NYC History – The Esperanto Café
Here’s a fun side note: before Saigon Shack, this very spot was once home to the Esperanto Café, a beloved gathering place for artists and students. Open until 3 a.m., it had vintage furniture, a worn-out upright piano, and served legendary cheesecake.
Even earlier, the location was the bar Kettle of Fish, where Beat Generation writers, Andy Warhol, and even Bob Dylan once hung out. In New York, the buildings remain while tenants change, leaving behind fascinating layers of history.
Conclusion
If you’re craving pho in New York, Saigon Shack in West Village is a must-visit. Not only is the pho excellent, but their Vietnamese sandwiches are also a local favorite. Next time you’re in the neighborhood, stop by for a taste of Vietnam in Manhattan.
Other Recommended Vietnamese Restaurants in NYC
And if you’re in the mood for Italian, check out the famous Neapolitan pizza spot nearby:
👉 L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in New York
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