Little Papa Pho: Authentic Hoi An Style Pho and the Crispiest Spring Rolls in Yeonnam

Sometimes, you don’t need a plane ticket to escape to Southeast Asia. Today, I took a stroll through the charming alleys of Yeonnam-dong with my family. Following my child’s craving for authentic Vietnamese flavors, we headed to a local favorite known for its healing bowls of noodles and legendary side dishes: Little Papa Pho.

Location

• –Address: 1F, 5 Donggyo-ro 38an-gil, Mapo-gu, Seoul
• –Access: Located on the path from Gyeongui Line Forest Park toward Yeonhui-dong.

Hours

A Slice of Hoi An in the Heart of Seoul

As we approached the entrance, the terrace whispered stories of distant travels. I had heard from friends that this place captures the essence of Southeast Asia perfectly, and they weren’t exaggerating.

The vibrant yellow lanterns and orange fan decorations instantly transported me to the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. The warm, amber glow creates a nostalgic, cozy atmosphere that makes you want to linger just a little bit longer. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a cultural “space-leap.”

The Feast: What We Ordered

Our family went for a diverse spread to capture the full spectrum of their menu:

• –Handmade Fried Spring Rolls (Jjajo) 3p
• –Beef Brisket Pho (Yangji)
• –Spicy Beef Brisket ‘Jjamppong’ Pho
• –Pineapple & Beef Fried Rice

Taste Notes

The Golden Crunch: Handmade Jjajo

I’ve always been a fan of spring rolls, but the Jjajo here is in a league of its own. The exterior is incredibly crispy—a satisfying “crunch” that echoes through the table. When dipped into the sweet chili sauce, the harmony of spicy, sweet, and crispy textures is simply divine. This is a must-order.

A Kid’s Favorite: Pineapple & Beef Fried Rice

My child’s choice was a colorful plate of fried rice. The sweetness of the pineapple combined with a subtle kick of black pepper creates a refreshing, appetite-boosting balance. It’s savory, fruity, and perfect for young travelers.

The Soul of the Menu: Beef Brisket Pho

They say the true test of a Vietnamese spot is its basic Pho. One sip of the broth, and I knew—this is the real deal. The depth of the broth reaches your taste buds instantly, carrying the rich essence of long-simmered beef. It’s comforting, clean, and deeply satisfying.

The Korean-Vietnamese Fusion: Spicy Beef Brisket ‘Jjamppong’ Pho

My husband opted for the spicy version, which is essentially a Vietnamese take on the Korean Jjamppong. It’s spicy, aromatic, and perfectly suited for those who love a bit of heat. Using rice noodles makes it feel much lighter and easier on the stomach than traditional flour-based spicy noodles.

Price Range

• –Pho & Rice Dishes: 10,000 – 13,000 KRW
• –Sides (Jjajo, etc.): 6,000 KRW
• –Overall: Very reasonable for the quality and portion size, especially in the trendy Yeonnam-dong area.

Ordering & Tips

• –Ambience: The interior is quite spacious and features authentic lighting that is perfect for photos.
• –Family: The restaurant is accommodates groups, making it a great choice for family outings.
• –Ordering: The menu is straightforward, but if you’re a fan of Korean spicy flavors, don’t miss the ‘Jjamppong’ style Pho.
• –Side Note: The handmade Jjajo sells out fast during peak hours, so try to order it as soon as you sit down!

Who I Recommend It For:

• –Families looking for a cozy, pet-friendly lunch spot.
• –Couples who want to enjoy a “Hoi An vibe” date night.
• –Anyone craving a truly crispy, handmade spring roll.