The cuisine is light, aromatic, full of fresh herbs, and at the same time can be incredibly filling. It is based on a balance of flavours – sweet, sour, salty, and spicy – which makes even simple dishes surprisingly deep in taste. PHO’LE specialises in classic Vietnamese dishes, and the very name reveals that one of the main roles is played by the legendary pho soup. We ordered a few sharing starters, pho soup, and finally the main courses. And here’s a little warning straight away: the portions are really huge. Everything was fresh, fragrant, and beautifully presented, and the flavours were very authentic – an intense, long-cooked pho broth, tender meat, crunchy toppings, and plenty of herbs, especially coriander. It’s no wonder everyone enjoyed it, but by the end of the dinner, we started to slowly give in.The service was exceptionally nice and smiling, unhurried, yet very helpful. The restaurant had a calm atmosphere, which was a pleasant surprise – despite its central location, there were no crowds or noise. This allowed for a genuine conversation and enjoyment of the food without the feeling that someone would soon be rushing us.We asked for the food we couldn't finish to be packed up, as it felt a shame to leave such goodness behind. And here comes the moment that will be remembered for a long time... we forgot to take the packed food. We only realized halfway back. The whole way we regretted it, reminiscing about specific dishes and flavors, but by the time we understood what had happened, it was too late to go back. Best wishes from anetyPL team!
Overview
If you're craving an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of Leicester, look no further than Phở Lê Vietnamese Restaurant. Situated at 35-37 Church Gate, Leicester LE1 3AL, United Kingdom, this charming spot offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for anyone looking to dive into a world of bold flavors and traditional Vietnamese dishes.
From the moment you step inside, Phở Lê immediately transports you to Vietnam, with its cozy ambiance and carefully crafted menu. Whether you're a long-time fan of Vietnamese cuisine or a newcomer, the restaurant promises a satisfying experience. One of the standout features here is their commitment to serving dishes that capture the authentic tastes of Vietnam, made with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques.
Among the must-try dishes is, of course, their signature phở. This iconic Vietnamese noodle soup is served with a rich, aromatic broth that is simmered for hours to develop a deep flavor. The pho comes with a variety of protein options, including tender beef slices, juicy chicken, or even tofu for vegetarians. It's the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day or satisfy your cravings for something hearty and comforting.
But Phở Lê offers much more than just pho. The menu is filled with a variety of traditional dishes, each showcasing the unique flavors of Vietnam. From the crispy spring rolls filled with savory fillings to the refreshing Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches packed with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and your choice of meat, every bite is bursting with vibrant flavors. If you're in the mood for something light and flavorful, the Vietnamese rice paper rolls are a great option, served with a tangy dipping sauce that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients.
The restaurant's commitment to authenticity extends beyond the menu itself. The ingredients used are sourced with care, ensuring that each dish not only tastes incredible but also respects the roots of Vietnamese culinary traditions. This dedication is evident in the way each dish is prepared and presented-something that is often hard to come by in many Vietnamese restaurants outside of Vietnam.
Not only does Phở Lê deliver on flavor, but it also offers exceptional customer service. The staff are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, ready to offer recommendations based on your tastes. Whether you're a fan of spicy food or prefer something milder, they'll guide you to the best choices that suit your preferences. The atmosphere is casual yet welcoming, making it a great spot for both casual lunches and special dinners.
For those who enjoy a bit of variety, the drink menu at Phở Lê is just as impressive as the food. Traditional Vietnamese iced coffee is a favorite among regulars, known for its strong, sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory dishes. If you're after something lighter, their fresh fruit juices offer a refreshing complement to the meal.
Many reviews rave about the overall experience at Phở Lê, noting how the flavors transport them back to Vietnam. The consistent quality of the dishes, combined with the warm hospitality, has made the restaurant a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. It's a place where you can enjoy great food and immerse yourself in the essence of Vietnamese dining.
Whether you're a local resident or just passing through Leicester, Phở Lê Vietnamese Restaurant offers a memorable dining experience. With its authentic Vietnamese menu, cozy atmosphere, and excellent service, it's a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Vietnam in the UK.
Good to know
From the business
✓ Identifies as women-ownedService options
✓ Delivery ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningOfferings
✓ Coffee ✓ Free water refills ✓ Halal food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ GroupsPlanning
✓ Accepts reservationsPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ NFC mobile payments ✓ Credit cardsChildren
✓ Good for kidsParking
✓ Free of charge street parking ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
Literally so yummy. I have had a same style of pho in many places before but none as good as this. I got the well done beef pho and my partner got the rare beef pho. The beef was tender and peppery. The broth was clear and deep flavoured. The noodles were perfect! Such a nice family run restaurant, lovely people and even lovelier food!! Will be going again
Three of us had lunch here today. The staff were really friendly and welcoming. The food was very tasty and it was great value. We shared some fried vegetable spring rolls to start and then each chose a different main so we could try each others. The flavours were really good. We had a beef stew, a pho and a chicken curry. Also, three coffees (all good). Would be very happy to return!
Excellent authentic Vietnamese restaurant in Leicester City Centre. Absolutely ignore the big chain restaurant and come here for some proper Pho. Had some amazing spring rolls and dumplings too. Really worth a visit and lovely people who served us. Will absolutely come back.
Honestly? Hands down the best pho I’ve had in Leicester, maybe even the whole East Midlands. It’s a small little spot, nothing fancy or over the top, but the food absolutely delivers. We had the pork bánh mì and the prawn pho, and both were incredible! super fresh, clean flavours, and that perfect balance of comfort and depth that proper Vietnamese food has. The staff were so friendly and welcoming too, which just made the whole experience even better. You can tell everything’s made with care, from the crispy baguette to the rich, fragrant broth. If you love pho or just good food in general, this place is 100% worth a visit.
A Hidden Gem in Leicester – Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine! This was my second time visiting, and I can confidently say this is one of the most underrated spots in Leicester. The food is absolutely brilliant and truly authentic, as it’s run by a welcoming Vietnamese family. For starters, I had both the fresh spring rolls and fried spring rolls – they were perfectly prepared and bursting with flavor. For the main course, I tried the rare steak pho, and it was hands down the best I’ve ever had. The broth was rich and comforting, making it an ideal choice for a cold day. The value for money here is exceptional, and honestly, it’s better than Pho (the popular chain). There’s no long waiting time – you’re seated quickly, and the service is amazing. The lady who greeted us was incredibly friendly, accommodating, and kind, which added to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. If you’re looking for delicious, authentic Vietnamese food in Leicester, don’t miss out on this place. A great alternative and competitor to the repetitive chicken shop, Italian and Indian restaurants around the city. Let’s give them the recognition they deserve!
Amazing food, so fresh and tasty, great quality at a good price. The owner is so lovely and the service she provides is top tier. So great to finally be able to have authentic Vietnamese food in Leicester. The best I've tasted out of Vietnam. Highly recommended the Pho, Bun Cha and Vietnamese Ice Coffee.