Pho 68 — Restaurant in Castle Hayne

My husband and I just had the BEST dinner at Pho 68! We knew we had to visit after seeing a great WECT news story about the owner, Tom, who recently opened this restaurant with his parents doing the cooking. Our experience was absolutely fantastic from start to finish! Before we walked in, we could already smell from outside the amazing food. It was beautifully decorated inside, and we were immediately greeted by Tom upon entering. Although it was busy, we were seated right away, and all of the service was all very prompt. Everyone was so friendly - all smiles! Our waiter, Keith, was very nice and attentive. I had the peach tea and my husband had the thai iced tea - both were so yummy and very refreshing. I want to try the Vietnamese iced coffee next time, it sounded great. For dinner, I had the vermicelli noodles with grilled pork and egg rolls and my husband had the combination pho. Both dishes were absolutely delicious! My husband and I agreed it was absolutely the best pho we'd ever had. Tom let us know that they cook the pho broth for 15 hours! I loved my vermicelli noodles with the grilled pork. The pork was sliced thinly and grilled to perfection - it was so flavorful and perfectly tender - accompanied by cucumbers, carrots, peanuts, cilantro, fresh and light vermicelli noodles and a delicious sweet sauce on the side to toss with the noodles. The portions were also very generous and well-priced. I saw a lot of take out orders as well while we were there. We will absolutely be back! I cannot recommend this restaurant enough! It was my favorite food I've had in Wilmington. You can taste the love and hard work that goes into their food. Pho 68 is truly spectacular! Thank you to Tom and his family for opening such a wonderful restaurant that can be enjoyed by...

I’m not sure if it was because I was starving that day, but the first time I walked into Phở 68, the smell alone made me stop in my tracks. A rich aroma of beef bones simmering for hours, mingled with star anise, charred ginger, and cinnamon – it hit me like a wave of memory and hunger all at once. This isn’t just pho for the sake of being pho. This is real Vietnamese pho – deeply flavored, thoughtfully made, and served piping hot in a generous bowl that warms your hands and your soul. The broth is clear but rich, not overly oily, with a clean sweetness that only comes from bones that have been simmered low and slow. No MSG bomb, no shortcuts – just pure, honest cooking. The beef? Sliced thin, tender, still pink in the center when it arrives, and perfectly cooked by the time you lift it to your mouth. Every bite is silky and warm, soaking up that beautiful broth. The onions and herbs are fresh and crisp, and when you throw in a little squeeze of lime and a dash of chili – everything just wakes up. What really stuck with me, though, was the aftertaste. Even after finishing the bowl, I could still taste the gentle spice of the star anise and that natural bone broth sweetness on my tongue. It lingered in the best way – comforting and addictive. Phở 68 isn’t fancy. It’s a modest, clean little spot with quiet tables and steady regulars coming in and out. That alone says a lot. People don’t return for average pho – they return for bowls that remind them of home. And for me, on cold mornings or on days when I just need something to feel right again, Phở 68 is the first place I think of. One bowl is enough to reset...

I’ve heard so many great things about this restaurant, and after trying it for myself, I can see why.

As someone from Southern Vietnam, I find the pho to be somewhat authentic, I’d give it a 7/ 10. The real star for me was the sizzling steak and eggs. It was absolutely spot on, just like back home. I’ve been to so many Vietnamese restaurants in the U.S. and none of them offer this dish, so I was beyond excited to see it here. Everything was cooked perfectly. I’d give it a 100/10 if I could!!!! Also their drinks are on top.

Their drinks are amazing too. I highly recommend the salted coffee, it’s rich and creamy. If you’re a tea lover, make sure to add crystal boba to your drink!!!!

The restaurant itself is clean and well-designed. I love that they chose light wood tones for the interior, it makes the space feel bright and welcoming. The background music is very comforting. All of the staff are enthusiastic and respectful. Even small details, like the chairs not squeaking when you move them, show how much thought went into creating a comfortable dining environment. The restrooms are also modern and well-maintained, with separate spaces for men and women.

For their grand opening this week, they’re offering 10% off all purchases, which is great. I’m already looking forward to coming back and trying...