Pho Lodge

Pho Lodge is a family‑operated restaurant tucked into the heart of Hickory, North Carolina, at 2101 Catawba Valley Boulevard SE, just a short walk from the historic downtown square and the Catawba River waterfront. The eatery specializes in traditional Vietnamese pho noodle soup and authentic Hmong dishes, offering a menu that includes beef pho (phở bò), chicken pho (phở gà), and a spicy Hmong‑style grilled pork bowl. The broth is simmered for hours with star anise, cinnamon, and fresh ginger, delivering a fragrant, clear soup that has earned a 4‑star rating from over 150 local reviewers. Inside, the space is modest yet welcoming, with wooden benches, soft lighting, and family photos that convey a warm, communal atmosphere. Diners can watch the kitchen staff ladle steaming broth into bowls at the open‑kitchen counter, and the staff frequently greet guests by name, reinforcing the personal touch. While the restaurant does not list formal opening hours on its Facebook page, it typically serves lunch and dinner from 11 am to 9 pm, seven days a week, and accepts online orders through its dedicated ordering site. Prices range from $9 for a simple pho bowl to $15 for larger combo plates, making it an affordable option for both locals and travelers seeking authentic Southeast Asian flavors in the Appalachian foothills.