Canada's first build-your-own pho restaurant previews at Taste of Vietnam festival this weekend
Renso Pho-Potle opens its doors on Queen Street West in September, but foodies can sample the customizable Vietnamese concept at Nathan Phillips Square.
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Canada's first "pho-potle" restaurant is set to open in Toronto this September, offering diners a customizable take on traditional Vietnamese pho. But foodies can get an early taste this weekend.
Renso Pho-Potle will eventually land at 506 Queen Street West, combining the customization model of popular chains like Chipotle with traditional East Asian flavours. Customers will build their own hearty bowls by choosing their broth, protein, rice, and toppings. Beyond the classic broth-based pho, the restaurant will also serve dry pho—a modern twist on the iconic dish.
Before its opening, Torontonians are getting a preview at the Taste of Vietnam festival running July 16 to 18 at Nathan Phillips Square. Under the pop-up brand Renso Ko Bites, festival-goers can sample chicken and beef skewers, shrimp tacos, bánh mì sandwiches, and Vietnamese-inspired drinks. A selection of sauces inspired by different regions of Vietnam, ranging from mild to spicy, will also be on offer.
Renso Pho-Potle is an innovation from Renso Foods, a Canadian company that imports and manufactures Vietnamese food products across North America. Head chef Bich Nguyen said the concept aims to make Vietnamese cuisine more accessible while staying rooted in its culinary traditions. "Renso Pho-Potle is about reimagining how people experience Vietnamese flavours in a way that feels fast, fresh and approachable," she said.
According to the company's website countdown, the Queen Street West location is slated to open September 1, 2026.
Good to know
Where will Renso Pho-Potle open in Toronto?
Renso Pho-Potle will open at 506 Queen Street West in Toronto.
When does Renso Pho-Potle open?
Renso Pho-Potle is slated to open on September 1, 2026.
What kind of food does Renso Pho-Potle serve?
Renso Pho-Potle serves customizable pho bowls where customers choose their broth, protein, rice, and toppings, plus dry pho as a modern twist on the traditional dish.
Where can I try Renso Pho-Potle before it opens?
Renso Ko Bites, a pop-up preview of Renso Pho-Potle, is running July 16 to 18, 2026 at Nathan Phillips Square during the Taste of Vietnam festival, offering chicken and beef skewers, shrimp tacos, bánh mì sandwiches, Vietnamese-inspired drinks, and regional sauces.
