Pho Zaaap East Haven CT: Authentic Thai & Lao Cuisine

Pho Zaaap Introduce

For Connecticut residents seeking a truly authentic taste of Southeast Asia, Pho Zaaap in East Haven is widely hailed as a must-visit destination. Located conveniently on Foxon Road, this Thai restaurant stands out not only for its extensive menu of traditional Thai favorites but also for its rare and highly praised inclusion of authentic Lao cuisine. The name itself is a nod to its dual heritage, with “Pho” referring to the classic noodle soup and “Zaaap” meaning “delicious” in the Lao language. Customers consistently praise Pho Zaaap for delivering an unparalleled level of authentic flavor, often comparing it favorably to dishes experienced directly in Thailand and Laos.

The culinary philosophy at Pho Zaaap is rooted in quality and care, a dedication that shines through in every category of the menu. While it offers all the familiar staples that Thai food lovers in CT adore, such as Pad Thai (P9) and Drunken Noodle (P10), the restaurant provides numerous unique, regional specialties. The centerpiece for many is the signature Pho Zaaap Noodle Soup (N1), a dish celebrated for its rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced broth. The menu also features other distinctive Lao and Thai noodle soups like Yentafo (N2), Lao Udong (Kao Piek) (N3), and the Northern Thai specialty, Kao Soi (N6), offering a depth of choice rarely found in the region.

Beyond the noodles and soups, the menu is a vibrant tapestry of classic Thai preparations. Diners can customize their main course from a selection of meat types—Chicken, Pork, Tofu, Veggie (starting at $11.25 for dinner), or premium options like Beef, Shrimp, Scallop, Squid, or Mix Seafood ($13.50–$16.50)—and pair it with one of the eight Stir-Fried Dish styles, such as Spicy Basil (P2) or Young Ginger (P5). The Curries section is equally impressive, featuring a wide spectrum of flavors including the classic Green, Red, and Massaman, alongside the more unique Mango Curry (C4) and the fiery Jungle Curry (C7). A separate section is dedicated to succulent Duck preparations, allowing patrons to choose from four different sauces: Basil, Curry, Tamarind, or Garlic (all $17.50).

Pho Zaaap also offers a fantastic value proposition with its Lunch Specials, available Monday to Friday from 11 AM to 3 PM. These specials make it easy and affordable for local professionals and residents to enjoy their favorite Stir-Fried Dishes, Curries, and Noodle dishes with meat options starting at a very budget-friendly $8.25. For a sweet ending, the dessert menu features beloved Thai and Lao treats such as Mango Sticky Rice ($5.50), Fried Bananas ($5.25), and Sweet Sticky Rice with Sangkaya Custard ($5.25), providing a perfect conclusion to an authentic meal.

Location and Accessibility

Pho Zaaap is conveniently located outside the immediate bustle of downtown New Haven, situated at 913 Foxon Rd, East Haven, CT 06513, USA. This placement makes it easily accessible for customers across the greater New Haven area and surrounding Connecticut towns.

Accessibility is a notable highlight for this location. The restaurant provides a crucial amenity often difficult to find in downtown establishments: Free parking lot and Free street parking, ensuring a hassle-free visit. Furthermore, Pho Zaaap is fully committed to accommodating all guests, offering a Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible parking lot, Wheelchair accessible restroom, and Wheelchair accessible seating. The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, suitable for groups, locals, and families, with High chairs available for children and a "Good for kids" designation. The commitment to a comfortable dining experience extends to pets, as Dogs are allowed outside on the premises.

Services Offered

Dine-in service with comfortable indoor seating and table service.
Takeout and Delivery options are available, ensuring easy access to their menu from home.
Dedicated Lunch Specials are offered Monday to Friday from 11 AM to 3 PM, providing excellent value.
Offers full Catering services for events and large gatherings.
Beverage offerings include Alcohol, Beer, Wine, and Coffee.
Provides Counter service, making it efficient for quick pickups.
Accommodates various payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

Authentic Dual Cuisine: Specializes in genuinely authentic Thai and Lao cuisine, setting it apart from standard Thai restaurants in Connecticut.
Exceptional Noodle Soup: Famous for its "best bowl of pho" and other unique Lao-style noodle soups like Lao Udong and Kao Soi.
Extensive Curry Selection: Features seven distinct curries, including the rare Jungle Curry and Mango Curry, catering to both traditional and adventurous palates.
Dietary Accommodation: Offers a wide variety of Vegan options, Vegetarian options, and Healthy options, making it easy for everyone to find a satisfying meal.
Convenient Accessibility: Provides Free parking, a major advantage for CT drivers, in addition to full wheelchair accessibility.
Fast Service: Known for efficiency, allowing diners to enjoy a Quick bite during their lunch hour.
Cozy Atmosphere: A casual and cozy environment that is popular for both Lunch and Dinner, attracting a strong local following.

Contact Information

Address: 913 Foxon Rd, East Haven, CT 06513, USA

Phone: (203) 535-0811

The mobile phone number is +1 203-535-0811. Given the focus on authentic, high-quality cuisine and the popularity among locals, checking the listed phone number for takeout orders or catering inquiries is recommended. The restaurant is generally open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, though it is always wise to confirm operating hours for the most up-to-date schedule.

What is Worth Choosing

For Connecticut diners in search of an authentic and deeply satisfying Southeast Asian experience, Pho Zaaap is the clear choice. What makes this restaurant truly worth the drive to East Haven is its commitment to both Thai and Lao heritage, offering unique dishes that deliver an uncommonly authentic flavor profile, as highlighted in glowing customer reviews. The “best bowl of pho I’ve ever had in my life” is not a statement to take lightly; the signature Pho Zaaap Noodle Soup is an experience unto itself.

Beyond the soup, the massive menu variety ensures that no two visits have to be the same, allowing guests to cycle between a comforting bowl of Kao Soi, a vibrant plate of Spicy Basil, and one of their seven flavorful curries. The inclusion of numerous Vegan and Vegetarian options, along with dishes designated as Healthy options, makes it a reliable spot for diverse dietary needs. The combination of a cozy atmosphere, attentive and kind service, and the practical advantage of Free parking elevates Pho Zaaap from just a Thai restaurant to a local culinary gem. If you appreciate authentic flavors, excellent variety, and an inviting, family-like service environment, Pho Zaaap should be at the top of your list for dining in the greater New Haven area.

Pho Zaaap Vibe

Appetizers
A1. Crispy Roll (Chicken or Veggie) $4.95
Deep-fried spring rolls with crystal bean thread, carrot, and cabbage served with Thai sweet & sour sauce.
A2. Fresh Spring Roll $4.95
Soft spring rolls stuffed with vermicelli, shrimp, leaf lettuce, cucumbers, carrots and cilantro served with peanut and hoisin sauce.
A3. Bangkok Dumpling $6.95
Mixed minced shrimp & chicken wrapped in wonton yellow paper.
A4. Chicken or Beef Satay $6.95
Grilled chicken or beef on bamboo skewers served with peanut sauce.
A5. Fish Cake $6.95
Deep fried fish cakes with green beans and red curry, served with cucumber, sweet & sour sauce.
A6. Curry puff $7.50
Crispy fried pastry stuffed with sweet curried chicken, potato, sweet potato, and onion.
A7. Golden Bag $6.95
Light crispy skin with minced chicken filling.
A8. Crab Rangoon $6.95
Crispy wonton with crab meat cream cheese filling served with sweet & sour sauce.
A9. Golden Triangle $5.95
Deep fried tofu served with spicy chilli sauce and ground peanuts.
A10. Thai Sweet Sausage $7.50
Deep-fried Thai sweet pork sausage served with Sriracha sauce.
A11. Shrimp in the Blanket $5.50
Fried shrimp wrapped in rice paper served with sweet chilli sauce.
A12. Fried chicken wings $8.50
Home-style crispy fried chicken wings served with chilli sauce.
A13. Sampler $10.95
Crab Rangoon, curry puff, crispy roll and golden bag.

Dessert
Fried Bananas $5.25
Ripe bananas in flaky eggroll wrap topped with sesame seeds and honey.
Mango Sticky Rice $5.50
Sweet sticky rice with side of ripe mango topped with coconut cream syrup.
Sweet Sticky Rice with Sangkaya Custard $5.25
Sweet sticky rice topped with buttery egg (Sangkaya) custard.
Taro Custard $4.95
Taro mixed with eggs, rice flour, coconut milk, pandan leaves, red onion, and coconut sugar.
Thai Coconut Cake $4.95
Coconut mixed with tapioca flour, glutinous rice flour, sugar, coconut milk, and eggs.
Purple Sticky Rice with Thai Custard $5.25
Sweet purple sticky rice topped with Thai custard.
Thai Mung Bean Pudding $4.50
Steamed yellow mung beans and tapioca flour in sweet syrup topped with coconut cream.

Soup
S1. Tom Yum Koung $6.95
Thai hot & sour soup with shrimp, lemon grass, onions, tomatoes, mushroom and cilantro (spicy level 1).
S2. Tom Kha Gai $5.95
Thai hot & sour soup with chicken mushrooms, coconut milk and lemon grass flavors.
S3. Wonton Soup $6.50
Wonton stuffed with pork in clear broth garnished white scallion.
S4. Veggie Soup $5.50
Carrot, broccoli, snow pea, soft tofu, glass noodle.

Salad & Yum
S5. House Salad $6.50
Green salad, bean sprouts, carrots, straw mushroom, tomatoes, broccoli and baby corn served with peanut sauce dressing.
S6. Thai Papaya Salad $9.50
Shredded green papaya with tomato, green bean, roasted peanuts in spicy lime garlic dressing (spicy level 2).
S7. Papaya Salad (Lao Style) $10.50
Shredded green papaya with tomato, Thai eggplants, green beans in salty, distinctively sharp fish paste dressing (spicy level 3).
S8. Grill Beef Salad $14.95
Hand sliced USDA Select sirloin steak in spicy chili lime dressing with cucumber, tomato, onion, cilantro, and scallion (spicy level 1).
S9. Glass Noodle Salad $11.95
Glass noodles, ground pork, shrimp tossed in spicy chili lime dressing, onion, tomato, cilantro, and scallion (spicy level 1).
S10. Larb (Chicken, Beef Or Pork) $14.50
Hand-chopped meat with spicy chili lime dressing, ground roasted rice, onion, cilantro, scallion, and mint (spicy level 1).

Noodle Soup
N1. Pho Zaaap Noodle soup $11.95
The original "Pho Zaaap noodle soup” with beef broth, sliced beef, meat ball, fried garlic, bean sprouts,onion,scallion,cilantro served with thin rice noodles.
--Pho Zaaap-Chicken $11.25
Classic, simple with white chicken breast, bean sprouts, fried garlic, scallion, onion, and cilantro served with thin rice noodles.
--Pho Zaaap-Pork $11.25
Comes with sliced pork, pork ball, bean sprouts, fried garlic, scallion, onion, and cilantro served with thin rice noodles.
--Pho Zaaap-Shrimp $12.50
Comes with shrimp, fish ball, bean sprouts, fried garlic, scallion, onion, and cilantro served with thin rice noodles.
--Pho Zaaap-Mix Seafood $15.50
Comes with squid, scallop, shrimp, fish ball, bean sprouts, fried garlic, scallion, onion, and cilantro served with thin rice noodles.
N2. Yentafo $10.25
Savory, tart fermented tofu and tomato broth; shrimp, fish balls, fried tofu, crispy wonton skin, baby bok choy served with flat rice noodles (spicy level 1).
N3. Lao Udong (Kao Piek) $10.25
Home-style lao noodle soup serve with chicken or pork meat with cilantro and fried garlic on top.
N4. Ba Mee Geow $10.25
Thin egg noodle soup with roasted pork, baby bok choy and pork wonton.
N5.Tom Yum Noodle Soup $12.50
Spicy, sour lime-lemongrass broth with shrimp, grounded pork, peanut and mix vegetables served with thin rice noodles (spicy level 1).
N6. Kao Soi (Chicken or Pork) $11.25
Red curry broth with egg noodles with carrot, bean sprouts, string bean, red onion, cabbage, cilantro, and lime topped with crispy fried noodles (spicy level 1).
N6. Kao Soi (Beef or Shrimp) $12.50
Red curry broth with egg noodles with carrot, bean sprouts, string bean, red onion, cabbage, cilantro, and lime topped with crispy fried noodles (spicy level 1).
N7. Sukiyaki Thai Style $12.50
Big bowl of glass noodle soup with shrimp, chicken, egg, mixed veggies serve with spicy sauce (spicy level 1).

Choose Type of Meat for Stir-Fried Dish, Stir-Fried Noodle, Fried Rice, and Curries
Chicken, Pork, Tofu or Veggie $11.25
Beef, Scallop, Squid or Shrimp $13.50
Mix Seafood $16.50

Stir-Fried Dish
P1. Thai Peanut
Snap pea, red pepper, carrot, baby corn, cashew on top served with white rice.
P2. Spicy Basil
Mushroom, onion, red pepper, basil served with white rice (spicy level 3).
P3. Sweet Chilli
Tomato, asparagus, onion served with white rice (spicy level 2).
P4. Spicy eggplant
Chinese eggplant, onion, bell paper, mushroom, string bean served with white rice (spicy level 2).
P5. Young Ginger
Mushroom, carrot, scallion, onion, snap pea served with white rice.
P6. Sweet & Sour
Onion, snap pea, pineapple, scallion, red pepper, tomato, and cucumber served with white rice.
P7. Garlic
Broccoli and Garlic sauce served with white rice.
P8. Brown Sauce
Mushroom, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, onion, eggplant, carrot, and baby corn served with white rice.

Stir-Fried Noodle
P9. Pad Thai
Stir fried fettuccini rice noodle with bean sprout, scallion, egg, and ground peanut.
P10. Drunken Noodle
Flat noodle with basil, red pepper, egg, carrot, onion (spice level 3).
P11. Pad See-Eaw
Flat noodle with egg, broccoli and carrot.
P12. Pad Wun Sen
Bean thread noodle, carrot, egg, scallion, tomato, snap pea, onion.
P13. Siam
Serve with egg noodle,egg, scallion, onion, carrot, snap pea, ginger, bean sprout.
P14. Pasta basil
Fettuccine stir fried with basil, onion, mushroom, red paper (spicy level 3).
P15. Rad Nhar
Stir-fried flat noodle topped with delicious white bean paste gravy with chinese broccoli.

Fried Rice
F1. Thai Fried Rice
Egg, onion, snap pea, scallion, tomato.
F2. Spicy Fried Rice
Egg, red pepper, chili, onion, basil, ground chilli (spicy level 3).
F3. Pineapple Fried Rice
Egg, cashew, onion, pineapple, raisin, scallion, tomato, yellow curry powder.
F4. Thai Sausage Fried Rice $10.50
Egg, pineapple, scallion, sweet sausage.

Curries
C1. Green Curry
Green chili-based curry with eggplant, basil, and bell peppers (spicy level 3).
C2. Red Curry
Red chili-based curry with bamboo shoots, basil, bell pepper and eggplant (spicy level 2).
C3. Yellow Curry
Cumin, turmeric-based curry with potato, yellow onion, tomato and pineapple (spicy level 2).
C4. Mango Curry
Mango, red pepper, onion, tomato, zucchini (spicy level 2).
C5. Panang Curry
Sweet chilli-based curry with grounded peanut, snap pea, red pepper, and basil (spicy level 1).
C6. Massaman Curry
Southern style with potato, peanut, onion (cumin & cinnamon).
C7. Jungle Curry
Curry with krachai root, bamboo, mushroom, bell pepper, baby corn and eggplant (spicy level 1).

Duck: Choose Type of Sauce
D8. Basil Sauce $17.50
Sautéed with fresh Thai basil (spicy level 3).
D9. Curry Sauce $17.50
Sautéed with red curry and veggie (spicy level 2).
D10. Tamarind Sauce $17.50
Served with crispy with sweet tamarind sauce.
D11. Garlic Sauce $17.50
Sautéed with mixed seasonal veggie.

Lunch: Monday to Friday 11AM to 3PM
Chicken, Pork, Tofu or Veggie $8.25
Beef, Scallop, Squid or Shrimp $10.50
Mix Seafood $12.50
L1. Thai Peanut
Snap pea, red pepper, carrot, baby corn, cashew on top.
L2. Spicy Basil
Mushroom, onion, red pepper, basil (spicy level 3).
L3. Sweet Chilli
Tomato, asparagus, onion (spicy level 2).
L4. Spicy eggplant
Chinese eggplant, onion, bell paper, mushroom, string bean (spicy level 2).
L5. Young Ginger
Mushroom, carrot, scallion, onion, snap pea.
L6. Sweet & Sour
Onion, snap pea, pineapple, scallion, red pepper, tomato, and cucumber.
L7. Garlic
Broccoli and Garlic sauce.
L8. Brown Sauce
Mushroom, zucchini, asparagus, broccoli, onion, eggplant, carrot, and baby corn.
L9. Pad Thai
Stir fried fettuccine rice noodle with bean sprout, scallion, egg, and ground peanut.
L10. Drunken Noodle
Flat noodle with basil, red pepper, egg, carrot, onion (spicy level 3).
L11. Pad See-Eaw
Flat noodle with egg, broccoli and carrot.
L12. Pad Wun Sen
Bean thread noodle, carrot, egg, scallion, tomato, snap pea, onion.
L13. Siam
Serve with egg noodle, egg, scallion, onion, carrot, snap pea, ginger, and bean sprout.
L14. Pasta basil
Fettuccine stir fried with basil, onion, mushroom, red paper (spicy level 3).
L15. Rad Nar
Stir-fried flat noodle topped with delicious white bean paste gravy with Chinese broccoli.
L16. Thai Fried Rice
Egg, onion, snap pea, scallion, tomato.
L17. Spicy Fried Rice
Egg, red pepper, chili, onion, basil, ground chili (spicy level 3).
L18. Pineapple Fried Rice
Egg, cashew, onion, pineapple, raisin, scallion, tomato, yellow curry powder.
C1. Green Curry
Green chili-based curry with eggplant, basil, and bell peppers (spicy level 3).
C2. Red Curry
Red chili-based curry with bamboo shoots, basil, bell pepper and eggplant (spicy level 2).
C3. Yellow Curry
Cumin, turmeric-based curry with potato, yellow onion, tomato and pineapple (spicy level 2).
C4. Mango Curry
Mango, red pepper, onion, tomato, zucchini (spicy level 2).
C5. Panang Curry
Sweet chili-based curry with grounded peanut, snap pea, red pepper, and basil (spicy level 1).
C6. Massaman Curry
Southern style with potato, peanut, onion (cumin & cinnamon).
C7. Jungle Curry
Curry with krachai root, bamboo, mushroom, bell pepper, baby corn and eggplant (spicy level 1).

Pho Zaaap Details

Service options
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Comfort food
Healthy options
Quick bite
Small plates
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Crowd
Groups
Locals

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Parking

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Pho Zaaap Photos

Pho Zaaap Location

Pho Zaaap

Connecticut South Central Connecticut Planning Region East Haven Foxon Foxon Road

913 Foxon Rd, East Haven, CT 06513, USA

Pho Zaaap Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 403 user reviews.

spicytake outcurrydrunken noodlespad thaidinnerdumplingspineapplebeef phomango sticky rice

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Pho Zaaap in New Haven is a hidden gem for anyone craving authentic Lao and Thai flavors! Having tried most Thai food in the States, I can confidently say that this place comes closest to what I've experienced in Thailand and Laos. The selection is fantastic, with each dish bursting with bold, fresh ingredients. They craft everything with quality and care, from rich, aromatic curries to perfectly seasoned noodle soups. The pho is the absolute ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ flavorful and perfectly balanced. The service at Phozaap is as welcoming as the food, making you feel like part of the family. You can tell they take real pride in every dish they serve. If you're after a spot that combines authentic, high-quality flavors with a down-to-earth, inviting atmosphere, this is the place you don’t want to miss!
January 07 · Dalin Intharath
This is THE best Thai place in the area, with the best bowl of pho I’ve ever had in my life! Every single thing I’ve tried off the menu has blown me away, and I love coming here to try new things. Amazing flavors and the owner is so attentive and kind. I cannot recommend this restaurant enough.
September 24 · Eva Redman
Went here for dinner a day ago. Place looks very homely, basic but cute decor. Food was well presented and tasty. Dessert mango sticky rice was yum too! They have selected but great wine collection too.
September 28 · Snehal
A business friend of ours took my husband here for dinner. Simple place, mainly takeout with a small but very clean and understated dining area. He is a good cook so he's very particular about restaurants, he is also very frugal. For his recent birthday he insisted we drive the hour distance to go here.It was nothing less than sensational. The food was probably the finest Thai we've had. Better than anything in Fairfield County, CT. The clientele was a mixture of locals and even some characters and everyone was pleasant. Dinner for 5 with appetizers , soups and drinks was under $50 pp including tip. I had a heavy pour glass of Cabernet and it was $7.50!!It looks like it may be family owned because the two pleasant and attentive young girls who waited on us were both young .If you haven't been here yet I suggest you go ASAP because this place deserves to have a line out of the door every night!We'll definitely be back soon.
April 13 · Kathleen Russell
Nice homey feel. Inexpensive. The staff make you feel right at home. The food was surprisingly tasty. The spice level was accurate as my wife doesn't like spicy and I love spicy so we both got exactly what we wanted. I would give it a 5 star but the wait staff was so sure not to get my wife's order correct (she hates cilantro) that they kept cilantro (I love cilantro) out of my dish as well. I didn't complain. I WILL be back to try more dishes off the menu.
November 03 · Lou Grizzy