A new fast-casual restaurant specializing in customizable Vietnamese pho dishes is set to open in Toronto this September, introducing what its operators describe as Canada’s first build-your-own pho concept.
Renso Pho-Potle will open at 506 Queen St. W. in September, offering customers the option to customize pho by selecting their broth, protein, rice and toppings. The restaurant will also serve dry pho alongside traditional broth-based bowls.
The launch marks the latest venture from Renso Group, which says it specializes in authentic Asian foods and food products with a focus on Vietnamese agriculture. The company said the restaurant concept has been in development for several years and is part of a broader strategy centred on a customizable fast-casual dining model.
Founder Linda Vu said the concept aims to make pho more adaptable to changing consumer preferences while positioning the business for future expansion.
“We saw an opportunity to bring something new to Canada, taking a dish people already love and making it more accessible, customizable and fast,” said Vu. “This is just the beginning. Our goal is to build Renso Pho-Potle into a concept that can grow in communities across the country.”
The restaurant will offer customers a choice of ingredients to create individual meals, including traditional broth-based pho as well as dry pho, which the company is introducing as an alternative preparation.
According to the company, the format is designed to provide diners with greater flexibility while maintaining the flavours associated with traditional Vietnamese pho.
Chef Bich Nguyen said the concept was developed with an emphasis on preserving the characteristics of the dish while adapting it to a fast-casual service model.
“We’ve worked carefully to honour the flavours that make pho so distinctive, while adapting them into a format that fits modern lifestyles,” says Chef Bich Nguyen. “It’s about balancing the integrity of the ingredients while making the experience simple and engaging for guests.”
In addition to its food offerings, the restaurant will include a gathering space intended to host events, pop-ups, tastings and community nights. The company said the venue will also feature special events led by Renso Pho-Potle chefs to educate customers about pho.
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