Cafe 168 Pho and Ramen - Great Asian Fusion in Rifle, Colorado

In the heart of Rifle, Colorado—a town better known for its rustic charm and surrounding natural beauty—there’s a small but exceptional restaurant redefining local expectations for Asian cuisine. Cafe 168 Pho and Ramen is an unassuming gem serving up hearty bowls of Vietnamese pho, Japanese ramen, and a delightful fusion of flavors that bridge East and West with surprising grace. For residents and travelers alike, it’s a flavorful detour from the standard roadside fare.

The interior of Cafe 168 is warm and inviting, with minimalist décor and subtle nods to Asian culture throughout. Dark wood tables, bamboo wall accents, and soft lighting create a comfortable space that feels like a casual, urban bistro dropped into a mountain town. Whether you’re sitting at a corner table with a book or gathering with friends over lunch, the restaurant offers a relaxing backdrop for your meal.

One of the standout features of Cafe 168 is its menu, which reads like a love letter to Asian comfort food. At the center of it all are the pho and ramen bowls, crafted with care and brimming with fresh ingredients. The pho broth is a fragrant, slow-simmered base with star anise, cloves, and charred onion, delivering an authentic Vietnamese flavor profile that’s both light and rich. Whether you opt for rare beef, brisket, or meatballs, each bowl is a satisfying and aromatic experience. Their ramen selection is just as impressive. The tonkotsu ramen features a creamy pork bone broth that rivals any big-city ramen shop, complete with tender chashu pork, jammy eggs, and perfectly chewy noodles. The spicy miso version packs a punch without overwhelming the palate, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a bold kick of flavor. With generous portions and thoughtful presentation, the ramen offerings are easily among the best in Western Colorado.

But what truly sets Cafe 168 apart is its embrace of fusion. Dishes like the “Pho-rrito”—a clever take on a burrito filled with pho ingredients—and the ramen burger showcase the chef’s creativity and willingness to blend cultures. Even appetizers like their crispy pork spring rolls or spicy edamame with garlic soy sauce balance tradition with innovation, giving diners a unique experience they won’t find elsewhere in the area.

Vegetarian and vegan options are also thoughtfully prepared. The tofu pho and vegetable ramen are not afterthoughts—they’re flavorful, layered, and satisfying in their own right. Combined with the fresh herbs, sprouts, and house-made sauces, the vegetarian choices are as compelling as their meat-based counterparts.

Service at Cafe 168 is another highlight. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and always willing to recommend dishes based on your preferences. Whether you’re new to pho or a ramen enthusiast, you’ll feel welcomed and well-guided through the menu. The pace is relaxed, but the service is attentive—ideal for both casual dining and special nights out.

Locals have embraced the restaurant as a go-to for comfort food with a twist, and travelers driving through Rifle are often surprised to find such a high-quality Asian eatery off the beaten path. It’s not uncommon to see trucks and SUVs parked outside alongside visitors snapping photos of their colorful bowls before diving in.

In a region where options for Asian cuisine can be sparse, Cafe 168 Pho and Ramen is a culinary beacon. It combines authenticity with creativity, tradition with bold experimentation. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of pho on a snowy day or looking to try something adventurous like a ramen burger, Cafe 168 delivers. For Rifle, Colorado, it’s more than just a restaurant—it’s a flavorful escape.

309 Railroad Ave, Rifle, CO 81650

(970) 665-9638

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