A Food Lover's Guide to Vietnam: 11 Unforgettable Dishes You Must Try
Vietnam is a country that tantalizes all five senses, but it’s the sense of taste that often leaves the most lasting impression. The sizzle of woks, the aroma of lemongrass and cilantro, and the kaleidoscope of fresh ingredients are the heart and soul of Vietnamese culture. To truly experience Vietnam, you must dive into its legendary food scene.
Forget fancy restaurants for a moment. The real magic happens on the streets. Join the locals on the iconic tiny plastic chairs, find a spot at a bustling streetside stall, and get ready for a culinary journey you'll never forget.
Here’s your ultimate foodie checklist for an authentic taste of Vietnam.
The Noodle Soups that Warm the Soul
1. Pho (Phở) No list is complete without Pho. This is the quintessential Vietnamese dish, a comforting and aromatic noodle soup that’s enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. A rich, clear broth is poured over soft flat rice noodles and your choice of tender beef (Phở Bò) or succulent chicken (Phở Gà), then topped with a bouquet of fresh herbs like basil, mint, and bean sprouts.
2. Bun Bo Hue (Bún Bò Huế) If you like your soup with a kick, head to the former imperial city of Hue. Bun Bo Hue is a spicy and complex noodle soup with a broth simmered from beef bones and seasoned with lemongrass, chili, and fermented shrimp paste. It’s a bold, flavorful experience that perfectly represents the cuisine of Central Vietnam.
- Pro Tip: For the most authentic bowl, seek it out at the Dong Ba Market in Hue
3. Bun Cha (Bún Chả) A Hanoi specialty that became globally famous after President Barack Obama and chef Anthony Bourdain shared a meal here. It features smoky, grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served in a bowl of sweet and savory dipping sauce. It comes with a side of rice vermicelli noodles and a basket of fresh herbs to mix in yourself.
Fresh Rolls, Crispy Crepes, and the Perfect Sandwich
4. Fresh Spring Rolls (Gỏi Cuốn) A healthy, light, and incredibly refreshing snack. Gỏi Cuốn are packed with greens, fresh herbs, and your choice of prawns or pork, all neatly wrapped in translucent rice paper. They are typically served with a rich and savory peanut dipping sauce.
5. Fried Spring Rolls (Chả Giò) The crispy cousin of the fresh spring roll, Chả Giò is a deep-fried delight. These crunchy rolls are often filled with a savory mixture of minced meat and vegetables and are a staple at family meals and celebrations.
6. Banh Mi (Bánh Mì) The perfect fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. A crispy baguette is slathered with pork liver pâté and mayonnaise, then stuffed with an array of fillings like Vietnamese sausage, grilled pork, pickled carrots and daikon, and fresh cilantro. It's the king of sandwiches.
7. Banh Xeo (Bánh Xèo) - Savory Crepe Don't let the "crepe" description fool you—this is a large, crispy, and savory pancake made from rice flour and turmeric. It’s fried to perfection and filled with cooked pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. The traditional way to eat it is to break off a piece, wrap it in lettuce and herbs, and dunk it in fish sauce.
More Must-Try Street Food Delights
8. Banh Cuon (Bánh Cuốn) - Steamed Rice Rolls These delicate, silky-smooth rolls are a true work of art. Thin sheets of steamed rice batter are filled with seasoned ground pork and minced wood ear mushrooms, then topped with fried shallots. For a coastal twist, try the version in Da Nang made with fresh shrimp.
9. Bun Bo Nam Bo (Bún Bò Nam Bộ) - Beef Noodle Salad This southern Vietnamese specialty is perfect for a warm day. It’s a dry noodle dish—no broth here! Instead, rice vermicelli is topped with stir-fried beef, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a generous sprinkle of roasted peanuts, all brought together with a tangy fish sauce dressing.
10. Banh Trang Nuong (Bánh Tráng Nướng) - "Vietnamese Pizza" A popular and inventive street snack that originated in Da Lat. A sheet of rice paper is grilled over charcoal, topped with an egg, green onions, and various toppings like cheese, sausage, or dried shrimp. It's crispy, savory, and incredibly addictive.
And For a Sweet Finish…
11. Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng) Don't leave Vietnam without trying this unique Hanoi creation. It’s less like a coffee and more like a liquid tiramisu. A creamy, sweet, and frothy meringue-like topping made from egg yolks and condensed milk sits atop strong Vietnamese coffee.
- Pro Tip: Head to Cafe Giang in Hanoi's Old Quarter, the birthplace of this legendary drink, for the most authentic cup.
