Vietnamese food to try
Vietnam is one of the best among asian countries showcasing the best and most interesting dishes it had to offer. Vietnamese cuisine always leaves you wanting for more. Food in Vietnam has its own sets of flavors, ingredients, and cooking methods.
The Vietnamese people have a long history of cooking with fresh ingredients, and they continue to prepare distinctive dishes today. Some of Vietnam’s most well-known food staples include noodle soup, grilled pork, and bánh mì sandwiches.
Vietnamese food is typically spicy, with a variety of fresh herbs and spices used to add flavor. Seafood such as fish, shrimp, crab, and meat are popular food sources for people in Vietnam. There are many varieties of rice to choose from.
If you are visiting Vietnam for the first time and wondering what to eat, then this blog will be useful to you. It lists some of the best food to try, where to find them and at what price. Make sure to have a vivid taste bud to all types of food while you are in Vietnam.
This blog will guide you on what dishes to eat, especially the local food which you probably won’t be able to taste in a restaurant.
Tip: If you are a vegetarian, do not lose hope, Vietnam has all types of food to offer in the veg category. Will list down places where you can find veg food.
Weird Food To Try in Vietnam
Did you know you can try pigeons, frogs, crocodiles, and dogs in Vietnam? Yes, some of the weirdest food in the world can be found in this southeast Asian country. Pigeon is considered a delicacy, and is often cooked with rice or noodles. Another dish is deep-fried frog legs, which are said to taste like chicken. Another unusual dish is boiled crocodile meat, which some say tastes like pork.
Dog meat is a massive point of contention for travelers in Vietnam. It is common to find a market selling dog meat and restaurants serving them. It can be distressing, but the dog meat trade in Vietnam is legal.
If you are experimental with your taste buds you can try a sea snail called Oc. These slimy creatures are often boiled with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce and served with rice noodles or bread. They may not be the prettiest dish, but they’re definitely tasty!
If you are looking for meat from small street food vendors, make sure you mention the local dish name, as language barrier may make it difficult to communicate which meat you wish to eat. If in doubt, you can always look for vegetarian options.
Coffee
Coffee is also a big part of Vietnamese culture. Cafe culture in Vietnam is gaining a significant part of the country’s social life. You will find many local people sitting on small chairs outside the cafe enjoying their tea or coffee along with some pumpkin seeds. Every cafe you visit will have this authentic Vietnamese feel. It’ll be difficult for outsiders to understand how the local population can even drink coffee past 10 pm, but many of them do.
What makes Vietnamese coffee so special? Vietnamese coffee is made with robusta beans, which are known for their high caffeine content and strong flavor.
They’re roasted dark to create a deep, rich flavor that’s perfect for making espresso-style drinks. Coffee is brewed with a unique drip filter that uses condensed milk and sweetened with sugar, resulting in a thick, rich brew that’s unique to this part of the world.
The country is known for its unique coffee concoctions such as egg coffee and coconut coffee. Egg coffee (Cs Phe Trung) is made with Vietnamese Robusta beans, which are roasted and then ground into a fine powder. The coffee is brewed using an espresso machine. Then the eggs are whipped into a frothy mixture and added to the coffee, which gives it a rich, creamy texture. Coconut coffee is made with fresh coconut milk, sugar, and freshly brewed coffee. It has a sweet, nutty, and creamy flavor that is popular among tourists and locals alike.
Beer
Beer is a beloved beverage throughout the country, and there are many different types to choose from to try in Vietnam. These beers are made with local ingredients and have a distinctive flavor that sets them apart from other beers around the world.
Bia Hanoi proves to be by far the most preferred Vietnamese pale beer, featuring its light body and crisp taste and a low 3% alcohol content, which makes for a refreshing, attractive experience that is very popular with Hanoi residents. You will find this beer cheaper than the water we buy at marts.
Ho Chi Minh’s classic rice beer called 333 is also a popular option among tourists and locals, and it is found to be the most popular in South Vietnam. Another known beer is exported to Vietnam from Singapore and earns its popularity partially through its cheap price making Tiger Beer one of the most affordable international beers you can buy in Vietnam.
Vegetarian Food
Vegetarians and Vegans in Vietnam have had to adapt their food habits to fit in with the country’s predominantly meat-based cuisine that is popular in Vietnam. For vegetarians, this can be a bit difficult, as many traditional dishes are made with meat or fish. However, the country has many restaurants, which serve a variety of vegetarian dishes.
Some of the most popular vegetarian foods to try in Vietnam are pho chay (a noodle soup), bun rieu chay (a rice vermicelli soup with tomato sauce and fried tofu), and goi cuon chay (spring rolls filled with vegetables). There are also various Western-style vegetarian restaurants in the larger cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh where you can find veg options.
Try it: Bún Riêu Cua Thanh Hồng, 42 Hòa Mã, Ngô Thì Nhậm, Hai Bà Trưng, Hanoi
The best way to try veg food is to explore and search before going to any places. I was accompanied by a friend who preferred veg food, and the initial first few days were a struggle, but later once we got used to it, we made sure to do our research and pin down locations on our map for veg meals.
Mini Marts
In Vietnam, mini-marts are everywhere and they are open 24 hours a day. They sell a variety of food items as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The prices are very reasonable, and the quality of the food is quite decent.
Some of my favorite items to purchase from Vietnamese mini-marts include sandwiches, rolls, meal boxes, fresh fruit smoothies, and coffee. The sandwiches are delicious and affordable. They have a wide range of dessert options, you will find many buns, cakes bao and more. Circle K, Family Mart, and B’s mart are some of the famous mini-marts in Vietnam.
If you’re looking for some good food at a great price, you should definitely check out the mini-marts in Vietnam!
Must try dishes in Vietnam
Street food is a big part of Vietnamese culture, and there are endless options when it comes to choosing something to eat.
Rice noodle soup (Phở)
One of the most popular foods to try in Vietnam is rice noodle soup or pho. The broth is usually flavored with spices like star anise, cloves, and cinnamon, and the noodles are served with bean sprouts, basil leaves, lime wedges, and chilies. There are variations on pho depending on the region of Vietnam you're in, but it's always a comforting and satisfying meal.
Vietnamese sandwich (Bánh mì)
The most famous Vietnamese street food to try in Vietnam is the Banh mi sandwich. It is made with meat, pate, vegetables, and mayonnaise in a baguette (french bread). The ingredients are usually quite fresh and the sandwich can be quite tasty. You can opt for any meat you like be it chicken, pork, beef or even egg.
Rice paper salad (Banh Trang Tron)
Rice paper salad (Banh trang tron) is made with shredded vegetables, rice noodles, and shrimp or pork. The salad is served with a sweet and sour dressing made with fish sauce, sugar, lime juice, and chili peppers.
Hoi An Noodles (Cao Lau)
This noodle dish is made with pork, shrimp, and rice noodles, and is served with a special sauce made with pork skin, herbs, and peanuts. The reason that you can only find the special noodle in Hoi An is as it's hand-made from water from an ancient well, the Ba Le Well, and combined with special ash native to Hoi An. This secret has been handed down only to a few families in the region! Try it: Thanh Cao Lau, 24 Thai Phien St, Hoi An
Spring Rolls (Goi cuon / Cha gio)
Goi Cuon is a dish that is a popular food to try in Vietnam. The ingredients for this dish include shrimp, pork, and rice vermicelli. The shrimp and pork are marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and pepper. The rice paper is then wrapped around the shrimp and pork mixture. This dish is often served with a dipping sauce that consists of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili pepper. Try it: Quan An Ngon, 18 Phan Boi Chau, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Vietnamese Pizza (Banh Trang Nuong)
Banh Trang Nuong is a type of Vietnamese pizza, made from a thin rice paper wrap which is then filled with various toppings and rolled up. The most popular filling is grilled pork, but you can also find Banh Trang Nuong with shrimp, squid, BBQ beef, or chicken. It's great street food to try when traveling in Vietnam.
Spicy green papaya salad (Goi Kho Bo)
Vietnam has no shortage of delicious street food from which one of the popular foods to try in Vietnam is Spicy green papaya salad (Goi kho bo). The dish is made with shredded green papaya, Vietnamese coriander, mint leaves, shrimp, pork cracklings, and fish sauce. The salad is served with a spicy dressing made with bird’s eye chili peppers.
Vermicelli with Fried Tofu (Bun dau mam tom)
Vermicelli with Fried Tofu (Bun dau mam tom) is one of the most popular street foods in Vietnam. The dish is made up of vermicelli noodles, fried tofu, and a delicious sauce made from fish sauce, shrimp paste, and sugar. The dish is flavorful and satisfying, and it's a great way to try some of the country's most iconic flavors.
Chicken Rice (Cơm Gà)
Chicken and rice is a foolproof combination. Shredded tender chicken mixed with fish sauce with turmeric rice using fresh ingredients from the countryside. Pickled shallots, radish and herbs are served on the side. You will find this dish more popular in Hoi An, as it is called Hoi An chicken rice topped with coriander and mint to balance the taste. Try it: Com Ga Hien, 539 Hai Ba Trung St, Hoi An
Noodle Dish (Mi Quang)
One of Vietnam's most popular foods to try in Vietnam is Mi Quang, a noodle dish made with rice noodles, pork, shrimp, and herbs. The dish is served with a broth made from chicken or pork bones and typically topped with peanuts, bean sprouts, and lime wedges. Mi Quang can be found throughout the country but is considered a specialty of the central region. Try it: Quan Mi Quang Ba Mua, 95 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Chinh Gian, Thanh Khe, Da Nang
Beef Stew (Bo Kho)
Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, and nowhere is this more evident than in the country's signature food to try in Vietnam, Bo Kho. This dish is a beef stew that typically includes carrots, onions, and spices. This hearty and filling meal can be enjoyed with rice or bread, and a side of vegetables.
Grilled Pork Noodles (Bun Cha)
Bun Cha is a dish of grilled pork and noodles. Bun Cha was originally created by Hanoians as street food, but it has become popular throughout the country. The pork is usually marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and pepper before being grilled. It is then served with a plate of rice vermicelli noodles and herbs such as Vietnamese mint, Thai basil, and cilantro. Try it: Bun Cha Huong Lien (also known as Bun Cha Obama), 24 Le Van Huu, Phan Dinh Ho, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
Noodle Dish (Bun Mam)
Bun Mam is a noodle soup dish that is typically made with shrimp, pork, and crab. It is served with a variety of herbs and vegetables, including mint, cilantro, bean sprouts, and cucumbers. The broth is slightly spicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for authentic food to try in Vietnam, Bun Mam is definitely worth a taste!
Grilled Chicken (Ga Nuong Sa)
Ga Nuong Sa is a type of grilled chicken coated with lemongrass. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and lemongrass before being barbecued. The end result is a juicy, slightly sweet, and sour chicken that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Grilled beef and other meats are also popular variations.
Rice dish (Com Tam)
Com Tam, or broken rice, is a dish made of rice that has been broken into small pieces. This popular food to try in Vietnam can be found at most restaurants in the country. Com Tam is usually served with grilled pork, shrimp, or chicken, as well as a variety of vegetables. The dish can also be topped with fish sauce, soy sauce, or chili sauce to add flavor. Try it: A family-operated stall on 260 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Dessert in Vietnam
Vietnamese sweet dessert (Che)
One of the most unique and tasty street foods to try in Vietnam is Che, a sweet dessert that is a mix of different flavors and textures and can be found all over the country. The most popular type of Che is made with pandan leaves, which give it a refreshing flavor and a green color. Other variations include coconut milk, durian, jackfruit, and black sesame. There are many delicious street foods to try in Vietnam, but one of the most unique and tasty is Che. You’re sure to enjoy this sweet and unique Vietnamese treat.
Bo Bia Ngot
This spectacular dessert is made of thin rice rolls filled with a layer of nougat, coconut shreds and sesame seeds. Each bite of this dessert is a delite. You can easily find this among bicycle vendors which would cost you around 15-20 Rs.
Try it at: Thanh Niên street, West Lake, Hà Nội
Banh Chuoi Chien
Another known street dessert is fried banana fritters with a crispy exterior and soft gooey interior, these fritters can be found in alleyways and for around 15-20 Rs. a piece.
Try it at: Public Market in Hội An
Che Bap
It is a kind of a pudding with a mix of corn, coconut cream and tapioca pearls. It is a creamy and nourishing dessert eaten during winter months. Be sure to try in Hoi An where it’s made with fresh, locally grown corn.
Try it at: Quán Ăn Bến Tre, Xuyên Trung, Cẩm Nam, Hội An
Che Suong Sa Hat Luu
This is an Indian version of Falooda, I mean somewhat similar. It is served in a tall glass with vibrant colors so it’s also called rainbow dessert. You can choose your own toppings from kidney beans, jellies, mung beans and more. Further it is topped with ice and coconut cream.
Try it at: Nhà Hàng Ngon, 26 Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
Banh Da Ke
Another Local delicacy, these sesame-encrusted rice crackers with mung bean, millet paste and sugar sprinkles are a treat to your mouth. You will find many bicycle vendors selling them on curb sides for 15-20 Rs.
Try it in: Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Famous Places to Try
Banh Mi Phuong
Banh mi Phuong is a popular spot for banh mi or Vietnamese sandwiches. The restaurant is known for its traditional banh mi with pate, ham, and vegetables. However, the restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as spring rolls and pho. Banh mi Phuong is a great place to enjoy a quick meal or snack while in Hoi An. Address: 2B Phan Chu Trinh, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Pho Le
Pho Le is one of the most popular places to eat in Ho Chi Minh City. The restaurant is known for its traditional Vietnamese dishes such as pho, banh mi, and spring rolls. Pho Le also offers a variety of seafood dishes such as shrimp fried rice and squid ink noodles. The restaurant also has a wide selection of beverages including beer, wine, and traditional Vietnamese coffee. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is perfect for families or groups. Also try it at: Pho in Hanoi: Pho Thin, 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi Pho in Ho Chi Minh City: Pho Minh, 63/6 Pasteur St. District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Giang Cafe
One of the most famous places to eat is Giang Cafe in Hanoi. Giang Cafe is a well-known spot for locals and visitors thanks to its delicious egg coffee. The pitcher's original egg coffee recipe is similar to its historic form. The main ingredients are Vietnamese coffee powder, chicken egg yolk, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and cheese. This cafe is known for its delicious food and excellent service. It's the perfect place to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Address: 39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Hanoi Train Track Cafe
The famous train street in Hanoi, located in the old quarter, is the most known and dangerous street in the city. If you are in Hanoi make sure to add this in your to do list. It is the most exciting place to visit and explore the train street in style. The cafe offers you the best view with chilled beer and amazing food while you wait for the train to pass by. Address: 47 Train Street Le Duan, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam
Beard Papa’s
Try the best quality Japanese ice cream cakes with different flavors, like chocolate, matcha, vanilla, or mix of all. Beard Papa's #Miniset is perfect if you like the feeling of sipping each one instead of dipping in the cool, soft ice cream. There are up to 5 small cakes in 1 set and the amount of cream in each cake is still as fully inflated as possible in any cake size. Branches: https://www.facebook.com/beardpapa.vn/?ref=page_internal
Xofa Cafe
Xofa Café is a small coffee shop in a cozy corner of the old quarters in Hanoi. A place has completely different vibes with amazing interiors, they have both indoor and outdoor sitting areas. A 24 hours cafe, with a quaint place of mood, habit and memory. They have some amazing food menus. We tried their pasta and English breakfast palate. Address: 14 Tong Duy Tan Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 100000 Vietnam
4 P’s Pizza
The most amazing pizzas you will find here make sure to book your reservation or you can try your luck like us. https://booking.pizza4ps.com/ Located is almost major parts of the vietnam Hồ Chí Minh, Hà Nội, Nha Trang, Đà Nẵng, and Hải Phòng this place has a completely different vibes. You will find it to be the most sophisticated place but the price for the menu is budget friendly. You will even find the best beer brew. Pizza 4P's is honored to be voted by International Magazine – Travel + Leisure Asia – for the two categories “Best Pizza in Vietnam & Cambodia”, part of the Asia's Best awards Awards 2022.
Namaste India, Ho Chi Minh
To all the vegetarians or homesick travelers will find this Indian restaurant to be a blessing. Saigon has many Indian restaurants, one of them is Namaste India in Bui Vien area– one of the most popular commercial areas in District 1. Address: 189 Bui Vien Street Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 70000 Vietnam
Air Saigon, HCMC
Air Saigon, formerly known as Air 360 Sky Lounge, is unquestionably one of the best dining spots in HCM city. It is a combination of top-notchers, from vigorous music, cooling atmosphere, fancy designs to the cutting-edge service lie in every corner promises will redefine your concept of a party. If you are traveling on a budget like me, make sure to visit this place in happy hours, they have special price offers on some of their limited cocktails. Check out their facebook check for recent offers and updates. Address: Rooftop 22nd Floor, Ben Thanh Tower, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 700000
Terraco Sky Bar, Hanoi
Terraço Sky Bar, located in the heart of Hanoi Capital on the 8th floor of La Sinfonía del Rey Hotel, overlooking the city’s most popular landscapes is one of the most iconic rooftop bars in Hanoi. Boasting stunning panoramic views of the urban skyline, it is an ideal destination to soak up Hanoi’s vibrant yet picturesque atmosphere. Make sure to visit during sundowner, they have amazing one on one cocktail offers during the weekend. Address: Rooftop Floor, 33-35 Hang Dau St., Hoan Kiem Dist., Hanoi - Vietnam
Esco Beach, Da Nang
Esco Beach is a perfect mix of great music, delicious food and divine drinks against the stunning backdrop of My Khe Beach! Everything is better at the beach. Check out the Esco Beach and try their signature cocktails, mind blowing view, and amazing DJ Nights. The best part about this place is the small pool overlooking the beach, you can dip in along with your cocktail and enjoy the summer by chilling in the pool. They have happy hours, but with a specific menu. You can try out their food too, they have some tasty food in their menu. Address: Lô 12 Võ Nguyên Giáp, Mân Thái, Sơn Trà Da Nang, Vietnam 550000
There are many delicious and unique foods to try in Vietnam. Whether you are looking for something sweet, savory, or spicy, there is sure to be a dish that satisfies your palate. If you are adventurous, be sure to taste some of the dishes mentioned in this blog. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for their recommendations. Have fun trying all the different flavors of Vietnam!
FAQs
What is Vietnam's most popular food?
The most popular dish is Pho, a noodle soup that is often served with beef or chicken. Other popular dishes include Banh Mi, a sandwich made with French bread and filled with pork, pate, pickled vegetables, and mayonnaise; and Bun Cha, which is made with vermicelli noodles and grilled meat.
What kind of food do they eat in Vietnam?
Rice is the principal food in many meals; it may be steamed, boiled, or fried. Many meals in Vietnam consist of rice served with vegetable or meat side dishes.
What is a popular Vietnamese dish?
- The most popular foods are pho, bun cha and banh mi.
Why is Vietnamese food the best?
The fresh herbs and spices used in Vietnamese cuisine give each dish a unique flavor.
Is Viet food spicy?
There are definitely some dishes that are quite spicy, but others are not so much. In general, Vietnamese food tends to be light and healthy.
Why is Vietnamese food the best?
One reason is the use of fresh herbs and spices. Another factor is the use of traditional cooking methods.
What is a unique food in Vietnam?
Some of the unique food items in Vietnam include frog legs, fertilized duck egg, crocodile meat, snails.
What is the best Vietnamese food?
Some of the best dishes in Vietnam include pho (a beef or chicken noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches), and spring rolls.
