One of the best ways to experience a new country is through its food, and Vietnam is no exception. From steaming bowls of pho on the sidewalk to sizzling plates of seafood by the beach, Vietnamese cuisine is packed with flavor, balance, and freshness. Here are the top must-try dishes you shouldn’t miss during your trip to Vietnam.
1. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
- What it is: A savory noodle soup made with slow-cooked beef or chicken broth, flat rice noodles, and fresh herbs
- Why try it: It’s the most iconic Vietnamese dish, perfect for any time of day
- Pro tip: Try Pho Bo (beef pho) in Hanoi and Pho Ga (chicken pho) in the south for regional differences
2. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
- What it is: A crispy French baguette filled with meats (pork, chicken, pâté), pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili sauce
- Why try it: The ultimate fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors
- Pro tip: Look for street vendors—they often have the best banh mi
3. Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles)
- What it is: Grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce
- Why try it: A Hanoi specialty, famously eaten by President Obama on his Vietnam trip
- Pro tip: Mix everything together and dip into the sweet-savory fish sauce
4. Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)
- What it is: Rice paper rolls packed with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs, served with peanut or hoisin sauce
- Why try it: A light, refreshing snack perfect for hot days
- Pro tip: Don’t confuse it with the deep-fried cha gio, which is also delicious!
5. Com Tam (Broken Rice with Grilled Pork)
- What it is: “Broken” rice served with grilled pork chop, egg, pickled veggies, and fish sauce
- Why try it: A popular dish in southern Vietnam, especially Ho Chi Minh City
- Pro tip: Add a fried egg on top for extra richness
6. Cao Lau (Hoi An Specialty Noodles)
- What it is: Chewy noodles with slices of pork, crispy croutons, and greens
- Why try it: Found only in Hoi An, this dish uses water from ancient local wells
- Pro tip: Enjoy it in Hoi An’s Old Town for the authentic experience
7. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancake)
- What it is: A crispy rice flour pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts
- Why try it: A fun, hands-on dish—cut, wrap in lettuce, and dip!
- Pro tip: Use your hands and wrap it in herbs and rice paper for the full flavor
8. Che (Vietnamese Sweet Desserts)
- What it is: A variety of sweet soups or puddings with beans, fruit, jelly, or coconut milk
- Why try it: Endless combinations, often served over ice—perfect for dessert lovers
- Pro tip: Try che ba mau (three-color dessert) or che chuoi (banana with coconut)
— - Top Street Foods in Vietnam
- Vietnam Food Tour Packages
- Hanoi vs. Saigon: Food Edition
Vietnamese cuisine is all about balance—sweet, salty, sour, and umami. Whether you’re slurping noodles in a busy market or nibbling on spring rolls by the beach, each dish tells a story of history and local flavor. Taste everything you can, and don’t be afraid to try something new—you might just discover your favorite dish in Vietnam!
