Where to Eat the Best Vegetarian Vietnamese Food in Vietnam

Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, well known for its vibrant flavors, fresh herbs, and delicate balance of textures. While traditional dishes often feature meat or seafood, vegetarian Vietnamese food is just as rich and diverse—offering travelers an incredible culinary journey without compromising on taste. Whether you’re a committed vegetarian, a health-conscious foodie, or simply curious about plant-based cuisine, Vietnam is one of the best places to explore vegetarian dining.

In this guide, we’ll take you through the highlights of vegetarian Vietnamese food, where to find the best vegetarian Vietnamese restaurants, and why dishes like vegetarian pho have captured the hearts of travelers worldwide.

Why Vegetarian Vietnamese Food is Unique

Unlike in many cuisines where vegetarian options feel like afterthoughts, Vietnamese cooking naturally embraces vegetables, herbs, and tofu as central ingredients. This stems from Buddhist traditions, where vegetarianism is common, especially during certain lunar days.

Key characteristics of vegetarian Vietnamese food include:

1. Fresh herbs and greens: Mint, basil, coriander, and lettuce bring brightness to every bite.
2. Tofu and mock meats: Skillfully used to replicate traditional flavors.
3. Rich broths: Even without meat, vegetable-based broths are simmered with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and ginger to achieve depth.
4. Balance of flavors: Sweet, sour, salty, and umami remain at the heart of vegetarian dishes.

This means travelers won’t feel like they’re “missing out” on Vietnamese cuisine by going vegetarian—in fact, it may be the best way to experience the country’s focus on freshness and balance.

Must-Try Vegetarian Vietnamese Dishes

Before diving into where to eat, let’s highlight some of the incredible meat-free dishes you shouldn’t miss. These dishes showcase just how creative and satisfying vegetarian Vietnamese food can be:

1. Vegetarian Phở (Phở Chay): A delicious plant-based twist on Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup. It features rice noodles in a rich, flavorful mushroom or vegetable broth, often topped with fresh herbs, tofu, and sometimes mock meat.
2. Bánh Mì Chay: The vegetarian version of Vietnam’s iconic sandwich. It’s filled with crispy tofu, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber, cilantro, and sometimes a soy-based pâté or sauce.
3. Gỏi Cuốn Chay (Vegetarian Fresh Spring Rolls): Light, translucent rice paper rolls packed with fresh herbs, lettuce, vermicelli noodles, and crispy tofu or shredded vegetables. They are usually served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce.
4. Bún Riêu Chay: A vibrant vegetarian noodle soup featuring a fragrant, tangy tomato-based broth. It’s typically loaded with tofu, mushrooms, and occasionally vegetarian crab paste.
5. Cơm Chay (Vegetarian Rice Plate): A staple found at dedicated vegetarian restaurants. This dish consists of steamed rice served with a variety of daily changing sides, such as braised tofu, stir-fried vegetables, and inventive mock-meat dishes.
6. Lẩu Chay (Vegetarian Hotpot): A perfect communal meal. You cook tofu, mushrooms, fresh greens, and various vegetables in a simmering vegetarian broth right at your table.
7. Bánh Xèo Chay (Vegetarian Sizzling Pancake): A large, savory crepe made from turmeric-infused rice flour, crispy on the edges, and filled with bean sprouts, mushrooms, and tofu. You tear off pieces and wrap them in lettuce leaves with herbs.

These dishes highlight just how creative and satisfying vegetarian Vietnamese food can be.

Best Cities in Vietnam for Vegetarian Food

1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City is a melting pot of cuisines and trends, making it one of the best places to explore vegetarian Vietnamese restaurants. District 1 and District 3 are packed with both casual eateries and high-end dining spots catering to vegetarians.

• Hum Vegetarian – Known for its elegant setting and beautifully plated vegetarian meals.
• The Organik House – Offers vegan-friendly dishes with a modern touch.
• Bong Sung Vegetarian Restaurant – A local favorite for affordable and authentic vegetarian fare.

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and want to taste the best vegetarian pho, let Sun Getaways Travel arrange a local food tour that combines sightseeing with unforgettable meals.

2. Hanoi

The capital of Vietnam offers a mix of traditional and modern vegetarian spots. Street food vendors are increasingly offering plant-based options, while upscale restaurants serve inventive vegetarian takes on classic dishes.

• Nang Tam Vegetarian – Established since the 1990s, it’s one of Hanoi’s most famous vegetarian restaurants.
• Uu Dam Chay – A chic, temple-inspired space offering high-quality vegetarian cuisine.
• Veggie Castle – A buffet-style restaurant popular with young locals and travelers alike.

Hanoi is also one of the best places to enjoy vegetarian pho, with rich mushroom broths that rival their meat-based counterparts.

3. Hoi An

Hoi An is not only famous for its lantern-lit streets and historic charm but also its incredible food culture. The town has a reputation for accommodating vegetarians and vegans, making it a must-visit destination for plant-based travelers.

• Minh Hien Vegetarian Restaurant – Beloved by locals and tourists, serving traditional Vietnamese dishes in vegetarian form.
• Annen Vegetarian & Yoga – A cozy spot combining food and wellness.
• Banh Mi Phuong – Offers a delicious vegetarian banh mi alongside its world-famous sandwiches.

Hoi An’s cooking classes also often include vegetarian options—perfect for travelers wanting to learn how to prepare dishes like vegetarian pho or fresh spring rolls.

4. Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital, has deep Buddhist roots, making vegetarian cuisine an integral part of its food scene.

• Lien Hoa Vegetarian Restaurant – Affordable and authentic, serving a wide range of vegetarian dishes.
• San May – Offers a mix of Hue specialties in vegetarian versions.

Hue’s imperial-style vegetarian banquets are a unique experience, where travelers can enjoy royal-inspired dishes, all made plant-based.

5. Da Nang

As a coastal city, Da Nang offers a blend of fresh ingredients and modern dining culture. Many travelers stop here on their way between Hoi An and Hue, making it a convenient place to enjoy vegetarian food.

• Ngoc Chi Vegetarian – A popular spot serving flavorful local dishes.
• Roots Plant-Based Cafe – Known for its smoothies, bowls, and vegan-friendly meals.

Vegetarian Street Food in Vietnam

The beauty of Vietnamese cuisine lies in its accessibility, and vegetarian dining is no exception. Beyond dedicated Cơm Chay restaurants, the nation’s incredibly vibrant street food culture also offers a wealth of delicious, plant-based options.

Street stalls are where the freshest ingredients and quick cooking techniques shine, often resulting in accidentally vegetarian or easily customizable dishes. For the adventurous eater, the sidewalk stalls provide a direct, authentic experience.

Look out for these essential vegetarian street food items and stalls:

1. Xoi Chay (Sticky Rice with Toppings) – Savory sticky rice topped with fried shallots and mung beans.
2. Banh Xeo Chay (Vegetarian Pancake) – A crispy rice flour pancake stuffed with bean sprouts and mushrooms.
3. Sweet Soups (Che Chay) – Traditional desserts made with beans, coconut milk, and fruits, all vegetarian-friendly.

Exploring vegetarian street food is a fantastic way to connect with locals and experience authentic flavors.

Tips for Finding Vegetarian Food in Vietnam

Mastering a few simple phrases and knowing where to look will unlock a wealth of meat-free culinary options during your travels:

1. Learn Simple Phrases: Communication is key. Use these phrases when ordering:
   • “Tôi ăn chay” (Tōi ăn chay): “I am vegetarian/vegan.” (This phrase covers both, as Vietnamese cuisine often uses dairy-free ingredients.)
   • “Không thịt, không cá, không nước mắm” (Khôg thịt, khôg cá, khôg nước mắm): “No meat, no fish, no fish sauce.” (Crucial for ensuring true vegetarian/vegan preparation.)
   • “Không trứng” (Khôg trứg): “No eggs.” (Use this if you are strictly vegan.)
2. Look for “Cơm Chay” Signs: This is your primary indicator. “Cơm Chay” directly translates to “Vegetarian Rice” and signifies dedicated vegetarian eateries, often serving rice with a huge variety of mock meats, tofu, and vegetable sides.
3. Check Near Pagodas and Temples: Buddhist culture promotes vegetarianism on certain days of the lunar calendar. Areas near large temples or pagodas usually have reliable, dedicated vegetarian restaurants.
4. Utilize Local Food Tours: Consider joining specialized food tours tailored to vegetarian or vegan diets. Guides can easily navigate language barriers, help you discover hidden local spots, and ensure authentic, safe ordering.
5. The Power of Tofu: Look for dishes featuring tofu (đậu hũ). Tofu is a staple protein and is served fried, fermented, or braised across many regional dishes.
6. Be Mindful of Broth: When ordering soups (Phở, Bún), always confirm the broth is vegetarian (“nước lèo chay”) as traditional broths are heavily meat-based.

Final Thoughts

Vietnam is a dream destination for food lovers, and vegetarians don’t need to miss out on its rich culinary culture. From vegetarian pho in Hanoi to inventive dishes in Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An’s cozy eateries, vegetarian Vietnamese food is as exciting and diverse as any meat-based cuisine.

Whether you’re exploring ancient towns, vibrant cities, or quiet coastal spots, you’ll always find delicious vegetarian options that celebrate Vietnam’s dedication to freshness and balance.

If you’re ready to taste the best vegetarian dishes Vietnam has to offer, let Sun Getaways Travel craft a personalized itinerary that blends sightseeing with unforgettable culinary adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Vegetarian Vietnamese Food

1. Is it easy to find vegetarian Vietnamese food in Vietnam?
Yes. Many restaurants and street vendors offer vegetarian options, especially near temples and in big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An.

2. What is vegetarian pho made of?
Vegetarian pho uses a vegetable or mushroom-based broth, rice noodles, and toppings like tofu, mushrooms, and fresh herbs.

3. Do Vietnamese restaurants have vegan options too?
Yes. Many vegetarian Vietnamese restaurants are also vegan-friendly, replacing fish sauce with soy sauce or mushroom sauce.

4. How do I say “vegetarian” in Vietnamese?
You can say “ăn chay” (ahn chai), which means vegetarian.

5. Where can I try the best vegetarian Vietnamese food?
Major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An have excellent vegetarian restaurants. For a guided experience, you can book a food tour with Sun Getaways Travel.