Guides & Tips

Vietnamese Foods to Try – A Guide for Food Lovers

PhamDuong

3 min. to read

Vietnamese cuisine is a vibrant reflection of the country’s rich culture, history, and traditions. It is known for its balance of flavors such as sweet, sour, salty, and bitter, so Vietnamese food is not only delicious but also deeply connected to the daily life of its people. From humble street vendors serving iconic bowls of Pho and shrimp cake (Banh Tom) to fine dining restaurants, Vietnam offers an unforgettable culinary journey for every type of traveler and food lover.

In this article, we’ll explore Vietnamese Foods to try while highlighting the most popular dishes, cultural influences, and tips for finding authentic flavors.

Table of Contents

1. Popular Vietnamese Foods for first-time visitors

Here are some must-try dishes that give you a true taste of Vietnam’s culinary culture.

1.1. Pho

Pho is the national dish of Vietnam and a must-try for any first-time visitor. This comforting noodle soup is typically made with beef or chicken, slow-cooked broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. Vietnamese people usually enjoy pho for breakfast; however, you can also find it in many restaurants that serve it all day.

1.2. Banh Mi

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese baguette sandwich influenced by French colonial cuisine. Filled with grilled meats (pork, chicken), pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili. This street food is both affordable and delicious. Each region of Vietnam offers a slightly different version, making it fun to try multiple variations. Therefore, for less than $2, you can enjoy a hearty meal on the go.

1.3. Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)

Goi Cuon, also known as fresh spring rolls, are a light and healthy option perfect for hot weather. Made with rice paper, shrimp or pork, noodles, and herbs, they are usually served with a rich peanut dipping sauce. These rolls are a popular appetizer that showcase the freshness of Vietnamese ingredients.

1.4. Bun cha

Bun Cha is a Hanoi specialty that became internationally famous after President Obama tried it during his Vietnam visit. It features grilled pork patties served with noodles, herbs, and a sweet-savory dipping sauce. The smoky flavor of the meat combined with fresh vegetables creates a unique harmony.

Check out the full guide to Vietnamese street food and explore 9 must-try delicacies here.

2. Best regional Vietnamese Foods to try

Each region in Vietnam has its own iconic dishes, let’s explore the must-try foods by city.

2.1. Popular Vietnamese Foods in Ha Noi

Hanoi is the heart of Vietnamese cuisine, offering dishes that blend tradition and flavor. From Pho to Bun Cha, each bite reflects the city’s rich culture. Street food in Hanoi also captures the daily rhythm of local life, making it a must-try for every traveler.

Cha Ca La Vong La Vong Grilled Fish

This iconic Hanoi dish consists of grilled fish seasoned with turmeric and dill, cooked right at your table. It’s usually enjoyed with rice noodles, peanuts, and fresh herbs. The interactive dining style makes it both delicious and memorable for visitors.

Banh Com

Banh Com is a traditional green rice cake often given as a gift during weddings and festivals. It is made from young sticky rice flavored with pandan and filled with sweet mung bean paste. The cake represents Hanoi’s cultural heritage and is perfect for those who enjoy light, sweet snacks.

Bun Thang

Bun Thang is a delicate Hanoi noodle soup featuring shredded chicken, eggs, and mushrooms in a clear broth. Historically, this dish is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, when locals repurposed leftover ingredients from festive occasions and combined them into a light yet flavorful soup.

Banh Tom Ho Tay

Banh Tom Ho Tay, also known as West Lake Shrimp Cake, is a crispy street food favorite in Hanoi. Made with freshwater shrimp fried in a light batter, it’s crunchy, savory, and usually served rolled in rice paper with herbs or eaten directly with dipping sauce and pickled vegetables. If you take a tour around West Lake, it is not difficult to find it.

2.2. Must-try food in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for street food lovers, with bustling markets and roadside stalls offering a variety of traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes. Travelers can enjoy everything from hearty noodle soups to fresh spring rolls, experiencing the city’s vibrant flavors at every corner of food in Ho Chi Minh City.

Com Tam

Com Tam, or broken rice, is one of the most famous dishes in southern Vietnam. Served with grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, egg meatloaf, and pickles, it makes for a filling and flavorful meal. Moreover, this dish is widely available and very affordable in Ho Chi Minh City.

Hu Tieu Nam Vang

Hu Tieu Nam Vang, also known as Phnom Penh – style noodle soup, originates from Cambodia but was perfected in southern Vietnam. It usually includes pork, shrimp, quail eggs, and fresh herbs in a light yet savory broth. Both street vendors and restaurants serve it, making it easy to try at different price points.

Ca phe bet (Vietnamese street-side coffee)

Ca phe bet refers to Vietnam’s unique coffee culture, especially in Saigon where people enjoy coffee sitting on sidewalks or parks. Strong Vietnamese coffee served with condensed milk is the most popular version. Popular spots include Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Ben Thanh Market, and Duc Ba Church, where locals gather to relax and socialize.

2.3. Vietnamese foods to try in Danang

Quang Noodle

Quang Noodle is a noodle dish from central Vietnam known for its vibrant colors and bold flavors. It often includes shrimp, pork, chicken, and fresh herbs, served with a small amount of broth. Notably, the addition of rice crackers makes it extra crunchy and satisfying.

Che Sau Lien (Durian Sweet Soup)

This dessert is a local specialty featuring durian, jelly, coconut milk, and sweet beans. In fact, Che Sau Lien is especially famous in Da Nang, loved by both locals and visitors. Moreover, if you’re open to try durian, this sweet treat offers a creamy, aromatic experience that perfectly balances sweetness and the fruit’s distinctive pungency.

Da Nang Seafood

Da Nang is one of Vietnam’s top seafood destinations thanks to its long coastline. From grilled squid to steamed clams, the city offers incredibly fresh seafood at affordable prices. In particular, night markets and seaside restaurants are the best places to enjoy a seafood feast.

Banh xeo Da Nang

Banh Xeo is a crispy Vietnamese pancake that combines shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Moreover, in Da Nang, street stalls commonly serve it with fresh lettuce and dipping sauce, making it a must-try local dish. The combination of crunchy texture and savory filling makes it a favorite among locals and visitors. This dish is a must-try for anyone exploring central Vietnam.

3. Street Food to Fine Dining

From bustling markets to elegant restaurants, Vietnam offers dining experiences for every taste and budget

3.1. Street Food – What food are popular in Vietnam

Vietnamese street food isn’t just about full meals. It’s the quick, flavorful bites you find on every corner. Crispy fried spring rolls, grilled corn brushed with scallion oil, and Banh Trang Tron (mixed rice paper) are street-side favorites. In addition, you can also try Nem Chua Ran or a refreshing cup of sweet soup (Che), all of which reflect the fun, casual spirit of eating in Vietnam’s bustling streets. Ultimately, these snacks show how food brings people together in everyday life.

3.2. Fine Dining with Vietnamese Cuisine

For fine dining, restaurants like Nha Hang Ngon in Ho Chi Minh City or Home Hanoi Restaurant offer elevated versions of traditional dishes. In Da Nang, La Maison 1888, led by Michelin-starred chefs, presents Vietnamese flavors in a luxurious French setting.

Conclusion

If it’s your first time in Vietnam, don’t miss some of the best Vietnamese foods to try. Start with a steaming bowl of pho, enjoy a crispy banh mi filled with fresh herbs, and taste refreshing spring rolls. From Hanoi to Da Nang to Saigon, each region adds its own twist, making these dishes the perfect introduction to Vietnamese culture.

If you’re searching for authentic Vietnamese food to try, joining a guided culinary tour can enrich your experience. With Sun Getaway, you can embark on a 15-day Vietnam food tour that takes you from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, tasting local specialties and discovering the cultural stories behind each dish.

FAQs about Vietnamese food to try

Can vegetarians enjoy Vietnamese cuisine?

Yes! Many dishes such as vegetarian pho, fresh spring rolls, and tofu stir-fries are widely available. Buddhist influence in Vietnam has led to a variety of meat-free options. In major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, vegetarian restaurants such as Chay Garden and The Veg serve authentic Vietnamese flavors without meat.

How much does food cost in Vietnam?

Street food is usually $1–$2 per dish, making it easy to try many different flavors without spending much. Casual restaurants typically charge $5–$10 for a full meal with generous portions. Fine dining can cost more, but overall, Vietnam offers delicious food at very affordable prices for travelers.

Do locals or food tours give the best recommendations

Both options are valuable! Locals often know hidden gems and authentic eateries that tourists might miss, while food tours give you a well-organized chance to sample several dishes in a short time and learn their cultural background.

Any tips to try Popular Vietnamese Foods?

Don’t be afraid of street food stalls – some of the most delicious Vietnamese dishes are found at humble roadside spots.
Ask for the price before ordering – especially in tourist areas, to avoid being overcharged.
Use fish sauce properly – it’s usually for dipping or lightly drizzling, not pouring too much.
Be open to strong flavors – herbs, fermented shrimp paste (Mam Tom), and bold seasonings are essential parts of the Vietnamese food experience.