1. Phở – Vietnam’s National Dish 🇻🇳
The soul of Vietnamese cuisine. A comforting bowl of rice noodles in fragrant broth, topped with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and lime.
👉 Best in: Hanoi
2. Bánh Mì – The Vietnamese Sandwich 🥖
A crispy French baguette stuffed with pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and herbs. Every region has its own style.
👉 Best in: Hoi An, Saigon
3. Bún Chả – Grilled Pork with Noodles 🍖
Charcoal-grilled pork patties and slices served in dipping sauce with noodles and herbs. Anthony Bourdain loved this dish in Hanoi.
👉 Best in: Hanoi
4. Cao Lầu – Hoi An’s Signature Noodles 🍜
Thick noodles with pork, herbs, and crispy croutons, found only in Hoi An thanks to its unique well water.
👉 Best in: Hoi An
5. Mì Quảng – Central Vietnam’s Golden Noodles 🌼
Turmeric noodles topped with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, and peanuts, enjoyed with just a little broth.
👉 Best in: Da Nang, Quang Nam
6. Cơm Tấm – “Broken Rice” Dish 🍚
A hearty plate of broken rice with grilled pork chop, fried egg, pickles, and sweet fish sauce. Perfect for breakfast or lunch.
👉 Best in: Ho Chi Minh City
7. Hủ Tiếu – Southern Noodle Soup 🍲
Light yet flavorful noodle soup with pork, seafood, or beef. Every vendor adds their own twist.
👉 Best in: Mekong Delta, Saigon
8. Gỏi Cuốn – Fresh Spring Rolls 🌱
Healthy rice paper rolls filled with shrimp, pork, noodles, and herbs, dipped in peanut sauce.
👉 Found everywhere in Vietnam.
9. Bánh Xèo – Crispy Vietnamese Pancake 🥞
A sizzling turmeric crepe stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Wrap it in lettuce and dip in fish sauce.
👉 Best in: Central & Southern Vietnam
10. Chè – Sweet Desserts 🍹
Colorful sweet soups and puddings made with beans, fruits, jelly, and coconut milk. Refreshing on hot days!
👉 Best in: Saigon street stalls
🐸 For the Adventurous Foodies
If you’re ready to explore beyond the classics, try:
-
Hột vịt lộn (balut) – fertilized duck egg
-
Ốc (snails) – endless varieties in Saigon
-
Nhộng (silkworm pupae) – crunchy protein snack