Top 20 Must-Try Vietnamese foods for a Tasty Cuisine Experience

A Brief Overview of Vietnamese Food

Food is the heart of every culture, and in Vietnam, it’s no different. Traditional foods have been handed down through generations, keeping ancient flavors alive and well. Vietnamese food is celebrated for its perfect balance - protein, spices, herbs, vegetables, and fruits come together in harmony. And guess what? It’s also one of the healthiest cuisines in the world!

From chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Anthony Bourdain to food lovers everywhere, Vietnamese food is adored for its unique, unforgettable taste. These flavors have traveled the globe, but at the core of every meal is rice or rice flour - it’s the backbone of Vietnamese cuisine.

What sets Vietnamese food apart is how each region tells its own story through side dishes. In the North, Food are mild, light, and sometimes a little tangy. The Central region? Bold and vibrant, with spicy and salty flavors that pack a punch. This area combines royal recipes with street food, creating a mix of elegance and simplicity. Down south, it’s all about sweet and rich flavors, with sugar and coconut juice taking center stage.

Ready to dive in? Let’s explore the top 20 mouthwatering Vietnamese foods!

Vietnamese food is a vibrant cuisine, known for its fresh ingredients and rich, balanced flavors.

20 Must-Try Vietnamese foods and Where to Enjoy

From savory street food to elegant meals, these top 20 Vietnamese foods offer a taste of the rich and diverse flavors that define the country’s cuisine.

1. Phở - The Quintessential Vietnamese Noodle Soup

Phở is one of the most famous Vietnamese foods, known for its flat rice noodles and flavorful broth. The secret to great phở is the broth. It’s made with ingredients like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, giving it a sweet taste. You can find phở at almost every street corner in Vietnam. Surprisingly, many locals enjoy it for breakfast!

Phở is more than just tasty; it’s also nutritious. The broth, made from bones and herbs, is rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium, which are good for the body. Beef or chicken in phở is high in protein, helping muscles grow strong.

There’s a friendly debate among phở lovers about which version is better—northern or southern. Northern phở is clear and simple, often eaten with beef or chicken. Southern phở is sweeter and served with a variety of beef cuts. Both regions use different sauces, with the north preferring fish sauce and chili, while the south adds lime, hoisin sauce, and fresh chilies.

Price range: $1 - $5

Best places to enjoy Phở in Vietnam:

• Pho Thin, 13 Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
• Pho Hoa, 260C Pasteur Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
• Pho Hung, 243 Nguyen Trai, phuong Nguyen Cu Trinh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Pho Bat Dan, 49 Bat Dan, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Start your day with a bowl of phở, a must-try Vietnamese food that’s perfect for breakfast.

2. Bánh Mì - Vietnam's Famous Street Food Sandwich

Bánh mì is a Vietnamese street food that’s traveled the world, leaving a lasting impression wherever it goes. It might have started with the French baguette, but it’s fully Vietnamese at heart. The crispy crust gives way to a soft, chewy inside, and it’s filled with layers of flavor - pâté, margarine, pickled veggies, pork belly, cilantro, and cucumber. Each bite combines crunch, warmth, and a variety of textures, making it a truly satisfying experience.

Today, bánh mì is enjoyed all over Vietnam, with each region adding its own twist. In Hoi An, you’ll find creative fillings, while in Da Lat, the sandwich has a thicker shell with shumai. In the south, fresh veggies and different meats take center stage. No matter where you are in Vietnam, bánh mì offers an affordable and delicious bite of the country’s flavors!

Price range: $0.5 - $3

Best places to enjoy bánh mì in Vietnam:

• Banh My Ba Dan, 34 Lo Su, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi
• Banh mi Phuong, 2B Phan Chau Trinh, Hoi An City
• Banh mi Huynh Hoa, 26 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Bánh Mì, a popular Vietnamese food, is the perfect street food to grab on the go.

3. Chả Giò - Crispy Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls

Chả giò is a crispy Vietnamese spring roll made with rice paper and stuffed with pork, shrimp, and fresh vegetables. In Vietnam, this popular dish goes by different names: chả giò in the south, nem rán in the north, and ram in the central region. A crunchy exterior with a flavorful, juicy center that keeps people coming back for more.

In Hanoi, nem rán is often enjoyed with bún chả, while in the south, it pairs perfectly with bún thịt nướng. Chả giò is best enjoyed with fresh herbs and dipped in a tangy chili fish sauce. For plant-based eaters, vegetarian versions with taro, jicama, and carrots offer a delicious alternative. This dish has gained international recognition, earning a spot in CNN’s Top 50 World’s Best Foods and being celebrated on TasteAtlas. A true Vietnamese classic, chả giò is a must-try for any foodie.

Price range: $0.2 - $0.5

Best places to enjoy chả giò in Vietnam:

• Bun thit nuong Hoang Van, 137 Chan Hung, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
• Bun cha Tuyet 34, 34 Hang Than, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi

Chả giò, Vietnam’s crispy fried spring rolls, offer a delightful crunch with every bite.

4. Bún Chả - Hanoi's Signature Grilled Pork Noodles

Bún chả is a must-try food in Hanoi, famous for its tasty grilled pork and fresh ingredients. It became internationally known after President Obama and Anthony Bourdain shared a meal, but locals have loved it for years. This dish combines rice noodles, grilled pork patties, slices of pork belly, and fresh herbs, all served with a flavorful fish sauce broth.

Around noon, the streets of Hanoi fill with the smoky scent of pork grilling over charcoal, tempting everyone to stop by their favorite vendor. Follow the smoky clouds after 11 a.m., and you'll find yourself a tasty meal. To enjoy bún chả like a local, dip the noodles, veggies, and herbs into the dipping sauce, mix them up, and take a bite. It’s a bit tricky with the slippery noodles, but that's part of the fun, especially if you're new to chopsticks. This is how Hanoians enjoy their bún chả!

Price range: $1 - $5

Best places to enjoy bún chả in Vietnam:

• Bun cha Tuyet 34, 34 Hang Than, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi
• Bun cha Huong Lien, 24 Le Van Huu, Hai Ba Trung District, Ha Noi
• Bun cha 41, 41 Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi
• Bun cha ngo 74, Ngo 74 Hang Quat, Hoan Kiem District, Ha Noi

For an authentic Hanoian lunch, savor the smoky flavors of bún chả, a classic Vietnamese cuisine favorite.

5. Gỏi Cuốn - Refreshing Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls

Gỏi cuốn, also called summer rolls, is a must-try among the best Vietnamese food in Saigon. These fresh rolls are a light yet satisfying snack or appetizer. Wrapped in soft rice paper, they’re filled with crisp veggies, shrimp, pork, Thai basil, Chinese chives, rice noodles, and lettuce.

The dipping sauce varies by region. In Saigon, people often enjoy a sweet fermented soybean sauce, which fits the local taste. In the Mekong Delta, they add coconut milk for a creamy, fragrant twist. Meanwhile, in central Vietnam, gỏi cuốn is sometimes dipped in fermented fish paste, adding a rich, salty flavor. To enjoy it fully, dip your roll in the sauce.

You can find gỏi cuốn everywhere in Vietnam - restaurants, street food stalls, or markets. The classic version features shrimp and pork, but you can easily find vegetarian options too, made with tofu and vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

Price range: $0.5

Best places to enjoy gỏi cuốn in Vietnam:

• Cho Ba Chieu, 56 Bui Huu Nghia, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District, HCMC
• Cho Ben Thanh, 6 Le Loi, Ben Thanh, District 1, HCMC
• Cho Ho Thi Ky, 269 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10, HCMC

Gỏi cuốn from Saigon brings a refreshing and healthy twist to your meal with its fresh ingredients.

6. Cao Lầu - Hoi An's Unique Noodle Specialty

Cao lầu is a delicious Vietnamese noodle food that originated in Hoi An, a town rich in history. It blends Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences, reflecting the diverse cultures that passed through the ancient trading port. This dish is topped with slices of char siu, or Chinese-style roasted pork, and crispy wonton crackers. The pork is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices, giving it a smoky and savory taste. Fresh herbs, like basil and mint, add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Cao lầu, meaning "high floor," was likely served in upstairs restaurants where diners could watch the streets below. As Hoi An grew, two-story buildings became more common, offering a dining experience for wealthier merchants. The broth is a key part of cao lầu, infused with spices and a hint of sweetness, showcasing the rich diversity of Vietnam food.

Price range: $0.5 - $3

Best places to enjoy cao lầu in Vietnam:

• Cao lau Ba Be, 19 Tran Phu, inside the Hoi An Market
• Quan Cao lau Lien, 21B Thai Phien, Hoi An
• Quan Cao lau Ba Le, 49/3 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An

Cao lầu takes you back to Hoi An’s golden trade days with its unique, flavorful noodles.

7. Bún Bò Huế - Spicy Hue-Style Beef Noodle Soup

Bún bò Huế is one of the popular Vietnamese foods with thick rice noodles, tender beef, and a spicy, fragrant broth. Known for its royal culinary history, Hue has given birth to this flavorful beef noodle soup that packs a punch with bold, spicy flavors.

The secret to its deliciousness is the broth. Simmered for hours with beef bones, lemongrass, and shrimp paste, it delivers a rich, citrusy kick that’s perfectly balanced with chili oil and sugar. Topped with tender beef, pork, and often chả lụa sausage, each bite is a burst of savory goodness.

The thick, chewy rice noodles set bún bò Huế apart from other Vietnamese noodle soups. Paired with fresh herbs like Thai basil, mint, and a squeeze of lime, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and refreshing. No wonder Anthony Bourdain called it the "best soup in the world"!

Price range: $0.5 - $3

Best places to enjoy bún bà in Vietnam:

• Bun bo My Tam, 5 Tran Cao Van, Vinh Ninh, Hue City
• Quan bun bo Me Keo, 20 Bach Dang, Phu Cat, Hue City
• Bun bo Ba Tuyet, 47 Nguyen Cong Tru, Phu Hoi, Hue City

For a spicy kick, bún bò Huế, the royal beef noodle soup, is a food full of rich flavors and history.

8. Cơm Tấm - Saigon's Iconic Broken Rice Platter

Cơm tấm sườn nướng ốp la is a delightful food from Southern Vietnam, perfect for breakfast. It features broken rice topped with a tender grilled pork chop and a fried egg. The pork is marinated with flavorful spices and grilled over hot coals, giving it a smoky taste that pairs wonderfully with rice.

Originally, Vietnamese farmers consumed the broken rice grains they couldn’t sell. Today, this “broken” rice is a staple for many working-class citizens. The dish is often served with nước chấm, a mix of chili, fish sauce, and sugar. Fresh vegetables like cucumbers and tomatoes add a refreshing crunch. A sprinkle of crispy fried pork rinds and shallots on top adds extra texture and flavor.

As you walk through the lively streets of Saigon, the delicious smell of grilled meat fills the air. The sound of sizzling pork draws you in, making your mouth water. Enjoying a plate of cơm tấm with a cold glass of trà đá while sitting on the sidewalk is one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.

Price range: $1.5 - $3

Best places to enjoy cơm tấm in Vietnam:

• Com tam Ba Ghien, 84 Dang Van Ngu, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District
• Com tam Bai Rac, 77 Le Van Linh, District 4
• Quan Com Tam Hong Calmette, 134 Hoang Dieu, Ward 9, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

Cơm tấm, a beloved Saigon street food, is packed with deliciousness in every bite.

9. Savor mì Quảng, a Central Vietnamese food classic

Mì Quảng, a standout dish from Central Vietnam, has turmeric-infused noodles that glow golden, served with minimal broth and protein options like chicken, shrimp, or pork. Toppings elevate the dish: fresh herbs, banana flowers, sesame rice crackers, roasted peanuts, and a hint of sliced green chili for spice. A squeeze of lime ties it all together, creating a refreshing and balanced bite.

Part soup, part salad, Mì Quảng offers a unique dining experience that’s as much about its bold presentation as its flavor. Locals often enhance it with chili, adding subtle heat to the rich, mildly spiced broth. Found in Hoi An, Da Nang, and beyond, this regional favorite is a staple of street food and noodle shops alike. For travelers, it’s an unmissable taste of Central Vietnam’s culinary heritage.

Price range: $1.5 - $3

Best places to enjoy mì Quảng in Vietnam:

• Mi quang Ba Mua, 95A Nguyen Tri Phuong, Da Nang
• Mi quang Bep Trang, 24 Pasteur, Hai Chau District, Da Nang
• Mi quang Thi, 251 Hoang Dieu, Hai Chau District, Da Nang

Mì Quảng, a Central Vietnamese food, offers a flavorful and aromatic noodle dish that’s a must-try.

10. Bánh Xèo, a top pick among Vietnamese foods

Bánh xèo is Vietnamese pancake made with rice flour and turmeric, giving it a lovely yellow color. It’s filled with a mix of boiled pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, but there are also vegetarian options available. These versions are made with just rice flour and bean sprouts.

Watching the vendor prepare these crispy crepes is an experience in itself. The batter sizzles as it hits the hot pan, creating an exciting sound that draws you in. The chef expertly swirls the pan, ensuring the edges turn golden and crispy.

A good bánh xèo should be crispy, not soggy, and best enjoyed fresh from the skillet. To eat like a local, you can wrap it in lettuce leaves or rice paper, adding fresh herbs for extra flavor. Don’t forget to dip it into the fish sauce or soya sauce the chef prepares.

Price range: $0.5 - $3

Best places to enjoy bánh xèo in Vietnam:

• Banh xeo Ngoc Son, 103 Ngo Quyen, Ward 11, District 5
• Banh xeo mien Tay Ba Hai, 49 Nguyen Trong Tuyen, Ward 15, Phu Nhuan District
• Banh xeo Ba Hiu, 46/9 Street 12, Ward Binh An, Thu Duc City

Bánh Xèo is a crispy Vietnamese food that never fails to impress with its savory filling.

11. End your meal sweetly with chè, Vietnam’s colorful desserts

If you’re in Vietnam and craving something sweet, chè is the perfect choice. This versatile dessert comes in many forms - drinks, soups, or puddings - packed with unique ingredients. Found in markets and street stalls, chè offers a refreshing end to any meal.

Traditional favorites include chè ba màu (three-color dessert), a layered treat of red beans, mung beans, and pandan jelly, topped with coconut milk and ice. For a twist, try chè bắp, a creamy mix of corn, sticky rice, and coconut milk. In Huế, adventurous eaters can savor chè heo quay, featuring savory roast pork dumplings.

Modern versions like chè khúc bạch add international flair with creamy gelatin, fruits, and nuts. Tropical flavors - mango, lychee, banana - are common, often paired with toppings like lotus seeds or coconut shreds. No matter your choice, chè is a sweet adventure!

Price range: $0.5 - $1

Best places to enjoy chè in Vietnam:

• Che Go, 9 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
• Che heo quay, 10 Nguyen Sinh Cung Street, Hue City
• Cho Ba Chieu, 56 Bui Huu Nghia, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District, HCMC
• Cho Ben Thanh, 6 Le Loi, Ben Thanh, District 1, HCMC
• Cho Ho Thi Ky, 269 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10, HCMC

Indulge in chè, Vietnam’s colorful desserts, to end your meal with a sweet, refreshing touch.

12. Chả Cá Lã Vọng: A legendary Vietnamese fish dish

Chả cá is a very popular Vietnamese dish, features firm white fish marinated in turmeric and spices, grilled until golden and flaky. It’s served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, roasted peanuts, and dipping sauces like shrimp paste, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and herbal notes.

This dish is so iconic that it even has a street named after it in Hanoi. For over a century, this delicacy has been a favorite among locals and travelers exploring top Hanoi attractions. At the renowned Chả Cá Lã Vọng, the aroma of garlic, turmeric, and dill sizzling on hot pans creates an unforgettable experience.

Eating chả cá is interactive - mix the sizzling fish with noodles and herbs right at your table. Pair it with rice wine on cool nights or a cold beer on warm days. This dish is a true highlight of Hanoi’s food scene!

Price range: $15 - $20

Best places to enjoy:

• 14 Pho Cha Ca, 14 Cha Ca, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Cha ca Ha Thanh, 32 Nguyen Van Huyen, Cau Giay, Hanoi
• Cha ca Thang Long, 19-21-31 Duong Thanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Cha ca La Vong Gia Nguyen, 339 Tran Khat Chan, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi

Chả Cá Lã Vọng is a legendary Vietnamese fish dish known for its fragrant herbs and delicate fish.

13. Bánh Cuốn - Steamed Rice Rolls with Savory Fillings

Bánh cuốn is a quintessential Vietnamese food originating in the north and loved nationwide. These silky rolls are made from steamed rice sheets, thin and translucent, filled with a savory mix of minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. The batter, crafted from rice flour and tapioca starch, ensures the perfect pliability for rolling.

Traditionally, the sheets are steamed fresh daily, with chefs expertly lifting the delicate layers without breaking them. Served warmly, bánh cuốn pairs beautifully with sides like pork sausage (chả) or grilled meat. In some variations, an egg is blended into the batter for a smoother texture or wrapped inside for a rich surprise.

Dip these soft rolls in fish sauce, and if you're in Hanoi. Add a hint of Belostomatid essence for an aromatic twist. Though bánh cuốn is a beloved breakfast choice for Hanoians, you can enjoy it at any meal of the day.

Price range: $1 - $3

Best places to enjoy bánh cuốn in Vietnam:

• Banh cuon Gia An, 21A Lo Duc, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
• Banh cuon Ba Xuan, 16 Doc Hoe Nhai, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
• Banh cuon Ba Hoanh, 66 To Hien Thanh, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi

Bánh cuốn, soft rice rolls with a savory filling, are perfect for a light meal at any time of the day.

14. Explore bánh căn, the savory pancakes of the south

Bánh căn is a beloved Vietnamese food renowned for its tiny, savory pancakes. Crafted from a rice flour batter mixed with quail eggs and green onions, these golden, crispy delights are cooked in small molds on traditional clay grills. Each pancake is perfectly crispy on the edges and tender inside, served solo or topped with shrimp, pork, or eggs.

In Da Lat, bánh căn is enjoyed fresh and hot, often featuring chicken or quail eggs. It comes with a unique dipping sauce of fish sauce, scallion oil, and a hint of chili or satay for extra zing. Phan Thiết elevates the dish with toppings like boiled eggs, pork skin, and fish, paired with a rich fish stock and pickled mango sauce. Meanwhile, Phan Rang spices things up with squid and shrimp, offering sauces like fermented fish, sweet and sour fish sauce, or peanut dip.

Price range: $1 - $2

Best places to enjoy bánh căn in Vietnam:

• Quan banh can Pho Bui Vien, Bui Vien Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Banh can Le, 27/44 Yersin, Da Lat City
• Banh can Tam, 23 Tuyen Quang, Phan Thiet

Bánh căn are savory pancakes from the south of Vietnam, often filled with various delicious toppings.

15. Hủ Tiếu - Versatile Vietnamese Noodle Soup

Hủ tiếu, a cherished Vietnamese food, is versatile noodle soup comes in two styles: hủ tiếu nước (wet) with a savory broth or hủ tiếu khô (dry) tossed in a flavorful sauce. The chewy tapioca or rice noodles are the highlights, paired with an array of delicious toppings.

The iconic Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang traces its roots to Cambodia but has been lovingly adapted to Vietnamese tastes. Its clear, rich broth is made from pork bones, shrimp, and dried squid, creating a deep umami base. Toppings like pork liver, quail eggs, poached shrimp, and fried shallots add texture and depth, while fresh herbs like cilantro and Chinese chives bring balance.

In Ho Chi Minh City, the experience of enjoying hủ tiếu gõ on the streets adds a unique charm. The clattering sound of plastic bowls and wheeled carts echoes through narrow alleys. Despite its simple setup, hủ tiếu gõ has a distinct taste that stands apart from other versions.

Price range: $1 - $2

Best places to enjoy:

• Hu tieu oc Chu Tun, 57/21 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
• Hu tieu Sai Gon Hong Phat, 389-391 Vo Van Tan, Ward 5, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
• Hu tieu bo vien Tran Quang Khai, 40 Tran Quang Khai, Ward Tan Dinh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Hủ tiếu, a Vietnamese noodle soup, is a comforting and flavorful food that’s popular on the streets.

16. Bò Lá Lốt - Fragrant Beef Wrapped in Betel Leaves

Bò lá lốt is a delicious Vietnamese food that features ground beef wrapped in betel leaves. The beef is mixed with spices and onions, creating a flavorful filling. After being wrapped, these rolls are grilled over charcoal, giving them a smoky, crispy texture.

The betel leaves add a distinct, peppery aroma to the beef, enhancing its taste. When grilled, the leaves become slightly crispy, creating a perfect contrast to the juicy, tender beef inside. The result is a flavorful bite that bursts with savory goodness.

Typically, bò lá lốt is served with rice noodles, rice paper, and fresh herbs. You can wrap the grilled rolls in rice paper with lettuce, herbs, and pickles. This combination adds a refreshing crunch and balances the rich flavor of the beef. For the ultimate experience, dip each bite in a spicy fish sauce. This enhances the dish’s flavor, making bò lá lốt a must-try for anyone visiting Vietnam.

Bo la lot Price range: $2 - $4

Best places to enjoy grilled beef wrapped in betel leaf in Vietnam:

• Anh Ba, 460 Phan Xich Long, Ward 12, Phu Nhuan District
• Bo la lot Mo Chai, 63S Ung Van Khiem, Ward 25, Binh Thanh District
• Bo la lot Phuong Dong, 740 Nguyen Kiem (near Coop Nguyen Kiem)

Bò lá lốt is a flavorful Vietnam food wrapped in leaves, offering a smoky and tender experience.

17. Fill up on bún riêu, Vietnamese crab noodle soup

Bún riêu is a cherished Vietnamese noodle soup, features a tangy, sweet-and-sour broth that highlights the richness of crab and the brightness of tomatoes. Vermicelli noodles form the base, while the broth is packed with crab meat, pork, tofu, and vibrant tomato pieces. Toppings often include blood jelly, fresh greens like perilla, and bean sprouts.

To make a delicious bowl of bún riêu, the crab meat is separated from the shell, which is then crushed and strained to create the broth base. The rich flavor of the crab blends perfectly with the tangy acidity from the tomatoes, giving the soup a vibrant taste. Sometimes, minced crab with pork and egg is added, creating soft clusters that melt in your mouth. The contrast of textures and flavors makes each bite exciting.

Price range: $1 - $3

Best places to enjoy bún riêu in Vietnam:

• Bun rieu Ganh Cho Ben Thanh, 16-18 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh, District 1
• Bun rieu Hem Ong Tien, Hem 96, Phan Dinh Phung, Ward 17, Phu Nhuan District
• Bun rieu Da Lat, 64 Co Giang, District 1
• Bun rieu Co Nga, 64 Nguyen Huu Hao, District 4

Savor bún riêu, Vietnamese crab noodle soup, a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

18. Bánh Bèo - Hue's Delicate Steamed Rice Cakes

Bánh bèo is a popular snack from Hue in Central Vietnam. These small steamed rice cakes are perfect for those who love bite-sized treats. Each cake has a dimple in the middle, which signals it’s been steamed just right. The dimples hold a mix of tasty toppings like mung bean paste, toasted shrimp, and sometimes crunchy pork fat or croutons.

If you’re a fan of chewy textures, you’ll love bánh bèo. The cakes are soft and sticky, similar to mochi but with a savory twist. In Hue and Quang Binh, bánh bèo is often enjoyed as a special morning treat. 20 delicate white cakes are topped with golden crispy shrimp and a sprinkle of fried shallots, giving them a simple yet beautiful presentation. A key element of bánh bèo is the fish sauce that accompanies the cakes. It’s seasoned with chili peppers for an extra kick, bringing the whole dish together.

Price range: $0.5 - $1.

Best places to enjoy bánh bèo in Vienam:

• Quan Chi, 52 Le Viet Luong, Xuân Phú Ward, Hue City
• Banh Beo Huong, 148A Nguyen Hue, Phu Nhuan Ward, Hue City
• Banh Beo Thanh Nga, 43 Rach Bung Binh, District 3, HCMC
• Banh Beo Chen Thao Nhi, Hem 160 Bui Dinh Tuy, Binh Thanh District, HCMC

Bánh bèo are bite-sized treats from the streets of Hue, offering a taste of tradition and deliciousness.

19. Xôi - Sticky Rice with Sweet or Savory Toppings

Among the many rice foods, Xôi (sticky rice) stands out. It can be enjoyed in both savory and sweet varieties. Xôi mặn, or savory sticky rice, is a popular choice for breakfast. It’s affordable and satisfying, often enjoyed on the go. For those with a sweet tooth, Xôi ngọt offers many flavors, including the vibrant Xôi ngũ sắc, a colorful, eye-catching dish made with natural plant colors.

Xôi is a versatile dish found everywhere, from street food stalls to formal events. A common sight is Xôi wrapped in banana leaves, which fits perfectly in your hand. Parents often pack this dish for their children’s school lunches. Xôi comes in many varieties, such as Xôi Vò, with smashed beans, and Xôi Xéo, topped with fried onions. Some versions include savory toppings like Chinese sausage, grilled pork, or boiled quail eggs. The combination of flavors keeps it exciting and satisfying, never getting old.

Price range: $0.5 - $2.

Best places to enjoy xôi in Vietnam:

• Xoi Binh Tien, 88 Minh Phung, Ward 5, District 6, HCMC
• Xoi Ga 310 Tan Dinh, 297 Hai Ba Trung, Ward 8, District 3, HCMC
• Xoi Ga Ba Chieu, 318/1 Bui Huu Nghia, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District, HCMC

Xôi, sticky rice served in many forms, is a comforting Vietnamese dish enjoyed in countless variations.

20. Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm - Bold Fermented Shrimp Paste Noodles

Bún đậu mắm tôm is a simple yet flavorful food that has become a Vietnamese street food icon. It consists of rice vermicelli, deep-fried tofu, and fermented shrimp paste. Often served with fresh herbs, it’s a true taste of Hanoi, especially popular in the city’s streets.

The highlight of this dish is the mắm tôm, a spicy fermented shrimp paste that adds depth to the flavors. Although its strong scent can be off-putting for some, the combination of noodles, tofu, and shrimp paste creates an irresistible taste. It's an acquired taste that many grow to love.

In its early days, bún đậu mắm tôm was consisting of just tofu, noodles, and shrimp paste. Over time, it has evolved, now featuring a variety of toppings like fried spring rolls, boiled pork, and more. Bún đậu mắm tôm is best enjoyed on the streets of Hanoi, where local vendors serve it fresh and fast.

Price range: $2 - $4.

Best places to enjoy bún đậu mắn tôm in Vietnam:

• Bun Dau Tuan Troc, 23 Phan Huy Ich, Ba Dinh
• Bun Dau Co Tuyen, 27/31 Hang Khay, Hoan Kiem
• Bun Dau Mam Tom, 32B Tho Xuong, Hoan Kiem
• Bun Dau Mam Tom, 33 Ngo 185 Chua Lang, Dong Da

Bún đậu mắm tôm is a bold Vietnamese food that packs a punch with its fermented shrimp paste.

Let’s try Vietnamese foods as much as possible

Vietnamese foods are a vibrant mix of flavors, textures, and traditions that tell the story of its people and culture. From the iconic phở to regional gems like cao lầu, every dish offers a unique taste of Vietnam.

Don’t just stick to the famous options - explore the street food stalls, bustling markets, and hidden local spots to uncover the country’s cuisine. Whether you're a foodie or a curious traveler, embracing Vietnamese cuisine is a delicious journey you won’t forget. So grab a pair of chopsticks and dig in - you won’t regret it!

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