Best Vietnamese Food: 15 Dishes You Can't Miss

Vietnamese cuisine is a reflection of the nation’s geography and culture. It is a philosophy of balance, where the principles of Yin and Yang are applied to flavor, texture, and color. The food is light, fresh, and relies heavily on aromatic herbs like cilantro, mint, and basil, which are served alongside almost every dish.

While the core principles remain the same, Vietnam’s food culture is deeply regional. The North, centered around Hanoi, is known for its light, subtle, and balanced flavors. Central Vietnam, with its imperial capital of Hue, features bold, spicy, and complex dishes. The South, anchored by Ho Chi Minh City, is known for its slightly sweeter, more vibrant, and tropical flavors.

1. Phở: The National Soul in a Bowl

Phở is known for its fragrant broth, tender beef, and fresh herbs.

A culinary journey through Vietnam isn’t complete without a bowl of phở. This fragrant noodle soup is more than a dish; it’s a national treasure.

What It Is: A comforting bowl of flat rice noodles, tender slices of beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà), and a clear, savory broth. The broth is the heart and soul of the dish, simmered for hours with beef bones, ginger, and aromatic spices like star anise and cinnamon.
Why You Should Try It: Phở is the quintessential Vietnamese experience. Its delicate yet complex flavors are both comforting and exhilarating. The experience is elevated by fresh garnishes like Thai basil, mint, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime.
Where to Find It: While you can find a great bowl almost anywhere, Hanoi is considered the birthplace of phở. Look for a small, unassuming stall with a crowd of locals for the most authentic taste.

2. Bánh Mì: The World’s Best Sandwich

Bánh mì is a classic Vietnamese sandwich packed with fresh ingredients.

Bánh Mì is a culinary masterpiece and a testament to Vietnam’s unique blend of French and local influences.

What It Is: A light and crispy French-style baguette, split open and filled with an incredible variety of ingredients. A classic version might include grilled pork, Vietnamese ham, rich pâté, and pickled carrots and daikon. All of this is balanced with fresh cilantro, cucumbers, and a touch of chili.
Why You Should Try It: It’s a symphony of textures and flavors. The contrast between the crunchy bread, the savory meats, and the tangy vegetables is simply perfect. It’s a quick, affordable, and incredibly satisfying street food.
Where to Find It: Bánh Mì is a ubiquitous street food. Look for a stall with a long line of people—that’s a sign of a good one. For a famous spot, try Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa in Ho Chi Minh City or a local vendor in Hoi An.

3. Bún Chả: Hanoi’s Signature Dish

A Hanoi classic, bún chả features delicious grilled pork and fresh herbs.

If you only eat one meal in Hanoi, make it Bún Chả. This is the city’s most famous dish and a favorite of both locals and visitors.

What It Is: A bowl of thin rice noodles (bún) served with smoky, charcoal-grilled pork patties and slices of marinated pork belly (chả). The star of the show is the dipping sauce, a perfect mix of sweet, sour, and savory fish sauce with pickled carrots and green papaya.
Why You Should Try It: The dish is all about balance. The smoky flavor of the grilled meat, the freshness of the herbs, and the bright dipping sauce create a perfect bite every time. It’s a truly unique and interactive dining experience.
Where to Find It: This is a Hanoi specialty, so look for it in the Old Quarter. A famous spot is Bún Chả Hương Liên, made famous by President Barack Obama.

4. Bún Bò Huế: The Bold and Spicy Soup

Enjoy the rich and complex flavors of a traditional Bún bò Huế.

From the central city of Hue, Bún Bò Huế is a noodle soup with a powerful, unforgettable flavor.

What It Is: A robust and spicy beef noodle soup. The broth is a deep red, infused with lemongrass, chili, and fermented shrimp paste. It’s served with thick rice noodles, tender slices of beef shank, and often includes pork hock or Vietnamese ham.
Why You Should Try It: Unlike the subtle elegance of phở, Bún Bò Huế is a flavor explosion. It’s rich, spicy, and deeply aromatic. It’s a must-try for those who love bold, intense flavors.
Where to Find It: The most authentic version is found in Hue, the former imperial capital. However, many restaurants across Vietnam serve great versions.

5. Bánh Xèo: The Sizzling Pancake

Wrap bits of this savory pancake in lettuce and dip in the sauce.

The name Bánh Xèo comes from the “sizzling” sound the batter makes as it hits the hot pan.

What It Is: A large, crispy crepe made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric. The vibrant yellow pancake is filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts.
Why You Should Try It: The joy of Bánh Xèo is in the eating. You tear off a piece of the pancake, place it on a large lettuce leaf with fresh herbs, roll it up, and dip it in a light fish sauce. The combination of crispy, savory, and fresh flavors is addictive.
Where to Find It: Bánh Xèo is popular throughout the country, but the Southern and Central versions are particularly famous for their size and savory filling.

6. Cơm Tấm: The Broken Rice Plate

Cơm tấm is a popular plate of broken rice topped with savory delights.

Cơm Tấm is a beloved dish from Southern Vietnam, originally a dish for the poor using “broken” rice grains.

What It Is: A plate of fluffy broken rice topped with a variety of delicious grilled meats, including a marinated grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, and a steamed egg meatloaf. It’s often served with a side of pickled vegetables and a sweet fish sauce.
Why You Should Try It: This dish is a perfect meal that balances savory, sweet, and sour flavors. The grilled pork chop is a particular highlight, with a perfect caramelization.
Where to Find It: Cơm Tấm is a staple in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can find dedicated Cơm Tấm shops on almost every street corner.

7. Gỏi Cuốn: The Ultimate Fresh Roll

Gỏi cuốn features fresh shrimp, pork, and herbs wrapped in rice paper.

For a lighter, healthier option, Gỏi Cuốn are the perfect choice. These fresh spring rolls are a stark contrast to their fried counterparts.

What It Is: A soft, translucent rice paper roll filled with fresh herbs, lettuce, rice vermicelli noodles, boiled pork, and shrimp. They are typically served with a peanut-hoisin dipping sauce or a traditional fish sauce.
Why You Should Try It: Gỏi Cuốn are the epitome of fresh Vietnamese food. They are crisp, clean, and delicious, showcasing the country’s love for fresh, vibrant ingredients.
Where to Find It: You can find Gỏi Cuốn at almost any Vietnamese restaurant. They are a common appetizer and snack.

8. Chả Giò: The Crispy Fried Roll

A perfect crispy appetizer, fried spring rolls are a global favorite.

Known as Nem Rán in the North, Chả Giò are the famous fried spring rolls of Vietnam.

What It Is: A crispy, golden-fried roll filled with a savory mix of ground pork, shrimp, mushrooms, and glass noodles. It is served with lettuce and various fresh herbs for wrapping.
Why You Should Try It: The satisfying crunch and rich flavor make it a beloved dish. It’s a celebratory food, often served during special occasions like Tết (Lunar New Year), symbolizing prosperity and family togetherness.
Where to Find It: You can find great fried spring rolls at nearly every Vietnamese restaurant, as it’s a national favorite.

9. Mì Quảng: Central Vietnam’s Noodle Specialty

A specialty of Da Nang, Mì Quảng is known for its unique flavors.

This noodle dish from the Quang Nam province is a beautiful mix of textures and flavors.

What It Is: Thick, flat rice noodles (often with a hint of turmeric) topped with a small amount of rich, concentrated broth. The toppings can include shrimp, pork, chicken, and quail eggs. It is always served with crispy rice crackers and a mountain of fresh herbs.
Why You Should Try It: Mì Quảng is unique because it’s not a soup, but a noodle dish with just enough broth to coat the ingredients. The rich flavor and contrasting textures make it a one-of-a-kind experience.
Where to Find It: The most authentic Mì Quảng is found in Da Nang and Hoi An.

10. Bún Riêu Cua: The Tangy Crab Noodle Soup

Vietnamese crab noodle soup features a rich broth and fresh crab.

Bún Riêu Cua is a refreshing, light, and tangy noodle soup that’s perfect for any time of day.

What It Is: A vermicelli noodle soup with a light tomato broth and a delicate crab paste. The soup’s signature red hue comes from annatto seeds, and it’s often topped with fried tofu, snails, and fresh herbs.
Why You Should Try It: It’s a perfect example of the sophisticated flavors in Vietnamese cuisine. The broth is light and tangy, with a subtle umami from the crab and sweetness from the tomatoes.
Where to Find It: Bún Riêu Cua is a common street food found in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

11. Bánh Cuốn: The Delicate Steamed Rice Roll

Enjoy the soft, delicate texture of bánh cuốn, a steamed rice noodle roll.

For a lighter, more elegant breakfast or snack, Bánh Cuốn is a perfect choice.

What It Is: Delicate, paper-thin steamed rice rolls filled with seasoned ground pork and wood ear mushrooms. They are often topped with crispy fried shallots, cilantro, and served with slices of Vietnamese ham (chả lụa) and a light dipping sauce.
Why You Should Try It: The silky, soft texture of the rice sheets is incredibly satisfying. It’s a subtle yet deeply flavorful dish that showcases the finesse of Vietnamese cooking.
Where to Find It: Bánh Cuốn is a breakfast staple, particularly in Hanoi. You’ll often find small, specialized shops serving this dish in the mornings.

12. Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm: The Bold and Savory Platter

Bún đậu is a bold and savory dish with a very distinct flavor.

This popular street food is not for the faint of heart due to its pungent sauce, but it offers a rewarding culinary adventure.

What It Is: A platter of fried tofu, boiled pork, and fresh rice noodles (bún) served with a variety of fresh herbs. The star of the dish is the small bowl of fermented shrimp paste (mắm tôm) that is whipped with a little lime juice and chili.
Why You Should Try It: Bún Đậu Mắm Tôm is a test of a true food lover. The combination of crispy tofu, soft noodles, and the intense, salty sauce is a flavor explosion that is unique to Vietnam.
Where to Find It: This is a famous street food in Hanoi. Look for small stalls with low plastic tables, a sign of an authentic spot.

13. Gỏi Gà: The Refreshing Chicken Salad

Gỏi gà is a light and zesty chicken salad perfect for a hot day.

This salad is a perfect representation of the fresh, light, and flavorful nature of Vietnamese cuisine.

What It Is: A vibrant salad made with shredded boiled chicken, shredded cabbage, carrots, onions, and a generous amount of fresh mint and coriander. It is dressed in a light, zesty dressing of fish sauce, lime juice, and a little sugar. It’s often topped with crunchy peanuts and crispy fried shallots.
Why You Should Try It: Gỏi Gà is incredibly refreshing and healthy. It’s the perfect side dish or a light lunch on a hot day. The combination of tender chicken and crisp vegetables is simply delightful.
Where to Find It: You can find Gỏi Gà at most Vietnamese restaurants and street food stalls throughout the country.

14. Chả Cá Lã Vọng: The Legendary Fish Dish

Enjoy this famous Hanoi dish sizzling at your table with fresh dill.

Named after the famous restaurant in Hanoi, Chả Cá Lã Vọng is a truly special experience.

What It Is: Tender pieces of white fish (often river catfish) marinated in turmeric and other spices. The fish is fried at your table with a generous amount of dill and spring onions. It’s served with rice vermicelli noodles, roasted peanuts, and shrimp paste.
Why You Should Try It: It’s more than a meal; it’s a dining ritual. The sight and sound of the sizzling fish, the fragrant dill, and the interactive preparation make it a must-do for any food enthusiast. The flavors are savory, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
Where to Find It: This dish is a Hanoi specialty. The original Chả Cá Lã Vọng restaurant is still in operation and is the best place to try this legendary dish.

15. Chè: Sweet Soup

This Vietnamese dessert is a sweet, comforting mung bean soup.

For a perfect end to any meal, Chè offers a world of sweet, refreshing possibilities.

What It Is: Chè is a diverse category of Vietnamese desserts, ranging from sweet soups to puddings. They can be served hot or cold and are made with ingredients like beans, fruits, coconut cream, rice, and jellies. Some popular types include Chè đậu xanh (mung bean sweet soup) and Chè ba màu (three-color dessert).
Why You Should Try It: Chè is a fun and delicious way to experience the sweeter side of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s light, refreshing, and a perfect way to cool down on a hot day.
Where to Find It: You can find Chè stalls on almost any street corner in major cities.

The Vietnamese Dining Experience

The true magic of Vietnamese food lies in its street food culture. Don’t be afraid to pull up a small plastic stool, sit on the sidewalk, and enjoy a meal with the locals.

From the iconic Phở to the delightful Bún Chả and the simple perfection of Bánh Mì, Vietnamese food is a journey of discovery. Each dish tells a story of its region, its history, and its people. The balance of flavors, the freshness of ingredients, and the communal nature of eating make it a truly special culinary experience.

So, when you travel to Vietnam, don’t just eat to survive. Eat to explore, to connect, and to understand. Be adventurous, trust the locals, and savor every single bite.