Vietnamese cuisine is globally renowned for its diversity of ingredients, refined preparation methods, and the harmonious balance of flavors. From north to south, each region has developed its own culinary specialties, reflecting its history, culture, and way of life. For international visitors, exploring Vietnamese food is not only about taste—it’s a cultural experience in itself.
This guide introduces 10 signature dishes from Vietnam, along with their origins, how they’re typically eaten, and tips for enjoying them authentically.
🍜 1. Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Phở is the national dish of Vietnam and a staple in local daily life, commonly eaten for breakfast but available all day.
- Key ingredients: rice noodles, aromatic broth made from simmered beef or chicken bones, and thinly sliced meat.
- Hanoi-style phở is known for its clear, light broth infused with herbs.
Best served with: fresh herbs, lime, chili, and crispy dough sticks.
Tip: Try traditional spots in Hanoi such as Phở Thìn or Phở Bát Đàn.
🥖 2. Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
Bánh mì is a perfect fusion of French bread and local Vietnamese fillings.
- Common fillings: pâté, cold cuts, Vietnamese sausage, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and house-made sauces.
- Variations include egg bánh mì, grilled pork bánh mì, or vegetarian options.
Tip: Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa in Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its generous fillings and rich flavor.
🍢 3. Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
Bún chả is a traditional Hanoi dish featuring grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, dipping sauce, and fresh herbs.
- The dipping sauce has a sweet-sour-salty flavor and is sometimes paired with fried spring rolls.
Tip: Visit Bún Chả Hương Liên, famously visited by President Obama.
🥗 4. Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Gỏi cuốn, or Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, are a light and refreshing snack ideal for tropical weather.
- Made with rice paper wraps filled with shrimp, boiled pork, rice noodles, and herbs.
- Served with sweetened fish sauce or peanut dipping sauce.
Tip: Widely found in southern Vietnam, especially at night markets and street food stalls.
🍲 5. Bún Bò Huế (Spicy Hue Beef Noodle Soup)
Originating from central Vietnam, Bún bò Huế is known for its bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors.
- Broth is made from beef bones, lemongrass, fermented shrimp paste, and chili.
- Typically includes beef shank, pork knuckle, and Vietnamese ham (chả lụa).
Tip: Look for authentic Hue-style bún bò in local eateries in Hue or major cities.
🍜 6. Cao Lầu (Hoi An-style Noodles)
A specialty of Hoi An, Cao lầu features unique noodles with chewy texture, influenced by Chinese and Japanese cuisine.
- Served with slices of barbecue pork, bean sprouts, local greens, and crispy crackers.
- Only a small amount of concentrated sauce is added for flavor.
Tip: Best experienced in Hoi An, where the noodles are made using water from the Ba Le ancient well.
🐟 7. Chả Cá Lã Vọng (Grilled Fish with Dill)
A Hanoi delicacy, Chả cá is made with marinated fish (typically catfish) grilled with turmeric and fresh dill.
- Served with vermicelli noodles, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and fermented shrimp sauce.
Tip: Head to Cha Ca Street in Hanoi for the original dining experience.
🥞 8. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Savory Pancake)
Bánh xèo is a crispy, savory pancake popular in southern Vietnam.
- Filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and sometimes mushrooms or jicama.
- Eaten by wrapping pieces in lettuce or rice paper and dipping in sweetened fish sauce.
Tip: Central Vietnam versions are smaller and crispier than those from the south.
🍙 9. Bánh Chưng (Sticky Rice Cake)
A traditional dish for the Lunar New Year, bánh chưng is a square-shaped rice cake symbolizing the Earth.
- Made with glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in dong leaves and boiled for 8–10 hours.
Tip: Often found at local markets during Tet (January–February).
🧁 10. Bánh Bèo (Steamed Rice Cakes)
Originating from Hue, bánh bèo are small steamed rice cakes topped with dried shrimp, crispy shallots, and pork crackling.
- Served with a mild fish sauce for dipping.
Tip: Typically served in small, individual dishes—great for tasting.
✅ Tips for Enjoying Vietnamese Cuisine
- Opt for local eateries and family-run restaurants to experience authentic flavors.
- Pay attention to food hygiene, especially when eating at street vendors.
- Ask locals for recommendations, or check Google Maps and TripAdvisor for trusted food spots.
📌 Final Thoughts
Vietnamese cuisine is a vibrant expression of the country’s cultural identity. From humble street snacks to region-specific specialties, every dish tells a story about its people and places.
Try at least 3–5 dishes from this list during your trip. It’s one of the fastest and most flavorful ways to connect with Vietnam—genuinely and memorably.
