A Culinary Journey Through Vietnam
Vietnam’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes, offering a flavorful adventure that varies by region. In the south, the food is spicier; in the north, it’s saltier; and in the central regions, it’s served with a flair reminiscent of the Imperial Dynasty.
From succulent meats and fresh seafood—like prawns and catfish—to exotic vegetables like bamboo shoots and chayote, Vietnamese dishes are a symphony of flavors. Signature ingredients such as palm sugar, chili, and salty fish sauce elevate every bite, while the fragrant aromas of galangal, Vietnamese coriander, mint, Saigon cinnamon, and aniseed fill the streets, tempting every passerby.
Must-Try Vietnamese Culinary Experiences
Eat Pho at a Street Stall
Pho, Vietnam’s national dish, is a rice noodle soup served in a flavorful broth and is available at street stalls across the country. The best way to enjoy pho is to join the locals at small plastic tables, sipping the soup alongside fresh mint, lime, chili, and sugar.
- In Hanoi: Pho is seasoned simply but always includes fresh mint.
- In Central Vietnam: The emphasis is on local herbs like holy basil and coriander.
Ingredients and flavors vary by location, so try pho as often as possible—you’ll experience a different twist in each town.
Savor Bun Cha in Hanoi
Bun cha is a classic dish from Hanoi, consisting of barbecued pork served with broth, noodles, and fresh herbs. It’s a favorite lunchtime meal, often paired with crispy spring rolls.
My most memorable bun cha experience took place in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, sitting among friendly locals at a bustling street restaurant. The rich aroma of the grilled pork and herbs was unforgettable, and the taste was far superior to the Westernized versions found in hotels.
Explore Hanoi with a Food Tour
A walking food tour of Hanoi’s Old Quarter is perfect for adventurous eaters. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll sample everything from green papaya salad with spicy beef to egg coffee, a whipped meringue-like treat.
- Morning tours: Start with noodles for breakfast.
- Afternoon tours: Indulge in dishes like duck or quail.
Your guide will also share recommendations for local eateries to explore during your stay.
Sample Bun Bo Hue
Bun bo Hue, a noodle soup dish from central Vietnam, features fresh herbs, beef or pork, and a lemongrass-infused broth. For the authentic experience, request the local version, which may include congealed blood or hoof for added depth of flavor.
The Central Market in Hue, particularly Dong Ba Market, is an excellent place to try this dish. Afterward, browse the market for fresh produce and traditional crafts.
Taste Cao Lau Noodles in Hoi An
Hoi An, with its cobbled streets and riverside charm, offers a unique culinary heritage influenced by its trading history.
Cao lau noodles are thick, hearty, and similar to Japanese buckwheat noodles. Tossed with pork, cabbage, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for enjoying at a street stall along the waterfront.
Try Banh Xeo on a Street Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City
For a true taste of southern Vietnam, take an evening street food tour of Ho Chi Minh City by Vespa.
One of the highlights is banh xeo, crispy rice flour pancakes filled with shrimp, herbs, and other ingredients of your choice. Lightly fried and served with fish sauce, lime, and chili, they’re a delightful snack or late-night treat.
Bite Into a Banh Mi
When you need a break from noodles, banh mi is the perfect option. These French-style baguettes are filled with pâté, pork, pickled vegetables, mint, and coriander. Available at street stalls, they’re ideal for a quick and tasty meal on the go.
Beyond Street Food: Restaurant Dining in Vietnam
While street food dominates Vietnam’s culinary scene, there are exceptional dining experiences to be found in restaurants that combine Vietnamese and French flavors.
- In Hanoi: The Ly Club offers delicacies like soft-shell crab in an elegant setting, complete with colonial-style white-suited waitstaff.
- In Hoi An: Riverbank restaurants serve a mix of traditional Vietnamese dishes and other Asian cuisines in a scenic setting.
Learn to Cook Vietnamese Cuisine
Take your love for Vietnamese food to the next level by participating in a cooking class.
One of the best experiences is at the Red Bridge Cookery School in Hoi An. Your day begins with a boat trip to the local market to gather ingredients, followed by a tour of the school’s garden. You’ll grind your own rice flour and learn to make dishes like pancakes and deconstructed spring rolls.
From vibrant street food to refined fusion dishes, Vietnam’s cuisine is a highlight for any traveler. Whether you’re sipping pho at a roadside stall, enjoying bun cha in Hanoi, or making your own banh xeo in Hoi An, every meal is an opportunity to savor the unique flavors of this incredible country.
