Top 10 Vietnamese Foods You Must Try

With its vibrant and diverse culinary heritage, Vietnam proudly ranks among the world’s most remarkable food destinations. Its iconic dishes captivate even the most discerning international travelers and frequently appear on top lists curated by The Guardian, National Geographic, The Culture Trip, Tripadvisor, and more. Below are the must-try specialties when visiting Vietnam.

Pho

No traveler sets foot in Vietnam without hearing about Pho—one taste is often all it takes to fall in love. More than just a dish, Pho is a symbol of Vietnamese cuisine, celebrated worldwide for its signature broth, delicate aromas, and countless regional variations.

In Hanoi, a bowl of Pho typically ranges from 40,000 to 90,000 VND, with premium versions priced slightly higher.

Bun Cha Ha Noi

Bun Cha is a culinary treasure of Hanoi. Its star elements are charcoal-grilled minced pork patties and slices of marinated pork belly, served in a bowl of tangy, lightly sweetened dipping sauce with crunchy pickled green papaya. Diners combine fresh vermicelli, herbs, and grilled pork right in the sauce for an explosion of flavors.

International food media often praise Bún chả’s irresistible grilled pork aroma, and CNN even recommends the famed Hàng Mành Bún Chả shop to visitors exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Banh Mi

Vietnamese Banh Mi continues to shine on the global stage, ranking among CNN’s top 25 best sandwiches and topping TasteAtlas’ list of the world’s 100 greatest sandwiches in 2024.

The traditional version is filled with pork cold cuts, Vietnamese ham, pickled vegetables, cilantro, sauces, and a light, crispy baguette. The harmonious blend of flavors is delightfully addictive. Beyond the classic style, Vietnam offers countless variations—vegetarian bánh mì, lemongrass chicken bánh mì, and more—each shaped by local ingredients and traditions.

Bun Bo Hue

On Vietnam’s culinary map, Bun Bo Hue holds a truly special place. A steaming bowl of this dish leaves a lasting impression with its thick round noodles, thinly sliced beef, rich broth with a warm orange hue, and signature spicy fragrance.

A proper bowl must strike a perfect balance: the red annatto oil, the hearty beef slices, the freshness of herbs, and the crunch of bean sprouts—a combination that wins over every palate.

Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo is a beloved specialty of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Visitors who have explored the riverside charm of Cần Thơ rarely forget the irresistible taste of this dish.

Its golden, crispy shell encloses a savory mix of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Rolled with fresh herbs and lettuce, then dipped into a flavorful fish-sauce-based dressing, Bánh xèo delivers a burst of textures and aromas. Each region adds its own touch—from batter recipes to filling variations—creating deliciously unique versions across the country.

Cha Gio

Cha Gio is one of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes. Each roll combines a crispy golden wrapper with a flavorful filling, creating a harmony of textures and tastes.

Over time, it has evolved into numerous variations—shrimp and pork rolls, seafood rolls, taro rolls, and more—each offering its own delightful experience. Paired with fresh herbs and dipping sauce, chả giò never fails to impress.

Cao Lau Hoi An

Cao lau is a culinary icon of Hoi An, embodying the ancient town’s rich cultural soul. With thick yellow noodles, slices of savory char siu-style pork, crispy pork skin, fragrant herbs, and crunchy rice crackers, this dish strikes a perfect balance between textures and flavors.

Found almost exclusively in Hội An and nearby regions, Cao lầu is an essential experience for anyone visiting the historic town.

Cha Muc Ha Long

A celebrated specialty of Quang Ninh, Cha Muc Ha Long is known for its fresh ocean flavor and springy texture. Handmade from premium squid caught in Ha Long Bay, each golden patty is crispy on the outside and tender inside, showcasing the pure taste of the sea.

This dish has earned a loyal following among travelers seeking an authentic taste of coastal Vietnam.

Mi Quang

Mi Quang is an iconic dish of Central Vietnam, deeply tied to the culture and hospitality of Quảng Nam people. The hand-crafted noodles—thick, chewy, and naturally white or lightly yellow from turmeric—make this dish instantly recognizable.

Unlike Pho or Bún bò Huế, Mì Quảng uses very little broth. Instead, a rich, concentrated stock made from simmered meats is spooned just enough to coat the noodles, preserving its bold, fragrant flavor.

Banh Beo Hue

Banh Beo is a cherished Hue delicacy, typically enjoyed hot right after steaming. Each small rice cake is topped with savory ingredients and served with a spicy, flavorful fish sauce. The blend of soft rice flour, fragrant toppings, and sweet-spicy dipping sauce captures the essence of Hue cuisine in every bite.

Vietnamese cuisine carries the soul of the nation—each dish tells a story of culture, tradition, and regional pride. Even if you haven’t had the chance to travel across Vietnam, you can savor flavors from all three regions right here in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City.

AOJ offers immersive Luxury Vietnam tours designed to connect travelers with the country’s rich culture, warm people, and unforgettable cuisine. Each journey is crafted with local expertise, bringing you from Hanoi’s fragrant bowls of pho to the ancient charm of Hội An and the vibrant flavors of the Mekong Delta.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or authentic culinary experiences, AOJ delivers personalized, professional, and deeply meaningful travel moments. Let AOJ guide you to the heart of Vietnam—beautiful, flavorful, and truly captivating.