1. Why Is Vietnamese Cuisine Loved By International Friends?

Vietnamese cuisine is known for its harmonious combination of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy flavors, along with the use of fresh and healthy ingredients, creating a unique taste profile. The diversity of Vietnamese food is remarkable, with each region offering distinct specialties that reflect the culture and climate of that area.

From the flavorful pho of the North to the fresh seafood of the South, Vietnamese cuisine provides an exciting array of dishes that offer both variety and balance. This rich culinary heritage makes it appealing not only to locals but also to international visitors who are eager to explore new tastes and experiences. Whether you're a Vietnamese local or a foreign traveler, the diverse cultural and flavor experiences of Vietnamese food are sure to leave a lasting impression.

2. 6+ Must-Try Signature Dishes from Northern Vietnam

2.1. Pho

Pho is one of the most iconic dishes of Vietnamese cuisine, often regarded as the national dish. Originating from Northern Vietnam, it is a fragrant and flavorful noodle soup made from a rich broth, rice noodles, and various types of meat, usually beef or chicken. Pho has a long history, dating back to the early 20th century, and is believed to have been influenced by French colonialism and traditional Vietnamese flavors.

Pho is not only loved for its taste but also for its simplicity and versatility. The dish is known for its aromatic broth, which is slow-cooked with spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, resulting in a deep and comforting flavor. The rice noodles are soft and chewy, perfectly complementing the tender slices of beef or chicken. Toppings such as fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili are often added to personalize each bowl.

Pho is considered a representative of Vietnamese cuisine because it showcases the country's culinary balance of sweet, salty, sour, and spicy elements. It is also a symbol of Vietnamese culture, enjoyed by locals and international visitors alike.

• Average Price: VND 40,000 to 80,000 (USD 1.70 - USD 3.40)
• Where to find Pho in Hanoi: Pho Ly Quoc Su, Pho Thin

The Vietnamese famous traditional dish

2.2. Bun Cha (Grilled Pork Noodle)

Bun cha is a traditional Vietnamese dish, particularly popular in Hanoi. It consists of grilled pork (usually pork belly or pork meatballs) served with vermicelli noodles (bun) and a side of dipping sauce.

The grilled pork is marinated with a mix of herbs and spices, then grilled over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavor that compliments the freshness of the noodles. The dish is typically served with a side of pickled vegetables, fresh herbs like mint and cilantro, and a bowl of sweet and sour dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, vinegar, and garlic.

• Average Price:VND 40,000 - 70,000 VND (USD 1.70 - 3.00)
• Where to Find bun cha in Hanoi: Bun Cha Huong Lien, Bun Cha Sinh Tu

The flavor profile of bun cha is a delightful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes, with the grilled pork adding a rich, smoky depth to the dish

2.3. Bun Moc (Vietnamese Pork and Mushroom Noodle Soup)

Bun moc is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that combines vermicelli noodles (bun) with a flavorful broth, tender pork meatballs and often mushrooms. The meatballs are made from a mixture of ground pork, sometimes with a hint of mushrooms or other seasonings, which are then boiled and served in a savory broth.

The broth is typically made from pork bones, giving it a rich and hearty flavor. The dish is often garnished with fresh herbs, cilantro, and sometimes fried shallots, adding an aromatic and crunchy texture to the soup. The taste of bun mocis comforting and mild, with the pork meatballs and broth offering a delicate savory flavor that is balanced by the freshness of herbs and the subtle earthiness of mushrooms.

• Average Price: VND 40,000 - 60,000 (USD 1.70 - 2.60)
• Where to Find bun moc in Hanoi: Bun Moc Hang Luoc, Bun Moc Thuy

It's a light yet fulfilling dish, ideal for breakfast or lunch

2.4. Cha Ca La Vong (Grilled Fish with Turmeric and Dill)

This is a famous Hanoi dish, featuring grilled fish marinated with turmeric and dill. The fish, usually catfish or snakehead fish, is cooked in a hot pan with a blend of herbs and spices. The dish is typically served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, peanuts, and a side of dipping sauce. What makes cha ca La Vong unique is its combination of the fish's rich flavor with the aromatic fragrance of turmeric and dill, creating a distinctive taste that is both savory and aromatic.

• Average Price: VND 100,000 - 200,000 (USD 4.30 - USD 8.60) per portion
• Where to find in Hanoi: Vua Cha Ca, Cha Ca Thang Long

The dish offers a wonderful mix of textures, from the soft fish to the crunchy peanuts and fresh herbs

2.5. Xoi Xeo (Sticky Rice)

Xoi xeo is a beloved traditional Vietnamese dish, often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. This dish consists of sticky rice topped with mung bean paste, crispy fried shallots, and sometimes a drizzle of oil or soy sauce. The mung beans are cooked until soft and mashed into a paste, creating a smooth and slightly sweet layer over the warm, fragrant sticky rice.

The flavor of xoi xeo is a comforting combination of the sweet, nutty taste of mung beans and the savory crunch of fried shallots. It's a simple yet satisfying dish, often served with a side of boiled chicken, pork, or even a salted egg, adding extra protein and flavor to the meal.

• Average Price: VND 15,000 - 30,000 VND (VND 0.65 - 1.30)
• Where to find in Hanoi: Xoi Yen, Xoi Xeo Hang Da

The fried shallots add a savory, crispy texture and a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mung beans

2.6. Banh Chung (Square Sticky Rice Cake)

Banh chung is a traditional Vietnamese dish, especially popular during Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations. It is a square-shaped sticky rice cake, traditionally made with glutinous rice, mung beans, and pork, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled for several hours. The filling consists of a layer of mung bean paste and pieces of pork, typically seasoned with a bit of salt and pepper, giving it a rich, savory flavor. The outer layer is made of glutinous rice, which becomes soft and sticky after cooking.

The taste of banh chung is a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors, with the richness of the pork and mung beans contrasting with the soft, slightly chewy rice. The aroma of the banana leaves infuses into the cake, adding a fragrant and earthy note.

• Average Price: VND 50,000 - 150,000 (USD 2.20- 6.50)
• Where to find in Hanoi: Banh Chung Bo Dau, Banh Chung Bac Hien

It’s a meaningful dish that brings family and friends together, especially during the Lunar New Year

3. 7+ Distinctive Dishes from Central Vietnam

3.1. Banh Nam (Vietnamese Steamed Rice Cake)

Banh nam is a traditional Vietnamese dish made with rice flour and often filled with a savory mixture of shrimp, pork, or mung beans. The filling is seasoned with a touch of fish sauce, pepper, and garlic, giving it a flavorful, slightly salty taste. The rice flour dough is steamed in banana leaves, which adds an aromatic and earthy fragrance to the dish. The texture of bánh nậm is soft and smooth, with a slight chewiness from the rice flour and a rich, savory filling.

Banh nam is typically served warm, and it’s best enjoyed with a side of fish sauce or chili sauce for extra flavor. Some people also like to add fresh herbs or pickled vegetables to enhance the taste.

• Average Price: VND 10,000 - 30,000 (USD 0.40 - 1.30)
• Where to find: Banh Nam is most famous in Thua Thien Hue with some popular places to try such as Banh Nam Ba Do, Banh Nam O Be

You can eat it with your hands by peeling away the banana leaf wrapper, making it a convenient and delicious street food

3.2. Banh Beo (Vietnamese Steamed Rice Cake)

This dish consists of small, round, steamed rice cakes made from rice flour. The cakes are topped with a variety of ingredients, often including shrimp, mung beans, crispy fried shallots, and a drizzle of fish sauce. The texture of the rice cakes is soft and slightly chewy, while the toppings add a delightful contrast of savory and crunchy flavors. The fish sauce used as a topping is often flavored with chili and garlic, enhancing the dish's overall taste.

Banh beo is typically eaten with a spoon, as it’s served in small, individual bowls. Diners often add extra fish sauce, chili, or fresh herbs according to their preferences.

• Average Price: VND 20,000 - 40,000 (USD 0.90 - 1.70)
• Where to find: Banh beo is particularly popular in Hue. Some well-known places to try include Banh Beo O Be, Banh Beo O Trinh, etc.

It is commonly enjoyed as a snack or appetizer

3.3. Banh Loc (Vietnamese Tapioca Cake)

This dish is made from tapioca flour, resulting in a translucent, chewy wrapper that encloses a savory filling. The filling usually consists of shrimp, pork, or a combination of both, along with seasonings like fish sauce, garlic, and pepper. The chewy exterior contrasts nicely with the soft and flavorful filling. Banh loc is often served with fried shallots and a side of fish sauce or chili dipping sauce to enhance its flavor.

To enjoy, simply peel off the banana leaf wrapper and dip the cake into the sauce. The cake is best consumed warm, and it’s often paired with other traditional dishes for a complete meal.

• Average Price: VND 20,000 - 40,000 (USD 0.90 - 1.70)
• Where to find: Banh loc is most famous in Hue with some recommended places to try include Banh Loc Hue Ba Van, Quan Banh Bot Loc Hue Xua

Banh loc is typically eaten as a snack or appetizer and is best enjoyed with a side of fish sauce or chili

3.4. Banh Khoai (Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes)

Banh Khoai is a signature dish in Hue. It consists of a crispy, golden-brown pancake made from a batter of rice flour, water, and turmeric, which gives it its distinctive yellow color. The pancake is filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and sometimes mushrooms. It is often served with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a flavorful dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and chili.

The pancake itself is crispy on the outside, while the filling is savory and juicy. The fresh herbs and dipping sauce provide a perfect balance of flavors, combining savory, sweet, and tangy notes.

• Average Price: VND 30,000 - 60,000 (USD 1.30 - 2.60)
• Where to find: Banh Khoai Kim Long, Banh Khoai Hong Mai

The combination of the crunchy pancake and the fresh herbs makes for a delicious and satisfying bite

3.5. Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)

Mi Quang is especially popular in Da Nang. It features wide rice noodles served with a flavorful broth made from chicken, pork, or shrimp, along with a variety of fresh vegetables such as herbs, peanuts, and crispy rice crackers.

The broth is light but rich, often flavored with turmeric and fish sauce, giving it a vibrant yellow color and a savory, aromatic taste. The noodles are topped with crunchy peanuts and fried rice crackers, adding texture and enhancing the dish's overall flavor. You can mix the noodles with the broth, vegetables, and toppings to get a balanced bite. The crispy rice crackers are typically broken up and added directly to the noodles for crunch.

• Average Price: VND 30,000 - 60,000 (USD 1.30 - 2.60)
• Where to find: Mi Quang Ba Mua, Mi Quang Bep Trang

Mi Quang is known for its balance of flavors

3.6. Cao Lau (Hoi An-style Noodles)

Cao Lau is a famous noodle dish from Hoi An, known for its unique combination of chewy noodles, savory broth, and toppings such as slices of pork, crispy pork skin, fresh herbs, and bean sprouts. The noodles are made from rice, but unlike typical Vietnamese rice noodles, they are soaked in water from a specific well in Hoi An, giving them a distinct texture and flavor.

The broth is rich but light, often flavored with a hint of cinnamon and star anise, and is served with pork, often accompanied by crispy pork skin for added crunch. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs, which balance the savory flavors. The taste of cao lau is a harmonious mix of savory, herbal, and slightly sweet notes, complemented by the chewy texture of the noodles and the crunch of the pork skin.

• Average Price: VND 30,000 to 60,000 (USD 1.30 - 2.60)
• Where to find: Cao Lau Hoi An, Cao Lau Di Hat

The dish can be enjoyed with a squeeze of lime and a drizzle of chili sauce to adjust the flavor to personal taste

3.7. Bun Bo (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)

Bun bo is a classic Vietnamese noodle soup, particularly popular in Hue. The dish consists of rice noodles, served in a rich and aromatic broth made from simmered beef bones, lemongrass, ginger, and spices such as cinnamon and star anise.

The soup is typically topped with tender slices of beef (often including both brisket and oxtail) and sometimes pork, and garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili for added flavor and freshness. The broth is savory and slightly spicy, with a deep, fragrant flavor that distinguishes it from other Vietnamese noodle soups.

• Average Price: VND 30,000 to 60,000 (USD 1.30 to 2.60)
• Where to find: Bun Bo Sen, Bun Bo Me Keo

Bun bo has a distinct flavor profile that balances savory, spicy, and aromatic elements, making it a satisfying and flavorful meal

4. 4+ Must-Try Dishes in Southern Vietnam

4.1. Com Tam (Broken Rice)

Com Tam is especially popular in Ho Chi Minh City and the southern regions. It is made from broken rice grains, which are softer and have a slightly different texture compared to regular rice. The dish is often served with grilled pork (either pork chop, shredded pork, or pork skin) and accompanied by a variety of sides like pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and sometimes a fried egg.

The pork is marinated with a blend of fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and lemongrass, giving it a sweet, savory, and aromatic flavor. The combination of the tender grilled pork and the slightly sticky rice creates a satisfying and delicious meal. The taste of com tam is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, with the grilled pork providing richness and the rice offering a soft, fragrant base.

• Average Price: VND 30,000 to 60,000 (USD 1.30 to 2.60)
• Where to find: Com Tam Ba Ghien, Com Tam Co Nhi

You can mix the rice with the grilled pork and any sides, or enjoy the ingredients separately

4.2. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)

Banh Mi is an iconic street food that blends French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. The sandwich is made with a crispy, airy baguette filled with a variety of ingredients such as grilled pork, chicken, or pate, along with pickled vegetables (carrots and daikon), cilantro, cucumber, and chili. The combination of crunchy bread, savory fillings, and fresh, tangy pickled vegetables creates a harmonious balance of flavors. Additionally, bánh mì can be customized with various meats or vegetarian options, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.

The flavor of banh mi is a delightful fusion of textures and tastes – the crispy baguette contrasts with the tender meats and crunchy vegetables, while the pickled veggies provide a refreshing tanginess. It is usually eaten with hands, making it a convenient and portable option for a quick meal.

• Average Price: VND 15,000 to 30,000 (USD 1.30 to 2.00)
• Where to find: Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, Banh Mi Phuong

It’s typically served as a snack or light lunch and can be eaten with extra chili for a spicier kick

4.3. Hu Tieu (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Hu Tieu is a popular noodle soup from the southern regions of Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. The dish is made with a variety of rice noodles (thin or wide) served in a rich, savory broth, which can be made from pork, beef, or seafood.

The broth is typically clear, light, and flavorful, with ingredients like garlic, onion, and herbs. Toppings often include thinly sliced meats (such as pork, shrimp, or beef), fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and fried shallots. The soup is often served with lime and chili on the side, allowing for customization in terms of sourness and spiciness.

• Average Price: VND 25,000 - 50,000 (USD 1.10 - 2.20)
• Where to find: Hu Tieu Sai Gon Xua, Hu Tieu Nam Vang Thanh Dat

It is a versatile dish, with different variations across Vietnam, and can be enjoyed as a hearty meal

4.4. Canh Chua (Vietnamese Sour Soup)

Canh chua is a quintessential Vietnamese sour soup, particularly famous in the Mekong Delta region. The soup is made with a base of tamarind, which provides its signature sour flavor. It typically includes fish (often catfish or tilapia), vegetables like pineapple, tomato, and okra, and is flavored with herbs such as lemongrass, garlic, and chili. The broth is light and tangy, with a perfect balance of sour, savory, and spicy flavors. Canh chua is often served with a bowl of steamed rice to balance its strong flavors.

The taste of canh chua is refreshing, tangy, and slightly spicy, with the sourness of tamarind complementing the richness of the fish and the sweetness of the pineapple and tomatoes. It’s often enjoyed as a main dish in a meal, especially during hot weather, thanks to its light and refreshing qualities.

• Average Price: VND 30,000 to 60,000 (USD 1.30 to 2.60)
• Where to find: Quan Com Nha Ca, Quan Com 69

Canh chua is typically eaten with a spoon, accompanied by steamed rice

5. 3+ Tips for Enjoying Traditional Vietnamese Dishes Like A Local

When traveling to Vietnam, enjoying the local cuisine is an essential part of the experience. To truly savor the authentic flavors and get the most out of your meals, it's important to immerse yourself in the culture of Vietnamese dining. Here are some tips to help you enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes like a local:

Choose reputable and popular restaurants Ask locals for recommendations, check reviews on Google, and explore Michelin-starred eateries to ensure you're tasting high-quality, authentic dishes. These places often have the freshest ingredients and are trusted by both locals and tourists alike.

Enjoy with the right condiments Vietnamese dishes often come with an array of condiments such as fish sauce, chili, lime, and fresh herbs. Be sure to ask the restaurant staff how to mix and add these condiments to enhance the flavors. Each dish has its own ideal combination, and locals usually have a specific way of enjoying them.

Respect local customs and eating etiquette Vietnamese meals are often social and shared experiences, so it's important to follow local dining etiquette. This might include eating with chopsticks, not mixing your food too much, and avoiding certain behaviors like wasting food. Observing how locals enjoy their meals can guide you in respecting their culinary traditions and customs.

The Vietnamese national dish is a true representation of the country’s culinary diversity and history. Whether enjoyed in a bustling city or a small village, it brings people together and showcases the incredible flavors that define Vietnamese cuisine. Sampling this dish is not just about tasting food, but about connecting with the culture and spirit of Vietnam itself.

To try Vietnamese National Dish, book your Flight to Vietnam with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.