Vietnam is celebrated for its vibrant and diverse cuisine. From the iconic Pho to savoury Banh Mi, each region offers its own specialty dishes that reflect local traditions and make Vietnamese food culture an essential part of every visit. 

With a focus on balancing opposing flavours, Vietnamese cuisine uses the pillars of sweet, salty, bitter, sour and spicy. Key ingredients in a lot of their iconic dishes include lemongrass, ginger, Saigon cinnamon, chilli, lime and Thai basil leaves. The influence of French culture still looms large in the modern Vietnamese food scene, most obvious in the established coffee culture and baguettes sold on every corner. 

One of the great things about eating out in Vietnam is the price! Of course, prices vary depending on where and how you dine, but typically, you can enjoy a hearty bowl of Pho or a Banh Mi for as little as 20,000 to 60,000 VND (approximately $1 to $3 AUD).

If immersing in the food scene is your favourite way to experience a new culture, why not try food-focused travel like our Vietnam Foodie Tour? Or if you’re looking for some top tips on what to check out when you’re there, here are our hottest foodie highlights:

 

Banh Mi

You can’t miss out on a Banh Mi for an authentic taste of Vietnam. This delicious sandwich is a harmonious blend of Vietnamese and French influences and features a crispy, airy baguette filled with a variety of flavours. Each vendor or region has their own unique version, packed with locally sourced ingredients like savoury marinated pork, rich paté, tangy pickled vegetables like carrots and daikon, fresh cucumber and a sprinkle of coriander, all balanced with a hint of chilli and mayonnaise. 

To enhance the experience, pair your Bánh Mì with a strong Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phw Sua Da). The coffee’s rich, bold taste, sweetened with condensed milk perfectly complements the sandwich’s savoury flavours. Whether you’re enjoying it from a bustling street stall or a cosy café, this meal captures the essence of Vietnam’s street food culture.

If your tour of Vietnam takes you to Ho Chi Minh City, make sure you try the local twist on this classic: Banh Mi Saigon in your leisure time.

 

Pho 

Originating in northern Vietnam, Phở is a fragrant and comforting noodle soup that has become one of the country’s most iconic dishes. Typically made with either beef (Phở Bò) or chicken (Phở Gà), the broth is slow-cooked for hours to develop its rich, aromatic flavours, with the addition of star anise, cinnamon and herbs. The dish is then served with flat rice noodles, fresh herbs, lime and chilli, making it a perfect balance of savoury, spicy and refreshing elements.

Phở is best enjoyed with a side of bean sprouts and a squeeze of lime, though many locals also add a touch of chilli or hoisin sauce for extra depth. While it’s often eaten as a hearty breakfast, you’ll find it served throughout the day in restaurants and street stalls across the country. It’s a versatile meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a light snack like Vietnamese spring rolls.

 

Goi Cuon 

A must-try in Vietnam, Goi Cuon is a fresh spring roll wrapped in delicate rice paper and packed with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles and a mix of fresh herbs. Unlike their fried counterparts, these rolls are served fresh and are typically accompanied by a rich peanut or a tangy fish dipping sauce. Presentation is key and you’ll often find Goi Cuon served with beautifully arranged herbs and crisp vegetables.

If you want to thank your cook after enjoying this delicious dish, you can politely say “Cam on” in Vietnamese.

 

Bun Cha 

Bun Cha is a beloved Vietnamese dish from Hanoi. It consists of grilled pork patties and slices of marinated pork belly served over a bed of rice noodles. The dish is accompanied by a fragrant dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar and sugar, along with fresh herbs and crispy vegetables. The grilled meat’s smoky flavour perfectly complements the lightness of the noodles and the freshness of the herbs.

Sampling Bun Cha is a must when exploring the culinary scene in Vietnam, particularly in its capital, where this dish is especially popular. Learn more about this amazing city in our post 5 Reasons We Love Vietnam. 

 

Cao Lau

When exploring the culinary treasures of Vietnam, don’t miss out on Cao Lau, a unique noodle dish from the historic town of Hoi An. This classic dish features thick rice noodles topped with marinated pork, fresh herbs and crispy croutons, all served in a fragrant broth. Find it in restaurants that line the ancient streets of this charming riverside town.

 

If you’re eager to indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine, embark on an unforgettable journey with TripADeal through our incredible Vietnam packages! We ensure you experience the best of local flavours and culture and with every booking, you also have the opportunity to earn Qantas Points. Discover the essence of Vietnam with us!