Vietnam is a foodie’s paradise. But where do you even start? Let me guide you to the 15 best foods in Vietnam that I’ve personally savored, from the street corners of Hanoi to the beaches of Da Nang. Each bite tells a story, and trust me, you’ll want to hear them all.

1. Pho

What’s Vietnam without pho?

This iconic noodle soup is more than just a dish—it’s a way of life. The broth, simmered for hours with beef bones, star anise, and cinnamon, is a masterpiece. Whether you prefer pho bo (beef) or pho ga (chicken), the flavors will warm your soul. You’ll find the best pho in Hanoi, where the dish originates.

2. Banh Mi

Is a sandwich ever just a sandwich?

Not in Vietnam. Banh mi is a symphony of textures and flavors: crusty French baguette, creamy pate, savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Every region has its twist, but I swear by the banh mi pate in Hoi An. It’s the real deal.

3. Bun Cha

Ever heard of Obama’s favorite Vietnamese dish?

Yes, it’s bun cha! Grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. Pair it with crispy spring rolls, and you’ll know why it’s a Hanoi lunchtime classic.

4. Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)

Looking for something light and refreshing?

These transparent rolls are stuffed with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and fresh herbs. Dip them into peanut or hoisin sauce, and you’ll experience a flavor explosion. They’re perfect for hot days in Saigon.

5. Cao Lau

What makes Hoi An’s cao lau so special?

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The noodles, which are said to be cooked with water from a specific ancient well, have a unique chewy texture. Add slices of pork, fresh greens, and crispy croutons, and you’ve got a dish steeped in history and flavor.

6. Banh Xeo

Ever tried a sizzling pancake?

Banh xeo is a crispy, turmeric-flavored crepe filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Wrap it in lettuce, dip it in fish sauce, and enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy and savory.

7. Com Tam (Broken Rice)

Think broken rice is just leftovers? Think again.

Com tam, often served with grilled pork chop, pickled veggies, and a fried egg, is comfort food at its finest. The street vendors in Ho Chi Minh City nail it every time.

8. Bun Bo Hue

Want a spicy kick?

Bun bo Hue, a fiery beef noodle soup from Hue, is packed with bold flavors. The lemongrass-infused broth, thick noodles, and chunks of beef will leave you wanting more.

9. Chao (Rice Porridge)

Need something soothing?

This simple dish is a lifesaver when you’re under the weather. Topped with shredded chicken, green onions, and fried shallots, chao feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

10. Hu Tieu

Ever had noodles that melt in your mouth?

This Southern-style dish can be served as a soup or dry. Topped with pork, seafood, and herbs, hu tieu is a light yet satisfying meal. The street carts in the Mekong Delta serve it best.

11. Nem Ran/Cha Gio (Fried Spring Rolls)

Who doesn’t love a good crunch?

These golden rolls are packed with pork, mushrooms, and vermicelli, then fried to perfection. Dip them into nuoc cham (fish sauce), and you’re in heaven.

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12. Banh Cuon

Ever eaten steamed heaven?

These soft rice rolls, filled with ground pork and wood-ear mushrooms, are a Northern specialty. Topped with fried shallots and served with a sweet fish sauce, banh cuon is a must-try breakfast.

13. Che (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)

Got a sweet tooth?

Che is Vietnam’s answer to dessert cravings. From mung bean pudding to coconut tapioca, there’s a version for everyone. My favorite? Che ba mau, a three-colored delight!

14. Ca Kho To (Caramelized Fish in Clay Pot)

Looking for something rich and savory?

This Southern specialty features catfish simmered in a clay pot with caramel sauce and fish sauce. The result? A deeply flavorful dish best paired with steamed rice.

15. Banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese Pizza)

What’s Vietnam’s take on pizza?

A crispy rice paper base topped with egg, pork floss, and scallions. Banh trang nuong is street food genius. It’s cheap, quick, and ridiculously tasty—perfect for an evening snack.

Vietnam’s food is as diverse as its landscapes. Whether you’re slurping noodles in Hanoi or munching on banh mi in Hoi An, every dish has a story to tell. At TravelersNetwork, we believe food is the best way to connect with a country—and Vietnam’s culinary scene is one you won’t forget.

So, which dish are you trying first? Let us know!