all the foods - Vietnam
Here you will find a list of all the traditional cuisine we tried in Vietnam.
Click to jump to one of the sections:
soups
phở
the Vietnamese noodle soup
What is it?
Phở is Vietnam's national dish, a savory noodle soup that has become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. The term "phở" specifically refers to the flat rice noodles used in the dish. Originating in northern Vietnam, the traditional version features a light and subtle broth. In contrast, southern variations tend to be richer and sweeter
What’s in it?
Phở Noodles: Flat rice noodles known as bánh phở.
A clear, aromatic broth made by simmering beef or chicken bones with spices such as cinnamon, star anise, cloves, cardamom, and coriander.
Traditionally made with sliced beef or chicken. Garnished with herbs like cilantro and Thai basil, bean sprouts, lime wedges and chili
Where can I eat it?
Phở is ubiquitous in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi, where it's served in numerous restaurants. It's also widely available throughout the country, with various regional differences. We enjoyed a good chicken phở at Phở Gà 26 in Hanoi.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free. Vegetarian & vegan versions available.
bún thang
delicate vietnamese soup from hanoi
What is it?
Bún Thang is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup from Hanoi, renowned for its delicate broth and intricate layers of flavours and toppings. Often called "Hanoi's ladder," it was historically made using leftover ingredients from Lunar New Year celebrations.
What’s in it?
The broth is typically made with chicken and dried shrimp. Bún (rice vermicelli noodles) are added, along with shredded poached chicken, thinly sliced chả lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage), finely cut egg strips, and sometimes shrimp floss. It is garnished with fresh herbs such as Vietnamese coriander and green onions.
Where can I eat it?
Bún Thang is a staple in Hanoi’s culinary scene and is easy to find in the city. However, it is much harder to find outside northern Vietnam. We again had a good one at Phở Gà 26 in Hanoi.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang
Cambodian style breakfast noodle soup
What is it?
Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang is a Vietnamese dish featuring Hủ Tiếu noodles (thin, flat noodles made from rice flour). "Nam Vang" refers to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, so the name translates to "Phnom Penh rice noodles." It’s a popular breakfast dish, particularly in southern Vietnam.
What’s in it?
The dish consists of Hủ Tiếu noodles served in a savory broth made from pork bones and sometimes shrimp. Soy sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet flavor. The protein options include Chả lụa (sliced Vietnamese sausage), pork liver, prawns, and quail eggs. It is garnished with garlic and spring onions, and served with vegetables. Additional toppings such as bean sprouts, lettuce, and Chinese celery can be added to taste.
Where can I eat it?
Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang is widely popular and easy to find in Saigon and throughout the southern regions of Vietnam.
Dairy free. Usually gluten free.
Súp bắp cua
corn and crab soup
What is it?
Súp bắp cua is a Vietnamese soup that can be found at some restaurants or as a street food. Translating to "corn and crab soup," it is a classic comfort dish. The soup is savoury, thick, and smooth, thanks to the inclusion of tapioca or corn-starch.
What’s in it?
Crab meat, sweetcorn, and beaten eggs in a chicken or pork stock broth, thickened with tapioca or cornstarch for its signature consistency. Fish sauce is added for flavour, and it is often garnished with coriander and crispy shallots.
Where can I eat it?
It occasionally appears at street food markets—the one pictured was from Da Lat Night Market. It’s not a particularly common dish, so you’ll need to keep an eye out for it!
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free
mì quảng
yellow noodle soup
What is it?
Mì Quảng (sometimes spelled mỳ Quảng) is a noodle dish from Quảng Nam province in Central Vietnam. It consists of thick yellow rice noodles served with a small amount of savoury, flavourful broth and served with various meat options. The dish is topped with crushed peanuts and a piece of bánh tráng mè (sesame rice cracker) for added texture.
What’s in it?
Thick, flat rice noodles coloured yellow with turmeric, a broth typically made from chicken or pork stock with turmeric, fish sauce, garlic, and lemongrass. It can include pork, chicken, or prawns and is finished with crushed peanuts and a piece of bánh tráng mè (sesame rice cracker).
Where can I eat it?
It’s readily available throughout Vietnam, especially in the central region and larger cities like Da Nang. That said, we had a good one at Bún Bò Huế Tuyết in Da Lat, where they also serve other excellent noodle dishes.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bún riêu
crab noodles soup
What is it?
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup with a tangy tomato-based broth, made using paddy crabs from rice paddies. The crabs are pounded into a paste, strained, and combined with tomatoes to form the base of the broth. The crab meat is then mixed with egg and sometimes other things like shrimp or pork to create riêu, a type of crab cake.
What’s in it?
Paddy crabs, bún (rice vermicelli noodles), tomatoes, onion, tamarind, pork broth, fish sauce, mắm tôm (fermented shrimp paste), tofu, and coriander for garnish. It's typically served with optional sides like bean sprouts, lettuce, lime, and chilli.
Where can I eat it?
It’s widely available across Vietnam and shouldn’t be hard to find. It originates from northern Vietnam, where it is especially popular.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bún mọc
meatball soup
What is it?
A northern Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of bún (vermicelli noodles) and mọc (pork meatballs) in a clear, savoury pork broth.
What’s in it?
The broth is made from pork stock, while the meatballs are a mixture of pork, minced shallots, wood ear mushrooms, and fish sauce. It’s garnished with spring onions and coriander.
Where can I eat it?
It’s more common in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi, but can be found elsewhere in the country. For instance, we had a good one in Da Lat in the south.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
cao lầu
Hội An noodle soupi
What is it?
Cao lầu is a Vietnamese noodle dish from Hội An. The noodles are traditionally made with lye water from a well in Hội An, giving them a uniquely chewy texture. It has much less broth than most Vietnamese noodle dishes, but what little there is packs a rich and delicious flavour. It’s usually served with char siu-style pork and topped with crunchy deep-fried crackers made from the same rice flour as the noodles.
What’s in it?
Cao lầu noodles (thick rice flour noodles made with lye water), a small but intensely flavoured amount of pork stock broth seasoned with soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and star anise. The dish is topped with char siu-style pork, crispy cao lầu crackers, fried shallots, peanuts, lettuce, bean sprouts, and coriander. It’s often served with optional chilli and lime for extra flavour.
Where can I eat it?
It’s really only available in Hội An, so be sure to try it while you’re there! If you’re not visiting Hội An, you might find it in Da Nang, where we spotted it a few times, including at Đặc sản Đà Nẵng.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bún bò Huế
spicy noodle soup
What is it?
A famous spicy and savoury beef noodle soup from Huế, the former capital of Vietnam. It’s generally a bit spicier than most Vietnamese noodle soups.
What’s in it?
Sliced beef (sometimes with other meats), bún (vermicelli noodles), and a broth made from beef stock, lemongrass, shrimp paste, fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and chilli. It’s usually garnished with coriander and spring onions and served with lime wedges, bean sprouts, and greens.
Where can I eat it?
Bún Bò Huế is widely available throughout Vietnam, but it’s especially common in its birthplace, Huế, where it’s simply called Bún Bò.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bún chả cá
fish cake soup
What is it?
Not to be confused with Bún Chả, Bún Chả Cá is a vermicelli noodle soup featuring Vietnamese fish cakes (chả cá), which are made from ground fish.
What’s in it?
The broth is made with pork or fish stock, fish sauce, tomatoes, pineapple, garlic, and shallots. It includes bún (vermicelli noodles) and chả cá (Vietnamese fish cakes), garnished with coriander and spring onion. It is usually served with a side of fresh vegetables, such as lettuce, coriander, and bean sprouts, along with chili and lime for extra flavour.
Where can I eat it?
Bún Chả Cá is most popular in Central Vietnam and coastal cities like Nha Trang, but it can be found throughout the country. We had a good one in Da Nang at Bún Chả Cá Bà Trang.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bún mắm
fermented fish paste soup
What is it?
Bún Mắm is a noodle soup made with fermented fish paste, giving it a strong umami flavour. It’s not for everyone, but if you enjoy rich, intensely flavoured dishes like I do, it’s well worth seeking out.
What’s in it?
Bún (vermicelli noodles) served in a broth made from pork or chicken stock, fermented fish paste, sugar, lemongrass, garlic, and shallots. The dish can include pork, fish, squid, prawns, and aubergine. It’s often served with additional greens, bean sprouts, banana blossom, chilli, lime, and extra fermented fish paste to adjust the flavour to taste.
Where can I eat it?
Originally from southern Vietnam, specifically the Mekong Delta, Bún Mắm can still be found in most large cities outside the South. We had a good one in Hanoi at Bún Mắm Cô Hai Thu.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
savoury pancakes, rolls & wraps
bánh nậm
steamed rice cakes
What is it?
Bánh Nậm are flat, rectangular, soft rice cakes from Huế, traditionally steamed in banana leaves.
What’s in it?
The cake is made primarily from rice flour, though some recipes include tapioca flour for added texture. It’s topped with minced pork or shrimp, fried shallots, garlic, and fish sauce. Traditionally, it is steamed and served in a banana leaf, accompanied by nước chấm (classic dipping sauce) for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
As a Huế speciality, Bánh Nậm is easy to find in central Vietnam. It can also be found in other regions, particularly in restaurants specialising in Huế cuisine, but you may have to search for it!
Vegetarian and vegan versions available. Dairy & gluten free.
bánh bèo
steamed rice cakes
What is it?
Bánh bèo are small steamed rice cakes with a slightly chewy, enjoyable texture, made from a mix of rice and tapioca flour. They’re typically topped with dried shrimp and served with a dipping sauce. The name means "water fern cake" in English, and the dish originated from Huế.
What’s in it?
The cakes are made from rice flour and tapioca flour. Common toppings include ground fried shrimp, crispy pork crackling or skin, and fried shallots. They’re usually served with nước chấm for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
Bánh bèo can be found throughout Vietnam, but it’s much more common and easier to find in central regions, especially Huế.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bánh bột lọc
shrimp, tapioca dumpling
What is it?
A translucent, chewy tapioca dumpling from Huế, filled with shrimp and pork, topped with crispy shallots, and served with nước chấm for dipping.
What’s in it?
The dumpling dough is made from tapioca flour and water. The filling consists of shrimp, pork, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, and sugar. It's typically topped with fried shallots or spring onions and served with nước chấm.
Where can I eat it?
Like many Huế specialities, it's most commonly found in central Vietnam. However, it can also be found in other regions, particularly in restaurants that specialise in Huế cuisine.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bánh xèo
Savoury panckake
What is it?
Bánh Xèo, often called a Vietnamese pancake or crêpe, is known for its interactive dining experience. There are two main styles: a larger folded pancake filled with various ingredients and smaller, open-faced versions with toppings. Typically, pieces are cut up with scissors, wrapped in rice paper with fresh vegetables, and dipped in sauce before eating.
What’s in it?
The batter is made from rice flour, turmeric (which gives it its yellow colour), and water or sometimes coconut milk. Common fillings or toppings include pork or shrimp, bean sprouts, and spring onions.
Where can I eat it?
Bánh Xèo is found throughout Vietnam, with notable regional variations. In central Vietnam, particularly in Huế, the pancakes are typically smaller and served open-faced. In Hanoi, recommended places include Bánh Xèo Tôm Nhảy Thanh Sang and Bánh Bún Bò.
Dairy free. Vegetarian and vegan versions available.
nem lụi
minced meat kebabs
What is it?
Nem Lụi is a traditional Vietnamese dish from Huế, made of seasoned minced pork molded around lemongrass stalks and grilled over charcoal. It's typically enjoyed by wrapping the skewers in rice paper with fresh herbs and vegetables, then dipping them into a sauce.
What’s in it?
Minced pork mixed with fish sauce, pepper, sugar, garlic, and shallots, wrapped around lemongrass stalks. It’s served with rice paper for wrapping, along with fresh herbs such as lettuce, perilla leaves, and mint, as well as sliced cucumber and pickled vegetables. A thick peanut dipping sauce accompanies the dish.
Where can I eat it?
Nem Lụi is widely available in central Vietnam, particularly in Huế, often at restaurants that also serve Bánh Xèo, as both dishes are eaten in a similar way. We also found it in Hanoi, where one restaurant serving it was Bánh Xèo Tôm Nhảy Thanh Sang.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bò lá lốt
beef wrapped in lá lốt leaves
What is it?
Bò lá lốt is a dish made with minced beef and spices, wrapped in lá lốt leaves, which have a peppery and slightly medicinal flavor. These leaves are sometimes mistakenly referred to as betel leaves, though they are related. The wrapped beef is grilled, imparting a smoky aroma to the dish. It’s typically served with rice paper rolls and a variety of fresh vegetables like cucumber, lettuce, and beansprouts, which are used to wrap the grilled beef and then dipped in Nước chấm sauce.
What’s in it?
The dish features lá lốt leaves used for wrapping. The filling consists of minced beef, garlic, lemongrass, and a blend of spices. It is often topped with fried shallots and crushed peanuts, and sometimes a tangy, sweet mayonnaise is added (as seen in the picture). If served in a wrap form, it usually comes with rice paper rolls and vegetables like cucumber, lettuce, and beansprouts. The typical dipping sauce is classic Nước chấm.
Where can I eat it?
Bò lá lốt is popular across Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City, where it can be found at various eateries, including Bò lá lốt Phương - Cô Giang.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bánh cuốn
rice paper wraps
What is it?
Bánh cuốn is a delicate and delicious dish from northern Vietnam, though it’s enjoyed throughout the country. It consists of thin, steamed rice batter wrapped around fillings, usually minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. The dish is served with the classic Vietnamese dipping sauce, nước chấm, and garnished with crispy shallots. It can also be accompanied by sides such as Chả lụa (Vietnamese pork sausage) or fried tofu (as pictured). Bánh cuốn is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack.
What’s in it?
The rice batter is made from rice flour, tapioca flour, oil, and salt. The filling contains minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, shallots, and garlic. It’s often served with tofu and Chả lụa on the side, with Nước chấm for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
While it’s a northern specialty, you can find Bánh cuốn at restaurants that specialize in the dish throughout Vietnam. We had a fantastic version at 'Bánh cuốn nóng' in Hanoi, where they also offer a less traditional option with chicken.
Dairy free. Vegetarian versions available
bánh căn
mini savoury rice cakes
What is it?
A small savoury rice flour cake with various toppings, cooked in round moulds that give it its final shape. The dish is crispy on the outside yet soft in the middle.
What’s in it?
The cakes are made from rice flour, water, and turmeric, giving them a distinct yellow hue. Common toppings include egg, spring onion, minced pork, and shrimp. They are typically served with dipping sauces such as fish sauce or a meatball broth.
Where can I eat it?
While available throughout Vietnam, bánh căn is more commonly found in the south, particularly in places like Da Lat.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free. Vegetarian versions available.
phở cuốn
pho noodle rolls
What is it?
Phở Cuốn consists of uncut sheets of phở noodles wrapped around a filling of stir-fried beef and vegetables, served with nước chấm
What’s in it?
Phở noodle sheets, beef stir-fried with garlic, oyster sauce, and fish sauce, lettuce, and herbs like coriander, mint, and Thai basil. It's usually served with nước chấm for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
It's mainly a Hanoi specialty, though you may find it in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City if you look hard enough. We had a great version in Hanoi at Quan Goc Da, which specializes in deep-fried dishes, so these fresh rolls were a nice break from all the grease.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bánh khọt
small savoury pancakes
What is it?
Bánh khọt are small, savoury Vietnamese pancakes, each typically topped with a whole prawn. Similar to bánh xèo but smaller and thicker, these small delicious morsels are traditionally wrapped in fresh greens and herbs or rice paper before being dipped in a tangy nước chấm. Due to their small size, they are convenient to eat without the need for cutting. Some menus may elaborately name them "dragon's eggs."
What’s in it?
The batter is made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. Each pancake is topped with a prawn, accompanied by spring onions and crispy shallots. They are served with rice paper or greens for wrapping, along with fresh greens like lettuce, mustard leaves, coriander, perilla, and mint. A classic nước chấm dipping sauce complements the dish.
Where can I eat it?
Originating from southern Vietnam, bánh khọt is more commonly found in that region. However, it is also available in some central and northern Vietnamese restaurants. We had good ones in In Hanoi at Banh Bun Bo who also serve bánh xèo.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
gỏi cuốn
fresh shrimp spring rolls
What is it?
Also known as summer rolls in English, Gỏi cuốn are fresh spring rolls made with rice paper and filled with a mix of herbs, protein, and vermicelli noodles. They are typically served with a dipping sauce.
What’s in it?
The rolls are made with bánh tráng (rice paper) and traditionally filled with prawns or pork, along with bún (vermicelli noodles), lettuce, and coriander. Other ingredients can be added depending on the region. They are usually served with nước chấm or a peanut-based sauce.
Where can I eat it?
They are widely available across Vietnam, both as street food and in restaurants. In the North, they are usually called Nem cuốn, while in the South, they are known as Gỏi cuốn.
Dairy & gluten free. Vegetarian & vegan versions available.
rice dishes
cơm tấm
broken rice with toppings
What is it?
Cơm tấm means "broken rice". Originally eaten by poor farmers, since broken rice grains were once considered inferior and unsellable, it has since become a beloved dish in Vietnam, especially in the south. The broken rice has a slightly softer texture than regular rice and is typically served with delicious grilled pork (sườn nướng), egg, various vegetables, and the ubiquitous nước chấm. However, in this dish, nước chấm is not for dipping but for pouring over the rice.
What’s in it?
Light and fluffy broken rice, grilled pork (sườn nướng), either a fried egg or omelette, shredded pork skin (bì), which has a pleasantly chewy texture, pickled vegetables like carrot and daikon, and nước chấm to drizzle over the dish.
Where can I eat it?
Cơm tấm is fairly easy to find throughout Vietnam but is especially popular in the south, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a must-try when visiting Vietnam.
Dairy free.
xôi
sticky rice and toppings
What is it?
Xôi is Vietnamese sticky rice, which can be either savoury or sweet. It comes in a wide variety of bright colours depending on the ingredients and is most commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack.
What’s in it?
Savoury xôi can be topped with a variety of ingredients, such as chicken floss, chả lụa (Vietnamese sausage), quail eggs, and fried shallots, usually drizzled with soy sauce. Sweet xôi is often cooked with coconut milk, with corn and grated coconut mixed in, and typically topped with sugar and sesame seeds or peanuts. The rice itself can also be coloured naturally, red from gấc fruit, blue from butterfly pea flower extract, yellow from turmeric, or purple from the magenta plant.
Where can I eat it?
Xôi is popular throughout Vietnam, with savoury versions being more common in the north, sweeter ones in the south, and the central region offering more colourful varieties of both. It is widely available as street food, in markets, and even in shops. We had it a couple of times as street food in Da Lat in the evening and also at Xôi Yến restaurant in Hanoi.
Dairy & gluten free. Vegetarian & vegan versions available.
cơm gà
fragrant chicken rice
What is it?
Literally "rice" (Cơm) and "chicken" (Gà), which sums it up well. It typically comes with either roasted or shredded chicken, served over rice cooked in chicken broth for extra flavour.
What’s in it?
Chicken, rice, and chicken broth form the base, with ginger, garlic, and spring onions. Sometimes, turmeric is added to the rice for colour and flavour. It’s served with nước chấm for dipping, along with pickled vegetables and cucumber.
Where can I eat it?
Cơm Gà is available throughout Vietnam, with slight regional variations. We had a great one in Da Nang at Cơm Tấm Út Vân, which has a huge menu with plenty of Vietnamese dishes to try.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
street food & snacks
bánh mì
the Vietnamese sandwich
What is it?
Bánh mì, at its core, is a Vietnamese baguette sandwich, but it’s far more than just that. It's one of the world’s greatest sandwiches, it reflects a fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. Introduced by the French during the colonial era, the baguette was transformed into a unique and amazing street food staple by the Vietnamese. The fillings are incredibly versatile, including an array of meats, vegetables, and sauces.
What’s in it?
The baguette itself is distinct, made with a mix of rice and wheat flour, giving it a lighter, airier texture and a crispier crust compared to a classic French baguette. Traditional fillings include:
Butter
Mayonnaise
Chả lụa (Vietnamese sausage)
Thit Nguoi (cured cold cuts)
Pâté
Pork or chicken floss
Pickled carrot and daikon
Fresh coriander
Cucumber
Soy sauce
Other variations feature fried eggs (Bánh mìOp La), meatballs in tomato sauce (xíu mại), tofu, chili sauces, and many others. Every city in Vietnam often has a unique version of Bánh mì, maybe we'll do a future guide listing them all (a good excuse to eat more Bánh mì)
Where can I eat it?
Banh Mi is ubiquitous in Vietnam, available from street vendors, food carts, and specialist restaurants. Whether you're in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or a small village, you'll find it available!
Dairy free. Vegetarian & vegan versions available.
nem chua rán
deep fried battered pork rolls
What is it?
Nem Chua Rán are deep-fried fermented pork rolls coated in batter. The pork is fermented in banana leaves, giving it a distinctive tangy flavour before being battered and fried. It’s typically served with a spicy dipping sauce.
What’s in it?
Minced pork seasoned with garlic, sugar, and salt. Before frying, the fermented pork is coated in a batter made from wheat flour and cornstarch. It is usually served with chilli sauce for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
Nem Chua Rán is especially popular in Hanoi, where it’s widely available as a street food snack or side dish. We had some good ones as a side dish at Bún Bò Nam Bộ in Hanoi.
Dairy free.
bánh chưng rán
fried sticky rice cake
What is it?
Bánh chưng rán is a pan-fried version of bánh chưng, a traditional Vietnamese square sticky rice cake. While bánh chưng is traditionally associated with Tết (Lunar New Year), the fried variant has become a popular street food in Hanoi, especially during the colder months. Pieces of bánh chưng are pan-fried until the exterior becomes crispy, while the interior remains soft and chewy. This method enhances the cake's texture, contrasting the crispy outside with the soft interior.
What’s in it?
The primary ingredients of bánh chưng include: glutinous rice, mung beans & pork belly seasoned with fish sauce and black pepper.
Where can I eat it?
Bánh chưng rán is predominantly available in northern Vietnam, especially in Hanoi. While the steamed version is available throughout the country especially around Tết.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
nem nướng
grilled pork skewers
What is it?
Nem nướng is a traditional Vietnamese grilled pork sausage, typically served on skewers. Originating from Khánh Hòa province, it has become a fairly popular street food and is also featured in various restaurants across Vietnam.
What’s in it?
The main ingredients include: ground pork (often with added pork fat for juiciness), garlic, fish sauce & sugar. These ingredients are combined and formed into sausages, then grilled over charcoal, imparting a smoky flavour. It's usually accompanied by a sweet chili sauce or a peanut-based sauce.
Where can I eat it?
While Nem nướng is more prevalent in southern Vietnam, particularly in cities like Nha Trang, it can also be found in other regions. .
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bánh áp chao
crispy duck-filled fritters
What is it?
Bánh Áp Chao is a traditional Vietnamese deep-fried snack originating from the northern provinces of Cao Bằng. It has a crispy exterior and a chewy interior from glutinous rice.
What’s in it?
The batter is a mixture of rice flour, glutinous rice flour, and sometimes wheat flour. Some variations have additional ingredients like soybeans and taro for enhanced texture and flavour. The filling is traditionally, boneless duck, however, some versions utilize pork instead of duck.
Where can I eat it?
Bánh Áp Chao is predominantly found in the northern regions of Vietnam, especially in Cao Bằng and Lạng Sơn, where it is commonly sold as street food alongside other fried snacks such as Bánh Chuối.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bánh chuối
deep fried banana fritter
What is it?
Bánh Chuối translating to "banana cake," is a tasty deep fried banana fritter, made with a whole flattened banana giving a soft and sweet interior. It’s a great snack or dessert.
What’s in it?
A whole ripe banana in deep fried batter made from wheat flour, rice flour, sugar and sometimes sesame seeds.
Where can I eat it?
Bánh Chuối is widely available across Vietnam, predominantly as a popular street food. While it can be found throughout the country, it is especially prevalent in the northern regions, including Hanoi. Vendors often prepare and sell Bánh Chuối alongside other fried snacks, making it a common snack for tourists and locals alike.
Vegan & dairy free.
chả giò
fried spring rolls
What is it?
Chả giò is the Vietnamese version of fried spring rolls, with a variety of fillings, typically served with a dipping sauce.
What’s in it?
The rolls are made with bánh tráng (rice paper) and filled with a mix of minced pork, prawns or crab, mushrooms, noodles, egg, carrot, onions, and fish sauce. They’re typically served with nước chấm for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
Chả giò is widely available throughout Vietnam, often enjoyed as a snack or side dish. In the North, it’s commonly known as nem rán and is often served alongside Bún chả for a more substantial meal. In the South, it’s called Chả giò.
Dairy free. Vegetarian and vegan versions available.
bánh gối
fried battered dumplings
What is it?
Bánh gối (translated as "pillow cake") is a deep-fried dumpling with a savory filling, similar to Chả giò (fried spring rolls), but encased in batter rather than rice paper.
What’s in it?
The batter is made from wheat flour, water, egg, and oil. The fillings typically include minced pork, prawns, or chicken, along with mushrooms, noodles, egg, carrot, onions, sometimes a quail egg, and fish sauce.
Where can I eat it?
Bánh gối is hard to find outside northern Vietnam. We enjoyed some great ones at Quan Goc Da in Hanoi, a place that specializes in a variety of tasty fried snacks.
Dairy free.
bánh rán
Fried glutinous rice balls
What is it?
Bánh rán are deep-fried glutinous rice balls, which can be sweet or savory (Bánh rán thịt). Both versions have a tasty combination of chewy and crispy textures.
What’s in it?
Sweet Bánh rán are made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and water, and can be coated with sesame seeds, caramelized sugar, or syrup. My personal favorite is caramelized sugar.
Bánh rán thịt are made with glutinous rice flour, water, and salt. Fillings typically include minced pork or chicken, mushrooms, noodles, egg, carrot, onions, and fish sauce. These are usually served with nước chấm or other dipping sauces.
Where can I eat it?
Both sweet and savory versions are more common in Hanoi, where we saw them most often. You'll find ladies selling sweet ones on the street, but these can sometimes be stale and overpriced. For fresh ones at a fixed price, head to P. Hàng Chiếu Street in Hanoi. For savory Bánh rán, Quan Goc Da in Hanoi is the place to go for all your fried and battered cravings!
Dairy & gluten free.
bánh tôm
crispy prawn fritters
What is it?
Bánh Tôm is a traditional Vietnamese dish originating from Hanoi, consisting of crispy fritters topped with prawns. The prawns are typically left in their shells, adding an extra crunch to each bite.
What’s in it?
Prawns (shell-on) are coated in a batter made from wheat flour, rice flour, eggs, turmeric, and sometimes sweet potato. It’s served with nước chấm (Vietnamese dipping sauce) on the side.
Where can I eat it?
We only encountered it in Hanoi, so it seems to be a northern Vietnamese specialty. Like many fried dishes in Hanoi, it's served at Quan Gốc Đa.
Dairy free.
lạp xưởng nướng da
grilled Chinese style sausage
What is it?
A type of grilled Chinese-style sausage on a stick, cooked until crispy. It has a slightly sweet and smoky flavour, often seasoned with chilli for a spicy kick.
What’s in it?
Pork, rice wine, soy sauce, and sugar, with optional chilli.
Where can I eat it?
It’s a popular street food found throughout Vietnam but is more common in the South.
Dairy free.
bò bía
fresh jicama spring rolls
What is it?
Bò bía is the Vietnamese take on Chinese popiah rolls. It looks similar to gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) but has a different filling.
What’s in it?
Thin bánh tráng (rice paper) wraps around a filling of jicama (crunchy root vegetable), carrots, Chinese sausage, omelette, dried shrimp, and lettuce. It’s typically served with a hoisin-based peanut sauce for dipping.
Where can I eat it?
Bò bía is not as common as gỏi cuốn but can sometimes be found as a street food or on restaurant menus. It seemed to be more popular in the south of Vietnam than in the central or northern regions.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bột chiên
fried rice cakes
What is it?
Bột chiên is a popular street food snack from southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. The dish consists of small, crispy-on-the-outside, chewy-on-the-inside rice flour cakes. These cakes are pan-fried, and eggs are added, creating a soft, omelette-like binding. Scallions are typically mixed in for added flavour. It's often served with a salty-sweet dipping sauce.
What’s in it?
The rice cakes are made from a combination of rice and tapioca flour. An egg and scallion mix is used to bind the cakes together. Often, the dish is served on a bed of pickled carrot and papaya. The dipping sauce is soy sauce-based, with sugar, vinegar, and chili adding a balance of sweetness, acidity, and heat.
Where can I eat it?
Bột chiên is most commonly found in southern Vietnam, particularly around Ho Chi Minh City, where it is a popular street food. It's easy to find at local stalls or food markets throughout the city.
Dairy free.
bánh tráng nướng
rice paper pizza
What is it?
A popular street food, especially in Da Lat, sometimes referred to as "Vietnamese pizza". It consists of a round rice paper base cooked over a grill, with eggs poured on top as it crisps up. Various ingredients are added as it cooks, and it is finished with different sauces. Often enjoyed as an evening snack, it is traditionally cut into slices with scissors before serving.
What’s in it?
The base is made from rice flour, sometimes mixed with tapioca flour. Common toppings include pork, sausage, dried shrimp, and scallions. It is typically finished with Vietnamese mayonnaise and chilli sauce
Where can I eat it?
It can be found throughout Vietnam but is most popular in the south, particularly in Da Lat. In other regions, it is sometimes listed as Bánh tráng nướng Đà Lạt. We had it several times from street vendors around Da Lat in the evenings.
Dairy & gluten free. Vegetarian versions available.
bánh tráng trộn
mixed rice paper salad
What is it?
A street food made from shredded rice paper, dried shrimp, peanuts, and various other ingredients. It’s cheap, filling, and has a great mix of textures, chewy rice paper and dried shrimp contrast with the crunch of peanuts.
What’s in it?
Shredded rice paper, chilli, coriander, peanuts, soy sauce, dried shrimp, mango strips, tamarind, lime, and fish sauce.
Where can I eat it?
It’s not the most common dish, but you’ll sometimes find it on local menus or sold as street food. It does seem to be more popular in the south of the country.
Dairy free.
quẩy
fried dough sticks
What is it?
Quẩy are deep-fried dough sticks with a crunchy exterior and a soft center when fresh. They are an affordable and popular snack, commonly served alongside dishes like phở, where they can be dipped to absorb the flavors.
What’s in it?
Made from plain flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
Where can I eat it?
Quẩy is especially popular in northern Vietnam, particularly in Hanoi, where it's often served with phở. While it is available throughout the country, its popularity diminishes outside the northern regions.
Vegan.
grilled & stir fried dishes
bún chả
grilled pork with noodle
What is it?
Bún chả is one of Hanoi’s most famous and delicious dishes. It consists of cold Bún (vermicelli noodles) served with chả (grilled pork and pork patties) along with a dipping sauce and vegetable sides. You dip the ingredients into the sauce before eating. Traditionally a lunchtime dish, it’s now available throughout the day.
What’s in it?
Bún (vermicelli noodles) paired with sliced grilled pork and minced pork patties. The pork is typically marinated with garlic, sugar, and fish sauce. The vegetables include lettuce, perilla leaves, coriander, mint, and bean sprouts. The dipping sauce is nước chấm, usually served warm and lighter with added water, often with pickled carrot and papaya.
Where can I eat it?
Bún chả is a specialty of Hanoi, where it’s impossible to miss, but it has spread to other parts of the country as well. A great place to try it in Hanoi is Bún chả 22 ngõ Huyện.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
phở xào
stir-fried pho noodles
What is it?
Phở xào is a stir-fried noodle dish featuring Phở noodles. Traditionally made with beef and vegetables, variations with chicken, pork, or fish can also be found.
What’s in it?
The dish includes stir-fried Phở noodles, beef (or less commonly, chicken, pork, or fish), bok choy, carrots, and beansprouts, all seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar.
Where can I eat it?
Originating in Hanoi, phở xào is typically found in the northern regions of Vietnam. It’s a popular street food and can be enjoyed at various restaurants in Hanoi, though it’s less commonly seen outside of the area.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free. Vegetarian & vegan versions available.
bò né
sizzling steak hotplate
What is it?
A filling and delicious Vietnamese breakfast dish, though it can be eaten at any time of day. Its name means "beef" (Bò) and "dodging" (né), referring to the need to dodge the sizzling oil from the hotplate it’s traditionally served on. It consists of marinated beef, a fried egg, pâté, and a baguette, often accompanied by a sausage, meatball, and a side of cucumber and tomato.
What’s in it?
The beef is marinated in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and garlic, then served alongside a fried egg, sausage, meatball, and pâté, all cooked in butter. It comes with a baguette, tomato, cucumber, pickled vegetables, coriander, and sometimes mayonnaise or chilli sauce.
Where can I eat it?
It’s found throughout Vietnam with slight regional variations but is more common in the South.
Dairy free.
bún bò nam bộ
beef noodle salad
What is it?
Bún Bò Nam Bộ is a dry noodle dish with stir-fried beef, despite its slightly misleading name "Nam Bộ" means southern-style, but the dish is actually a speciality of Hanoi.
What’s in it?
Bún (vermicelli noodles) and Bò (thinly sliced stir-fried beef) cooked with garlic, sugar, and fish sauce. It’s served with lettuce, bean sprouts, and various herbs, along with classic Vietnamese pickled vegetables like carrot and papaya. The dish is topped with fried shallots and peanuts, and dressed with nước mắm a sauce made from fish sauce, lime, sugar, garlic, and chilli.
Where can I eat it?
Despite its name, Bún Bò Nam Bộ is primarily found in northern Vietnam, especially Hanoi. A great place to try it is the aptly named Bún Bò Nam Bộ in Hanoi.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
bún đậu mắm tôm
noodles, tofu & shrimp paste
What is it?
Bún đậu mắm tôm is a traditional Northern Vietnamese dish consisting of cold vermicelli rice noodles (bún), crispy fried tofu (đậu), and a fermented shrimp paste dipping sauce (mắm tôm). The dish is typically accompanied by fresh herbs and vegetables, offering a good blend of flavors and textures.
What’s in it?
Bún: Rice vermicelli that serves as the base of the dish. Đậu: Deep-fried tofu cubes that are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Fermented Shrimp Paste (Mắm Tôm): A potent dipping sauce made from fermented shrimp paste, mixed with ingredients like chili, lime juice, and sugar to balance its strong aroma. Accompaniments can include sliced boiled pork, fried spring rolls (chả giò), and fresh herbs such as perilla leaves, Vietnamese balm, mint, along with cucumber slices and bean sprouts.
Where can I eat it?
Bún đậu mắm tôm is popular in the north especially in Hanoi, where numerous eateries specialize in this dish. While the dish originates from Northern Vietnam, it has gained popularity and can be found in select restaurants in cities like Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free.
curries and stews
cà ri
Vietnamese style curry
What is it?
The Vietnamese take on curry, influenced by Indian and Thai cuisine. It has a rich, coconut milk-based sauce and shares similarities with Thai curry in terms of flavour. It's typically served with rice or a bánh mì (baguette). I wouldn’t say it’s as tasty as a Thai curry, but it’s still pretty good!
What’s in it?
The most common version features chicken, though pork, beef, or even duck can also be used. A vegetarian version with tofu exists as well. The curry typically includes potatoes, carrots, and sweet potatoes. The sauce is made with coconut milk, curry powder, lemongrass, onion, garlic, turmeric, chilli, and fish sauce, then garnished with coriander and spring onion. It’s served with either rice or a bánh mì.
Where can I eat it?
It's not widely available across Vietnam; if you want to try it, it's more commonly found in central regions.
Dairy free. Traditionally gluten free. Vegetarian versions available.
bo kho
spicy beef stew
What is it?
Bò kho is a delicious, spicy beef stew, featuring tender slow-cooked, melt-in-the-mouth beef and sweet carrots as the main ingredients. Versions with chicken (gà kho) or fish (cá kho) are also available but are less common and traditional. It is usually served with a baguette (bánh mì) for dipping, or sometimes with noodles, such as Bún bò kho (vermicelli noodles) or Phở bò kho (with Phở noodles).
What’s in it?
Beef and carrots are the main ingredients, with onions often included, along with other vegetables depending on the recipe. The dish is flavoured with salt, soy sauce, garlic, chilli, ginger, tomatoes, star anise, bay leaves, cinnamon, lemongrass, fish sauce, and beef stock. It is garnished with coriander.
Where can I eat it?
Bò kho hails from southern Vietnam, with Ho Chi Minh City being its epicentre. Though you can find it throughout the country, it’s especially popular in the south. If you’re in ho chi minh, a bowl of this fragrant stew is a must-try comfort food experience.
Dairy free.
beverages
cà phê trứng
egg coffee
What is it?
Its a unique Vietnamese coffee that combines strong coffee with a rich, creamy foam made from whipped egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. Originating in Hanoi in the 1940s, this drink contrasts strong coffee beneath a sweet, custard-like topping. It's typically served hot but can also be enjoyed cold. When trying egg coffee, it's customary to use the provided spoon to eat the rich, custard-like foam before sipping the coffee beneath. Some however prefer to mix the foam into the coffee for a sweeter, combined flavour.
What’s in it?
Strong Vietnamese coffee (usually robusta), egg yolks, condensed milk and sugar.
Where can I drink it?
Egg coffee is available across Vietnam, especially in Hanoi. A renowned spot to try it is Café Giảng in Hanoi credited with inventing egg coffee and continues to serve this specialty today however it does get very busy. For a more relaxed experience, you might consider visiting Café Quang 44. While not as famous as Café Giảng, it offers a cozy atmosphere to enjoy this traditional drink and is very popular with locals.
Gluten free. Vegetarian
cà phê muối
salt coffee
What is it?
Salt coffee is a specialty from Huế in central Vietnam that offers a unique twist on traditional coffee. It features milk or cream whisked with a hint of salt and poured over a robust cup of coffee. This salted beverage can be enjoyed both hot and iced.
What’s in it?
The drink is crafted with strong coffee combined with a dash of salt, along with fresh milk, condensed milk, or cream—or sometimes a blend of these—to achieve a balanced salty-sweet flavor. For the iced version, ice is added for an extra refreshing touch.
Where can I drink it?
Salt coffee is available throughout Vietnam, served in a variety of cafés and restaurants. While it can be found year-round, the iced version is particularly popular for its refreshing qualities, especially in warmer weather.
Vegetarian. Gluten free.
cà phê cốt dừa
coconut coffee
What is it?
Coconut coffee is a refreshing beverage made with strong coffee and coconut milk, often blended with either fresh or condensed milk, or both. The coconut milk is typically poured over the coffee, though some variations add it first. While it’s usually served iced, a hot version is also available, though less common.
What’s in it?
Strong coffee and coconut milk, often blended with fresh or condensed milk, or a combination of both.
Where can I drink it?
While less common than egg coffee or salt coffee, coconut coffee is still easy to find in larger cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
Vegetarian. Gluten free.
Ingredients listed reflect common or typical components of this dish as served in restaurants or street‑food vendors. Variations by region, season, or vendor are common. This information is provided for general reference only. If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, please verify ingredient details independently. We assume no liability for accuracy or outcomes.