Vietnam is known for its vibrant street food scene, where the smell of fragrant herbs and sizzling meats wafts through the air. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the narrow alleyways of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the country is a food lover’s paradise. And the best part? Sampling the delicious street food won’t break the bank.
If you’re looking for a culinary adventure on a budget, exploring the street food scene in Vietnam is a must. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular and delicious street foods you can find in Vietnam, and where to try them.
Top 5 signature street foods from North to South in VietNam
Pho: Vietnam’s Iconic Noodle Soup
Pho is the quintessential Vietnamese dish that has gained international fame. It’s a simple but delicious noodle soup made with rice noodles, herbs, and meat, typically beef or chicken. It’s served with a side of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime wedges, and is often enjoyed for breakfast.
While you can find pho in restaurants all over the world, nothing compares to the authentic taste of a steaming bowl of pho on the streets of Vietnam. Some of the most famous pho shops in the country are found in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, such as Pho Bat Dan and Pho Thin.
Banh Mi: The Perfect Sandwich
Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that combines French and Vietnamese culinary influences. It’s made with a crispy baguette, sliced meats, pate, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. Banh mi is a popular snack in Vietnam, and it’s easy to find a street vendor selling delicious sandwiches.
One of the best places to try banh mi is Banh Mi Phuong in Hoi An. This tiny shop has gained fame for its delicious sandwiches, which are filled with a variety of meats and served with fresh herbs and a special sauce.
Bun Cha: Grilled Pork and Noodles
Bun cha is a popular dish in Hanoi and the northern region of Vietnam. It’s made with grilled pork and served with a side of vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. The dish is often served with Nem Cua Be, a crispy spring roll filled with crab meat.
One of the most famous places to try bun cha is Bun Cha Huong Lien in Hanoi. This small restaurant gained international fame when it was visited by former US President Barack Obama during his visit to Vietnam in 2016.
Cao Lau: Hoi An’s Signature Dish
Cao Lau is a noodle dish that’s unique to the central city of Hoi An. It’s made with thick rice noodles, slices of pork, fresh herbs, and a crunchy rice cracker. The dish is topped with a savory broth that’s made with pork bones, star anise, and cinnamon.
Cao Lau is a must-try dish when visiting Hoi An, and the best place to try it is in the town’s central market. The stalls here serve up some of the most delicious and authentic Cao Lau in the city.
Banh Xeo: Vietnamese Crepes
Banh Xeo is a savory Vietnamese crepe that’s made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. The crepe is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. It’s often served with a side of lettuce and herbs, which are used to wrap the crepe before eating.
One of the best places to try Banh Xeo is Banh Xeo Muoi Xiem in Ho Chi Minh City. This popular restaurant has been serving up delectable Banh Xeo for over 50 years and has become a must-visit spot for foodies in the city.
Central Vietnam is known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine, with dishes like Bun Bo Hue and Mi Quang being popular favorites. One of the best places to try these dishes is in the Hoi An ancient town, where street vendors and local restaurants serve up their own unique twists on these classic dishes.
For those looking to explore the street food scene in Vietnam, a visit to the night markets is a must. These vibrant markets offer a wide array of food options, from traditional dishes to modern fusion cuisine. Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi are two of the most popular markets for foodies to explore.
No matter where you go in Vietnam, there is always something new and exciting to try when it comes to food. From street food vendors to high-end restaurants, the country’s culinary scene is diverse and full of flavor. So if you’re a foodie looking to embark on a culinary adventure, Vietnam should definitely be on your list of destinations to visit.