Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, offering a vast array of vibrant and flavorful dishes. With its rich history and cultural diversity, the food here reflects influences from various neighboring regions, including China, France, and indigenous Vietnamese traditions. Whether you love fresh herbs, aromatic broths, or delightful noodle dishes, Vietnamese cuisine promises something for everyone. After several trips to Vietnam, I can confidently say that its food culture is one of the highlights of the region. In this post, I’ll share the top 10 must-try Vietnamese dishes that will make your culinary adventure unforgettable.

1. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Pho is undoubtedly the most iconic dish in Vietnam. This aromatic noodle soup is found everywhere, from bustling street stalls to cozy breakfast tables. Pho comes in two main varieties: Pho Bo (beef) and Pho Ga (chicken). The dish features flat rice noodles served in a fragrant, savory broth, accompanied by fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chilies. It’s the quintessential Vietnamese experience, offering comfort and warmth with every spoonful.

2. Summer Rolls / Fried Spring Rolls (Goi Cuon / Nem Ran)

These fresh, light rolls are a favorite snack in Vietnam. Summer rolls, or Goi Cuon, are made with thin rice paper wrapped around vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a choice of meat or shrimp, served with a tasty peanut dipping sauce. For those who crave something crunchier, the fried version, Nem Ran, provides a satisfying, crispy alternative. Both versions are commonly found on most Vietnamese menus, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

3. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Baguette)

The French colonial influence is unmistakable in Banh Mi, Vietnam’s take on the classic baguette. This street food is filled with a variety of ingredients, including pork liver pâté, Vietnamese sausage, fresh vegetables like radishes and cucumbers, and a drizzle of mayonnaise and chili. It’s a satisfying and flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch, commonly found at local street-side stalls.

4. Grilled Pork (Thit Nuong)

For meat lovers, Thit Nuong is a must-try. This marinated pork is grilled over charcoal, creating a smoky, flavorful treat. It’s often served in a variety of ways: skewered on sticks, inside a baguette (Thit Xien Banh Mi), or wrapped in spring rolls. The dish is also commonly served as a topping for noodles (Bun Thit Nuong), making it an essential part of Vietnam’s street food scene.

5. Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Crepes)

Banh Xeo, or Vietnamese crepes, are a delicious, savory dish with a crispy, golden exterior. Filled with meat, bean sprouts, and herbs, these crepes are wrapped in lettuce leaves and accompanied by fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. The combination of textures—crispy crepe, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables—makes Banh Xeo an irresistible treat that’s both savory and satisfying.

6. Bun Bo Nam Bo (Beef on Rice Noodles)

Bun Bo Nam Bo is a flavorful dish that’s perfect for those who love beef. Tender slices of grilled beef are placed on top of a bed of fresh vermicelli noodles, topped with peanuts, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce called Nuoc Cham. It’s a refreshing and light dish, offering a delicious alternative to the heavier, soup-based noodle dishes in Vietnam.

7. Cao Lau (Pork on Thick Noodles)

Originating from the ancient town of Hoi An, Cao Lau is a dish that combines thick wheat noodles with juicy pork and a savory broth infused with herbs. The noodles are complemented by fresh greens, bean sprouts, and peanuts, creating a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. It’s often served with crispy prawn crackers on the side, making it a complete and hearty meal.

8. Xoi Ga (Chicken on Sticky Rice)

Sticky rice is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine, and Xoi Ga is a dish that elevates this humble ingredient. It features a generous portion of sticky rice topped with tender pieces of chicken, fresh herbs, and crispy shallots. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce and sesame for added flavor, making it a perfect comfort food for breakfast or dinner.

9. Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)

If you’re a coffee enthusiast, Vietnam’s Egg Coffee is something you need to try. This unique drink is made by whipping egg yolks with sweetened condensed milk and then pouring it over hot coffee. The result is a rich, creamy, and slightly sweet coffee experience that’s unlike anything you’ve had before. Egg Coffee is especially popular in Hanoi, where it’s served in charming local cafés.

10. Bia Hoi (Cheap Beer)

For an affordable and refreshing beverage, try Bia Hoi, Vietnam’s iconic draft beer. This incredibly cheap beer is often sold in small glasses for as little as 5,000 Dong (roughly $0.24), making it a favorite among locals and travelers alike. While it may not be the most flavorful beer, its affordability and the experience of drinking it with friends at a bustling street corner or local café make it a quintessential part of the Vietnamese drinking culture.

Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, offering a delightful mix of fresh ingredients, aromatic spices, and culinary traditions that are deeply rooted in the country’s history. Whether you’re slurping up a bowl of Pho, biting into a crunchy Banh Mi, or sipping on a refreshing glass of Bia Hoi, Vietnamese cuisine is bound to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. So, next time you find yourself in Vietnam, be sure to explore the diverse flavors and try these top 10 dishes that showcase the best of what the country has to offer.