Skip links
vietnam food

Vietnam Food: Top 30 dishes you must try

Vietnam Food is a captivating symphony of flavors, fresh ingredients, and diverse cooking techniques, each deeply rooted in the cultural essence of its region. From the delicate aroma of Northern herbs to the bold and fiery spices of the South, every dish tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship, making Vietnam Food a true culinary masterpiece.

In this article, San Hotel Series brings you a curated list of 30 must-try Vietnamese dishes, handpicked based on guest ratings and global popularity. Whether you are exploring Vietnamese flavors for the first time or are a seasoned food lover, prepare to be amazed by the irresistible tastes that make this cuisine so extraordinary.

1. Pho – Best Vietnam Food

Phở is one of the most iconic and beloved dishes in Vietnam, recognized worldwide as a symbol of the country’s rich culinary heritage. As a standout in Vietnam Food, this fragrant and flavorful noodle soup traces its origins to Hanoi, where it was first served in the early 20th century. Among its many variations, phở bò (beef pho) remains the most popular and widely enjoyed.

What makes phở truly special is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The broth, slow-simmered from beef bones, is infused with a delicate blend of spices such as onions, ginger, and star anise, creating a deep, aromatic essence. Served with soft yet slightly chewy rice noodles and tender slices of beef, every spoonful carries the warmth and depth of Vietnam Food culture.

For anyone visiting Vietnam, experiencing an authentic bowl of phở is a must. The rich broth, fragrant spices, and carefully balanced ingredients come together to create an unforgettable dish that defines the heart of Vietnam Food.

Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)
Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)

2. Banh mi (bánh mì) – Vietnamese sandwich

Bánh mì, often referred to as the Vietnamese sandwich, is one of the most popular street foods in Vietnam, drawing the curiosity of countless travelers eager to experience its bold flavors. As a staple of Vietnam Food, this dish was originally introduced by the French in the 19th century through the baguette. Over time, the Vietnamese transformed it by infusing an array of flavorful fillings, making it a unique culinary masterpiece.

One of the greatest appeals of bánh mì is its versatility. The fillings cater to a variety of tastes, ranging from beef, chicken, and pork to fried eggs, pâté, and an assortment of fresh vegetables such as pickled carrots, cucumbers, and coriander. A finishing touch of chili sauce and mayonnaise enhances its irresistible flavor, solidifying its place as a must-try in Vietnam Food culture.

Banh Mi (Vietnamese Bread)
Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)

=>See more: Banh Mi: The Iconic Vietnamese Sandwich and Its Global Impact

3. Bun cha (bún chả)

Bún chả is a standout specialty of Vietnamese cuisine, particularly in Hanoi, making it a must-try dish for any visitor exploring Vietnam. Despite its simplicity, this dish delivers an unforgettable burst of flavors that can satisfy even the most discerning palate.

A perfect serving of bún chả consists of vermicelli noodles, smoky grilled pork, fresh herbs, and a signature dipping sauce that brings all the ingredients together. The sauce is a delicate balance of sweet, sour, and savory, made from fish sauce, garlic, chili, and slices of pickled green papaya and carrots.

To enjoy bún chả the authentic way, diners combine the noodles, grilled pork, and herbs in a small bowl before drizzling in the flavorful dipping sauce. The harmony of textures and tastes creates a one-of-a-kind culinary experience, making bún chả a dish that truly captures the essence of Hanoi’s street food culture.

O Bun Cha Hanoi
Bun cha (bún chả)

4. Bun bo Hue (bún bò Huế)

Bún bò Huế is one of Hue’s most celebrated dishes, though its popularity extends across all three regions of Vietnam and among Vietnamese communities abroad. As a staple of Vietnam Food, this dish holds a special place in the country’s rich culinary heritage. In Thừa Thiên Huế, locals simply refer to it as “bún bò”, or more specifically, “bún bò thịt bò” when highlighting its beef-based ingredients.

What makes bún bò Huế truly special is its deeply flavorful broth. The addition of mắm ruốc (fermented shrimp paste) and fragrant lemongrass gives the soup its signature aroma and rich umami taste, setting it apart from other Vietnamese noodle dishes.

Served piping hot, a bowl of bún bò Huế is garnished with finely chopped scallions, thinly sliced onions, fresh lime, and a side of premium fish sauce mixed with crushed chili. A dollop of Hue-style chili sauce adds an extra layer of heat, enhancing the bold and aromatic flavors, making it a must-try for those exploring Vietnam Food culture.

Bun Bo Hue (Hue Beef Vermicelli)
Bun Bo Hue (Hue Beef Vermicelli)

5. Cha ca La Vong (chả cá Lã Vọng)

Chả Cá Lã Vọng is a famous specialty of Hanoi, known for its rich flavors and unique preparation. This dish features cá lăng (a type of freshwater catfish) cut into bite-sized pieces, marinated with aromatic spices, grilled over charcoal, and then pan-fried in sizzling hot oil. Originating from the Đoàn family at 17 Chả Cá Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this delicacy has been a well-guarded culinary treasure since 1871.

Chả cá is best enjoyed hot. Each piece of golden fish is transferred to a bowl, drizzled with sizzling oil, and paired with vermicelli noodles, crispy rice paper, roasted peanuts, and a vibrant mix of herbs including dill, scallions, pickled shallots, Vietnamese coriander, and húng Láng (a special variety of basil native to Hanoi).

The dish is traditionally served with mắm tôm (fermented shrimp paste), which is carefully prepared by mixing fresh lime juice, a spoonful of hot oil, sugar, rice wine, and chili, then whisked until frothy. For those unaccustomed to shrimp paste, fish sauce can be used as a substitute, though it slightly diminishes the authentic flavor of the dish.

Cha Ca La Vong is the name of a beloved Hanoi specialty
Cha ca La Vong (chả cá Lã Vọng)

6. Nem ran (nem rán)

Nem rán, also known as chả giò in the South and chả ram in Central Vietnam, is one of Vietnam Food’s most beloved and widely recognized dishes. In the North, it is often simply called nem, while in Thanh Hóa, locals refer to it as chả. Despite the regional differences in name, this dish remains a staple of Vietnam Food, enjoyed across the country.

Traditional nem rán consists of minced pork, glass noodles, wood ear mushrooms, and eggs, mixed with fragrant seasonings such as scallions, black pepper, and fish sauce. This filling is carefully wrapped in delicate bánh tráng (rice paper) and deep-fried to a perfect golden crisp. It is typically served with a flavorful dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar, and pickled vegetables, accompanied by fresh lettuce and aromatic herbs like basil, perilla, and fish mint.

In Northern Vietnam, a unique variation called nem vuông (square nem) is popular, particularly in Hải Phòng, where nem cua bể features a crab-based filling wrapped in a square shape. Nem rán is also commonly paired with bún chả Hà Nội, creating a delicious combination that highlights the depth and variety of Vietnamese cuisine. 

Nem ran (nem rán)
Nem ran (nem rán)

7. Bun dau mam tom (bún đậu mắm tôm)

Bún đậu mắm tôm is a popular and iconic dish in Hanoi, famous for its distinctive flavor. While it may be an acquired taste for some, it is highly cherished by locals and food enthusiasts.

The dish typically consists of several key ingredients. “Đậu” refers to crispy fried tofu, while “bún” refers to rice noodles. The highlight of the dish is “mắm tôm” (fermented shrimp paste), which can be the most challenging component for some to enjoy.

Mắm tôm has a strong, salty taste and an intense aroma. To balance its bold flavor, it is often mixed with lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili, creating a rich and well-rounded dipping sauce.

Bún đậu mắm tôm Hàng Khay
Bun Dau Mam Tom

8. Nem nuong Nha Trang (Nem nướng Nha Trang)

Nem nướng is a traditional Vietnamese dish featuring grilled pork or pork meatballs, loved for its smoky aroma and rich, savory taste. As a staple of Vietnam Food, this dish is widely enjoyed across the country, often served as an appetizer, a standalone snack, or paired with vermicelli noodles or rice as a satisfying main course.

Originating from Khánh Hòa province, particularly Nha Trang, nem nướng is made from finely ground pork mixed with a generous amount of pork fat to create a juicy and tender texture. The meat is infused with a fragrant blend of minced shallots, crushed garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper, giving it a distinctive flavor. 

Once prepared, the mixture is shaped into skewers or patties and grilled over hot charcoal, developing a beautifully golden and slightly caramelized exterior. This dish exemplifies the vibrant flavors and grilling techniques that define Vietnam Food, making it a must-try for visitors exploring the country’s culinary scene.

Nem nướng Nha Trang
Nem nướng Nha Trang

9. Bun rieu (bún riêu)

“Bún riêu cua” is a beloved Vietnamese dish originating from the Red River Delta, known for its rich flavors and refreshing tanginess. Widely enjoyed both in Vietnam and internationally, this dish is a true representation of the country’s vibrant culinary heritage.

A steaming bowl of “bún riêu cua” consists of delicate rice vermicelli served with a flavorful crab-based broth. The heart of the dish lies in the “riêu cua”, a fragrant and savory crab paste made by combining crushed freshwater crabs with their roe, then simmering it with tomatoes, vinegar, fermented rice, fish sauce, and aromatic herbs.

Crab Vermicelli Soup
Bun rieu

10. Bun thang (bún thang)

Making bún thang is a meticulous process that requires great attention to detail, from preparation to cooking. This elegant Hanoi specialty is known for its complexity, often requiring up to 20 ingredients to achieve its signature flavor.

A bowl of bún thang features delicate rice vermicelli topped with finely shredded chicken breast, thinly sliced Vietnamese pork sausage, fluffy strips of golden egg crepe, and fragrant herbs such as Vietnamese coriander and sawtooth herb. A sprinkle of savory shrimp floss adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.

The soul of bún thang lies in its broth, which must be clear, steaming hot, and perfectly balanced. Made by carefully simmering chicken bones and dried squid, the broth delivers a naturally sweet and umami-rich taste. When served, diners can enhance the flavor with vinegar, chili, garlic, pepper, or a small touch of shrimp paste for an authentic Northern Vietnamese experience.

Bun Thang is a culinary masterpiece of Hanoi
Bun thang (bún thang)

11. Goi cuon (gỏi cuốn)

Gỏi cuốn, widely known as Vietnamese spring rolls, is a traditional dish that has gained popularity across the world. As a staple of Vietnam Food, these fresh, healthy, and low-fat rolls are a perfect choice for summer days, offering a balance of vibrant flavors and crisp textures.

The filling varies, but the classic version features thin slices of pork, succulent shrimp, fresh lettuce, fragrant herbs, and soft vermicelli noodles. These ingredients are carefully wrapped in delicate rice paper, creating a light yet satisfying bite. Served with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce, gỏi cuốn delivers a refreshing taste that embodies the essence of Vietnam Food, making it a favorite among Vietnamese cuisine lovers.

Goi cuon (gỏi cuốn)
Goi cuon (gỏi cuốn tôm thịt)

12. Mi Quang (mì Quảng)

Mi Quang is a famous dish of Central Vietnam, especially Da Nang and Quang Nam. It is easily recognizable by its golden noodles, made from rice flour and water, which give the dish its distinctive texture and flavor.

The toppings of this dish often include shrimp, chicken, pork or even seafood. The dish is topped with fresh herbs, crispy rice cakes and a fragrant spice mixture that adds a rich flavor.

What makes Mi Quang really special is the broth. Unlike traditional noodle soups, Mi Quang is simmered with chicken or pork bones and seasoned with turmeric, green onions, garlic and black pepper, creating a rich and delicious flavor that captivates diners from all over.

Mỳ quảng
Mi Quang (mì Quảng)

13. Cao lau (cao lầu)

Cao lầu is a signature dish of Hoi An, a charming ancient town in Central Vietnam. Known for its distinctive brown noodles made from locally sourced rice, this dish offers a unique and unforgettable flavor deeply tied to the heritage of the region.

A bowl of cao lầu features thick, udon-like noodles, tender slices of roasted pork, fresh herbs, crunchy bean sprouts, and crispy croutons. What truly sets this dish apart is the sauce, a rich and flavorful creation crafted by Hoi An locals using a time-honored method.

Cao lau (cao lầu)
Cao lau (cao lầu)

14. Banh cuon (bánh cuốn)

Bánh cuốn is a renowned dish from Northern Vietnam, celebrated for its delicate preparation and unique texture. As a staple of Vietnam Food, this dish features a thin, translucent rice flour sheet, expertly steamed and rolled with a variety of fillings. The key to its perfection lies in the technique, as each rice sheet must be paper-thin yet resilient enough to hold its shape.

The traditional filling consists of finely minced pork or chicken, wood ear mushrooms, and fragrant shallots. Served primarily as a breakfast dish, bánh cuốn is best enjoyed with a flavorful dipping sauce made from fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, and garlic, creating an unforgettable taste experience. With its delicate flavors and smooth texture, this dish exemplifies the elegance of Vietnam Food, making it a must-try for those exploring Vietnamese cuisine.

Banh cuon (bánh cuốn)
Banh cuon (bánh cuốn)

15. Banh xeo (bánh xèo)

Bánh xèo immediately captivates diners with its thin, crispy, and golden crust. As a beloved dish in Vietnam Food, the sizzling sound as it cooks in a hot pan is what gives this dish its name, making it as delightful to hear as it is to eat. While regional variations exist, the classic filling consists of fresh shrimp, tender pork, and crunchy bean sprouts, all wrapped in a flavorful embrace.

To enjoy bánh xèo at its best, wrap it in rice paper along with fresh herbs, crisp cucumber, and other greens, then dip it into a tangy, sweet, and sour dipping sauce. The combination of the crispy shell, the fragrant filling, and the vibrant flavors of the dipping sauce creates an unforgettable culinary experience. This iconic dish is a perfect representation of Vietnam Food, drawing food lovers back for more with its irresistible taste and texture.

Banh xeo (bánh xèo)
Banh xeo (bánh xèo)

=>See more: Where to Find the Best Banh Xeo in Hanoi?

16. Com hen (cơm hến)

Cơm hến is a signature dish of Hue, known for its rich flavors and unique preparation. Unlike many rice dishes, cơm hến is served cold, featuring a mix of fragrant jasmine rice and stir-fried baby clams infused with oil and spices.

This dish is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, combining fresh herbs like pennywort, banana blossom, and Vietnamese balm with crunchy toppings such as crispy pork cracklings, fried vermicelli strips, and roasted peanuts. The addition of fermented shrimp paste, chili oil, and a light clam broth enhances the dish, creating a bold and distinctive taste.

While bún hến and mì hến have emerged as variations, they are not considered true Hue specialties. Cơm hến remains a must-try dish that showcases the depth and complexity of Hue’s traditional cuisine.

Com hen (cơm hến)
Com hen (cơm hến)

17. Xoi (xôi)

Xôi, or sticky rice, holds a special place in Vietnam Food and culture. This beloved dish comes in many variations, each offering a unique taste and texture that reflects the country’s rich culinary heritage.

One of the most well-known types is xôi xéo, a vibrant yellow sticky rice dish cooked with turmeric. It is traditionally served with finely mashed mung beans and topped with crispy fried shallots, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

In Hanoi, xôi is incredibly diverse, ranging from simple and humble varieties such as xôi lúa, xôi trắng, xôi xéo, xôi hoa cau, xôi lạc, xôi đậu xanh, xôi sắn, and xôi đậu đen to more indulgent versions like xôi lạp xưởng, xôi gà, xôi thịt kho trứng rim, xôi vừng dừa, xôi vò chè đường, and xôi gấc. With its versatility and deep cultural roots, xôi stands as a shining example of Vietnam Food, offering flavors that appeal to both locals and visitors alike.

Xoi Xeo (Sticky Rice with Bean)
Xoi Xeo (Sticky Rice with Bean)

18. Com tam (cơm tấm)

Cơm tấm, or broken rice, is a beloved dish in Southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. As a staple of Vietnam Food, this dish is made from humble ingredients yet delivers a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from any other rice dish.

The key to cơm tấm lies in its broken rice grains, which create a unique texture and fragrant aroma. A traditional plate features a perfectly balanced combination of grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin, a fried egg, and a flavorful dipping sauce, making every bite a delightful experience.

If you ever visit Vietnam, tasting cơm tấm is a must. Its rich flavors, meticulous preparation, and diverse toppings showcase the essence of Vietnam Food, making it an essential part of Vietnamese cuisine and an unforgettable culinary experience.

Com tam (cơm tấm)
Com tam (cơm tấm)

19. Bo kho (bò kho)

Bò kho is a rich and aromatic Vietnamese dish made from slow-cooked beef, originating from Southern Vietnam. Loved by many, this dish is deeply rooted in the region’s culinary traditions and has gained recognition beyond Vietnam’s borders.

Despite its name, which suggests a braising technique, the key to making bò kho lies in slow simmering. The beef is first marinated and briefly seared to lock in its flavors before being stewed until tender. Traditionally, it is served with a variety of fresh herbs, enhancing its bold and fragrant taste.

With its deep, savory broth and melt-in-your-mouth beef, bò kho is not just a dish but a true representation of Vietnamese comfort food. Whether enjoyed with a warm baguette, rice, or noodles, every bite offers a perfect balance of rich spices and tender meat.

Bo kho (bò kho)
Bo kho (bò kho)

20. Cha ruoi (chả rươi)

Chả rươi is a typical Vietnam Food dish made from rươi, a small red sandworm that is rich in protein and has a bold, distinctive flavor. This seasonal delicacy only appears for a short time, usually in late September and early October according to the lunar calendar. If you have the opportunity to visit Vietnam during this period, trying chả rươi is a must.

The ingredients for chả rươi are simple yet carefully selected, including rươi, minced or chopped lean pork, chicken eggs, tangerine peel, green onions, dill, and a touch of crushed fresh chili for fragrance rather than heat. Some variations also incorporate lemongrass or sliced lolot leaves to enhance the dish’s complexity. The seasoning typically consists of ground pepper and fish sauce mixed with lemon and chili, further enriching its unique taste.

The final highlight lies in the dipping sauce, a rich blend of fish sauce, lemon juice, ground pepper, and chili. With its bold flavor and rare availability, chả rươi stands as a true seasonal treasure in Vietnam Food, making it an unforgettable experience for adventurous food lovers.

Cha ruoi (chả rươi)
Cha ruoi (chả rươi)

21. Lau (lẩu, hotpot)

In Vietnam, hotpot, or “lẩu”, is a cherished dining tradition that brings people together over a shared, flavorful meal. At the heart of this experience is a steaming pot of fragrant broth, placed on a portable stove at the center of the table. Diners gather around, adding an array of fresh ingredients to create a feast tailored to their tastes.

A Vietnamese hotpot is a vibrant mix of flavors and textures, featuring thinly sliced meats like beef, pork, or chicken, alongside fresh seafood such as shrimp, squid, and fish. Crisp vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and silky noodles complete the spread, ensuring every bite is a harmonious balance of flavors.

The broth itself is the soul of the hotpot, with variations ranging from light and refreshing to rich and spicy. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or during festive gatherings, lẩu is the ultimate dish for sharing laughter, good food, and unforgettable moments with loved ones.

Hot pot, or Lẩu, is a beloved dish in Hano
Hot pot, or Lẩu, is a beloved dish in Vietnam

22. Hu tieu (hủ tiếu)

Hu tieu has been a staple of southern Vietnamese cuisine since the 1950s, and is particularly popular in Saigon. You can’t walk around the city without seeing a busy hu tieu stall or a cart selling steaming bowls of hu tieu at the entrance of an alley. Like “pho” in Hanoi and “bun bo” in Hue, “hu tieu” is a signature dish of southern Vietnam. It is often enjoyed for breakfast or dinner, but is rarely eaten for lunch in the region.

The essence of hu tieu lies in the soft noodles and rich broth, simmered with minced pork and pig organs to create a rich, delicious flavor. The noodles are blanched in the hot broth before being topped with a variety of fresh ingredients, including bean sprouts, chives and seasoned minced pork. Some places also add beef meatballs, chili sauce and black bean sauce for added flavor.

Hu tieu (hủ tiếu)
Hu tieu (hủ tiếu)

23. Banh canh (bánh canh)

Bánh canh is a beloved Vietnam Food dish that originated in the Southeast region before gaining popularity nationwide. Known for its thick, chewy noodles and flavorful broth, this dish offers a comforting and satisfying culinary experience.

The soul of bánh canh lies in its rich broth, which is typically simmered with shrimp, fish, or pork hock, infused with a variety of seasonings that vary depending on the regional style. The noodles are just as diverse, made from rice flour, wheat flour, tapioca starch, or a combination of rice and tapioca. Unlike the thin, delicate strands of phở, bánh canh noodles are thick and short, either hand-cut into wide strips or rolled into round, springy strands.

Each bowl of bánh canh is prepared by cooking the noodles directly in the simmering broth until they reach the perfect consistency. The toppings vary across regions and preferences, featuring ingredients such as boneless fish, crab, shrimp, fish cakes, or chewy tapioca dumplings. However, the most popular version remains bánh canh giò heo, featuring tender, slow-cooked pork hock that melts in the mouth. With its rich flavors and versatility, bánh canh is a must-try for anyone exploring the diverse world of Vietnam Food.

Banh canh (bánh canh)
Banh canh (bánh canh)

24. Egg coffee (cà phê trứng)

Egg coffee is a unique Vietnam Food beverage crafted from robusta coffee, fresh egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and a touch of honey. This rich and velvety drink has its roots in Hanoi, where it was first created at the legendary Cà Phê Giảng. 

According to the current owner, egg coffee was invented in the late 1940s as a creative response to the scarcity of fresh milk. His father, the founder of the café, replaced milk with whipped egg yolk, unknowingly giving birth to what is now a signature specialty of Vietnam Food culture in Hanoi.

The secret behind the perfect cup of egg coffee lies in its meticulous preparation. Fresh egg yolks are whisked by hand with sugar and condensed milk until they reach a fluffy, creamy texture. 

Piping hot coffee is then carefully poured over the whipped mixture, forming a beautifully layered cup with a fragrant golden foam on top. Each sip is a harmonious blend of bold coffee flavor and smooth, sweet creaminess, making egg coffee an unforgettable Vietnam Food experience for anyone visiting Vietnam’s capital.

Giang Café holds the honor of being the inventor of Vietnam’s world-famous egg coffee.
Egg coffee (cà phê trứng)

=> See more: Best egg coffee in Hanoi: 8 addresses and experiences

25. Che – Sweet soup

Chè is a traditional and beloved Vietnamese dessert that has stood the test of time. Made from a variety of ingredients such as mung beans, taro, pandan leaves, and even tropical fruits, chè offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. With its endless variations, this sweet treat has become an essential part of Vietnamese cuisine.

In the past, chè was often enjoyed in its simplest forms, featuring lotus seed, black bean, or mung bean varieties, perfect for cooling down on hot summer afternoons. Today, it has evolved into an array of creative and indulgent versions, including chè bưởi (pomelo sweet soup), chè thập cẩm (mixed sweet soup), and chè dừa dầm (coconut jelly dessert). Each type brings a unique experience, making chè an irresistible treat for locals and visitors alike.

Che - Sweet soup
Che – Sweet soup

26. Fried rice (cơm rang, cơm chiên)

Fried rice, also known as “cơm rang” in Vietnam, is a simple yet incredibly satisfying Vietnam Food dish made by stir-frying cooked rice in a wok or pan. It is often mixed with ingredients like eggs, vegetables, seafood, or meat, creating a flavorful and hearty meal. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or served as a side, fried rice is a staple in East Asian, Southeast Asian, and even some South Asian cuisines.

In Vietnam, some must-try Vietnamese food fried rice dishes include cơm rang dưa bò (fried rice with pickled mustard greens and beef), cơm rang thập cẩm (mixed fried rice), cơm rang hải sản (seafood fried rice), cơm rang trứng (egg fried rice), and cơm rang kim chi (kimchi fried rice). Each variation offers a unique taste experience, making Vietnamese fried rice a dish that never gets boring.

cơm rang dưa bò (fried rice with pickled mustard greens and beef)
Cơm rang dưa bò (fried rice with pickled mustard greens and beef)

27. Banh can (bánh căn)

Bánh căn is a beloved specialty from Ninh Thuận and Bình Thuận, later spreading across the South Central Coast, particularly in Khánh Hòa, Lâm Đồng, and Bình Thuận. Though it bears a resemblance to bánh khọt from Southern Vietnam, its preparation is entirely different. While bánh khọt is fried with oil, bánh căn is grilled, giving it a distinctive texture and flavor.

This dish requires a special clay mold with multiple round indentations, traditionally used to bake the cakes to perfection. Due to their small size, bánh căn is typically served in pairs rather than individually. A touch of scallion oil or a topping of egg enhances its flavor, adding richness to the crispy rice cake. Unlike many Vietnamese street foods that come with fresh herbs, bánh căn is often enjoyed with shredded green mango, starfruit, and julienned cucumber for a refreshing contrast.

The dipping sauce plays a crucial role in elevating the dish. A bowl of light fish sauce mixed with garlic and chili or a rich braised fish sauce, often made with mackerel, adds depth to the flavors. Some variations even include meatballs and scallion oil, creating a flavorful and nutritious experience with every bite.

Banh can (bánh căn)
Banh can (bánh căn)

28. Tra sua (Trà sữa, milk tea)

Milk tea has become a familiar and well-loved drink in many countries, including Vietnam. This delightful beverage appeals to people of all ages, drawing them in with its perfect harmony of tea and milk. The fragrant aroma of tea blends seamlessly with the creamy richness of milk, creating a unique and irresistible flavor. Every sip delivers a refreshing balance of bold tea notes and smooth, velvety sweetness. 

In Vietnam and many other milk tea-loving countries, Taiwanese-style milk tea has had a significant influence. Originating over 30 years ago, Taiwan is considered the birthplace of modern milk tea. This beverage combines classic ingredients like tea, milk, and an array of toppings, resulting in a delightful fusion of flavors. The rich essence of tea mixed with the subtle sweetness of milk creates a soothing and refreshing experience that keeps people coming back for more.

The preparation of milk tea in Vietnam typically involves shaking together tea, syrup, milk, creamer, and ice until a smooth and well-blended mixture is achieved. With countless flavors to explore, milk tea lovers can indulge in options like Pearl Milk Tea (Taiwanese Bubble Tea), Thai Milk Tea, Hokkaido Milk Tea, and Milk Tea Latte, each offering a unique taste sensation.

Tra sua (Trà sữa, milk tea)
Tra sua (Trà sữa, milk tea)

29. Com chay cha bong (cơm cháy chà bông)

Crispy rice with floss is a traditional Vietnam Food snack that has gained immense popularity across the country. According to local stories, this dish originated during times of food scarcity when people sought ways to preserve and make the most of available ingredients. Over time, it evolved into a beloved treat that captivates food lovers with its unique texture and rich flavors.

The preparation of crispy rice with floss begins with drying cooked rice under the sun on bright, sunny days. During rainy seasons or periods of food shortages, locals would deep-fry the dried rice to create a crunchy, satisfying snack. What makes this dish truly special is the perfect combination of crispy, golden rice and the savory-sweet taste of shredded meat floss. As a cherished part of Vietnam Food culture, this snack continues to be a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for an authentic taste of Vietnam.

Com chay cha bong (cơm cháy chà bông)
Com chay cha bong (cơm cháy chà bông)

30. Dookki

Dookki is a renowned Korean culinary brand specializing in topokki buffets, first established in 2014. Since then, it has expanded its presence across multiple countries, bringing the authentic flavors of Korea to food lovers worldwide. With 190 stores in South Korea and branches in Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, and beyond, Dookki continues to captivate diners with its unique dining experience.

Entering the Vietnamese F&B market in November 2018, Dookki quickly gained popularity among food enthusiasts. Today, the brand boasts over 70 restaurants across major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Every Dookki branch is designed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a comfortable and immersive dining experience. Whether you are a longtime fan of Korean cuisine or a first-time explorer of topokki, Dookki promises an unforgettable feast.

Dookki
Dookki is a renowned Korean culinary brand specializing in topokki buffets

Here is the “Vietnam Food: Top 30 dishes you must try”. Wishing you a delightful trip to Vietnam! If you’re visiting Vietnam and the capital, Hanoi, you can book a room at San Hotel at the best prices here

Follow us on Facebook to get the latest travel updates daily: San Hotel Series

Leave a comment