Traveling to Asia is impossible to imagine without getting acquainted with the local cuisine, as it is a true paradise for food lovers. Traditions blend with modern flavors, and the balance of sour, sweet, salty, and spicy makes each dish unique. Delicious Vietnamese food captivates with a combination of fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and subtle cooking nuances.
The food system here is special: food is prepared quickly, right on the streets, and restaurants offer a huge selection of delicacies at affordable prices. What should you try in Vietnam first? What treats should you order at street stalls and cafes? In this overview, we will tell you about culinary masterpieces that you shouldn’t miss.
Pho Soup
When talking about the best dishes of Vietnamese cuisine, the first thing that comes to mind is pho soup. It consists of fragrant broth with rice noodles, herbs, spices, and thin slices of meat (beef, chicken, or even seafood).
The main secret of its taste is the long simmering of the broth with bones, ginger, and anise, which makes it rich and deep. Tourists love pho soup for its lightness yet satisfying quality, as it can be eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Banh Mi
When it comes to delicious street food in Vietnam, Banh Mi cannot be left unmentioned. A crispy baguette, inherited from the French, is filled with various fillings to suit every taste. There are many variations:
- classic with fried pork and pickled vegetables;
- with chicken, cheese, and fresh herbs;
- spicy versions with sauces and spices.
Banh Mi is sold literally everywhere and is the perfect snack for tourists.
Goi Cuon
If you are interested in Vietnamese cuisine in a light format, try Goi Cuon – rice paper rolls with shrimp, herbs, and noodles. They are served with peanut sauce, which gives them a special flavor.
Unlike classic spring rolls, Goi Cuon is not fried, making them particularly healthy. A great choice for those who want to try something Vietnamese that is not too greasy or spicy.
Bun Cha
In the capital, you must try Bun Cha – grilled pork with rice noodles, fresh vegetables, and herbs. One of the most popular dishes in Vietnam, served with fish sauce and garlic.
The key to Bun Cha is the caramelized meat crust and the contrast of soft noodles with crispy greens. This dish is prepared on street grills, so the aroma spreads throughout the neighborhood.
Cao Lau
Among the best dishes of Vietnamese cuisine, Cao Lau holds a special place – noodles that can only be found in Hoi An. They are made with water from ancient wells, then combined with grilled pork, herbs, and soy sprouts.
The taste of Cao Lau is unique: something between Japanese and Chinese noodles, but with a Vietnamese character.
Banh Xeo
Lovers of delicious street food will appreciate Banh Xeo in Vietnam – a thin pancake with a filling of shrimp, meat, sprouts, and greens. It is served with sauce and lettuce leaves to wrap the pieces in.
Tourists often compare Banh Xeo to an omelet, but it has more spices and a distinctive Asian flavor. A great option for those looking for affordable and tasty food in Vietnam.
Durian
One of the most controversial products is durian. It cannot be classified as the most delicious food in Vietnam, but it is definitely worth a try. The fruit has a strong smell that not everyone likes, but locals are sure – it is the king of fruits.
You can encounter durian in its fresh form or in desserts, ice cream, cocktails. Be prepared for a vivid taste experience: some fall in love with it from the first bite, while others may never want to try it again.
Crab Soup
Seafood lovers should order crab soup, prepared with coconut milk, tomatoes, and spices. Its rich aroma and delicate flavor make it an ideal choice for exotic food enthusiasts.
Crab soup is usually served in coastal cafes, where you can be sure of the freshness of the ingredients. Soup is one of the most interesting items in Vietnamese cuisine that is worth trying.
Vietnamese Beverages
In addition to food, pay attention to beverages that have a unique taste and complement local dishes perfectly. Vietnamese people pay special attention to tea, coffee, and fruit juices, creating drinks with deep and rich aromas:
- Vietnamese coffee – it is brewed in a French press or a special filter, then mixed with condensed milk;
- Egg coffee – a thick, creamy, and incredibly aromatic dessert drink made with whipped egg cream;
- Sugarcane juice – a natural refreshing drink, especially popular on hot days. Perfect for quenching thirst and providing an energy boost;
- Lotus tea – the petals give a special floral note, and its mild taste makes it an excellent complement to traditional Vietnamese dishes.
Vietnamese beverages are not only delicious but also part of the country’s culture, which every tourist should try.
Prices for Vietnamese Food
One of the advantages of gastronomic tourism is affordable prices. What to eat cheaply in Vietnam? Practically everything!
At street markets and local cafes, you can buy Banh Mi for just 1-2 dollars, and a full bowl of Pho soup will cost you 2-3 dollars. More complex dishes like crab soup or Cao Lau in mid-range restaurants range from 4 to 7 dollars.
Seafood is more expensive, especially in tourist areas, but their quality is always top-notch. Even in upscale establishments, prices remain significantly lower than in Europe, making the city an ideal place for food lovers.
What to Remember About Delicious Vietnamese Food
Vietnamese cuisine is a whole culture that can be explored by trying various dishes. It is not just food, but a real journey through tastes and aromas. Vietnam is famous for Pho soup, aromatic Banh Mi, fresh Goi Cuon, Bun Cha, and even exotic Durian. Immersing yourself in the gastronomic diversity, you will discover the unique features of each region: from northern soups and noodles to southern fruits and seafood.
Remember that Vietnamese cuisine emphasizes fresh ingredients and a balance of flavors, combining sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements.
Before choosing, it is important to consider not only the price but also the quality of services, rating, reviews, transport accessibility and features of the beach or city centre. Below is a list of popular options where cheap hotels in Vietnam combine reasonable cost and good conditions:
Cheap hotels in Vietnam open the way to a rich, comfortable and affordable holiday without overpaying. With the right choice, you can maximise your experience at a reasonable cost. Travellers who choose accommodation wisely not only save money, but also have an unforgettable experience in one of the most hospitable countries in Southeast Asia.