Vietnam’s cuisine is a delicious mix of flavors and textures, drawing influences from its French, Chinese, and Southeast Asian neighbors. From the flavorful Pho soup to banh mi-filled baguettes, there are plenty of delectable treats to try while visiting. Here’s a look at 10 must-try dishes to try while in Vietnam.

1. Pho

Pho, a fragrant noodle soup that is served with a variety of herbs and condiments, is perhaps the most iconic Vietnamese dish. It’s made with a flavorful beef or chicken broth, fresh rice noodles, and thin slices of beef or chicken. Add a squirt of lime juice, a spoonful of hoisin or chili sauce, and a handful of fresh herbs such as basil, mint, or cilantro, and you have a delicious bowl of Pho to enjoy.

2. Banh Mi

Banh Mi, which literally means “bread” in Vietnamese, is a popular street food. A banh mi sandwich consists of a baguette, filled with a variety of marinated meats, pickled vegetables, and a spread of mayonnaise and chili sauce. Banh Mi is a perfect snack for hungry travelers on the go.

3. Nem Ran/Cha Gio

Nem Ran, also known as Cha Gio, is a type of Vietnamese spring roll. It is made with pork, shrimp, glass noodles, and a mix of spices and herbs, wrapped in a thin rice paper wrap. Nem Ran is typically served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce, and is a great appetizer to start off a meal.

4. Goi Cuon

Goi Cuon, or Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, are a healthy and light snack. They are made with rice paper wrappers filled with a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables, such as lettuce, mint, and basil, and bean sprouts, along with either shrimp, pork, or tofu. These are served with a peanut-based dipping sauce.

5. Bun Cha

Bun Cha is an explosion of flavors and textures. It’s a type of vermicelli-style noodle dish, made with thin round rice noodles, a savory broth, and grilled pork patties. Bun Cha is usually served with a variety of herbs and vegetables, such as lettuce, cilantro, and bean sprouts.

6. Banh Xeo

Banh Xeo is a savory Vietnamese crepe, made with a batter of rice flour and coconut milk. It’s then stuffed with a mix of pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, and served with fresh herbs, lettuce, and a sweet and sour fish sauce.

7. Cao Lau

Cao Lau is a unique dish, originating from the ancient city of Hoi An. It’s a type of rice noodle dish, made with thick rice noodles and pork, and served with a mix of herbs, lettuce, and bean sprouts, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce.

8. Banh Cuon

Banh Cuon is a light and fluffy steamed rice crepe, made with ground pork and mushrooms. It’s served with a variety of herbs and vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumber, and bean sprouts, and a sweet and sour fish sauce.

9. Com Tam

Com Tam, also known as broken rice, is a popular Vietnamese dish. It’s made with steamed broken rice, topped with marinated grilled pork, served with a side of fresh vegetables, such as lettuce and cucumber, and a sweet and sour fish sauce.

10. Bo Kho

Bo Kho is a hearty Vietnamese beef stew, slow cooked until it’s fall-apart tender. It’s made with beef, carrots, and potatoes, and served with freshly-baked French baguettes.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler to Vietnam or a seasoned veteran of the country, these 10 must-try dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds. If you’re looking to explore the various flavors and textures that this country has to offer, TripFany is a great place to start, offering helpful tips, tricks, and advice on how to get the most out of your visit.

If you’re in need of help with your travel itinerary, TripFany is here for you. We have experienced local guides and knowledgeable travel experts who can help you craft the perfect trip to Vietnam.