10 Vietnamese Dishes You Cannot Miss When Traveling

From pho to banh mi, from bun cha to cao lau - discover Vietnam's diverse cuisine

January 13, 2026

10 Vietnamese Dishes You Cannot Miss When Traveling

1. Pho

Pho is the national dish of Vietnam, with clear, flavorful broth and soft rice noodles. Beef pho and chicken pho are the two most popular variations.

2. Banh Mi

Vietnamese banh mi is the perfect combination of crispy bread on the outside and diverse fillings inside, from grilled meat, pate to fresh vegetables.

3. Bun Cha

Hanoi bun cha is a specialty with fragrant grilled meat, sweet and sour fish sauce and fresh noodles. This is a favorite dish of many tourists.

4. Banh Xeo

Banh xeo is a crispy crepe with shrimp, meat and bean sprouts. This dish is usually served with fresh herbs and sweet and sour fish sauce.

5. Goi Cuon

Goi cuon is fresh spring rolls with shrimp, meat, fresh herbs and noodles, wrapped in rice paper. This is a fresh and healthy dish.

6. Bun Bo Hue

Bun bo Hue has a distinctive spicy flavor with rich broth, beef and crab cakes. This is a dish you cannot miss when visiting Hue.

7. Cao Lau

Cao lau is a specialty of Hoi An, with yellow noodles, pork and fresh herbs. This dish can only be found in Hoi An.

8. Cha Ca La Vong

Cha ca La Vong is fragrant grilled fish with turmeric and dill, served with noodles and fresh herbs. This is a specialty of Hanoi.

9. Banh Cuon

Banh cuon is thin rice rolls with meat filling inside, usually eaten for breakfast. This dish has a light and mild taste.

10. Ca Phe Sua Da

Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk is a signature drink of Vietnam, with strong coffee and sweet condensed milk. This is an indispensable drink in Vietnamese culture.