Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, offering a rich array of flavors and dishes that reflect the country's diverse culture and history. Whether you're a vegetarian, an eggitarian, or a non-vegetarian, there's something delicious for everyone. Here's a guide to some of the best foods and beverages to try in Vietnam, categorized by dietary preference.

Best Foods To Try

Vegetarian 🥗 | Eggitarian 🍳 | Non Vegetarian 🥩

Pho 🥗 🍳 🥩

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that is a must-try for any visitor. Typically made with beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga), it features a savory broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. Vegetarian versions are also available, often made with a flavorful vegetable broth.

Banh Mi 🥗 🍳 🥩

Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that combines a crispy baguette with various fillings such as eggs, grilled pork, pate, and pickled vegetables. Vegetarians can enjoy versions filled with tofu, mushrooms, and fresh veggies.

Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls) 🥗 🥩

Goi Cuon, also known as fresh spring rolls, are light and healthy appetizers made with rice paper wrapped around fresh vegetables, herbs, and vermicelli noodles. Non-vegetarian versions often include shrimp or pork.

Bun Cha 🥩

Bun Cha is a Hanoi specialty featuring grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. It's a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and fresh flavors.

Xoi (Sticky Rice) 🥗 🥩

Xoi is a versatile dish of sticky rice that can be enjoyed with a variety of toppings. Vegetarian options might include mung beans or peanuts, while non-vegetarian versions can feature shredded chicken or pork.

Cao Lau 🥩

Cao Lau is a regional specialty from Hoi An, consisting of thick noodles, slices of pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, all bathed in a light broth. Its unique flavor comes from the local water used to prepare the noodles.

Com Tam 🥩

Com Tam, or broken rice, is a popular dish in southern Vietnam. It is typically served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and pickled vegetables, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.

Che 🥗 🍳

Che is a traditional Vietnamese dessert made with ingredients like beans, fruit, and glutinous rice, often served in coconut milk. It's a sweet and refreshing treat that's perfect for cooling down.

Hu Tieu 🥗 🥩

Hu Tieu is a noodle soup that varies by region but often includes a savory broth, flat rice noodles, and a mix of meats such as pork, shrimp, and quail eggs. Vegetarian versions are also available, featuring vegetable broth and tofu.

Banh Xeo 🍳 🥩

Banh Xeo is a crispy, savory pancake made with rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Eggitarian versions can be made without the meat, focusing on the crispy texture and fresh fillings.

Bun Rieu 🥩

Bun Rieu is a flavorful crab-based noodle soup with tomatoes, tofu, and fresh herbs. Its rich and tangy broth makes it a favorite among seafood lovers.

Mi Quang 🥗 🥩

Mi Quang is a turmeric-infused noodle dish topped with a variety of ingredients like shrimp, pork, peanuts, and fresh herbs. Vegetarian versions can include tofu and mushrooms.

Nom Hoa Chuoi 🥗 🥩

Nom Hoa Chuoi is a banana blossom salad that combines shredded banana blossoms with herbs, peanuts, and a tangy dressing. Non-vegetarian versions may include chicken or shrimp.

Lau (Hot Pot) 🥗 🥩

Lau, or Vietnamese hot pot, is a communal meal where diners cook meat, seafood, and vegetables in a simmering broth at the table. Vegetarian hot pots feature a rich vegetable broth with a variety of fresh veggies and tofu.

Trung Vit Lon 🥩

Trung Vit Lon, or fertilized duck egg, is a unique delicacy in Vietnam. It's an adventurous choice for those willing to try something different and is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of herbs and salt.

Best Beverages To Try

Vegetarian 🟢 | Eggitarian 🥚

Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung) 🥚

Egg coffee is a Hanoi specialty, made with robust Vietnamese coffee, sugar, and egg yolk, whipped into a creamy, frothy topping. It's a rich and unique treat that shouldn't be missed.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da) 🟢

Ca Phe Sua Da is a popular Vietnamese drink made with strong coffee brewed through a drip filter, mixed with sweetened condensed milk, and served over ice. It's a refreshing way to enjoy coffee in the heat.

Fresh Coconut Water 🟢

Fresh coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating drink available throughout Vietnam. It's often served straight from the coconut with a straw, making it a fun and natural beverage choice.

Sugarcane Juice 🟢

Sugarcane juice, or Nuoc Mia, is a sweet and refreshing drink made from freshly pressed sugarcane stalks. It's often served over ice and can be found at street vendors and local markets.

Beer (Bia Hoi) 🟢

Bia Hoi is a light, fresh beer brewed daily and served in local bars and street corners. It's an essential part of the Vietnamese social experience, best enjoyed with friends and local snacks.

Jasmine Tea (Tra) 🟢

Jasmine tea is a common drink in Vietnam, often served as a complimentary beverage in restaurants. It's light, fragrant, and perfect for sipping while enjoying a meal.

Herbal Teas 🟢

Vietnamese herbal teas, such as artichoke tea and lotus tea, are popular for their health benefits and unique flavors. They are commonly found in local markets and tea shops.

Soy Milk 🟢

Soy milk, or Sua Dau Nanh, is a popular drink in Vietnam, often served warm or cold and sweetened. It's a nutritious and refreshing beverage available from street vendors.

Fruit Smoothies (Sinh To) 🟢

Sinh To are fruit smoothies made from fresh tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and dragon fruit, blended with ice and sometimes condensed milk. They are a delicious and healthy way to cool down.

Rice Wine 🟢

Rice wine, or Ruou, is a traditional Vietnamese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. It's strong and often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.

Conclusion

Vietnamese cuisine and beverages are diverse and vibrant, offering something for every palate and dietary preference. Whether you're a vegetarian, eggitarian, or non-vegetarian, the rich flavors and fresh ingredients will make your culinary journey through Vietnam an unforgettable experience.