Vietnam is famous for its diverse cuisine with special dishes that are difficult to find in other countries. With the diversity and richness from the North to the South, Vietnamese cuisine is not only attractive for its bold flavors but also for the delicate combination of natural ingredients. As suggested by Michelin inspectors, below are 5 dishes that should not be missed when coming to Vietnam.
1. Banh cuon – Rolls
Michelin Guide describes banh cuon shops in Vietnam, allowing diners to observe the steaming and cooking process right at the door. There are two types of banh cuon, of which the more popular one is the one filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, the other one is egg rolls. Diners can choose to eat with spring rolls and sour rolls, accompanied by herbs, chili, lemon or garlic to season the dipping sauce.
Suggested location: Banh Cuon Ba Xuan, Hanoi
2. Hu tieu – Noodles
Noodle soup is one of the outstanding dishes, reflecting the combination of Teochew and Khmer cuisine. This dish became popular and was introduced to the Southern region by Vietnamese repatriates from Cambodia in the 1970s.
Suggested location: Hong Phat Noodles, Ho Chi Minh City
3. Bun cha
Bun cha restaurants located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter are popular with many tourists. The menu includes traditional bun cha or can be combined with different spring rolls and spring rolls. The meat is thoroughly marinated and grilled over charcoal. When eating, diners eat with sweet and sour fish sauce and other herbs.
Suggested locations:
Bun Cha Ta, Hanoi
Bun Cha Dac Kim, Hanoi
Bun Cha Tuyet 34, Hanoi
4. Xoi – Sticky rice
The Michelin Guide website introduces sticky rice as a popular snack in Vietnam. Local people often eat sticky rice for breakfast or lunch.
Suggested locations:
Xoi Bat, Ho Chi Minh City
5. Pho – Noodles soup
According to Michelin inspectors, coming to Vietnam without trying pho is “unthinkable”. Beef pho and chicken pho are familiar dishes to locals, and both are celebrated globally. When eating, diners can eat with other herbs and spices such as lemon, garlic vinegar or chili sauce.
Suggested locations:
Au Trieu beef pho, Hanoi
Nguyet chicken pho, Hanoi
Pho Minh, Ho Chi Minh City
Pho Hoa Pasteur, Ho Chi Minh City
