Explore the best restaurants in Vietnam, from bustling street food stalls to upscale dining experiences. Discover top culinary spots in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and beyond. Savour the flavours of Vietnam with our comprehensive guide to its finest eateries.
Vietnamese cuisine is a harmonious blend of diverse cultural influences, ranging from the subtle French colonial touches to the bold, aromatic flavours of Southeast Asia. The country’s geographic diversity, from the lush northern highlands to the sun-drenched southern deltas, has given rise to a culinary tapestry that is both varied and deeply rooted in tradition.
At the heart of Vietnamese cuisine lies a reverence for fresh, locally sourced ingredients, a commitment to balance and harmony, and a deep appreciation for the art of presentation.
Top Restaurants in Vietnam
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Anan Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)
Nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Anan Saigon is a modern interpretation of traditional Vietnamese flavours. Led by acclaimed chef Peter Cuong Franklin, the restaurant offers a dynamic menu that showcases the region’s diverse produce and innovative cooking techniques. Expect dishes that seamlessly blend classic Vietnamese elements with contemporary flairs, such as the caramelized pork belly with fish sauce caramel and the roasted quail with lemongrass and chilli.
Hanoi Social Club (Hanoi)
Tucked away in the charming Old Quarter of Hanoi, Hanoi Social Club is a beloved local institution that celebrates the city’s vibrant art and culinary scene. The menu features a delightful array of Vietnamese staples, from the iconic pho to the fragrant bún chả (grilled pork and vermicelli). The cosy, bohemian atmosphere and the welcoming staff make this restaurant a must-visit for an authentic taste of Hanoi.
Thao Dien Village (Da Nang)
Perched on the banks of the picturesque Han River, Thao Dien Village offers a serene escape from the bustling city of Da Nang. This award-winning restaurant showcases the rich diversity of Central Vietnamese cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and locally sourced produce. Indulge in the tender grilled squid with lemongrass and chilli or the succulent Hue-style imperial rolls, all while enjoying the breathtaking river views.
Mau (Hoi An)
In the charming historic town of Hoi An, Mau stands out as a culinary gem that celebrates the region’s culinary heritage. Led by Chef Bùi Thị Suốt, the restaurant offers a refined and innovative take on traditional Vietnamese dishes, using carefully selected ingredients and time-honoured cooking techniques. Savour the delicate banh mi with housemade pâté or the mouthwatering clay pot-braised pork belly, all while immersing yourself in the restaurant’s serene, contemporary ambience.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Restaurants
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Cuc Gach Quan (Ho Chi Minh City)
Tucked away in a charming alleyway, Cuc Gach Quan offers a serene respite from the bustling city. This family-run restaurant specializes in traditional Vietnamese home-style cooking, with dishes that showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage. Indulge in the fragrant caramelized clay pot chicken or the delectable banana flower salad, all while immersing yourself in the restaurant’s tranquil, vintage-inspired ambience.
Cha Ca La Vong (Hanoi)
A Hanoi institution, Cha Ca La Vong is renowned for its signature dish of the same name – a mouthwatering grilled fish with turmeric and dill, served sizzling at the table. This family-owned establishment has been serving this iconic dish for generations, preserving the authentic flavours and traditions of Northern Vietnamese cuisine.
Lune Production (Hue)
In the imperial city of Hue, Lune Production is a hidden gem that celebrates the region’s culinary heritage through a unique dining experience. Offering a multi-course tasting menu, the restaurant takes diners on a journey through the flavours and traditions of Hue, with each dish meticulously crafted and presented with artistry and care.
Nha Hang Ngon (Da Nang)
Nestled in the bustling heart of Da Nang, Nha Hang Ngon is a beloved local institution that showcases the vibrant street food culture of Central Vietnam. This lively restaurant features a vast array of regional specialities, from the fragrant bún chả to the savoury banh xeo (sizzling crepes), all prepared with the freshest ingredients and served in a convivial, family-friendly atmosphere.
Budget-Friendly Options for Food Lovers
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Banh Mi Phuong (Hoi An)
Renowned for its exceptional banh mi, Banh Mi Phuong is a must-visit for food enthusiasts on a budget. This humble, family-owned stall has been serving up some of the best sandwiches in Hoi An for decades, with a menu that offers a variety of fillings and toppings, all at incredibly affordable prices.
Quan An Ngon (Hanoi)
Offering a diverse array of Vietnamese street food and home-style dishes, Quan An Ngon is a bustling, open-air restaurant that caters to both locals and tourists. With its lively atmosphere and a wide selection of affordable options, it’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary culture of Hanoi.
Bun Cha Huong Lien (Hanoi)
This unassuming bun cha joint in Hanoi has gained international fame for being the place where former US President Barack Obama and the late Anthony Bourdain shared a memorable meal. Despite its newfound popularity, Bun Cha Huong Lien has maintained its affordable prices and authentic flavours, making it a must-visit for budget-conscious food enthusiasts.
Banh Cuon Gia Truyen (Ho Chi Minh City)
Specializing in the delicate and flavorful banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), this family-owned eatery in Ho Chi Minh City has been serving up this iconic dish for generations. With its modest prices and exceptional quality, Banh Cuon Gia Truyen is a hidden gem that showcases the true essence of Vietnamese street food.
Traditional Vietnamese Dishes You Must Try
PHOTO: PIXABAY
Pho
A quintessential Vietnamese dish, pho is a fragrant noodle soup that showcases the country’s mastery of balance and harmony. Simmered for hours, the broth is infused with a medley of spices, while the tender slices of beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and rice noodles create a symphony of flavours and textures.
Banh Mi
The iconic Vietnamese sandwich, banh mi, is a testament to the country’s French colonial influence. A crusty baguette is filled with a delectable combination of grilled or roasted meats, pickled vegetables, pâté, and a variety of condiments, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, and savoury notes.
Bun Cha
Originating from the streets of Hanoi, bun cha is a beloved dish that features grilled pork patties or slices, served with a tangy fish sauce-based dipping broth, fresh herbs, and chewy rice noodles. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and smoky flavours.
Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
These delicate, fresh spring rolls are a light and refreshing staple in Vietnamese cuisine. Wrapped in translucent rice paper, they are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and an array of fresh herbs, often served with a flavorful dipping sauce.
Vietnam’s culinary scene is a tapestry of diverse influences, rich traditions, and innovative culinary artistry. From the bustling metropolitan cities to the serene coastal towns, the country’s restaurants, hidden gems, and street food stalls offer a tantalizing array of flavours that will captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.
As you embark on your culinary adventure in Vietnam, I encourage you to embrace the diversity of the country’s flavours, explore the hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the vibrant street food culture.
Uncover the true essence of this captivating culinary destination.
