Street Food in Vietnam: 10 Dishes You Can’t Miss

Vietnam is a food lover’s paradise, where every street corner offers a new culinary adventure. From sizzling woks to fragrant broths, Vietnamese street food is a delightful mix of bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and centuries-old traditions. Whether you're wandering through the bustling streets of Hanoi, exploring the alleys of Ho Chi Minh City, or relaxing by the beaches of Da Nang, there’s always something delicious to try. If you're planning a trip, booking one of the Vietnam tour packages that include street food tours can help you discover authentic local flavors while exploring the country’s rich culinary culture.

In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 must-try Vietnamese street foods that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Pho – The Iconic Vietnamese Noodle Soup

No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying pho, the country’s most famous dish. This aromatic noodle soup consists of a slow-cooked broth made from beef or chicken bones, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. The dish is usually served with lime, chili, and various sauces so you can customize the flavors to your liking. While pho is available throughout Vietnam, some of the best versions can be found in Hanoi, where the dish originated. A morning bowl of pho at a street-side stall is the perfect way to start your day.

2. Banh Mi – The Ultimate Vietnamese Sandwich

Banh mi is a delicious fusion of Vietnamese and French cuisine. This crispy baguette is filled with a variety of ingredients, including pate, cold cuts, grilled meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spicy chili sauce. Each region in Vietnam has its own take on banh mi—Hoi An is famous for its flavorful versions, while Ho Chi Minh City offers a more diverse range of fillings. Whether you grab one for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack, banh mi is a street food staple that you can't miss.

3. Bun Cha – Hanoi’s Famous Grilled Pork Noodles

Bun cha is a dish that gained international fame after former U.S. President Barack Obama and chef Anthony Bourdain enjoyed it in Hanoi. This dish consists of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served in a flavorful broth, accompanied by vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs. The smoky aroma from street-side grills fills the air, making it impossible to resist. If you want to experience authentic bun cha, head to a local eatery in Hanoi and enjoy it just like the locals do.

4. Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls

Goi cuon, also known as Vietnamese fresh spring rolls, is a light and healthy street food option. These translucent rice paper rolls are filled with shrimp, pork, fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, and sometimes slices of fruit. They are served with a side of hoisin-peanut dipping sauce, adding a sweet and savory flavor. Goi cuon is perfect for those who prefer fresh and light snacks while exploring Vietnam. You’ll find these rolls at food markets, roadside stalls, and even high-end restaurants.

5. Banh Xeo – Crispy Vietnamese Pancake

Banh xeo is a crispy, savory pancake made with rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, and stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It is typically served with fresh lettuce and herbs, which are used to wrap pieces of the pancake before dipping them into a tangy fish sauce. The name "banh xeo" comes from the sizzling sound the batter makes when it hits the pan. This dish is particularly popular in the central and southern regions of Vietnam, where you’ll find street vendors preparing it fresh to order.

6. Cao Lau – Hoi An’s Signature Noodle Dish

Cao lau is a regional specialty found only in Hoi An. The dish features thick, chewy noodles made using water from ancient Cham wells, giving them a unique texture. These noodles are topped with slices of char siu-style pork, crispy croutons, fresh greens, and a rich, flavorful broth. Unlike pho or bun cha, cao lau has a distinct taste influenced by Japanese and Chinese cooking styles. If you’re visiting Hoi An, make sure to stop by a local street stall to experience this one-of-a-kind dish.

7. Com Tam – Vietnamese Broken Rice

Com tam, or "broken rice," is a popular street food dish in southern Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. Traditionally made from fractured rice grains that were once considered inferior, this dish has now become a beloved local favorite. It is typically served with grilled pork (suon), a fried egg, pickled vegetables, and a side of sweet and tangy fish sauce. The combination of smoky grilled meat and soft, flavorful rice makes com tam a hearty and satisfying meal.

8. Che – Vietnamese Sweet Dessert Soup

Che is a category of Vietnamese desserts that includes a variety of sweet soups, puddings, and beverages. Made with ingredients like coconut milk, mung beans, tapioca pearls, and seasonal fruits, che can be served hot or cold. Some popular variations include che ba mau (three-color dessert) and che chuoi (banana coconut pudding). You’ll find che vendors selling these treats from mobile carts or small street-side stalls, making them a perfect way to end a street food feast.

9. Hu Tieu – The Southern Vietnam Noodle Soup

Hu tieu is a flavorful noodle soup that originated in southern Vietnam but has influences from Cambodian and Chinese cuisine. It consists of a clear, light broth with a mix of rice and egg noodles, topped with shrimp, pork, quail eggs, and fresh herbs. Unlike pho, hu tieu offers a slightly sweeter taste, and it can be enjoyed as a soup or a dry noodle dish with sauce. The best versions are found in the Mekong Delta, where vendors serve it straight from their boats in floating markets.

10. Xoi – Sticky Rice with Various Toppings

Xoi, or Vietnamese sticky rice, is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a sweet or savory meal. Some popular variations include xoi ga (sticky rice with shredded chicken), xoi xeo (sticky rice with mung beans and fried shallots), and xoi man (sticky rice with Chinese sausage and pork floss). This simple yet satisfying dish is commonly sold by street vendors in the early morning, making it a great breakfast option for travelers on the go.

Vietnamese street food is an essential part of the country’s culture, offering a unique and delicious way to experience local flavors. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring Vietnam’s street food scene will introduce you to the heart and soul of its culinary traditions. To make the most of your food adventure, consider booking one of the Vietnam tour packages that include guided food tours, allowing you to discover hidden gems and authentic flavors with the help of local experts.

From the steaming bowls of pho in Hanoi to the crispy banh xeo of the Mekong Delta, every dish tells a story of Vietnam’s history, culture, and people. So grab a pair of chopsticks, hit the streets, and get ready for an unforgettable food journey through this incredible country!