The Best Local Vietnamese Dishes for Your Street Food Tour

Exploring local cuisine is one of the most rewarding aspects of travel, especially when it comes to street food. Vietnamese street food is a vibrant reflection of the country’s culture and history. Here are some of the best local Vietnamese dishes you must try on your street food tour.

1. Phở

No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying Phở. This aromatic noodle soup, usually made with beef (Phở bò) or chicken (Phở gà), is packed with flavors from spices like star anise and cloves. Served with fresh herbs, lime, and chilies, it's the perfect dish for breakfast or lunch, available from street vendors all over the country.

2. Bánh Mì

Representing a fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine, Bánh Mì is a delicious sandwich filled with a mix of ingredients such as grilled meats, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Found at street stalls, this portable meal is perfect for those on the go and offers a taste of Vietnam’s history through its flavors.

3. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)

Gỏi Cuốn, often referred to as fresh spring rolls, are a healthy option made from rice paper filled with a variety of ingredients, including shrimp, herbs, rice vermicelli, and sometimes pork. They are often served with a peanut dipping sauce and are a refreshing addition to any street food tour.

4. Bún Chả

Hailing from Hanoi, Bún Chả is a must-try dish featuring grilled pork (Chả) served over a bed of rice noodles (Bún) with a side of dipping sauce. The dish is complemented by fresh herbs and served with a side of crispy spring rolls, making it a flavorful and satisfying choice.

5. Cao Lầu

This unique dish from Hoi An combines thick rice noodles with marinated pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons. The secret to its distinct flavor lies in the use of water from a specific well, making it a true local specialty. Enjoying Cao Lầu from a street vendor immerses you in the local culture.

6. Chả Cá Lã Vọng

A signature dish of Hanoi, Chả Cá Lã Vọng features grilled fish marinated with turmeric and dill, served with rice noodles and fresh herbs. The aromatic spices and grilling methods deliver a unique flavor experience that should not be missed during your street food adventures.

7. Xôi

Xôi, or sticky rice, is a popular breakfast item in Vietnam. Often topped with a variety of ingredients like mung beans, fried shallots, or pork, this versatile dish is both filling and delicious. Vendors often serve it warm and fresh, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

8. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancakes)

These crispy pancakes, made from rice flour and turmeric, are filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. Bánh Xèo is often served with fresh lettuce for wrapping, making them a fun and interactive dish to enjoy while exploring the local street food scene.

9. Hủ Tiếu

A delightful noodle soup that varies from region to region, Hủ Tiếu can be made with a variety of broths including pork and seafood. Topped with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, this dish provides a comforting taste of Vietnam's culinary diversity.

10. Tráng Miệng (Sweet Desserts)

No street food tour is complete without sampling sweet treats. From fresh fruit salads (gỏi trái cây) drizzled with spicy chili to traditional desserts like chè (sweet soups), there's something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Look out for street vendors who specialize in these delectable desserts for an authentic taste of Vietnamese sweets.

Embarking on a street food tour in Vietnam is a feast for the senses. Each dish tells a story of the country's heritage and regional diversity. Be sure to savor these local Vietnamese dishes to truly experience the vibrant flavors of Vietnam.