The Top Local Vietnamese Dishes to Share with Friends

Vietnamese cuisine is celebrated for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and the exquisite balance of savory, sweet, tangy, and spicy. Sharing meals is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, making it a perfect cuisine for gatherings with friends. Here’s a list of the top local Vietnamese dishes to share with your friends and experience the heart of Vietnam together.

1. Phở

No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying phở, a fragrant noodle soup typically made with beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and spices. This dish embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine and is served hot with a side of bean sprouts, lime, and chili, allowing everyone to customize their bowl to perfection.

2. Bánh mì

This delicious Vietnamese sandwich features a crispy baguette filled with a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and spicy condiments. Bánh mì can be enjoyed in many variations, such as the classic pork, chicken, or tofu, allowing friends to share and sample various flavors in one meal.

3. Gỏi cuốn (Spring Rolls)

Fresh spring rolls, or gỏi cuốn, are made from rice paper wrapped around cooked shrimp, herbs, rice vermicelli, and sometimes grilled pork. These rolls are typically served with a rich peanut dipping sauce, making them a fun and interactive dish to enjoy together, as everyone can dip their rolls into the sauce.

4. Mì Quảng

This Central Vietnamese noodle dish comes from Quảng Nam Province and features flat rice noodles topped with shrimp, pork, and a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. The dish is often served with a small amount of broth, making it a unique option for sharing with friends who enjoy distinctive flavors and textures.

5. Bún chả

This Hanoi specialty consists of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served over vermicelli noodles with fresh herbs and a side of dipping sauce. Bún chả is known for its smoky flavor and is perfect for sharing as friends can collectively enjoy the delightful combination of grilled meat and noodles while customizing their bowls.

6. Chả giò (Vietnamese Fried Spring Rolls)

These crispy fried spring rolls are filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and sometimes noodles. Chả giò are perfect for sharing, as they can be broken apart easily, and are often served with lettuce leaves and herbs for wrapping, making them an interactive and fun dish for larger groups.

7. Cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee)

No meal is complete without a refreshing drink, and Vietnamese iced coffee is an unmissable choice. Made with strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk, it's rich and energizing. Enjoy it over ice, and consider sharing a few cups among friends to make the coffee experience even more enjoyable.

8. Cao lầu

This dish from Hội An features thick rice noodles topped with marinated pork, herbs, and crunchy croutons. The unique preparation method involves using local water, which is said to give cao lầu its distinctive flavor and chewy texture. Sharing this delightful dish allows friends to savor the culinary delights of different regions of Vietnam.

Sharing Vietnamese dishes with friends is not just about the food; it's about fostering connection, laughter, and creating shared memories. Each dish offers a unique experience, making them perfect for any social gathering. So the next time you plan a meal with friends, consider these top local Vietnamese dishes for an unforgettable culinary adventure.