The Best Street Food Mezes You’ll Find in Vietnam

Vietnam is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a plethora of flavors, textures, and delicious mezes. These small dishes, perfect for sharing or enjoying on the go, bring out the vibrant culinary culture of the country. Here’s a guide to some of the best street food mezes you’ll find in Vietnam.

1. Bánh Tráng Cuốn Thịt Heo

Often referred to as Vietnamese pork spring rolls, bánh tráng cuốn thịt heo is a must-try. This dish features thin slices of grilled pork served with fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice paper wrappers. Diners often wrap the ingredients and dip them in a special peanut sauce or fermented shrimp paste for an explosion of flavors.

2. Gỏi Cuốn

Gỏi cuốn, commonly known as fresh spring rolls, are a fresh and healthy option. Filled with shrimp, herbs, vermicelli noodles, and sometimes pork or tofu, these rolls are light but satisfying. They are typically served with a side of hoisin or peanut sauce, making them a refreshing choice for street food.

3. Chả Giò

Chả giò, or Vietnamese fried spring rolls, are crispy and packed with flavor. The filling usually consists of ground pork, mushrooms, and noodles wrapped in rice paper, which is then deep-fried to a golden brown. Served hot and crispy, they are often accompanied by lettuce leaves and dipping sauce.

4. Bánh Xèo

Bánh xèo are savory pancakes made of rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. The name literally means "sizzling cake," and they are cooked on high heat, creating a delightful crispiness. Enjoy these pancakes wrapped in lettuce leaves with fresh herbs and dipping sauce for a fantastic tasting experience.

5. Cá Kho Tộ

Cá kho tộ is a unique caramelized fish dish that showcases the beautiful balance of flavors in Vietnamese cuisine. Typically made with catfish braised in a clay pot, it combines fish sauce, caramel, and spices, creating a rich and savory dish. This street food is best enjoyed with steamed rice and pickled vegetables.

6. Xôi Gà

Xôi gà, or chicken sticky rice, is a comforting dish made from glutinous rice and topped with perfectly cooked chicken, fried shallots, and herbs. It's a popular breakfast choice among locals and provides a satisfying snack at any time of the day.

7. Bánh Mì

No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying bánh mì, the famous Vietnamese sandwich. This flavorful creation features a crispy baguette filled with a variety of meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Each vendor has its own twist, making it an exciting option for food lovers.

8. Nem Nướng

Nem nướng are grilled pork sausages served with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and dipping sauce. Diners wrap the grilled sausages and veggies together to create a delicious bite-sized morsel. This dish is a street food favorite, especially in the southern regions of Vietnam.

9. Bánh Đậc

Bánh đậc is a rice cake that is typically served with shrimp and is described as a cross between a dumpling and a pancake. It can be found in various regions of Vietnam, each offering its own unique take on the dish with different fillings and toppings.

10. Trà Sữa

Lastly, no street food experience would be complete without indulging in some trà sữa, or bubble tea. This sweet beverage is made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. Vendors offer a myriad of flavors and toppings, making it a delightful refreshment after enjoying savory mezes.

Vietnam's street food mezes provide an unforgettable culinary journey. Whether you are navigating the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, sampling these delicious dishes will leave you with lasting memories and a satisfied palate.