Vietnam famous food means bold flavors, fresh herbs, and steaming bowls of pho on busy streets. This guide shows best vegetarian food in Vietnam, top 10 Vietnamese dishes, and how to enjoy Vietnamese street food like local. Many travelers ask – does Vietnam have veg food? Yes! Buddhist tradition brings rich vegetarian options. Others search for Indian food in Vietnam, it is available in big cities. Want to know what is famous in Vietnam to eat? Find out traditional food in Vietnam, popular Vietnamese food, and how to ask for vegetarian food in Vietnam. Stay safe, eat well, and taste real Vietnam food culture.
What is Vietnam’s National Food?
Pho is most famous food in Vietnam. While Vietnam has no official national dish, pho is known by everyone, eaten every day. This warm noodle soup has rich broth, soft rice noodles, fresh herbs, and your choice of meat or vegetables. Northern Vietnam is home to original pho, but now you can find it in every city, town and street corner.
If you search for “what is famous food in Vietnam” or “most popular food in Vietnam” – you will see pho every time.
Many travelers say first meal in Vietnam should be pho from street stall. Smell of star anise and ginger means broth is real. If broth is clear, deep, and hot – it’s good pho.
For vegetarians, ask for pho chay – no meat, no fish sauce. Pho Chay (vegetarian Pho) made with mushrooms, tofu, and veggie broth. This dish shows Vietnam food culture: fresh, balanced, full of flavor.
Famous Vietnamese food
Vietnam famous food means bold taste, fresh herbs, and meals made right on busy streets. These top Vietnamese dishes are must-try foods for every traveler. Each one shows real Vietnam food culture. This list covers traditional food in Vietnam, street food favorites, and options for vegetarians. No trip is complete without tasting these.
1. Street Food of Vietnam
Some street foods you must try out of Vietnam famous food are:-
1. Đậu hũ chiên sả ớt:
Location: A popular street food item found throughout Vietnam.
Description: This tasty street snack is crispy tofu fried with lemongrass and chili for bold flavor. Đậu hũ chiên sả ớt is one of the most popular vegetarian foods in Vietnam and loved for its crunch and heat. You’ll find it at night markets and roadside stalls across the country. Just ask for less spice if you can’t handle the burn! This will costs around 30,000 VND – 50,000 VND
2. Banh Mi – Vietnam’s Famous Sandwich
Location: Available throughout Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
Description: Banh Mi is a crispy French baguette with meat, pickles, chili, and herbs. It is crunchy, spicy, and filling. You will find best Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City. You can have veg option too. Just ask for “chay” (vegetarian). It costs around 20,000-40,000 VND. CNN called it one of the “World’s Best Sandwiches” so you must try this popular food in Vietnam.
3. Pho (Fuh) – The National Soup
Location: Available throughout Vietnam, especially in southern Vietnam.
Description: Pho is warm noodle soup with beef or chicken, herbs, and broth. It’s tasty, cheap, and eaten for breakfast! You can try it in Hanoi (clear soup) or Ho Chi Minh City (sweeter broth). It costs around 30,000-60,000 VND. Pho is so popular, there are Pho shops in 50+ countries!
4. Banh Xeo – (Bang Say-Oh) – Crispy Pancake
Location: Popular in southern regions.
Description: Bánh Xèo is one of the most popular foods in Vietnam. It’s a golden, crispy pancake made from rice flour. The name means “sizzling” and you will hear it before you see it. It’s filled with shrimp, pork, and beans. Eat it fast, it gets soft if you wait! You will find the best Bánh Xèo in southern Vietnam. Wrap it in lettuce and dip it in sauce. It’s messy — but worth it! It costs around 40,000-80,000 VND
5. Cha Gio
Location: Available across Vietnam, with many street vendors in Hanoi and southern Vietnam.
Description: Cha Gio are crispy fried rolls filled with pork, mushrooms, and glass noodles. They’re favorite street snack because of their crunch and rich taste. Served with lettuce and fish sauce, they’re best eaten hot and fresh off the pan. Listen for the sizzle, that’s how you know they’re good! This will costs around 30,000-60,000 VND for a serving.
2. Vegetarian Food of Vietnam
Because of Buddhist culture you will find tasty meat-free food everywhere, from streets to restaurants. You will find veg food, not just salads. From crispy pancakes to tangy tofu, these dishes are tasty, safe, and perfect for Indian taste buds. Most of these Vietnamese food cost less than dosa in Bengaluru! So here are 5 famous vegetarian dishes are not only healthy but full of flavor. And they’re part of what makes Vietnam famous food so special.
| Food | Indian Version | Where to Try |
| Nộm Hoa Chuối | Kachumber | Hanoi, HCMC |
| Đậu Sốt Cà Chua | Paneer Butter Masala (mild) | Southern Vietnam |
| Rau Muống Xào Tỏi | Saag | Everywhere |
| Bánh Xèo Chay | Masala Dosa | Ho Chi Minh City |
| Cà Tím Mỡ Hành | Baingan Bharta | All regions |
1. Nộm hoa chuối:
Location: Central Highlands, southern Vietnam and various coastal regions of Vietnam.
Description: Nộm Hoa Chuối – A refreshing salad made from shredded banana flowers, herbs, and spices, kind of like Vietnamese kachumber with a twist. It’s tangy, crunchy, and perfect for hot days. You can find it in streets and restaurants across Vietnam — just like chaat, but healthier. A plate costs ₹180–₹350 (50,000–80,000 VND), and it’s a must-try for veg lovers.
2. Đậu sốt cà chua:
Location: Found in most Vietnamese restaurants, especially in the Southern regions.
Description: This is a Vietnam’s version of paneer in tomato gravy – soft tofu cooked in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce. It’s a common home-style dish, especially in southern Vietnam, and served with rice. Simple, comforting, and reminds you of dal-rice nights at home. Costs ₹180–₹450 (50,000–100,000 VND) – cheaper than a meal at mall food court!
3. Rau muống xào tỏi:
Location: Widely available in restaurants and street food stalls across Vietnam.
Description: This is Vietnam’s version of saag. Stir-fried greens with lots of garlic. It’s light, healthy and served in almost every local meal. You’ll find it in street stalls, restaurants, and even homes, just like palak in India. Super affordable too. Only ₹110–₹220 (30,000–50,000 VND) per plate. A perfect side dish with rice or noodles
4. Bánh xèo chay
Location: Popular in Southern Vietnam
Description: Banh Xeo Chay is the veg version of the famous Bánh Xèo – a crispy rice pancake filled with mushrooms, bean sprouts, and herbs. It’s like a masala dosa but without fermentation. It’s crunchy and served with lettuce and dip. Wrap it like a roll and enjoy! Costs ₹350–₹650 (80,000–150,000 VND) worth every rupee.
5. Cà tím mỡ hành
Location: A common dish served in Vietnamese homes and restaurants.
Description: This smoky grilled eggplant dish is topped with crispy fried shallots and oil – tastes like Vietnamese baingan bharta. It is soft, rich and often served warm in homes and local eateries. 100% vegetarian and full of flavor. Found all over Vietnam, it costs ₹180–₹350 (50,000–80,000 VND). Try it with rice — you’ll love it.
3. Non-Vegetarian Food of Vietnam
Meat eaters should make a mental note of the following authentic non-vegetarian dishes:
1. Bánh canh ghẹ
Location: Popular in Central Vietnam.
Description: A hearty noodle soup with crab, vermicelli noodles, and delicious soup. It costs around 50,000 – 80,000 VND.
2. Hủ tiếu Nam Vang
Location: Popular in Southern Vietnam.
Description: A noodle soup with a flavourful broth, that contains chicken or shrimp. It costs around 30,000 – 50,000 VND
3. Cha Ca
Location: Famous in Hanoi.
Description: An aromatic dish with Fish marinated in turmeric and dill, grilled and served with noodles, peanuts, and fresh herbs. It costs around 80,000-150,000 VND
4. Com Ga
Location: Popular in Hoi An and central Vietnam.
Description: A chicken fried rice type of dish served with a side of fresh vegetables and a light soup or sauce.It costs around 40,000-70,000 VND
5. Canh Chua
Location: Common in southern Vietnam
Description: A sour and slightly sweet fish soup with pineapple, tomatoes, and tamarind, often served with fresh herbs and rice. It costs around 60,000-100,000 VND
Where to eat Vietnamese Food
Want to taste real famous food in Vietnam? Know where to go. These cities offer best mix of street food, traditional food in Vietnam, and veg-friendly spots. Each place has unique flavor and food culture. Find top Vietnam food restaurant or night market and eat like local.
Hanoi – Home of Pho and Street Food Culture
Old Quarter is heart of Hanoi street eats. Try pho at dawn, bún chả by noon, and egg coffee at night. Look for small plastic stools — that means food is good. Must-visit:
- Pho 10 Lý Quốc Sư – Famous for steaming bowls
- Hum Vegetarian Restaurant – Best vegetarian food in Hanoi
- Night Market at Hang Dao – Fresh spring rolls, grilled corn, sugarcane juice
Ho Chi Minh City – Street Food Powerhouse
Southern hub with bold flavors and busy stalls. Try bánh xèo, hủ tiếu, and chả giò after dark. Best areas: District 1, Bui Vien, Ben Thanh Market. Must-visit:
- An Lac Restaurant – 100% vegan, modern vibe
- Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa – Crunchy, full, spicy baguette
- Ben Thanh Street Food Market – One-stop shop for popular Vietnamese food
Hoi An – Ancient Town, Fresh Food
UNESCO site with tasty local dishes. Try cao lầu, mi quang, and fresh spring rolls. Night market lights up every evening. Veg options are common. Must-visit:
- Morning Market – Local breakfast spot
- Chay Garden – Peaceful veg restaurant with garden seats
- Bánh Mì Phuong – Famous sandwich, long lines, worth wait
Da Nang – Coastal Flavors and Clean Stalls
Near beaches, fresh seafood, and clean street food. Try mì quảng, grilled squid, and coconut coffee. Less crowded, more space. Great for families. Must-visit:
- The Bowl – Healthy bowls with tofu and herbs
- Loving Hut Da Nang – Global vegan chain, local taste
- Con Market – Night street food with ocean breeze
Indian restaurants at Vietnam
Indian food in Vietnam is real and easy to find. Big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang have real Indian restaurants. Many are run by Indian families or chefs from Mumbai, Delhi, Punjab. Taste of home is close — even abroad.
Is Indian food popular in Vietnam? Yes, growing fast. Local people and travelers love rich curries, soft naan, and hot chai. Most places offer full vegetarian menu. Indian vegetarian food in Vietnam is common. Dishes like paneer butter masala, veg thali, dosa, and chana masala are on every menu.
Want best taste? Try these:
- Delhi Restaurant (Hanoi) – Famous for dal makhani, butter naan, and mango lassi
- Little India (Ho Chi Minh City) – Bustling spot with South Indian dosa, idli, and banana leaf rice
- Shalimar Restaurant (Da Nang) – Spicy North Indian flavors, clean space, friendly staff
Average Vietnam food cost
Vietnam food price is low — much cheaper than India for street meals. Most tasty food comes from sidewalks, night markets, and small stalls. No need to eat in hotels. Here’s what to expect:
| Food | Cost in (VND) | Cost in INR |
| Street meal (pho, banh mi, goi cuon) | 20,000 – 50,000 | 70 – 175 |
| Restaurant meal (sit-down, veg) | 60,000 – 100,000 | 210 – 350 |
| Indian food in Vietnam (thali, dosa) | 80,000 – 120,000 | 280 – 420 |
| Fresh juice or sugarcane drink | 15,000 – 30,000 | 50 – 100 |
| Coffee (local or egg coffee) | 20,000 – 40,000 | 70 – 140 |
What can you buy with ₹100?
- 2 banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich)
- 3 cups of strong coffee
- 1 fresh juice + 1 pack of snacks
- Or save for bigger meal later
Tips to save money on vietnam food
- Eat street food – Cheaper and tastier than restaurants
- Drink tap water? No. Buy bottled water (10,000 VND = ₹35)
- Use Grab or Be – Food delivery apps with English menus
- Go to night markets – Fresh, cheap, veg-friendly options
- Avoid tourist spots – Prices go up near temples and hotels
Note:
Veg food in Vietnam price is same or lower than non-veg. Dishes like pho chay, goi cuon, dau hu chien sa ot cost ₹70–₹150 at stalls. Indian-style meals cost more but still affordable.
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FAQs
What is Vietnam’s national food?
Pho is most famous food in Vietnam. No official national dish, but pho is eaten every day, loved by locals, and known worldwide. Warm noodle soup with herbs, rice noodles, and meat or tofu. Found on every street. Often first meal for new visitors.
Is there vegetarian food in Vietnam?
Yes, vegetarian food in Vietnam is common. Buddhist tradition brings many veg options. Look for “an chay” signs – means fully vegetarian. Dishes like pho chay, banh xeo chay, and fresh spring rolls are tasty and easy to find. Just ask for no fish sauce – “khong nuoc mam”.
Is Indian food available in Vietnam?
Yes, Indian food in Vietnam is available, especially in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Many real Indian restaurants serve dosa, thali, paneer, and naan. Popular with travelers and locals.
Can you eat street food as a vegetarian in Vietnam?
Yes, Vietnamese street food can be veg-friendly. Try dau hu chien sa ot (fried tofu), goi cuon (spring rolls), or pho chay. But watch for fish sauce – it is in many dishes. Ask for “chay” version. Best veg street food Vietnam offers is in night markets and Buddhist areas.
How much does vegetarian food cost in Vietnam?
Veg food in Vietnam price is low. Street stall meal costs 20,000–50,000 VND ($1–2 USD). Restaurant meal costs 50,000–100,000 VND ($2–4 USD). Indian vegetarian food in Vietnam may cost slightly more — 80,000–120,000 VND at specialty spots.
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