Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, herby, and endlessly regional. Eating your way around the country is a journey in itself — here's where to start.
The classics
Pho (the iconic noodle soup, best at breakfast), banh mi (the French-Vietnamese baguette sandwich), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles, a Hanoi specialty) belong on every list.
Regional stars
In the centre, try Hue's spicy bun bo and Hoi An's cao lau and white-rose dumplings. In the south, seek out the Mekong's fresh spring rolls and clay-pot fish.
The ritual
Some of the best meals happen on tiny plastic stools on the pavement. Follow the crowds, point at what looks good, and don't miss a ca phe sua da — Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk. On our food tours, a local guide takes you straight to the spots the locals love.
