20 Best Must-Try Vietnamese Street Food to Eat 

Alright, my funky fresh explorers! Eric here, your guide from Funky Fresh Travels, and today we’re embarking on the ultimate gastronomic journey: a deep dive into the 20 best Vietnamese street food dishes that will make your taste budssing, dance, and possibly even do a little happy jig! I’ve practically eaten my way across this incredible country, from the bustling street corners of Ho Chi Minh City to the charming, lantern-lit alleys of Central Vietnam, and I’m here to share all my delicious secrets. Get ready for an authentic, exhilarating ride through Vietnamese cuisine that will have you booking your next flight before you even finish this article!

Vietnam isn’t just a country; it’s a living, breathing kitchen, a symphony of sizzling woks, fragrant herbs, and the constant hum of happy eaters. The Vietnamese people truly understand the art of food, and their street food culture is a testament to that. It’s vibrant, it’s fresh, and it’s ridiculously addictive. So, grab a fresh glass of Vietnamese coffee, and let’s get into it!

1. Banh Mi: The Crispy, Crunchy, Flavor Bomb

Let’s kick things off with the undisputed champion, the one and only Banh Mi (or bánh mì, if you want to be precise!). This is more than just a sandwich, folks; it’s a cultural icon, a perfect marriage of French influence and Vietnamese ingenuity. Imagine a perfectly crusty, airy baguette, toasted to a golden brown, giving way to a medley of succulent fillings. My personal go-to often involves tender pork belly, but you’ll find everything from grilled chicken to fried tofu. 

What truly elevates it are the vibrant, tangy pickled daikon and carrots, crisp fresh herbs like cilantro, a smear of rich pâté, and a generous drizzle of that essential fish sauce. Every street food stall has its own unique twist, but the result is always a harmonious explosion of savory, sweet, and tangy. It’s a popular street food for a reason, a truly incredible Vietnamese sandwich that you simply cannot miss. I swear, I could eat these every day.

2. Pho: The Soulful Noodle Symphony

No discussion of Vietnamese food is complete without the legendary Pho. Whether you’re craving the deep, savory richness of beef pho (pho bo) or the lighter, equally aromatic chicken version, the magic is in the broth. This rice noodle soup boasts a clear broth, painstakingly simmered for hours with star anise, cinnamon, and other warming spices. 

Served with a heap of fresh bean sprouts, a wedge of lime, fiery chili sauce, and a scattering of fresh cilantro and spring onions, it’s pure comfort in a bowl. I’ve had countless early mornings in Hanoi, perched on a tiny plastic stool, watching the city awaken, while warming my soul with a steaming bowl of pho. It’s the ultimate antidote to anything that ails you, a truly popular dish and the quintessential rice noodle soup.

3. Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls): The Refreshing Bite

Light, healthy, and utterly delicious, Goi Cuon (or gỏi cuốn), also known as fresh spring rolls or summer rolls, are a must-try. Unlike their fried counterparts, these beauties are delicate, translucent cylinders of deliciousness. Encased in delicate translucent rice paper, you’ll find fresh shrimp, tender slices of pork, slippery rice vermicelli, and an abundance of crisp fresh herbs. The key to unlocking their full flavor is the accompanying dipping sauce – often a rich, nutty peanut sauce or a classic nuoc cham (fish sauce-based sauce). They’re the perfect refreshing snack on a hot day, and I always grab a few for a guilt-free bite. These truly showcase the incredible use of fresh ingredients in Vietnamese cuisine.

4. Banh Xeo: The Sizzling Savory Pancake

Oh, Banh Xeo (bánh xeo)! The name literally means “sizzling cake,” and that’s exactly what you hear as the vibrant yellow rice batter, infused with coconut milk and turmeric, hits the hot pan. These crispy, savory pancakes are typically filled with juicy shrimp, tender slices of pork, crisp bean sprouts, and green onions. The best way to enjoy bánh xeo is interactive: tear off a piece, wrap it in a large lettuce leaf with even more fresh herbs, and then dunk it into a flavorful dipping sauce. The combination of textures – the crispy exterior, the succulent filling, the fresh crunch of the lettuce – is simply divine. It’s a truly memorable Vietnamese pancake experience, and one of my absolute favorite best street fooddishes.

5. Bun Cha: Hanoi’s Grilling Glory

If you’re in Hanoi, Bun Cha is non-negotiable. This is the iconic dish that put Hanoi on the global food map, thanks in part to Anthony Bourdain and President Obama’s famous meal at Bun Cha Huong Lien. It features perfectly grilled, smoky pork patties and tender slices of marinated pork served in a light, sweet, and tangy fish sauce broth, alongside a generous plate of rice vermicelli and a mountain of fresh herbs. The smoky char of the pork, combined with the refreshing dipping broth and fragrant herbs, is simply heavenly. It’s a quintessential taste of Northern Vietnam.

6. Com Tam (Broken Rice): The Hearty Plate

Com Tam, or broken rice, might sound humble, but it’s a powerhouse of flavor and a true staple for locals. This dish features fluffy broken rice (the smaller grains that were once considered “leftovers”) served with an array of delicious toppings. The most classic combination includes perfectly grilled pork chops (sườn), a savory steamed egg custard (chả trứng), and often a sunny-side-up fried egg. Drizzled with a touch of savory fish sauce and garnished with green onionsand pickled vegetables, it’s a satisfying and comforting meal at any time of day. I often grab this for a quick, filling lunch from a bustling street corner vendor.

7. Goi Ga (Chicken Salad): The Zesty Refreshment

Not your average chicken salad, Goi Ga is a vibrant and zesty affair! This incredibly refreshing salad features shredded boiled chicken, often mixed with crunchy shredded cabbage or banana blossom, onions, carrots, and a generous amount of fresh herbs like mint and cilantro. It’s dressed with a light, tangy fish sauce-based vinaigrette, often with a hint of chili and peanuts for crunch. It’s a fantastic lighter option that still packs a punch of flavor, perfect for a humid day.

8. Bun Bo Hue: The Spicy, Complex Noodle Soup

From the imperial city of Hue in Central Vietnam comes Bun Bo Hue, a bold, spicy, and deeply flavorful beef noodle soup that will awaken your senses. It features thick rice vermicelli, tender slices of beef, and often includes pork hock and even cubes of congealed pig’s blood (don’t knock it till you try it – it’s a delicacy!). The rich, fiery broth is a fragrant symphony of lemongrass, shrimp paste, and chili. It’s a powerful, aromatic, and incredibly satisfying dish, perfect for those who like their soups with a serious kick.

9. Banh Cuon: The Delicate Steamed Rice Rolls

Banh Cuon (bánh cuốn) are a testament to the delicate art of Vietnamese cooking. These ethereal, almost translucent steamed rice paper rolls are made from a thin rice flour batter and typically filled with seasoned ground pork and finely chopped wood ear mushrooms. They’re often topped with crispy fried shallots and served with a light, savory dipping sauce (often a dilute fish sauce) and sometimes slices of Vietnamese pork sausage. The texture is incredibly smooth and melts in your mouth, making it a delightful and subtle breakfast or light meal. Watching the street food vendors skillfully prepare these is a mesmerizing sight.

10. Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee): The Decadent Drink

Okay, so it’s not food, but Egg Coffee (ca phe trung) is an essential Vietnamese street food experience, especially in Hanoi! Imagine a rich, strong black coffee topped with a thick, frothy, creamy concoction made from whipped egg yolk and condensed milk. It’s like a liquid tiramisu, surprisingly delicious, sweet, and utterly indulgent. It’s the perfect treat to cap off a street food feast or to kickstart your day. I admit, I was skeptical at first, but one sip and I was hooked!

11. Banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese Pizza): The Crispy Street Snack

Often dubbed Vietnamese pizza, Banh Trang Nuong is a super fun and popular street snack, especially with younger crowds. It’s essentially a thin sheet of rice paper grilled over charcoal until it becomes wonderfully crispy. While on the grill, it’s topped with an assortment of ingredients, commonly a whisked fried egg, dried shrimp, green onions, and sometimes even a sprinkle of cheese or chili sauce. The result is a savory, crunchy, and delightfully messy treat that’s perfect for a quick bite on the go.

12. Cao Lau: Hoi An’s Unique Noodle Bowl

If you’re in Hoi An, you absolutely must try Cao Lau. This regional specialty is steeped in legend, with locals claiming its unique, chewy rice noodles get their distinct texture from water drawn from a specific ancient well and ash from a specific tree. This “dry” noodle dish features those special noodles, tender slices of char siu pork, crispy cracklings or croutons, and an abundance of fresh herbs, all dressed with just a spoonful of a rich, savory broth. It’s a complex and utterly unique flavor profile that truly defines Hoi An’s culinary heritage.

13. Bot Chien: The Crispy Fried Rice Flour Cake

A favorite in Ho Chi Minh City, Bot Chien is pure comfort food. This dish consists of crispy fried rice flour cakes (often enriched with egg yolk), stir-fried with egg, green onions, and sometimes a touch of pickled papaya. It’s usually served with a sweet and tangy soy sauce-based dipping sauce with a hint of chili. The combination of the crispy exterior and soft, chewy interior of the rice cakes is incredibly addictive. It’s a simple yet satisfying snack that perfectly embodies the spirit of Vietnamese street food.

14. Com Ga (Chicken Rice): The Flavorful Plate

While often overshadowed by pho, Com Ga is a delicious and often overlooked gem. This dish typically features seasoned rice (cooked in chicken broth and turmeric for a beautiful yellow hue) topped with tender, shredded boiled chicken. It’s usually served with a side of fresh herbs, pickled onions, and a light fish sauce-based dipping sauce or a tangy chili sauce. There are regional variations, like Hoi An’s famous Com Ga, which is renowned for its specific blend of chicken and herbs. It’s a satisfying and flavorful alternative to noodle soups.

15. Xoi (Sticky Rice): The Versatile Glutinous Goodness

Sticky Rice, or Xoi (xôi), is a versatile and beloved staple in Vietnam. This glutinous rice dish comes in both savory and sweet varieties. Savory Xoi often features toppings like fried shallots, pork floss, Chinese sausage, or even a fried egg. Sweet versions might incorporate mung beans, coconut milk, or various fruits. It’s a dense, filling, and comforting meal or snack, perfect for breakfast or a quick energy boost from a street vendor.

16. Bun Rieu: The Crab Noodle Soup

For seafood lovers, Bun Rieu is a must-try. This vibrant and aromatic crab noodle soup boasts a rich, tangy tomato-based broth made with freshwater crab paste. It’s typically loaded with thin rice vermicelli, delicate crab cakes, and often includes fried tofu, pork, and sometimes even snails. Served with a generous platter of fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime, it’s a delightful explosion of flavors and textures, distinct from other Vietnamese noodle soups.

17. Oc (Snails and Shellfish): A Seafood Lover’s Dream

If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly in the evenings, you’ll see bustling street corners dedicated to Oc. This refers to a whole category of snails and shellfish prepared in countless delicious ways: grilled with green onions and peanuts, stir-fried with tamarind sauce, steamed with lemongrass, or sautéed with garlic and butter. It’s a communal eating experience, often accompanied by cold beers, and a truly authentic taste of Saigon’s vibrant nightlife.

18. Banh Beo: Delicate Steamed Rice Cakes

Hailing from Central Vietnam, especially Hue, Banh Beo are delicate, small steamed rice cakes that are almost like savory puddings. Made from rice flour and water, they are steamed in tiny individual saucers. Once cooked, they’re typically topped with savory ingredients like dried shrimp floss, crispy pork cracklings, and a drizzle of flavorful scallion oil, served with a light fish sauce dipping sauce. They’re a delightful snack or appetizer, offering a subtle yet addictive flavor and texture.

19. Che: The Sweet, Refreshing Dessert Soup

After all that savory goodness, you’ll need something sweet! Che is a broad category of Vietnamese sweet desserts, often served as a “soup” or pudding. There are countless variations, but they typically feature combinations of mung beans, coconut milk, fruit, jellies, tapioca pearls, and sometimes glutinous rice. Served cold with ice or sometimes warm, Che is a refreshing and delightful end to any meal, a colorful and sweet explosion that perfectly cleanses the palate.

20. Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese Iced Coffee): The Essential Brew

To round off our list, it’s back to the beloved Vietnamese Coffee, specifically the iconic Ca Phe Sua Da (iced coffee with condensed milk). This isn’t just a drink; it’s a way of life in Vietnam. Strong, dark-roasted coffee is brewed slowly through a traditional phin filter, dripping into a glass with a generous amount of sweet condensed milk, then poured over ice. It’s incredibly rich, sweet, and gives you that perfect jolt of energy to keep exploring the vibrant Vietnamese street foodscene. Forget your fancy lattes; this is the real deal.

The beauty of Vietnamese street food isn’t just in the incredible variety or the mind-blowing flavors; it’s in the experience. It’s the chaotic yet charming energy of the street food stalls, the genuine smiles of the street vendors, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with locals on tiny plastic stools. It’s an immersion into the very soul of the country, where every dish tells a story.

So, my fellow Funky Fresh travelers, I hope this guide has ignited a fire in your belly and a craving in your heart for the unparalleled delights of Vietnamese food. Don’t be shy, be adventurous! Ask locals for their favorite spots, follow your nose to the most fragrant street corner, and prepare to have your taste buds absolutely blown away. 

This isn’t just eating; it’s an adventure, a culture, and truly one of the best things you can do in Vietnam. Your next time in Southeast Asia, make sure you dedicate ample time to indulging in these incredible local dishes. Happy eating, and remember: stay funky, stay fresh, and keep those travel dreams alive!

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together !

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.