Ultimate Guide to Vietnamese Street Food: Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
目次
1. Introduction
Vietnam is renowned as one of Asia’s top street food paradises, offering a diverse selection of flavorful and affordable dishes. Whether you’re exploring local markets or grabbing a bite from a roadside vendor, Vietnamese street food promises an unforgettable culinary experience. In this guide, we introduce some of the most popular street foods in Vietnam and how to enjoy them like a local.
2. Must-Try Vietnamese Street Foods
2.1 Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)
A fusion of French baguette and Vietnamese ingredients, bánh mì is a crispy sandwich filled with a variety of flavorful toppings.
- Popular fillings: Grilled pork, pâté, roasted chicken, eggs, tofu
- Best way to eat: Enjoy it fresh with extra chili sauce for a spicy kick
- Where to try: “Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa” in Ho Chi Minh City, “Bánh Mì 25” in Hanoi
2.2 Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Vietnam’s national dish, phở, consists of flat rice noodles served in an aromatic broth with beef or chicken.
- Popular variations:
- Phở Bò (Beef Phở)
- Phở Gà (Chicken Phở)
- Best way to eat: Add lime, chili sauce, and fresh herbs for extra flavor
- Where to try: “Phở Thìn” in Hanoi, “Phở Hòa Pasteur” in Ho Chi Minh City
2.3 Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Savory Pancake)
Bánh xèo is a Vietnamese-style crepe made with rice flour, turmeric, shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
- How to eat: Wrap it in lettuce or rice paper and dip it in fish sauce
- Where to try: “Bánh Xèo 46A” in Ho Chi Minh City
2.4 Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
A Hanoi specialty, bún chả features grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles and a tangy dipping sauce.
- Key flavors: Smoky grilled meat and sweet-savory dipping sauce
- Best way to eat: Mix with fresh herbs and pickled vegetables
- Where to try: “Bún Chả Hương Liên” in Hanoi (visited by former U.S. President Obama)
2.5 Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Gỏi cuốn, or fresh spring rolls, are light and healthy rolls made with shrimp, pork, vegetables, and vermicelli wrapped in rice paper.
- Best way to eat: Dip in peanut sauce or fish sauce
- Where to try: Local street vendors in Ho Chi Minh City
2.6 Hủ Tiếu (Southern-Style Noodle Soup)
Hủ tiếu is a lighter and slightly sweet noodle soup popular in Southern Vietnam.
- Popular variations:
- Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang (Cambodian-style with pork and shrimp)
- Hủ Tiếu Mì (Egg noodles with pork and seafood)
- Where to try: “Hủ Tiếu Thanh Xuân” in Ho Chi Minh City
2.7 Chè (Vietnamese Sweet Dessert Soup)
A beloved dessert, chè is a sweet soup made with beans, fruit, jelly, and coconut milk.
- Popular types:
- Chè Ba Màu (Three-color dessert with jelly and beans)
- Chè Đậu Xanh (Green bean sweet soup)
- Best way to eat: Served cold with crushed ice
- Where to try: “Chè Nhà Đèn” in Ho Chi Minh City
3. How to Enjoy Vietnamese Street Food
3.1 Tips for Ordering Street Food
- Choose popular stalls: Look for places with a steady stream of locals.
- Check prices beforehand: Prices are usually low, but it’s best to confirm before ordering.
- Observe hygiene standards: Pick stalls where you can see the food being freshly prepared.
3.2 Best Street Food Areas in Vietnam
- Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market, Bui Vien Street
- Hanoi: Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market
- Da Nang: Han Market, My Khe Beach area
4. Conclusion
Vietnamese street food is a treasure trove of delicious and affordable eats. Whether you’re indulging in a crispy bánh mì, a steaming bowl of phở, or refreshing chè, exploring street food is one of the best ways to experience Vietnam’s vibrant culture. Be sure to visit local markets and roadside stalls to taste the authentic flavors of Vietnam!
（Photo by Unsplash.com）
