Food & Culture
Vietnamese Cuisine: 6 Must-Try Dishes from Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Da Nang
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December 29, 2025
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Vietnamese food is celebrated worldwide for its balance of flavours, sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami and its use of fresh ingredients. Each region has its own specialities influenced by geography, climate, and local culture.
Whether wandering the bustling streets of Hanoi, cruising Halong Bay, or exploring Da Nang’s coastal markets, trying local dishes is a journey in itself. Here are 6 dishes that capture the essence of Vietnam’s culinary heritage.
Pho – Vietnam’s Legendary Noodle Soup
Pho is arguably Vietnam’s most famous dish. This aromatic noodle soup combines beef or chicken broth with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and lime. Each region has its variation: northern Hanoi pho is lighter and more delicate, while southern versions are sweeter and richer. It’s a breakfast staple and a must-try for every visitor.
Banh Mi – The Iconic Vietnamese Sandwich
Banh Mi reflects Vietnam’s colonial history with a perfect fusion of French and Vietnamese flavors. A crispy baguette is filled with meats, pickled vegetables, herbs, and chili sauce. Ideal for a quick meal or snack, Banh Mi showcases the creativity and accessibility of street food culture in Vietnam.
Bun Cha – Grilled Pork with Noodles
Bun Cha is a Hanoi specialty featuring grilled pork patties served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. Traditionally enjoyed with side plates of greens and pickled vegetables, it balances smoky, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite.
Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls
Goi Cuon, or fresh spring rolls, are a healthy and refreshing snack. Rice paper wraps a combination of shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh vegetables. Served with peanut or hoisin dipping sauce, these rolls are light, flavorful, and perfect for travelers seeking authentic Vietnamese flavors without heavy cooking oils.
Cao Lau – Da Nang’s Noodle Treasure
Cao Lau is a specialty from Da Nang featuring thick rice noodles, pork, fresh greens, and crispy croutons. Unique water from local wells gives the noodles a chewy texture that is impossible to replicate elsewhere. This dish perfectly embodies Da Nang’s culinary identity and must be sampled fresh from local eateries.
Cha Ca – Turmeric Fish with Dill
Cha Ca is a famous Hanoi dish where fish is marinated in turmeric and cooked with dill and green onions. Served with vermicelli noodles, peanuts, and dipping sauce, it offers a fragrant and flavorful alternative to typical meat dishes. Sampling Cha Ca is an essential part of Hanoi’s culinary experience.
Vietnamese cuisine is a journey through fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and centuries of culinary tradition. From Pho in Hanoi to Cao Lau in Da Nang, each dish tells a story of regional identity, culture, and creativity. For food-loving travelers, exploring Vietnam is incomplete without savoring these six iconic dishes.
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