Vietnam Food Guide

A complete guide to bánh cuốn — Hanoi's delicate steamed rice rolls filled with seasoned pork and wood ear mushrooms. Learn how they're made, the Thanh Trì style, key garnishes, and where to find the best.

A complete guide to chè — Vietnam's vast category of sweet soups, puddings and layered desserts. From simple warm black bean soup to the elaborate multi-coloured Saigon iced glass, discover the best varieties and where to find them.

The broth simmers for 12 hours minimum. Here's the real difference between Hanoi and Saigon phở, how to order like a local, and where to find the best bowls in both cities.

The complete guide to bún đậu mắm tôm — Hanoi's iconic shared platter of fried tofu, rice vermicelli and fermented shrimp paste. Learn why the smell is worth it, how to eat it, and where to find the best version.

The complete guide to chả cá Lã Vọng — Hanoi's iconic 150-year-old turmeric fish dish cooked table-side with masses of fresh dill. Learn the history, the recipe, how to eat it with shrimp paste, and where to find the original.

A complete guide to xôi — Vietnam's beloved sticky rice, from breakfast street carts to ceremonial red gấc rice at Tết. Discover the savoury and sweet varieties, how it's cooked, and where to find the best.

A complete guide to cháo — Vietnam's rice porridge. From plain white congee to chicken, offal, fish and duck varieties, discover why this simple comfort food is central to Vietnamese daily life and street food culture.

The complete guide to bún chả — Hanoi's iconic grilled pork and rice vermicelli dish made famous by Obama and Bourdain. Learn the three essential components, how to eat it correctly, and where to find the best bowl.

A complete guide to bún riêu — Vietnam's vibrant crab noodle soup with its signature tangy tomato broth, fluffy crab dumplings, and fried tofu. Learn its northern origins, key ingredients, and where to find the best bowl.