Vietnamese Cuisine for Expatriates – Must-Try Dishes & Best Places to Eat

For expatriates living in Vietnam, food is more than just daily nourishment, it’s one of the most authentic ways to experience the country’s culture. Vietnamese cuisine is famous worldwide for its balance of flavors: sweet, sour, salty, and umami. Whether you’re teaching English, working in business, or simply exploring life as an expat, diving into local food is a must.

In this guide, we’ll explore must-try Vietnamese dishes and recommend popular places where expats love to eat in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and beyond.

1. Why Vietnamese Cuisine is Unique

• Fresh ingredients: Herbs, vegetables, and seasonal produce are central.
• Balance of flavors: Dishes carefully combine sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
• Regional diversity: Northern food is subtle, Central food is spicy, and Southern food is rich and sweet.
• Street food culture: Affordable and authentic meals are found right on the sidewalk.
   

2. Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes for Expats

Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

• The most iconic dish, available morning to night.
• Popular varieties: Phở Bò (beef) and Phở Gà (chicken).
• Best enjoyed with lime, chili, and fresh herbs.

Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)

• A perfect fusion of French bread and Vietnamese fillings.
• Common fillings: grilled pork, pate, fried egg, or chicken.
• Affordable, fast, and available everywhere.

Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)

• Light and healthy rolls with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli.
• Served with peanut dipping sauce.
• Great choice for health-conscious expats.

Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)

• Originating from Hanoi.
• Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce.
• Famous after being enjoyed by President Obama in Hanoi.

Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee)

• Strong drip coffee mixed with condensed milk.
• A daily ritual for locals and expats alike.

Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancake)

• Crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts.
• Wrapped in lettuce and dipped in fish sauce.

Vegetarian & Vegan-Friendly Options

• Cơm Chay (Vegetarian Rice Dishes) – available in Buddhist temples and local restaurants.
• Bún Chay (Vegetarian Vermicelli) – meat-free versions of traditional noodle dishes.
• Vegan-friendly cafés are growing fast in major cities like HCMC and Da Nang.
   

3. Where Expats Love to Eat in Vietnam

Hanoi

• Pho Gia Truyen (Bát Đàn Street): Famous for authentic Northern-style pho.
• Bun Cha Huong Lien (Obama Bun Cha): Iconic spot visited by Anthony Bourdain and Obama.
• Ta Hien Street: A hub for street food and beer culture.

Ho Chi Minh City

• Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa: Legendary bánh mì with generous fillings.
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Countless cafes and snack stalls.
• Ben Thanh Market: Great for sampling multiple local dishes in one place.

Da Nang & Hoi An

• Mi Quang Ba Mua (Da Nang): Central Vietnam’s signature noodle dish.
• Hoi An Ancient Town: Famous for Cao Lầu noodles and street snacks.
   

4. Tips for Expatriates Exploring Vietnamese Food

• Start with street food: Affordable and authentic.
• Learn basic Vietnamese food words: Helps order like a local.
• Be open to trying new flavors: Fish sauce, fermented dishes, and fresh herbs are essential.
• Check hygiene at food stalls: Look for busy places with high turnover.
• Balance local and expat-friendly spots: Enjoy both authenticity and comfort.

Exploring Vietnamese cuisine is one of the most rewarding parts of living as an expatriate in Vietnam. From the iconic pho and banh mi to hidden local specialties, every dish tells a story of culture and tradition. Whether you’re in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang, you’ll never run out of flavorful experiences. So grab your chopsticks, sip a glass of Vietnamese iced coffee, and dive into the vibrant food culture that makes Vietnam unforgettable for every expat!