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Vietnamese national dish: A culinary world beyond pho

11/05/2025 528 views
5/5 - (1 vote)

Vietnamese national dish is a topic of much debate, as no single dish has been officially recognized. People often think of pho, but Vietnam’s food scene is far from limited to just it. From the savory bun cha to the crispy banh xeo, Vietnamese cuisine offers an array of delicious options that are loved both locally and globally.

1. What is Vietnam’s national dish?

Currently, there is no officially recognized Vietnamese national dish. However, when it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, pho is most often mentioned. It is a noodle soup with an aromatic broth made with beef or chicken and served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime. Thus, it is sometimes called Vietnamese beef noodle or Vietnamese chicken noodle.

In September 2007, “pho” entered the English language as a distinct word, being added to the Shorter Oxford English Dictionary, which was published on September 20th in both the UK and the US. This was a major milestone for the dish, highlighting its global recognition. With a rich history, pho has become synonymous with Vietnam’s culinary culture, much like the ao dai and conical hat.

Pho – a Vietnamese specialty

What is the national dish of Vietnam? – Tourists might say pho (Source: Collected)

If you ask any international traveler about Vietnamese national dishes, chances are, the first answer you will get is pho. This dish is often featured in culinary magazines, praised by top chefs, and included in the menus of some of the world’s finest restaurants. In 2011, pho was ranked 28th in CNN’s list of the 50 best foods in the world. 

In 2013, the Business Insider named pho the number one dish in its list of 40 foods you must try in your lifetime. If you are curious about what does Pho taste like and whether it is truly worth a try, you will be glad to know that the Huffington Post referred to pho as “the food of heaven.” In 2024, pho Hanoi and pho Nam Dinh were recognized as part of Vietnam’s intangible cultural heritage.

Discover the top 30 Vietnamese traditional foods with cultural essence!

2. Other popular Vietnam’s national dishes

2.1. Bun cha

Originating from Hanoi, bun cha gained international recognition in 2012 when it was included in CNN’s list of the best foods for summer. In 2014, it made it into the list of the “top 10 street foods in the world” based on travelers’ votes from the National Geographic. 

The preparation for this potential Vietnamese national dish involves grilling pork patties and slices of pork belly until they are perfectly charred, then serving them in a bowl of sweet-savory sauce. Vietnamese bun, herbs, and vegetables are provided separately, allowing diners to combine everything to their liking.

Bun cha Vietnam's national dish

Bun cha is worth considering when deciding on your favorite Vietnamese national dishes (Source: Collected)

2.2. Banh mi

Banh mi, the famous Vietnamese sandwich and easily Vietnam’s national dish in terms of versatility, has earned worldwide recognition for its unique blend of flavors and textures. In 2013, the National Geographic named it one of the “11 best street foods in the world.”

The choices of fillings in banh mi vary by region, but its core components are always a baguette filled with a variety of meats, along with cucumber, pickled carrots, daikon, cilantro, and chili. In some variations, fried egg or various types of cold cuts are included as well. The preparation involves layering the fillings inside a freshly baked baguette, creating a harmonious balance of crunch and creaminess.

Banh mi Vietnam

In terms of versatility, banh mi can easily be Vietnam’s national dish (Source: Collected)

2.3. Bun rieu

Bun rieu, a delicious dish of Vietnamese rice noodle, gained international recognition in 2012 when it was named one of the most appealing foods in Asia by CNN. It combines rice noodles with a flavorful broth made from crab meat and crab paste, which are enhanced with ingredients like tamarind, tomatoes, water spinach, and a variety of spices.

Bun rieu is served with a dollop of shrimp paste to boost the umami flavor. Herbs and vegetables are added as garnishes. In addition, it is often enjoyed with extra condiments like chili, garlic, or pickles. The delicate balance of flavors and textures has made bun rieu a potential Vietnamese national dish.

Bun rieu Vietnam

If you are a fan of hearty meals, bun rieu is your go-to Vietnamese national dish (Source: Collected)

2.4. Mi Quang

Mi Quang, another strong contender for the title of Vietnam’s national dish, originated from Quang Nam and was brought along by settlers traveling south, adapting to various local ingredients along the way. This history of incorporation and adaptation has led to its diverse flavors.

Mi Quang is made with rice noodles served in a savory broth that’s typically made from pork, chicken, or shrimp. The broth is usually light, flavored with turmeric and other spices. It includes meats, herbs, roasted peanuts, and crispy rice crackers. Garnishes include herbs, lettuce, and bean sprouts, adding a refreshing contrast.

mi Quang

If eye-catching colors are a criterion for the national dish in Vietnam, mi Quang might take the win (Source: Collected)

2.5. Banh xeo

Banh xeo, often referred to as the Vietnamese pancake, is loved by food enthusiasts around the world. In 2007, it gained special recognition at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in the US, where it was hailed as the “best pancake in the world.”

Banh xeo is made with a crispy, golden-yellow batter that is pan-fried to perfection. The batter is made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, giving it a crunchy texture and an eye-catching color. It is filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs. After being cooked until crispy, the pancake is folded in half and served hot.

Vietnamese pancake

What is the national dish of Vietnam? – Fans of crunchy dishes will name banh xeo (Source: Collected)

2.6. Goi cuon

Goi cuon, or Vietnamese summer rolls, is a potential Vietnamese national dish that can be customized to suit different tastes. It is popular throughout Vietnam, from street food stalls to high-end restaurants. The choices of ingredients vary depending on the region. Common fillings include shrimp, pork, and herbs, along with rice noodles and vegetables, all wrapped in rice paper.

Goi cuon is usually served with a dipping sauce made from fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and chili, which adds a savory, tangy, and spicy kick. The freshness of the herbs and the crispiness of the rice paper make goi cuon a refreshing treat, especially in hot summer months.

Vietnamese summer rolls

In terms of freshness, the Vietnamese national food might be goi cuon (Source: Collected)

2.7. Bun bo Hue

Bun bo Hue originates from Hue, a charming city known for its rich culinary traditions. The sweet broth of bun bo Hue noodles is made by simmering pork bones and beef bones for several hours. The addition of fermented shrimp paste gives the broth a distinctive taste.

A traditional bowl of this potential Vietnamese national dish includes rice noodles, slices of beef, beef meatballs, pork sausage, and crab sausage, all topped with a variety of leafy greens such as lettuce, mint, and cilantro. These are perfectly balanced, offering a satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

bun bo Hue noodles

Ask any local in Hue and they will say bun bo is Vietnam’s national dish (Source: Collected)

2.8. Com tam

Com tam has long been a favorite street food in Vietnam, known for its inviting aroma as the smoky scent of grilling pork wafts through the streets. This dish can be found in bustling markets and casual eateries, often served with a side of tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled vegetables.

Vietnamese broken rice is typically served with grilled pork ribs, fried eggs, pork sausages, shredded pork rinds, and sometimes a side of pickled vegetables. This dish is often garnished with chopped green onions and accompanied by fish sauce, which adds a savory and slightly spicy kick.

Vietnamese broken rice

For breakfast, com tam is one of the top Vietnamese national dishes (Source: Collected)

2.9. Cha ca

Cha ca is a unique Vietnamese delicacy believed to have originated in Hanoi. The main ingredient is fish, which is stir-fried with fresh dill and green onions, creating a fragrant base. The fresh dill adds a distinctive, slightly tangy flavor that complements the fish beautifully, while the green onions provide a mild oniony taste. Vietnamese fish cake is traditionally enjoyed with noodles and peanuts. The peanuts bring an added crunch, balancing the softness of the fish. There is also a dipping sauce to enhance its flavor.

Vietnamese fish cake

What is the Vietnamese national dish when fish is involved? – Cha ca might be it (Source: Collected)

2.10. Chuoi nep nuong

Chuoi nep nuong, or grilled banana with sticky rice, is a beloved Vietnamese street food that originated from the southern region. It gained international recognition when it was voted the most popular street food at the 2013 World Street Food Congress. 

Chuoi nep nuong features a combination of sweet, ripe bananas and sticky rice. When grilled, the outside becomes crispy, while the inside remains soft. The bananas, with their natural sweetness, complement the slightly savory taste of the sticky rice. To further enhance the flavor, the grilled banana is drizzled with aromatic coconut milk and sprinkled with roasted sesame seeds. 

Chuoi nep nuong

Despite its simplicity, chuoi nep nuong is a potential Vietnamese national food (Source: Collected)

2.11. Cao lau

Cao lau, a specialty from the ancient town of Hoi An, is known for its thick, chewy noodles, which are served in a light broth with bean sprouts and deep-fried pieces of crispy pork rinds. Mint and star anise give cao lau a distinctive taste, while the crunchy texture of the pork rinds and the freshness of the vegetables create a perfect balance.

Cao lau is intertwined with Hoi An’s history. It is said that this potential Vietnamese national dish must be made with water sourced from a particular well in the town, which gives it a special quality that cannot be replicated elsewhere. This is one reason why Hoi An is considered the best place to enjoy an authentic bowl of cao lau.

Cao lau

With its rich history, cao lau can easily be a national dish in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.12. Nem ran

Recognized as one of the best snacks globally in 2023 by Taste Atlas, Vietnamese spring rolls are a popular choice for both everyday meals and special occasions, especially as part of Vietnamese New Year’s foods. 

The fillings of nem ran are made from minced pork, shrimp, mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetables. These are all wrapped in rice paper and deep-fried. The exterior, once golden, is crunchy, while the interior stays tender.

Although traditionally filled with pork and shrimp, nem ran has various variations, including seafood and vegetarian, catering to different tastes. It is often enjoyed as an appetizer but can also be served as a main Vietnamese national dish.

Vietnamese spring rolls

What is a Vietnamese national dish that is crispy and crunchy? – Nem ran! (Source: Collected)

Explore: Vietnamese food: List of 17 MUST-TRY specialties over three regions

While there may not be an official Vietnamese national dish, the country’s culinary heritage offers a variety of delicious dishes that are worth trying. Each dish tells its own story and reflects Vietnam’s culture. So, whether you’re a fan of noodle soups, rice dishes, or street foods, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Vietnam.

In addition to exploring Vietnam’s national dishes, traveling through the country offers a wonderful opportunity to delve deeper into its culture. Some must-visit destinations include Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hoi An. For an unforgettable experience in these cities, VinWonders is where you can enjoy world-class entertainment. After a day of exploration, you can unwind at the luxurious Vinpearl, whose hotels and resorts offer top-tier amenities amidst beautiful surroundings.

VinWonders Phu Quoc adventure

VinWonders Phu Quoc is a great place to visit after fueling up on Vietnamese national dishes

 

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exciting rides at VinWonders Nha Trang

Feast on Vietnam’s national dishes, then go on exciting rides at VinWonders Nha Trang

 

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Watch lively shows at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

Watch lively shows at VinWonders Nam Hoi An after enjoying Vietnamese national dishes

 

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