Vietnam is one of the most amazing countries in the world. Whether it's the beautiful lantern market in Hoi An or the mystical islands of Ha Long Bay, there is no lack in amazement in this beautiful country.
Another thing this gorgeous country doesn't lack is their delicious, mouth-watering cuisine. From pho to their fresh fruit — all of the food is absolutely amazing and shouldn't be looked over on your incredible journey to Vietnam. You can't and definitely should not miss any of these foods listed below!
1. Pho
Here's the thing: you can't go to Vietnam and not try the Pho. Not only is it so much better than anything you'll get in the US, but it is genuinely a delicious meal that you can find on any street you turn. People can eat it for any meal at any time of the day, so it would be silly to skip out on this treat.
2. Bun Cha
Eat like Obama if you go to Hanoi in northern Vietnam, and eat at Bun Cha Huong Lien just as he did in 2016. Even if you don't eat at the same exact restaurant he ate at, Bun Cha is still an incredibly delicious noodle dish with different types of meats, vegetables, and a scrumptious sweet and vinegary soup. All I can say is that Obama has amazing taste.
3. Fresh Fruit
Fruit in Vietnam is quite simply better than anywhere in the US. Make sure to try the lychee, mangoes, baby bananas, and some other diverse fruits you can't get at home. Our tour guide introduced us to a fruit called milk fruit (Vú Sữa in Vietnamese which literally translates to milky breast), and it is such a sweet, delectable fruit. 10/10 would recommend.
4. White Rose
Spending a little time in Hoi An? Make sure to try this Hoi An specialty - White Rose. It's basically a shrimp dumpling you can dip in a sweet sauce and tastes exquisite. An amazing dish you must try!
5. Bun Bo Nam Bo
A noodle dish with a little broth, peanuts, crispy onions, different kinds of meat and greens - an amazing combination of flavors that will leave you full and pleased. I promise this is a must-try in Hanoi!
6. Egg Coffee
Egg coffee is one of the main treats I was upset we didn’t have when we came back to the states. It’s coffee whipped with raw egg, condensed milk and sugar. I’ve heard people say it tastes like tiramisu, but it honestly tasted more like a coffee custard to me. If you like coffee, it’s absolutely delicious.
7. Banh Mi
You have to try the Banh Mis in Vietnam. Not only are they loaded with more stuff than the Banh Mis in the states, but the overall flavor of the sandwich is beyond comparison. The baguettes are fresher with a crispy crust, and the meat encompasses so much more flavor. You can also get a fried egg or even pate on your Banh Mi if you’re feeling adventurous.
8. Fried Wonton
A crispy treat one can only get in Hoi An. Fried wontons basically are fried rice paper with a little bit of meat in the middle and tomatoes on top. It’s simple, yet incredibly delicious
9. Shrimp on Sugarcane
One of our first meals in Vietnam, and can I just say that it was one of the most fun dishes of our entire trip? Basically, it's a shrimp concoction spread and cooked around a thick stick of sugar cane, and you can dip (or pour) it in a peanut sauce. So, so flavorful and delicious. You won't want to share it!
10. Water Spinach
Unlike regular spinach, water spinach is so much more flavorful and has much more texture. If you want a little more greens in your diet while in Vietnam, get the water spinach as a side/appetizer. You won't be disappointed!
11. Chè
Che is one of the desserts you have to try at least once in your life. It's so unlike anything I've ever eaten in the US. They can vary on what you get in them, but you typically can see things like red beans, corn, tapioca, jellies, and rice with coconut milk. It's a sweet concoction of so many different flavors and textures. It's a must try!
