Food & Dining

Choose busy stalls with high turnover, drink bottled or boiled water, and go easy on ice in very remote areas. Street food is a highlight—pho, bun cha, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls are usually fine at popular, clean spots.

Yes. Vietnam is very vegetarian-friendly, especially with Buddhist “com chay” restaurants. Tell vendors “không thịt” (no meat); note that fish sauce is common, so request “không nước mắm” if you are strictly vegetarian or vegan.

Start with pho, banh mi, fresh rolls (goi cuon), bun cha (Hanoi), cao lau (Hoi An), and bun bo Hue. In the south, try broken rice (com tam) and fresh seafood. Regional variations make each city worth tasting.

Cooking classes are excellent in Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City—often including a market visit. Book highly rated operators; Morning Glory–style classes in Hoi An are among the most popular for visitors.

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Rounding up small bills, leaving 5–10% in nicer restaurants, or tipping guides and drivers for good service is common among international travellers.