Three Bowls, One Vietnam – Taste North, Central & South

When you travel to Vietnam, food isn’t just part of the journey – it is the journey. Each region serves its own personality in a bowl: Hanoi’s pho with its quiet depth, Hue’s bun bo with fiery character, and Saigon’s hu tieu with playful sweetness. Put them together and you get what I like to call Three Bowls, One Vietnam – a story of tradition, spice, and joy shared at the same table.

Three Bowls, One Vietnam: Three Regions, Three Flavors, One Delicious Journey

The Wise Elder – Northern Dishes with Quiet Depth

If Vietnam’s food culture were a family, the North would definitely be the wise elder. Calm, balanced, and respectful of tradition. Northern dishes are not about knocking you out with spices; they’re about harmony and subtle flavors.

Think about a steaming bowl of pho in Hanoi. It doesn’t shout; it whispers. Clear broth, tender beef, a squeeze of lime. Simple? Yes. Forgettable? Never. Then there’s bun thang, a delicate noodle soup with layers of egg, chicken, and herbs, carefully arranged like a painter’s palette.

And that’s just the beginning. Join any northern Vietnam tours and you’ll see how every city hides its own edible secrets—each dish a little story waiting to be tasted.

Bun Cha Hanoi – The Smoky Charmer

If pho is the elegant morning greeting of Hanoi, then bun cha is its smoky, no-nonsense lunch date. Walk through the Old Quarter around noon and you’ll smell it before you see it – pork sizzling over charcoal, filling the street with that irresistible smoky aroma.

A plate of bun cha looks simple: grilled pork patties and slices of marinated belly, a bowl of sweet-sour fish sauce with pickled papaya, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. But the magic is in the balance – smoky, tangy, herby, all at once. Unlike pho, there’s no bone broth here. The dipping sauce is the soul of the dish, making each bite both rustic and unforgettable.

Travelers often smile when they realize this is the very dish that President Obama and chef Anthony Bourdain shared in Hanoi. But honestly, you don’t need a president’s appetite to enjoy it – just follow your nose at lunchtime.

Bun Cha delights, Three Bowls One Vietnam, capturing culture in every bite.

Where to try bun cha in Hanoi:

• Bun Cha Huong Lien – 24 Le Van Huu, Hai Ba Trung
  Price: around 50,000 – 70,000 VND ($2 – $3 USD) per portion
• Bun Cha Dac Kim – 1 Hang Manh, Hoan Kiem
  Price: around 70,000 – 90,000 VND ($3 – $4 USD) per portion

Other famous Northern Vietnamese dishes in Hanoi

Pate Cot Den – Hai Phong’s Morning Delight

Hai Phong may be famous for its fiery red-flower streets, but food lovers know the city hides another gem: pate Cot Den. Made from pork liver, this pate is richer and silkier than most versions you’ll find elsewhere in Vietnam. Locals love it for breakfast or casual meet-ups with friends, usually spread thick on warm, crispy baguettes and paired with fresh herbs.

It’s the kind of simple comfort food that makes you feel at home, even if you’ve just arrived in the city.

Where to try it in Hai Phong:

• Pate Cot Den Hai Phong – 180 Nguyen Cong Tru, Le Chan
  Price: around 25,000 – 35,000 VND ($1 – $1.5 USD) per serving
• Pate Phuong Linh – 29 Chua Hang, Le Chan
  Price: around 25,000 – 40,000 VND ($1 – $1.7 USD) per serving

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Pate Hai Phong tells stories of tradition.

Other famous Northern Vietnamese dishes in Hai Phong

Ca Kho Lang Vu Dai – The Legendary Braised Fish of Ha Nam

If Northern comfort had a signature dish, Ca Kho Lang Vu Dai would be it. Hailing from Vu Dai village in Ha Nam, this braised black carp is cooked slowly in clay pots, letting the flavors deepen until the fish melts in your mouth. The flesh is tender, the bones soft, and the sauce rich and savory-perfect when paired with steaming white rice and simple boiled greens.

It’s a dish that feels like home, even for first-time visitors, and a true taste of Northern culinary tradition.

Where to try it in Ha Nam:

• Cua hang Ca Kho Lang Vu Dai – Hoang Tho – Xom 11, Ly Nhan
  Price: around 200,000 – 300,000 VND ($8 – $12 USD) per pot
• Co so Ca Kho Co Truyen 77 – Xom 3, Ly Nhan
  Price: around 200,000 – 350,000 VND ($8 – $14 USD) per pot

Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Ca Kho Lang Vu Dai, a savory masterpiece.

Other famous Northern Vietnamese dishes in Ha Nam

Thang Co Bac Ha – The Highland Stew of Lao Cai

High in the Bac Ha highlands of Lao Cai, among the rolling hills of the H’Mong villages, Thang Co is more than just a dish-it’s a taste of tradition. Originally made with horse meat and offal for festivals and ancestral ceremonies, the recipe has evolved for lowland palates, often using beef, buffalo, or pork instead.

The result is a rich, hearty stew with layers of deep, savory flavors and a touch of sweetness-each spoonful tells the story of the highlands and the H’Mong people who call it home.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Thang Co Bac Ha tells Northern stories.

Where to try Thang Co in Bac Ha, Lao Cai:

• Thang Co Quanh – 150 Nguyen Hue, Pho Moi, Lao Cai
  Price: around 50,000 – 80,000 VND ($2 – $3.5 USD) per serving
• Thang Co Tuan Anh – 333 Hong Ha, Coc Leu, Lao Cai
  Price: around 50,000 – 80,000 VND ($2 – $3.5 USD) per serving

Other famous Northern Vietnamese dishes in Lao Cai

Ga Dong Tao – The Legendary Chicken of Hung Yen

In the village of Dong Tao, Khoai Chau, Hung Yen, Ga Dong Tao isn’t just any chicken-it’s a local treasure. Known for its large size (4–6kg!) and rich, flavorful meat, this rare breed is as famous for its thick, textured legs as it is for its taste.

Locals transform it into a variety of dishes: herbal stewed legs, steamed drumsticks with kaffir lime leaves, stir-fried chicken with lemongrass and chili, or even a hearty Dong Tao chicken hotpot with mushrooms. Each dish highlights the unique texture and aroma of this legendary bird.

Taste Vietnam: Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Ga Dong Tao with loved ones.

Where to try Ga Dong Tao in Hung Yen:

• Trai Ga Dong Tao Truong – Dong Tao, Khoai Chau, Hung Yen
  Price: around 500,000 – 700,000 VND ($20 – $28 USD) per whole chicken
• Ga Dong Tao Hung Yen – Tan Dan, Khoai Chau, Hung Yen
  Price: around 500,000 – 700,000 VND ($20 – $28 USD) per whole chicken

Other famous Northern Vietnamese dishes in Hung Yen

Banh Nep Tay – Ant Egg Sticky Rice of Tuyen Quang

Hidden in the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam, especially in Tuyen Quang, Banh Nep Tay is a delicacy that surprises every adventurous traveler. Made during spring when black ants lay eggs, the filling combines ant eggs and minced pork, wrapped in sticky rice dough and steamed in fig leaves.

This unique treat isn’t just a snack-it’s a seasonal specialty often enjoyed during the Thanh Minh festival, carrying the rich culinary traditions of the Tay ethnic community. Every bite is earthy, slightly nutty, and unforgettable for those curious enough to try it.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Banh Nep Tay tells stories of bold flavors.

Where to try Banh Nep Tay in Tuyen Quang:

• Cho Tam Co – Nguyen Trai, P. Tan Quang, Tuyen Quang
  Price: around 15,000 – 25,000 VND ($0.6 – $1 USD) per piece
• Cho Trung Mon – QL2, Trung Mon, Yen Son, Tuyen Quang
  Price: around 15,000 – 25,000 VND ($0.6 – $1 USD) per piece

Other famous Northern Vietnamese dishes in Tuyen Quang

The Fiery Rebel – Central Vietnam’s Bold Flavors

If the North is the elder, then the Central region is the rebel teenager – fiery, bold, and a little dramatic (in the best way). Street corners, markets, and hidden alleys hide flavors that surprise and delight, each bite telling a story of local life. Curious to explore them all? Join any Central Vietnam tours and let the region’s culinary adventures lead the way.

Cha Tom Thanh Hoa – The Irresistible Shrimp Cakes

If you stop by Thanh Hoa, you can’t miss Cha Tom – golden shrimp cakes that make the streets smell irresistible. Picture the scene: a friendly vendor grilling plump, handmade shrimp patties over glowing charcoal, the aroma drawing everyone in. Made from fresh shrimp from Sam Son beach and pounded by hand, each piece keeps its natural sweetness and chewy texture. Served hot with starfruit, fresh herbs, and a sweet-sour fish sauce, it’s a bite of pure delight.

Where to try Cha Tom in Thanh Hoa:

• Quan Tom Hai – 12 Le Loi Street, Thanh Hoa
  Price: around 60,000 VND ($2.5 USD) per serving
  Liam from Australia: “Absolutely delicious! The shrimp is so fresh and the grill flavor is amazing.”
• Cha Tom Ba Lan – 45 Tran Phu Street, Thanh Hoa
  Price: around 70,000 VND ($3 USD) per serving
  Emma from Canada: “Loved the combination with fresh herbs and starfruit. Can’t get this anywhere else!”

Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Cha Tom Thanh Hoa, a Northern seafood treasure.

Exploring Thanh Hoa’s Iconic Flavors

Nem Chua Thanh Hoa – Fermented Pork Rolls

A signature snack of Thanh Hoa, nem chua is slightly tangy, chewy, and full of flavor. Locals enjoy it as a street snack or appetizer.

Suggested places:

• Nem Chua Nga – 20 Le Loi Street, Thanh Hoa
• Nem Chua Ba Lan – 33 Tran Phu Street, Thanh Hoa
• Experience: Try it with fresh chili and garlic, and you’ll understand why travelers like Oliver from UK called it “addictive and utterly unique.”

Banh Cuon Thanh Hoa – Steamed Rice Rolls

Delicate steamed rice rolls, filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and served with fish sauce. Perfect for breakfast or a light meal.

Suggested places:

• Banh Cuon Hoa Thanh – 15 Nguyen Hue Street, Thanh Hoa
• Banh Cuon Ba Lan – 50 Tran Phu Street, Thanh Hoa
• Experience: Soft, silky rolls that melt in your mouth; Sofia from USA said, “One of the best breakfast treats I’ve had in Vietnam!”

Com Hen Hue – The Spicy Clam Rice of Hue

Beyond Bun Bo Hue, Com Hen is another must-try dish for spice lovers visiting Hue. Fresh clams are cleaned, soaked in diluted herbal water, and then stir-fried with fragrant, spicy seasonings that tingle your tongue. Served with rice and topped with crispy pork bits, peanuts, mango, and starfruit, it’s a medley of flavors that feels both strange and irresistible.

Recommended spots:

• Com Hen Ba Cam – 18 Le Loi, Hue
  Price: around 35,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.5 – $2 USD) per serving
  Foodie feedback: “The spice hits just right, and the toppings are a perfect combo!” – Maya from Germany
• Com Hen Ong Tam – 22 Pham Ngu Lao, Hue
  Price: around 40,000 – 55,000 VND ($1.7 – $2.4 USD) per serving
  Foodie feedback: “Loved the mix of crunchy and soft textures. Totally unique!” – Kenji from Japan

Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Com Hen Hue, a true Hue culinary treasure.

Other famous dishes in Hue you might explore:

Banh Khoai Hue – Hue Crispy Pancake

• A thin, crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
• Recommended places: Banh Khoai Ba Do – 44 Le Loi, Hue; Banh Khoai Co Ba – 12 Pham Ngu Lao, Hue

Bun Hen – Spicy Clam Noodle Soup

• Rice noodles topped with stir-fried clams, peanuts, herbs, and spicy seasoning. A lighter but equally flavorful alternative to Com Hen.
• Recommended places: Bun Hen Ba Cam – 18 Le Loi, Hue; Bun Hen Co Ba – 15 Pham Ngu Lao, Hue

Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo – Da Nang’s Signature Pork Rolls

If you’re visiting Da Nang, don’t miss the chance to try Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo, a Central Vietnam specialty. The pork, taken from the shoulder and rump with a touch of fat, gives the rolls a rich, savory flavor. Wrap it with rice paper, fresh vermicelli, lettuce, cucumber, basil, green mango, and dip into the bold, tangy fish sauce-each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors.

Where locals go to try Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo in Da Nang:

• Banh Trang Cuon Ba Duong – 35 Le Duan, Da Nang
  Price: around 60,000 – 80,000 VND ($2.5 – $3.5 USD) per serving
  Customer comment: “The pork is tender and juicy, and the sauce is amazing!” – Elena from Spain
• Banh Trang Cuon Ong Hai – 22 Phan Chau Trinh, Da Nang
  Price: around 55,000 – 75,000 VND ($2.3 – $3.3 USD) per serving
  Customer comment: “Loved wrapping my own rolls. Fresh, flavorful, and fun to eat!” – Marcus from USA

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo celebrates local tradition.

Other famous dishes in Da Nang you might explore:

Bun Cha Ca – Fish Cake Noodle Soup

• A light yet flavorful noodle soup featuring turmeric-seasoned fish cakes, fresh herbs, and a tangy broth.
• Suggested places: Bun Cha Ca Ba Lieu – 12 Le Duan, Da Nang; Bun Cha Ca 109 – 109 Tran Phu, Da Nang
• Experience: “A perfect balance of sour, sweet, and savory—so fresh!” – Mike from Australia

Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Crispy Pancake

• A crispy, savory pancake filled with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and herbs, usually wrapped in lettuce and dipped in fish sauce.
• Suggested places: Banh Xeo Ba Duong – 35 Hoang Dieu, Da Nang; Banh Xeo Co Ba – 18 Nguyen Van Linh, Da Nang
• Experience: “The crispiness and fresh herbs make every bite a delight!” – Eli from Canada

Mi Quang – Quang-Style Noodles from Da Nang

If you think you know Mi Quang, think again. The best bowls come from Quang Nam and Da Nang, brimming with fresh shrimp, tender pork, quail eggs, crunchy peanuts, and a lightly seasoned broth that’s rich but never overwhelming. Traditionally, it balances the sweetness of shrimp with slices of pork belly, but adventurous cooks add toppings like ribs, chicken, frog, or fish, making every bowl unique. Wrap it all with fresh herbs and rice crackers, and each bite is a harmony of flavors that defines Central Vietnam’s culinary charm.

Food stops to try Mi Quang in Da Nang:

• Mi Quang Ba Mua – 19 Tran Binh Trong, Da Nang
  Price: around 50,000 – 70,000 VND ($2 – $3 USD) per serving
  Visitor’s experience: “Perfect balance of flavors, and the toppings are so fresh!” – Hana from Japan
• Mi Quang Bich – 45 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Da Nang
  Price: around 55,000 – 75,000 VND ($2.3 – $3.3 USD) per serving
  Visitor’s experience: “Loved every bite! The broth and noodles are just perfect.” – Lucas from Germany

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Mi Quang celebrates heritage in every flavorful bite.

Cao Lau – Hoi An’s Famous Noodles

Cao Lau is one of Hoi An’s most iconic dishes, drawing travelers from near and far. A perfect bowl combines chewy fresh noodles, a handful of crispy fried noodles, thin slices of char siu pork, a rich savory broth, and fresh greens and bean sprouts. Simple ingredients, but when prepared with care, it becomes something truly special.

Where to try:

• Cao Lau Ba Le – 26 Tran Phu, Hoi An
  Price: 50,000 – 70,000 VND ($2 – $3 USD) per serving
  Guest review: “The noodles are perfectly chewy, and the broth is full of flavor!” – Clara from UK
• Cao Lau Thanh – 16 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An
  Price: 50,000 – 70,000 VND ($2 – $3 USD) per serving
  Guest review: “Loved the crispy topping and fresh herbs—so authentic!” – Ryo from Japan

If you’re curious, the ingredients are easy to find in local supermarkets and markets, so adventurous foodies can even try making Cao Lau at home to capture a taste of Hoi An in their own kitchen.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Cao Lau Hoi An, a true culinary treasure.

Other famous dishes in Da Nang you might explore:

Banh Dap – Crispy Rice Cake

A crunchy snack layered with green onion oil, dried shrimp, and sometimes pork, Banh Dap is perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city.

Where to try:

• Banh Dap Ba Lan – 10 Le Loi, Hoi An
• Banh Dap Co Ba – 35 Nguyen Duy Hieu, Hoi An
• Price: 20,000 – 30,000 VND ($0.8 – $1.3 USD) per piece
• Customer comment: “Crispy, savory, and just irresistible!” – Arjun from India

Ocean Tuna Eye – Phu Yen’s Unique Delicacy

One Central Vietnam specialty you cannot miss in Phu Yen is Ocean Tuna Eye. Carefully prepared to be clean and odor-free, this dish is surprisingly nutritious and delicate. After meticulous cleaning, the tuna eye is simmered in a small bowl with traditional herbs like goji berries and jujube, creating a subtly sweet and soothing flavor.

Best places to eat:

• Quan Hai San Phu Yen – 12 Tran Phu, Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen
  Price: 80,000 – 120,000 VND ($3.5 – $5 USD) per serving
  Customer comment: “A surprisingly gentle taste, very unique and nourishing!” – Maya from Germany
• Nha Hang Hai San Ba Tam – 18 Le Loi, Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen
  Price: 90,000 – 130,000 VND ($4 – $5.5 USD) per serving
  Customer comment: “The herbal flavor complements the tuna perfectly. A must-try!” – Ken from Australia

Three Bowls One Vietnam, savoring Mat Ca Ngu Phu Yen’s fresh seafood flavors together.

Other famous dishes in Phu Yen you might explore:

Bun Thit Nuong Phu Yen – Grilled Pork Noodle Soup

A simple yet flavorful dish with vermicelli noodles, grilled pork, fresh herbs, and sweet-sour fish sauce.

Where to try:

• Bun Thit Nuong Ba Lan – 18 Tran Phu, Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen
• Bun Thit Nuong Co Ba – 22 Pham Van Dong, Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen
• Price: 35,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.5 – $2 USD) per bowl
• Guest review: “Loved the grilled pork and fresh herbs. So light yet satisfying!” – Liam from Australia

Goi Ca Mai – Raw Anchovy Salad

A local coastal specialty, Goi Ca Mai features thinly sliced fresh anchovies mixed with herbs, chili, and peanuts, giving a refreshing and slightly tangy flavor.

Where to try:

• Nha Hang Hai San Ba Tam – 18 Le Loi, Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen
• Quan Hai San Tam Gia – 12 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Tuy Hoa, Phu Yen
• Price: 50,000 – 70,000 VND ($2 – $3 USD) per serving
• Guest review: “Fresh, zesty, and full of flavor—definitely a Phu Yen must-try!” – Hiroshi from Japan

The Life of the Party – Southern Plates Full of Joy

From sizzling street food stalls to family-style feasts, Southern cuisine is a joyful explosion of flavors that keeps you coming back for more. Every city hides its own signature dish, each one sweeter, bolder, and more generous than the last – just waiting to be discovered on your Southern Vietnam tours. Ready to taste which bite will surprise you most?

Duck Hotpot with Fermented Bean Curd (Lau Vit nau chao) – Can Tho

Whenever you set foot in the “land of white rice and clear water,” you’ll easily spot countless eateries serving duck hotpot with fermented bean curd. This dish has a unique flavor, blending the richness of fermented tofu with the tender, flavorful duck meat that’s fatty but never overwhelming. In fact, the Vietnam Records Organization listed it among the Top 100 most distinctive Vietnamese dishes.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, savoring Lau Vit Nau Chao Can Tho together deliciously.

Where to enjoy it:

• Thanh Giao Duck Hotpot – 84/1 Ly Tu Trong, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho
  Price: ~ 250,000 – 400,000 VND/pot (10 – 16 USD)
• Phuong Nam Duck Hotpot – 22 Nguyen Van Cu, An Hoa, Can Tho
  Price: ~ 220,000 – 350,000 VND/pot (9 – 14 USD)

What diners say:

• Lan Anh (Hanoi): “The broth is rich and aromatic with fermented bean curd – pairing it with fresh vegetables and noodles makes it absolutely perfect!”
• Daniel (Australia): “I’ve never had anything like this before – creamy yet light, truly an unforgettable food experience in Can Tho.”

Other famous dishes in Can Tho you might explore:

Beef Hotpot with Fermented Shrimp Paste (Lau Bo Nhung Mam Ruoc) – Binh Duong

When visiting Binh Duong, one dish you cant miss is the famous beef hotpot with fermented shrimp paste. Loved by locals and travelers alike, it captivates with its unique aroma. Tender, fresh beef is dipped directly into the savory fermented shrimp broth, cooking just enough to remain juicy, then enjoyed with crisp greens and a spicy satay dipping sauce.

Taste tradition: Three Bowls One Vietnam, enjoying the bold Lau Bo Nhung Mam Ruoc.

Recommended spots:

Lau Bo Mam Ruoc Thanh Tam – 12 Le Loi, Thu Dau Mot, Binh Duong

• Price: ~ 250,000 – 400,000 VND/pot (10 – 16 USD)
• Highlight: Beef stays tender, broth is fragrant but not overpowering

Lau Bo Mam Ruoc Ba Hoang – 18 Nguyen Van Cu, Di An, Binh Duong

• Price: ~ 220,000 – 350,000 VND/pot (9 – 14 USD)
• Highlight: Fresh vegetables and satay sauce perfectly complement the beef

Traveler’s note:

• Sophia (USA): “Cooking the beef at the table and dipping it in that flavorful broth is so fun and delicious!”
• Huy (Vietnam): “The aroma of the fermented shrimp paste is irresistible, and the beef is perfectly tender.”

Other famous dishes in Binh Duong you might explore:

Sweet Potato with Fermented Fish Wrapped in Leaf – Vinh Long

Sweet potato with fermented fish wrapped in leaf is more than just a dish — it’s a taste of childhood memories and a glimpse into the resilient spirit of the people of Vinh Long and the Mekong Delta. The salty, savory punch of fermented fish perfectly balances the natural sweetness and creaminess of boiled or steamed sweet potato, creating a flavor that surprises and delights with every bite.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Khoai Mam Song celebrates Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.

Recommended spots:

Nha Hang Com Chay Ba Lan – 12 Tran Phu, Vinh Long

• Price: ~ 30,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.3 – $2 USD) per portion
• Highlight: Authentic flavor, soft sweet potato paired with well-seasoned fermented fish

Quan An Dam Mien Tay Ong Tam – 18 Nguyen Hue, Vinh Long

• Price: ~ 35,000 – 55,000 VND ($1.5 – $2.4 USD) per portion
• Highlight: Wrapped in aromatic leaves, with a perfect balance of salty and sweet

Traveler’s note:

• Linh (Vietnam): “It reminded me of my grandmother’s cooking — simple, flavorful, and comforting!”
• Marco (Italy): “I never imagined sweet potato and fermented fish could taste this good together. Unique and memorable!”

Other famous dishes in Vinh Long you might explore:

Bun Nuoc Leo – Tra Vinh

Bun Nuoc Leo from Tra Vinh may not be a luxury dish, but it’s unforgettable for anyone exploring Southern Vietnamese cuisine. What sets it apart is the use of Khmer-style fermented fish sauce (mam bo hoc) and Chinese-style roasted pork, giving the broth a uniquely aromatic and slightly tangy flavor. The soup often includes various types of fish and seafood, such as snakehead fish, goby fish, shrimp, along with plenty of fresh herbs and vegetables.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Bun Nuoc Leo, a soulful taste of Mekong.

Recommended spots:

Bun Nuoc Leo Ba Lan – 12 Tran Phu, Tra Vinh

• Price: ~ 35,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.5 – $2 USD) per bowl
• Highlight: Aromatic, slightly tangy broth with fresh seafood and roasted pork

Bun Nuoc Leo Ong Tam – 18 Nguyen Hue, Tra Vinh

• Price: ~ 40,000 – 55,000 VND ($1.7 – $2.4 USD) per bowl
• Highlight: Balanced flavors, generous toppings, and fresh herbs

Traveler’s note:

• Minh (Vietnam): “The Khmer-style fish sauce gives the broth a unique depth I haven’t tasted anywhere else!”
• Sophie (France): “Delicious and comforting — the mix of roasted pork and fresh fish is a perfect combination.”

Other famous dishes in Tra Vinh you might explore:

Fermented Fish Hotpot (Lau Mam) – Bac Lieu

Lau Mam from Bac Lieu is a true taste of the Mekong Delta countryside. This hotpot is made from fermented fish (mam) prepared with a special traditional method, blending the culinary techniques of Cham, Khmer, and Vietnamese cultures. The broth, made from fermented fish such as snakehead or climbing perch, is rich and aromatic. It’s served with a variety of ingredients including pork belly, basa fish, catfish, shrimp, squid, and more, making every bite a flavorful adventure.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, where Lau Mam celebrates heritage through bold, fragrant flavors.

Recommended spots:

Lau Mam Ba Lan – 12 Tran Phu, Bac Lieu

• Price: ~ 250,000 – 400,000 VND ($10 – $16 USD) per pot
• Highlight: Rich, aromatic broth with a mix of seafood and pork

Lau Mam Ong Tam – 18 Nguyen Hue, Bac Lieu

• Price: ~ 220,000 – 350,000 VND ($9 – $14 USD) per pot
• Highlight: Balanced flavors, tender seafood, and fresh vegetables

Traveler’s note:

• My (Vietnam): “The broth has a bold, unique flavor that’s truly unforgettable!”
• Daniel (Australia): “Aromatic, hearty, and perfect for sharing with friends or family.”

Other famous dishes in Bac Lieu you might explore:

Herring Salad (Goi Ca Trich) – Kien Giang

Goi Ca Trich is a must-try dish when visiting Kien Giang. The herring here has a distinct, sweet, and rich flavor. If you’ve never tried raw seafood before, it may feel a bit intimidating, but the taste is unique – fresh, slightly crunchy, and pleasantly creamy. The dish is often served with rice paper for wrapping and accompanied by herbs, roasted peanuts, and a tangy dressing, creating a refreshing and unforgettable flavor.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, sharing Goi Ca Trich, a refreshing taste of sea.

Quan Ngoc Ha

• Location: 415 Lam Quang Ky, Rach Gia, Kien Giang
• Price: 100,000 VND per plate ($4 USD)
• Highlight: Famous for fresh herring salad, cozy local atmosphere, authentic flavors
• Traveler Notes: Truong (Vietnam): “The herring salad here is so fresh and flavorful, unlike anything I’ve tried before!”

Nha Hang Song Xanh

• Location: 217 Duong 30 Thang 4, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
• Price: 150,000 VND per plate ($6 USD)
• Highlight: Riverside location, celebrated for traditional herring salad with secret dipping sauce
• Traveler Notes: Liz (France): “Surprisingly light and refreshing, with a perfect balance of textures — crunchy, soft, and creamy.”

Other famous dishes in Kien Giang you might explore:

Three Bowls, One Vietnam – Together at the Same Table

Now here’s the magic. Put these personalities together – the Wise Elder, the Fiery Rebel, the Life of the Party – and you get the full picture of Vietnam. Different styles, different moods, but all part of the same story.

That’s why I like to call it “Three Bowls, One Vietnam.” A steaming pho, a spicy bun bo Hue, and a sweet bowl of Hu Tieu don’t just represent food – they represent a country that embraces its diversity and serves it proudly on the table.

So, whether you’re slurping noodles on a tiny plastic stool in Hanoi, sweating happily over chili in Hue, or laughing with friends over a feast in Ho Chi Minh, remember this: every bowl is more than a meal. It’s Vietnam itself, welcoming you with chopsticks open.

Three Bowls One Vietnam, uniting North, Central, South in harmony of flavors.

Taste, Travel, Remember: The Magic of Vietnam Tours

Exploring Vietnam through its food is like meeting the country’s heart, one bowl at a time. From the quiet, thoughtful flavors of the North, to the fiery boldness of the Central region, to the playful sweetness of the South, every bite tells a story you won’t forget. For travelers seeking more than just sightseeing, Vietnam tours offer the chance to taste, feel, and live these stories firsthand – proving that the best way to know a country is through its flavors.