If you have the opportunity to visit Vietnam this summer, beyond admiring the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes, you must immerse yourself in the country's rich and diverse culinary scene. To help you navigate and savor the most iconic flavors, EzyRemit has curated a list of quintessential Vietnamese dishes that have captivated the palates of visiting prime ministers, presidents, and global business leaders.
Pho: The Iconic Vietnamese Noodle Soup
During a state visit in 2023, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife delighted in the signature dishes of Hanoi. At the forefront of this culinary experience was Pho, the undisputed national dish of Vietnam, which is beloved by locals whether for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. A bowl of Pho is a meticulous combination of various fresh ingredients. The rice noodles, available in thin or thick cuts depending on personal preference, are blanched in boiling water until perfectly white and tender.
Accompanying these smooth noodles is the broth-the true soul of the dish. Simmered for hours with beef bones, peanut worms (sa sung), and a selection of root vegetables for natural sweetness, the broth is further elevated by aromatic spices like cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and cardamom. This intricate blend creates a complex yet harmoniously balanced flavor profile. The beef is elegantly arranged, allowing diners to choose between rare or well-done cuts based on their tastes. Served steaming hot and garnished with fresh scallions, crispy dough sticks (quay), and a side of fresh herbs, Pho offers an unparalleled sensory experience. It was this exact culinary masterpiece that earned high praise from the South Korean President and famously prompted NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang to eagerly try it during his visit to Vietnam in 2023.
Banh Mi & Bia Hoi: A Rustic yet Exquisite Experience
Beyond Pho, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese embraced the local lifestyle by enjoying Banh Mi accompanied by a refreshing glass of Bia Hoi (draft beer) in a rustic Hanoi eatery. He paired this with traditional side dishes like fried tofu tossed in scallion oil and grilled pork belly. The Prime Minister was full of praise for the iconic Vietnamese sandwich. Similarly, during the 2017 APEC Summit, former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull took a morning stroll through the vibrant streets to savor a Banh Mi. He expressed immense delight at the fresh, high-quality ingredients, noting that it was his very first time tasting this beloved Vietnamese street food.
Cha Ca La Vong & Vietnamese Coffee: Unique Flavors
The culinary diplomacy extends further, featuring dishes that truly awaken the senses. Former US President Donald Trump had the pleasure of experiencing Cha Ca La Vong, a historic and highly celebrated specialty of Northern Vietnam. This exquisite dish features tender chunks of snakehead fish, marinated in vibrant golden turmeric and galangal, then sizzlingly pan-fried right at the table with generous heaps of fresh dill and spring onions. The result is a fragrant, savory masterpiece perfectly paired with roasted peanuts, rice noodles, and a touch of fermented shrimp paste.
Additionally, the robust and distinctive flavor of traditional Vietnamese coffee left a lasting impression on Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Known for its intense, dark-roasted Robusta beans slowly dripped through a traditional metal filter (phin) and perfectly balanced with a rich layer of sweetened condensed milk, this iconic drink showcases the global appeal of Vietnam's everyday culinary wonders.
Experience Vietnam to the Fullest with EzyRemit
Vietnam's culinary landscape is as welcoming as its people. Whether you are a traveler looking to explore the Top 10 Places You Must Visit in Vietnam, or an expat eager to dive into must-try Vietnamese dishes, ensuring a seamless financial experience is key.
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