Lunch in Vietnam: 15+ Best Traditional Dishes by Region (2025 Guide)

Discover the diverse world of lunch in Vietnam, where each region offers its own spectacular specialties. From the savory Pho in the North to the aromatic Com Tam in the South, Vietnamese lunch dishes showcase the country's culinary mastery through fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Join us as we explore 15+ authentic Vietnamese lunch dishes that define midday dining across this food-loving nation.

What Makes Northern Vietnam's Lunch Dishes Unique? Discover 5 Traditional Meals

In Northern Vietnam, lunch is typically lighter compared to the southern regions, focusing more on delicate flavors and balanced dishes. Rice-based meals paired with fresh vegetables and meats are commonly served, creating a harmonious experience for the taste buds.

1. Cơm Rang Dưa Bò (Stir-Fried Rice with Pickled Mustard Greens and Beef)

One of the most beloved lunch dishes in the north is Cơm Rang Dưa Bò. This dish features stir-fried rice, pickled mustard greens, and tender beef. The sourness from the pickled greens pairs perfectly with the richness of the beef, offering a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Price: 30.000 – 40.000 VNĐ.

2. Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)

Perhaps the most famous Vietnamese dish worldwide, Phở is a must-try for anyone visiting Northern Vietnam. This iconic noodle soup consists of a savory broth made from beef or chicken, rice noodles, and an assortment of fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s typically enjoyed as a hearty lunch, providing a filling yet flavorful meal. Phở is served at any time of day, but it is especially popular for lunch.

Price: 35.000 - 50.000 VNĐ.

3. Bún cá (Fried Fish Noodle Soup)

In Northern Vietnam, Bún Cá is often enjoyed for lunch. This dish differs from the Central and Southern versions of fish-based noodle soups. Instead of fresh fish, it features fried fish fillets served with rice noodles, vegetables, and a tangy broth. The dish is light yet satisfying, perfect for the midday meal.

Price: 35.000 – 50.000 VNĐ.

4. Bún Đậu (Vermicelli with Tofu and Pork)

A popular and affordable lunch option in the north, Bún Đậu consists of vermicelli noodles, fried tofu, and grilled pork. Often served with a side of fermented shrimp paste, this dish offers a burst of flavors with every bite, combining the crispy texture of tofu and pork with the soft noodles. It’s a well-loved street food dish, perfect for a quick and tasty lunch.

Price: 25.000 - 120.000 VNĐ.

5. Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)

Another famous northern dish, Bún Chả is composed of grilled pork, usually served with a side of cold vermicelli noodles and fresh herbs. The pork is marinated in a savory-sweet sauce, grilled to perfection, and served alongside a flavorful dipping sauce. It's a filling and tasty option for lunch, especially popular in Hanoi.

Price: 35.000 - 50.000 VNĐ.

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Which 3 Lunch Dishes Define Central Vietnam's Culinary Identity?

Central Vietnam, often known for its bold and spicy flavors, offers a variety of lunch dishes that highlight the region’s rich culinary heritage. Here, you will find a blend of street food staples and traditional meals that cater to all tastes.

1. Cơm Gà (Chicken Rice)

No list of central Vietnamese delicacies is complete without mentioning Đà Nẵng’s chicken rice. The rice is cooked with chicken broth and a hint of turmeric powder, giving it a vibrant golden hue when done. Only free-range chicken is used, known for its firm and flavorful meat. Once boiled, the chicken releases an enticing aroma. Chicken rice is typically served with spicy sauce, Vietnamese coriander, thinly sliced onions, and a steaming bowl of egg soup, creating a distinct and delicious taste.

Price: 30.000 - 80.000 VNĐ.

2. Cơm Hến (Clam Rice)

Clam rice is another popular Central Vietnamese specialty, especially loved by those who enjoy spicy food. The clams are stir-fried with bold and fiery spices, offering an exciting, tongue-tingling sensation. This dish is often topped with crispy pork lard, roasted peanuts, shredded green mango, and other flavorful additions, making it irresistibly unique.

Price: 15.000 – 30.000 VNĐ.

3. Mỳ quảng (Quang Noodles)

Mì Quảng is one of the most iconic dishes in Central Vietnam. This noodle dish features thick rice noodles served with a rich broth, various meats like shrimp, pork, and chicken, and a selection of fresh herbs. Unlike pho, Mì Quảng is a dry noodle dish, with just a small amount of broth to add flavor. The combination of noodles, meats, and herbs, along with a dash of peanuts and crispy rice crackers, creates a meal that is both filling and flavorful.

Price: 25.000 - 70.000 VNĐ.

7 Must-Try Lunch Dishes in Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam’s cuisine is known for its bold, sweet, and savory flavors. Lunch dishes from the southern region often include a variety of noodle soups, rice dishes, and stir-fried meals, with a heavy emphasis on fresh ingredients.

1. Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice)

A signature lunch dish in Southern Vietnam, Cơm Tấm is made with broken rice, which is served with grilled pork, shredded pork skin, and often a fried egg. The dish is typically accompanied by pickled vegetables and a side of fish sauce for dipping. Cơm Tấm is a comforting and delicious dish that is both filling and flavorful, making it a popular lunch option in Ho Chi Minh City and beyond.

Price: 35.000 - 65.000.

2. Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich)

While Bánh Mì is often considered a snack or street food, it’s also a popular option for a quick lunch in Southern Vietnam. This Vietnamese sandwich consists of a French baguette filled with various ingredients, including grilled pork, pate, vegetables, and herbs. The crispy baguette and savory fillings make Bánh Mì an irresistible option for a light yet satisfying lunch.

Price: 20.000 - 80.000 VNĐ.

3. Gỏi Cuốn (Vietnamese Spring Rolls)

In Southern Vietnam, Gỏi Cuốn, also known as Vietnamese spring rolls, is a popular choice for lunch. These fresh rolls are made with rice paper and filled with shrimp, pork, fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, and lettuce. Often served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce, Gỏi Cuốn is light, healthy, and perfect for those who prefer a refreshing lunch option.

Price: 5.000 - 20.000 VNĐ.

4. Miến Măng Gà (Chicken and Bamboo Vermicelli Soup)

If you’re searching for a light yet satisfying lunch in Saigon, Miến Măng Gà is an excellent choice. The soft, chewy vermicelli noodles, paired with a clear, savory broth and tender shredded chicken, make it irresistible. Topped with fresh herbs, dried or fresh bamboo shoots, and a hint of fragrant ginger, this dish awakens the palate. Plus, it’s affordable - starting at just 35,000 VND, it’s a hearty and budget-friendly option.

Price: 30.000 - 60.000 VNĐ.

5. Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ (Crispy Fried Chicken with Rice)

Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ is another Saigon specialty worth savoring. The rice, cooked with chicken broth, boasts a golden hue and a rich, flavorful taste. The chicken is deep-fried to perfection, achieving a golden, crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy inside. Some places even use natural red coloring from gấc fruit to enhance the rice’s visual appeal. This dish stands out with its unique preparation and irresistible combination of textures and flavors.

Price: 35.000 - 55.000 VNĐ.

6. Hủ Tiếu (Southern-Style Noodle Soup)

Just as Phở represents Hanoi, Hủ Tiếu is a Saigon classic. This hearty noodle soup features a rich broth made by simmering pork bones and meat for hours, resulting in a clear yet intensely flavorful base. It’s a humble dish closely tied to the everyday lives of Saigon’s locals. You’ll find Hủ Tiếu stalls on almost every street corner, offering a satisfying meal for just 30,000 to 60,000 VND.

Price: 20.000 - 50.000 VNĐ.

7. Bún Riêu (Crab Noodle Soup)

Bún Riêu is another beloved Saigon lunch option, known for its distinctive Southern flavor. Made with freshwater crab paste (riêu cua đồng), this dish delivers a unique taste that’s both hearty and refreshing. Many locals recommend enjoying Bún Riêu at street-side stalls or hidden alleyway eateries for the most authentic experience. Prices are budget-friendly, ranging from 25,000 to 40,000 VND per bowl, making it a must-try for visitors exploring the city.

Price: 20.000 - 40.000 VNĐ.

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Common Questions About Vietnamese Lunch Dishes

What time is lunch in Vietnam?

Lunch in Vietnam is typically served between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. However, it varies depending on the region and the individual’s schedule. In urban areas, lunch is usually eaten around noon, while in more rural regions, it may be served earlier or later.

What is the average lunch in Vietnam?

The average lunch in Vietnam consists of a variety of dishes that are both nutritious and flavorful. A typical lunch includes rice or noodles, a protein such as chicken, pork, or beef, and vegetables. In larger cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, you’ll find a wide range of options from street food vendors to sit-down restaurants. A meal typically costs between 30,000 to 100,000 VND ($1.5 - $4 USD) depending on the dish and location.

Vietnam's diverse cuisine offers an exciting array of lunch options, each region contributing its unique flavors and specialties. So, next time you find yourself in Vietnam, make sure to explore the vibrant lunchtime culture and indulge in the diverse flavors that the country has to offer.