Top 10 Best Restaurants in Vietnam for Authentic Local Taste (2025)

Vietnam is a haven for food lovers. From steamy bowls of pho on the streets of Hanoi to sizzling plates of banh xeo in Saigon, every bite here is a burst of tradition, flavour, and soul. What makes the food scene in Vietnam truly special is how diverse and authentic it remains—even with global recognition. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, let your stomach lead the way.

After all, the Best Restaurants in Vietnam don’t just serve meals—they serve unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy street food, crave fresh seafood, or want to try the famed egg coffee, Vietnam’s culinary map is packed with gems.

Here’s a list of the top 10 restaurants across the country that serve up Vietnam’s rich flavors in the most authentic way:

1. Ngon Restaurant (Hanoi)

Set in a charming colonial villa, Ngon brings Vietnam’s street food indoors—with style. From bun cha to goi cuon, everything here is made fresh by regional chefs.

2. Cục Gạch Quán (Ho Chi Minh City)

This homely spot gives you a taste of Saigon’s traditional meals. The cozy décor and clay pot dishes make you feel like you're eating at a Vietnamese grandmother’s house.

3. Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen (Hoi An)

Ask any local in Hoi An where to get the best banh mi, and they’ll send you here. Crunchy on the outside, stuffed with flavorful fillings inside—this is the real deal.

4. Bún Chả Hương Liên (Hanoi)

Famous for being visited by Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain, this modest eatery serves the iconic bun cha that defines Northern Vietnamese cuisine.

5. The Deck Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)

For something upscale, The Deck offers riverfront dining with fusion Vietnamese and international dishes. Perfect for date nights and sunsets.

6. Nha Hang Tam Coc (Ninh Binh)

Located amidst rice fields, this restaurant offers scenic views and equally impressive meals. Try their goat meat dishes, a local delicacy.

7. Red Bean Restaurant (Hanoi)

A fine-dining take on Vietnamese staples, Red Bean is popular among tourists who want local food in a clean, classy setting. Their lemongrass chicken is a must-try.

8. Co Ba Vung Tau (Vung Tau)

If seafood is your weakness, this place will not disappoint. Known for its fish hotpots and crab dishes, it brings the essence of coastal Vietnam to your plate.

9. Secret Garden (Ho Chi Minh City)

Tucked away on a rooftop, Secret Garden is loved for both its ambience and menu. Try their thit kho (braised pork with eggs) and canh chua (sour soup).

10. Tree Hugger Café (Dong Hoi)

A hidden gem in central Vietnam, this eco-friendly café serves locally sourced, delicious meals in a relaxed setting. Great for vegan and vegetarian travelers too.

And if you're planning to explore the lesser-known parts of the country, don’t miss the Dong Hoi, often overshadowed by its neighbor Phong Nha, is a peaceful city by the river, offering quiet beaches, war ruins, and cafes like Tree Hugger that reflect the city’s laid-back charm.

So, whether you’re in a bustling metropolis or a calm riverside town, Vietnam’s food scene will welcome you with open arms—and flavorful dishes. These restaurants are not just stops on your journey, they are highlights of the adventure.