When traveling through Vietnam, breakfast is more than just the most important meal of the day – it’s a delicious dive into the country’s rich culture. From the bustling streets of Saigon to the peaceful mornings in Hanoi, traditional Vietnamese breakfasts are diverse, flavorful, and an essential part of the local experience. Here’s a list of 10 must-try Vietnamese breakfasts that will make your mornings unforgettable.
1. Phở Bò (Beef Pho)
No list of Vietnamese breakfasts would be complete without mentioning phở bò, the iconic beef noodle soup that is enjoyed at any time of day. This hearty dish consists of rice noodles in a flavorful broth topped with tender beef slices, fresh herbs, and a squeeze of lime. It’s the perfect breakfast to kick-start your day with warmth and flavor.
Internal link: For an in-depth experience of pho and more, check out the Hanoi Foodie Experience.
2. Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette)
A product of Vietnam’s French colonial history, bánh mì is a crispy baguette stuffed with a variety of fillings like pate, pork, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. It’s a portable breakfast that has captured the hearts of both locals and travelers.
Internal link: Don’t miss a chance to try this on the Saigon Foodie Experience.
3. Xôi (Sticky Rice)
Xôi is a versatile breakfast made from glutinous rice and topped with a variety of ingredients, from shredded chicken to mung beans and fried shallots. It can be savory or sweet, making it a popular choice for those looking for a filling morning meal.
4. Bánh Cuốn (Steamed Rice Rolls)
Bánh cuốn is a light yet savory dish made of steamed rice flour crepes stuffed with minced pork, mushrooms, and topped with crispy shallots. Served with a side of fish sauce for dipping, this breakfast is a great way to start your day without feeling too heavy.
5. Cháo (Vietnamese Rice Porridge)
Cháo is a Vietnamese rice porridge that is often served with shredded chicken, pork, or fish. It’s a comforting and warming dish, particularly popular during cooler months or when you’re feeling under the weather.
6. Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
While more commonly known as a lunch dish, bún chả can also be enjoyed in the morning in Northern Vietnam. The dish consists of grilled pork served over a bed of rice vermicelli with fresh herbs, accompanied by a tangy dipping sauce.
7. Bánh Đúc (Vietnamese Savory Rice Cake)
Bánh đúc is a traditional Vietnamese savory rice cake made from rice flour, topped with a mix of minced pork and mushrooms, and served with a side of fish sauce. It’s a comforting, nostalgic dish for many Vietnamese people, often eaten as a light breakfast.
8. Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Vietnamese Iced Coffee)
While not a dish, no Vietnamese breakfast is complete without a cup of cà phê sữa đá—Vietnamese iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk. The strong coffee paired with creamy milk is an instant pick-me-up, and a must-try for coffee lovers.
9. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancake)
Bánh xèo is a crispy, savory pancake made with rice flour and turmeric, filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It’s usually wrapped in rice paper or lettuce and dipped in a tangy fish sauce, providing a balanced breakfast experience.
Internal link: Try this on the Streets and Eats of Hoi An tour.
10. Bánh Khọt (Mini Savory Pancakes)
Bánh khọt are mini savory pancakes made from rice flour, topped with shrimp and served with fresh herbs and a side of fish sauce. These bite-sized treats are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a popular breakfast in Southern Vietnam.
Internal link: For a full Southern food adventure, join the Streets and Eats of Hue tour.
Explore Vietnam’s Culinary Landscape with Vespa Adventures
Want to experience these breakfasts firsthand? Vespa Adventures offers immersive food tours like the Hanoi Foodie Experience, Saigon Foodie Experience, and Streets and Eats of Hoi An that take you through the heart of Vietnam’s food culture. Discover local favorites and hidden gems as you ride through vibrant streets on a vintage Vespa.
