In Vietnam, food is a living expression of culture, history, and community. Each dish carries a story: French techniques woven into Vietnamese tradition, herbs that bring dishes to life, and broths slow-cooked to perfection. Add a thoughtful glass of wine and the experience reaches another level. Wine enhances the freshness, balances the richness, and highlights the unique character of Vietnamese flavors. 

Whether you’re dining in a modern restaurant or perched on a plastic stool at a street stall, pairing food and wine turns your visit into an unforgettable journey. Below is a guide to the dishes, wines, restaurants, and shops you shouldn’t miss.

Phở

Phở is Vietnam’s most beloved noodle soup: a steaming bowl of broth, rice noodles, and thin slices of beef or chicken, finished with herbs and lime. Its comforting depth pairs beautifully with crisp Blanc de Blancs Champagne or Spanish Cava, both of which cut through the richness and complement the herbs. If beef is your choice, try a light Pinot Noir or Gamay, which provides a gentle lift without overpowering.

For a creative spin, head to Anan Saigon, where phở-inspired dishes are paired with wines on the tasting menu. To bring wine home, Annam Gourmet (Saigon Centre) stocks Champagne and Pinot Noir, while Glouglou Wine Shop specializes in natural sparkling wines. With the right glass in hand, phở becomes more than a meal; it’s a taste of Vietnam’s soul.

Bánh Mì

The famous bánh mì combines a French baguette with Vietnamese fillings, creating a sandwich that’s crunchy, tangy, savory, and utterly satisfying. Its bold mix of flavors pairs well with a lively Grüner Veltliner or crisp Sauvignon Blanc, both of which echo the herbs and pickles inside.

Anan Saigon takes it to new heights with playful creations like foie gras bánh mì. To pick up bottles yourself, Cái Thùng Gỗ offers a strong selection of European whites perfect for this pairing. A simple bánh mì with the right wine proves that street food can be just as elegant as fine dining.

Bún Riêu

Bún riêu is a traditional Vietnamese soup made with clear stock and rice vermicelli. There are several varieties of this dish, including bún riêu cua (minced crab), bún riêu cá (minced crab and fish), and bún riêu ốc (minced crab and snail). 

Each version carries a distinctive balance of savory broth, seafood or meat, and fresh herbs. Its tangy and umami-rich flavors shine when paired with wines that have good acidity. A crisp Riesling Kabinett or Albariño complements the briny seafood and brightens the tomato base.

For a street-style experience, enjoy bún riêu at a local eatery in District 3, then stop by Glouglou Wine Shop for natural whites or Rieslings. Annam Gourmet also stocks Riesling and other whites for those who want to try the pairing at home. 

Bò Lá Lốt

Bò lá lốt features spiced minced beef wrapped in lolot/betel leaves, grilled until smoky, and served with herbs, rice noodles, and dipping sauce. A soft Grenache or light Pinot Noir pairs perfectly, highlighting the charred flavors while balancing the herbs. For a street-style experience, this dish is best enjoyed at local eateries around Ho Chi Minh City.

If you’d like to buy a bottle to pair it yourself, Cái Thùng Gỗ carries Pinot Noir and Grenache from both Old and New World producers. Together, the dish and wine capture the smoky, herbal depth of Vietnamese cooking.

Bún Mắm

Bún mắm is a bold noodle soup made with fermented fish broth, shrimp, pork, and herbs. Its deep, umami flavor calls for wines that can stand their ground. Dry whites like Grüner Veltliner or Chenin Blanc cut through the intensity and highlight the herbal freshness.

They are also available at Annam Gourmet for home pairings. Bún mắm is not a dish for beginners, but when paired with the right wine, it’s unforgettable.

Bánh Xèo

Bánh xèo is a crispy, golden rice crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, made for sharing with friends. Its richness pairs beautifully with sparkling wine or a refreshing Chardonnay, which cuts through the oiliness and refreshes the palate. 

At Anan Saigon, the “Bánh Xèo Taco” with sparkling wine is a highlight. Both Glouglou and Annam Gourmet carry sparkling bottles perfect for recreating the pairing. Bánh xèo is a dish that turns any meal into a celebration, especially with a chilled glass of wine.

Cơm Tấm

Cơm tấm is southern Vietnam’s comfort food at its best: broken rice topped with smoky grilled pork, pickles, and often a fried egg. Medium-bodied reds like Merlot or Syrah pair beautifully, bringing out the pork’s charred notes without overwhelming the dish. 

Both Anan Saigon, while local street stalls offer authentic versions for everyday enjoyment. To complete the experience, pick up a bottle of Merlot from Cái Thùng Gỗ or Annam Gourmet. This dish captures the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying with a good red wine.

From a quick bánh mì on the street to a multi-course menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant, Ho Chi Minh City is a dream for food lovers. Add a thoughtfully chosen wine and the experience becomes even more memorable. Restaurants like Anan Saigon elevate tradition, while shops such as Glouglou, Cái Thùng Gỗ, and Annam Gourmet let you take a piece of the experience home.