Top 5 Vietnamese Dishes In Summer

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine this summer! From refreshing spring rolls bursting with herbs to Banh Mi, savor the season with the light and delightful tastes of traditional Vietnamese dishes. Let’s experience the perfect blend of freshness and authenticity that defines Vietnamese food in the summertime with top 5 Vietnamese dishes in summer.

Explore these delicious summer dishes and plan your culinary journey through Vietnam with Hanoi Voyages!

Best Vietnamese dishes in summer you can't miss

Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its freshness and balance, making it the perfect choice to enjoy during the hot summer months. With light, refreshing flavors and plenty of herbs and vegetables, many traditional dishes not only cool you down but also keep you energized. Let’s explore the best Vietnamese dishes in summer you simply can’t miss!

Goi cuon – The dish of freshness

Goi Cuon, or Vietnamese summer rolls, is one of the most iconic Vietnamese dishes in summer that you simply can’t miss. These fresh spring rolls are a traditional specialty that has become popular both in Vietnam and around the world. The name itself reflects the dish’s nature – a roll filled with crisp, refreshing ingredients.

The charm of Goi Cuon comes from its simple yet flavorful components:

• Rice paper – thin, translucent, and pliable, used to wrap all the fillings together.

• Rice vermicelli noodles – soft and light, forming the base of the roll.

• Proteins – typically shrimp, pork, or sometimes other variations.

• Fresh herbs – mint, cilantro, and basil add a burst of fragrance and freshness.

Loved for its lightness and healthy profile, Goi Cuon is the perfect choice for hot days. It represents the balance and creativity of Vietnamese cuisine, offering both nutrition and refreshment.

Are you ready to try the taste of Goi Cuon – one of the best Vietnamese food in summer?

Bun cha – A summer favorite

If you are planning to explore local cuisine on your Vietnam holiday this summer, don’t forget to include Bun Cha in your list.

Bun Cha is a delicious and iconic dish from Hanoi, and also one of the best Vietnamese dishes in summer. It combines smoky grilled pork, delicate vermicelli noodles (bún), fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce, creating a perfect harmony of taste and texture.

What makes Bun Cha special?

• Grilled pork patties – seasoned and grilled until smoky, juicy, and slightly charred.

• Vermicelli noodles (bún) – soft and light, pairing perfectly with the meat.

• Fresh herbs – mint, cilantro, and basil add a refreshing touch to every bite.

• Savory-sweet dipping sauce – a mix of fish sauce, garlic, chili, lime, and sugar that ties the whole dish together.

Bun Cha is more than just a meal – it’s a social and sensory experience. Whether enjoyed at a bustling street stall in Hanoi or shared at a family gathering, Bun Cha captures the richness of Vietnamese gastronomy and offers a truly unforgettable taste of Vietnamese cuisine in summer.

Learn more: Top 5 Best Places To Eat Bun Cha Hanoi

Banh mi – The taste of street food

Banh Mi is one of the most iconic Vietnamese dishes in summer, loved for its perfect balance of flavors, textures, and convenience. Originating from the fusion of French and Vietnamese cuisine during the colonial period, this famous sandwich is made with a crispy French baguette adapted by the Vietnamese and filled with flavorful local ingredients.

The beauty of Banh Mi lies in its versatility. Depending on the region and creativity of the cook, there are many variations that keep this dish exciting and unique:

• Banh Mi Thit – The classic version with pork, pate, and ham, complemented by pickled carrot, daikon, cucumber and fresh cilantro.

• Banh Mi Ga – A lighter option featuring juicy grilled chicken, fresh herbs and vegetables.

• Banh Mi Bo – Packed with savory beef slices, offering a heartier and more robust flavor.

• Vegetarian Banh Mi – Filled with tofu, mushrooms, or other plant-based proteins, making it a fresh and healthy alternative.

With its crispy baguette, savory fillings, and refreshing vegetables, Banh Mi has become an internationally loved street food and a staple of Vietnamese cuisine in summer, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal on the go.

Recommended places to savor "Banh mi" in Vietnam: Banh mi 25 (Hanoi), Banh mi Huynh Hoa (Ho Chi Minh), Banh mi Ong Cuong (Hai Phong), Banh mi Truong Tien O Tho (Hue),...

You can also refer: Discover Banh Mi: Vietnam’s must-try street sandwich

Che – The taste of summer cooling drink

Che is a beloved Vietnamese dessert that offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, ranging from chilled puddings to warm sweet soups. Made with ingredients like beans, fruits, jellies, and creamy coconut milk, Che reflects the creativity and artistry of Vietnamese cuisine.

As one of the most refreshing Vietnamese dishes in summer, Che is perfect for cooling down on hot days. With countless variations featuring different toppings and flavors, this dessert is a must-try for anyone exploring Vietnam. During your Vietnam tour, don’t miss the chance to savor Che and experience the sweet side of Vietnamese culinary culture. Let’s make your Vietnam tour and enjoy this dish?

Ca phe sua da – Vietnam’s iced coffee classic

Ca Phe Sua Da, or Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee, is not only a symbol of Vietnam’s rich coffee culture but also one of the most refreshing Vietnamese dishes in summer. Introduced during the French colonial period in the 19th century, coffee quickly became a staple, with robusta beans thriving in Vietnam’s climate.

What makes Ca Phe Sua Da special includes:

• Robusta coffee beans – bold, strong, and perfectly suited to Vietnam’s environment.

• Sweetened condensed milk – a creative adaptation that adds richness and sweetness.

• Served over ice – a refreshing way to enjoy coffee in Vietnam’s hot and humid summers.

Whether at a bustling street café or a cozy corner shop, Ca Phe Sua Da embodies the creativity of Vietnamese cuisine, making it an unmissable highlight of Vietnamese dishes in summer.

Learn more: Exploring Cafes In Hanoi: Top 8 Best Places To Go

Travel with us on a Vietnam tour and uncover not only iconic sights but also the unforgettable taste of Vietnamese dishes in summer.

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Where to try Vietnamese dishes in summer?

To truly enjoy the authentic taste of Vietnamese dishes in summer, you need to experience them in the right places:

• Street food stalls – Vietnam’s vibrant street food culture is the best place to savor dishes like Bun Cha, Goi Cuon, or a fresh glass of Ca Phe Sua Da. The lively atmosphere adds to the charm.

• Local ,arkets – Traditional markets offer a wide variety of summer treats, from savory snacks to refreshing desserts like Che. It’s where locals eat, so you get the real flavors.

• Family-run eateries (Quán ăn) – Small, family-owned restaurants often serve the most authentic versions of Vietnamese classics. They’re also more affordable and full of character.

• Modern cafés & restaurants – For a more comfortable setting, many cafés and contemporary restaurants across Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang serve Vietnamese favorites with a modern twist.

• Homestays & food tours – Joining a local family meal or a guided food tour allows you to explore multiple Vietnamese dishes in summer while learning the cultural stories behind them.

Summer in Vietnam is not only about sunshine and vibrant streets, but also about the flavors that keep you refreshed and energized. Each of the top Vietnamese dishes in summer — from the freshness of Goi Cuon to the sweetness of Che and the bold taste of Ca Phe Sua Da — tells a story of culture and creativity.

Exploring these dishes is more than just eating; it’s about experiencing Vietnam through its food traditions. So when you travel to Vietnam this summer, let your journey be guided by taste and make every bite a memory to cherish.

Contact us soon to get more details about your Vietnam tour, Hanoi Voyages wishes you a safe and enjoyable trip!