Top 3 Vietnamese Street Foods You Need to Try

Vietnamese street food is a ripper of fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and traditions going back centuries. Be you walking along Hanoi's bustling streets or craving a bite from your local Vietnamese restaurant, the country's street food lifestyle is all about balance – salty, sweet, spicy, and sour flavours blended in a single mouthful of goodness. If you're looking to taste true Vietnamese flavours, here are three street food must-haves that have won over the hearts (and palates) of food enthusiasts across the globe.

1. Spring Rolls – Crispy, Savoury, and Irresistible

Spring rolls, or to give them their official south and north names, Chả Giò and Nem Rán, are Vietnam's snack food of choice. These are the golden crispy rolls bursting with minced pork, prawns, mushrooms, and vegetables wrapped in delicate rice paper, deep-frying until golden crispy perfection.

Why You'll Love 'Em

• A golden crunchy exterior that gives way to a flavorful juicy interior.

• Served with fresh mint, lettuce, and dipping sauces like nước chấm (fish sauce-based).

• Sharin' perfect, makin' them a crowd favourite and street food staple.

At Pho Real? Vietnamese, the spring rolls stick close to classic flavours but introduce a crispy, modern twist that pairs well with fresh herbs and citrusy sauces.

2. Gua Bao Buns – A Soft, Flavour-Packed Delight

Though Gua Bao Buns originated in Taiwan, they've gained a special place in Vietnamese street food. Steamed buns are soft and airy, holding slow-cooked, moist pork belly, pickled vegetables, and fresh cilantro, providing a stunning combination of textures and tastes.

Why You'll Love 'Em

• The soft, pillowy bun is ideally complemented by the rich, tender pork belly.

• Sweet, salty, and tangy tastes all come together in one bite.

• Topped with peanuts, hoisin sauce, and fresh herbs for extra richness.

Pho Real's Gua Bao Buns are a must-have if you're seeking a satisfactory and tasty street food adventure.

3. DIY Fresh Rice Paper Rolls – A Fun, Hands-On Street Food Experience

Fresh Rice Paper Rolls, or Gỏi Cuốn, is a healthful, fried alternative to spring rolls. Translucent rolls consist of wrapping shrimp, vermicelli noodles, lettuce, and fresh herbs in delicate rice paper and then dipping them in peanut sauce or fish sauce.

So why are 'em special? The DIY angle! Fresh Rice Paper Rolls can frequently be found in street markets and restaurants, being presented as a do-it-yourself food dish where you can mix and match the ingredients according to your preference.

Why You'll Love 'Em

• A healthy, fresh, light snack option in place of deep-fried munchies.

• An individualised experience – you get to choose the proteins and herbs of your liking.

• Floaded with actual Vietnamese flavours, and a sweet and savory dippin' sauce to top.

At Pho Real? Vietnamese, you can enjoy the freshest ingredients with the thrill of rollin' your own delicious street food snack.