For those seeking a more relaxed dining experience, restaurants (nhà hàng) offer a step up from street kitchens. These establishments provide proper seating with chairs instead of stools, a dedicated menu, and often a closed-off dining area. Restaurants typically serve a wider variety of Vietnamese dishes and often include a selection of international options, particularly European cuisine. Menus in tourist-heavy areas usually display prices, making it easier for visitors to navigate their choices.

In popular tourist spots, budget-friendly cafés cater primarily to backpackers. While the food can be hit-or-miss, these places are known for their mix of Western and Vietnamese dishes, such as burgers, banana pancakes, spring rolls, and noodle-based classics. If you’re looking for an affordable Western-style breakfast, fresh fruit salad, or a refreshing mango shake, these casual eateries are ideal.

As you move up the price scale, restaurants tend to feature more sophisticated decor, a broader menu selection, and a more refined atmosphere. Many mid-range to high-end establishments now price their menus in US dollars and accept credit card payments. Be aware that some may charge an additional 3–4% fee for card transactions. It’s also common for menus to indicate service charges, so check carefully to avoid surprises.

French cuisine remains the most popular foreign culinary influence in Vietnam, but larger cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang boast a variety of excellent international restaurants. These include Thai, Chinese, Tex-Mex, Indian, and Italian options, as well as high-end Vietnamese restaurants offering a luxurious take on traditional dishes. While international cuisine is less prevalent in smaller towns, you may still stumble upon delightful surprises if you keep an eye out.

Whether you’re craving authentic local flavors or something more familiar from home, Vietnam’s diverse restaurant scene has something to satisfy every palate.

4o