What Local Vietnamese Eat For Lunch

Have you ever wondered what Vietnamese people usually eat for lunch? In the morning, you have plenty of options to enjoy your breakfast in Vietnam with iconic dishes like cơm tấm (broken rice), phở (beef noodle soup), bún bò (spicy beef noodle soup), hủ tiếu (pork noodle soup), or xôi (sticky rice). But when lunchtime rolls around, what should you eat?

Vietnamese lunch is typically the main meal of the day for Vietnamese people—a time to recharge after a hard morning. In the past, when food was scarce, Vietnamese people would often get by with cassava or porridge just to fill their stomachs. But today, thanks to the creativity and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine, there are countless lunches in Vietnam options to choose from.

So, let me introduce you to some of the most popular lunch dishes in Vietnam. That way, when hunger strikes at noon, you’ll have a ready-to-go list of delicious dishes to explore—no second-guessing needed! After all, the hardest question to answer is always “What should we eat for lunch?” Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered—even though let’s be honest, I ask myself that same question all the time. Alright, let’s dive in!

What Time Do Vietnamese People Usually Have Lunch?

Suppose you’re walking around Vietnam around noon. In that case, you might notice a familiar pattern—restaurants getting packed, street food stalls sizzling with fresh dishes, and office workers or students flocking to their favorite lunch spots in Vietnam.

Typically, lunchtime in Vietnam starts around 11:30 AM and lasts until 1:00 PM. It’s the time when everyone takes a break from work or school to refuel for the rest of the day. But here’s the thing—unlike in some Western countries where Vietnamese lunch can be a quick sandwich at the desk, in Vietnam, lunch is a proper meal. People sit down and enjoy a full plate of rice with savory dishes, a bowl of noodle soup, or even a quick banh mi if they’re in a hurry. 

But Vietnamese cuisine is no joke—it’s not just about a bowl of noodles or a banh mi. There’s a whole world of lunch dishes you can only find in Vietnam. Are you curious? I’m about to reveal them right below. And if you ever find yourself in Vietnam around noon, take my advice—join in! It’s the best way to experience Vietnam like a local!

What Local Vietnamese Eat for Lunch Everyday?

Com Gia Dinh (Family-style Meal)

In Vietnam, lunchtime is when the whole family gathers around the table to enjoy a home-cooked meal together—what we call “Cơm gia đình” (Family meal). It’s a simple yet meaningful tradition, where everyone shares a meal and a moment of togetherness.

Have you ever craved the warmth of a home-cooked meal? A perfect Vietnamese family lunch typically consists of steamed rice, a savory dish like braised fish or caramelized pork and eggs slow-cooked in a clay pot, stir-fried vegetables like morning glory with garlic, and a steaming bowl of tangy tamarind soup. This is what a standard home-cooked Vietnamese lunch looks like.

Vietnamese mothers, known for their dedication to cooking, often prepare extra side dishes to make sure their children eat well. Dishes like sweet and sour fried tofu, crispy fish sauce-glazed chicken wings, deep-fried spring rolls, or stir-fried quail eggs with tamarind sauce are often added to the meal, making each Vietnamese lunch unique and full of variety. And of course, the best part is sitting together, sharing stories about the day, laughing, and enjoying the moment—while the TV hums softly in the background.

 

 

 

However, not every home-cooked meal looks exactly the same. Each region in Vietnam has its own signature dishes, yet the spirit of the family meal remains unchanged. In the North, you might find a plate of salted eggplant or a bowl of crab soup with jute leaves and pickled eggplants. In the Central region, people enjoy bolder, spicier flavors like black pepper-braised goby fish or pickled vegetables. Meanwhile, in the South, the food leans towards a sweeter taste, with dishes like caramelized pork and stuffed bitter melon soup.

Every place has its own flavors, but no matter where I go or how many extravagant dishes I try, there will always be times when I long for a simple home-cooked meal—the warmth of familiar flavors, the laughter of loved ones, and the comfort of sharing food with family.

Com Van Phong (Office Lunch)

The office lunch culture is probably familiar to everyone, but in Vietnam, it has its own unique twist. Depending on the company culture, lunchtime habits can vary. Some companies provide pre-prepared lunch trays for their employees, typically including rice, a protein dish, soup, and fruit. Meanwhile, in other workplaces, employees head out to eat at nearby restaurants or food stalls when lunchtime arrives.

So, if you find yourself in Vietnam, just take a look outside—streets suddenly get crowded, office buildings start emptying out, and you’ll see groups of coworkers heading out together, all with one mission: finding a good lunch. For many people working in offices, Vietnamese lunch is more than just eating—it’s a chance to step away from the computer, catch up with colleagues, and recharge before the afternoon grind. One of the most popular choices? Cơm văn phòng a lunch set designed for busy workers. It’s similar to a home-cooked meal but made for convenience. 

If you don’t feel like rice, there are plenty of other options. Many office workers go for a hot bowl of bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup), hủ tiếu Nam Vang (clear noodle soup with pork and shrimp), or a plate of bún thịt nướng (grilled pork with vermicelli and fresh herbs). And of course, no office Vietnamese lunch is complete without trà đá (iced tea). With just a simple glass of iced tea, you can have a perfectly satisfying meal while staying refreshed. Iced tea is available at almost every eatery—some places serve it for free, while others sell it by the glass for as little as 3,000 to 5,000 VND. 

So, if you ever find yourself in Vietnam at lunchtime, don’t just grab a quick snack at your desk. Do it the local way—step outside, enjoy a proper cơm văn phòng, and take a real break. You’ll feel so much better for it!

Bun Cha

Bún chả is a must-try dish when visiting Vietnam, and of course, it’s one of the best choices for a satisfying and delicious lunch. If you’ve ever strolled through Hanoi around midday, you’ve probably caught the irresistible aroma of smoky, grilled meat lingering in the air. That’s the unmistakable scent of bún chả being freshly prepared—once you smell it, there’s no way you’re walking past without stopping for a bowl.

Bún chả is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures: a bowl of tangy-sweet dipping sauce filled with juicy grilled pork patties and crispy, caramelized pork belly, served alongside fresh rice noodles and a basket of vibrant herbs. When eating bún chả, just grab a bit of noodle, dip it into the warm, flavorful broth, pick up a piece of smoky, tender pork, and top it off with some crunchy herbs—it’s the perfect bite, every time.

Address in Ho Chi Minh City for Vietnamese lunch with Bun Cha:

• Bun Cha 145: 145 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
• Bun Cha Xuan Tu: TK 28/1 Nguyen Canh Chan, District 1
• Bun Cha Hanoi 26: 8A/9C2 Thai Van Lung, District 1
• Bun Cha Sen Vang: 56 Hong Ha, Tan Binh District

Address in Hanoi for Vietnamese lunch with Bun Cha:

• Bun Cha Tuyet 34: 34 Hang Than, Ba Dinh District
• Bun Cha Huong Lien: 24 Le Van Huu, Hai Ba Trung District
• Bun Cha 41: 41 Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem District
• Bun Cha Sinh Tu: 316 Pho Vong, Hai Ba Trung District

Bun Mam

A bold and flavorful dish with the unmistakable taste of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, bún mắm is the perfect Vietnamese lunch for a true testament to the region’s rich culinary heritage. Just hearing its name for the first time might give you a clue—the heart and soul of this dish is mắm, a fermented fish sauce that carries a strong aroma yet an irresistible appeal for those who love the bold flavors of the riverside cuisine.

Originally from Cambodia, bún mắm was adapted in Southern Vietnam to better suit the local palate. The broth is made from fermented linh fish or sặc fish, giving it its signature deep umami taste—both salty and slightly sweet. To balance out the intensity, ingredients like lemongrass, chili, and fresh coconut water are added, creating a broth that is both rich and aromatic yet surprisingly refined.

But a great bowl of bún mắm is more than just the broth. It’s a feast of fresh ingredients—plump shrimp, tender snakehead fish, chewy squid, and crispy roasted pork belly, all swimming in a steaming bowl of fragrant broth. And of course, no bún mắm is complete without an abundance of fresh herbs and greens: water lilies, bitter herbs, shredded banana blossoms, and water spinach, all of which add layers of texture and help balance the strong flavors of the dish. That’s why, despite its bold aroma, lunchtime at bún mắm stalls is always packed—because once you’ve tasted it, the craving is impossible to resist.

To fully enjoy bún mắm, squeeze in some lime, add a bit of fresh chili for an extra kick, and don’t forget a small bowl of spicy fish sauce on the side to dip the seafood and roasted pork in. It’s true that bún mắm might not be love at first bite for everyone, especially those unfamiliar with the distinct taste of fermented fish, but once you develop a taste for it, you’ll find yourself hooked. So, if you’re looking for a dish that embodies the spirit of the Mekong Delta in every spoonful, don’t miss out on bún mắm. One bowl is all it takes to experience the soul of the river in its fullest, most flavorful form.

Address in Ho Chi Minh City for Vietnamese lunch with Bun Mam:

• Bun Mam Mai: N44 Hoang Dieu, Ward 6, District 4 (5:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
• Bun Mam Ban Co Market: 666 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ward 3, District 3 (8:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
• Bun Mam 444: 375 Le Quang Dinh, Ward 5, Binh Thanh District (9:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
• Quan Co 3 Binh Thuan: 252 To Hien Thanh, District 10 (5:30 PM – 11:30 PM)

Address in Hanoi for Vietnamese lunch with Bun Mam:

• Chu 8 Bun Mam Mien Tay: 24 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
• Bun Mam Co Hai Thu: 42K Ly Thuong Kiet, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Quan Ngon Mien Tay: 102K1 Giang Vo, Cat Linh Ward, Dong Da, Hanoi

Com Ga Xoi Mo

A foreign traveler once exclaimed, “The best fried chicken rice I’ve ever had in my life is only in Vietnam.” And honestly, I couldn’t agree more. If you’ve ever tried chicken rice in other countries, you might find it quite simple—just plain rice with either boiled or fried chicken. But in Vietnam, this dish is taken to a whole new level with a unique cooking technique that makes it absolutely unforgettable.

The rice isn’t just plain steamed rice; it’s cooked with rich chicken broth and a touch of turmeric, giving it a beautiful golden hue and an irresistible aroma. Every grain is soft and fragrant, perfectly complementing the star of the dish—the chicken, which is prepared in a way that makes it truly exceptional.

Instead of being deep-fried, the chicken is carefully “bathed” in hot oil. Ladles of sizzling oil are poured over the skin, making it puff up into a crispy, golden layer while keeping the meat inside unbelievably juicy and tender. With every spoonful of hot oil drizzled over it, the skin crackles and glistens, releasing an intoxicatingly rich aroma. And the best part? That first bite—where the crispy, paper-thin skin gives way to succulent, flavorful meat, creating a perfect contrast of textures.

When served, the golden chicken rests atop the fragrant rice, accompanied by pickled vegetables like mustard greens or fresh cucumber slices. These sides help cut through the richness of the dish, making sure every bite is as balanced as it is satisfying.

Is there anything better than having a comforting meal at lunchtime—especially if it’s a plate of Vietnamese-style crispy fried chicken rice? It’s not a fancy or extravagant dish, yet it has won the hearts of so many travelers. If you ever get the chance, don’t miss out on trying an authentic plate of cơm gà xối mỡ—you might just find yourself saying the same thing as that traveler, right?

Address in Ho Chi Minh City for Vietnamese lunch with Com ga xoi mo: 

• Com ga Su Su – 117/1D Cong Quynh, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Com ga Gay Som – 11 Street No.10, Ward 13, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City
• Com ga quan Chin – 200/25C Xom Chieu, Ward 15, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

Address in Hanoi for Vietnamese lunch with Com ga xoi mo: 

• Bento Delichi – 39 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoang Kiem Ward, Hanoi.
• Nha Hang 123 – 55 Pho Hue, Hai Ba Trung Ward, Hanoi
• Ga Kimochi – 116E3 Trung Liet, Dong Da Ward, Hanoi

Cha Ca La Vong

When it comes to traditional Vietnamese lunch dishes, Chả Cá Lã Vọng is a must-try. This iconic dish dates back to 1871, created by the Đoàn family in Hanoi. What started as a simple, home-cooked meal gradually became a beloved culinary treasure of the capital. Hanoians have always taken their food seriously, especially when it comes to dishes meant for sharing and hosting guests. Made from the freshest fish, usually catfish, Chả Cá Lã Vọng gets its name from Lã Vọng, a legendary military strategist. Over time, the name stuck, and now, it’s recognized as one of Vietnam’s most famous dishes.

But Chả Cá Lã Vọng isn’t just about the fish—it’s about the perfect balance of flavors. The fish is marinated in turmeric and other spices, then grilled until golden and crispy before being pan-fried with fragrant dill and scallions. It’s typically served with vermicelli noodles, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and a bowl of savory dipping sauce. The combination of textures and flavors—crispy fish, fresh greens, and the rich umami of the sauce—creates an unforgettable experience in every bite.

That’s why when come lunchtime in Vietnam, many people gather for a sizzling plate of Chả Cá Lã Vọng, eager to dig in. The dish is so popular that entire restaurant chains in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are dedicated to serving it. So if you ever find yourself in Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to try this legendary dish—it might just become one of your favorites!

Cha ca La Vong Restaurant in Hanoi for Vietnamese lunch with Cha ca La Vong:

• Branch 1: 14 Cha Ca Street
• Branch 2: 107 Nguyen Truong To Street

Cha Ca La Vong Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City for Vietnamese lunch with Cha ca La Vong:

• Branch 1: No 3-5 Ho Xuan Huong, Ward 6, District 3
• Branch 2: 36 Ton That Hiep, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
• Branch 3: 1000 Nguyen Van Linh, Phu My Hung, District 7
• Branch 4: 106 Hoa Phuong, Ward 2, Phu Nhuan District

Bun Dau Mam Tom

To be completely honest, bún đậu mắm tôm is one of those dishes that works perfectly for both lunch and dinner in Vietnam. Just imagine a big, colorful platter in front of you—golden, crispy fried tofu, silky fresh vermicelli, thinly sliced boiled pork, fragrant green rice sausage (chả cốm), and a heap of fresh herbs. And of course, the heart of the dish—a bowl of thick, aromatic fermented shrimp paste, mixed with calamansi juice, a touch of sugar, and a bit of chili—ties everything together, creating an explosion of flavors with every dip.

I have to admit, I’m a huge fan of bún đậu mắm tôm. There are two ways to eat it. The first is to enjoy each component separately: pick up a hot, crispy piece of fried tofu, dip it into the rich, flavorful shrimp paste, then follow it with a tender slice of boiled pork, a bite of chewy chả cốm, and so on—savoring each element individually to fully appreciate the balance of flavors and textures.

The second way is to wrap everything up in a fresh herb leaf or a thin sheet of rice paper, dip it into the sauce, and take a big bite, letting all the flavors blend harmoniously in your mouth. Just talking about it makes me crave it already! Whether it’s lunchtime or dinnertime, this dish is always a satisfying choice when hunger strikes.

 

 

 

Now, let’s talk about the shrimp paste. Bún đậu mắm tôm is only truly delicious when paired with its signature sauce. If you’re not familiar with its bold aroma, don’t give up too quickly! Try easing into it—start with a small dip, and you might just find yourself falling for its complex mix of salty, umami-rich, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors. It’s an acquired taste, but once you get past the initial hesitation, it becomes absolutely addictive.

That said, if you really can’t handle shrimp paste, you can substitute it with soy sauce or fish sauce. But I have to be honest—the experience just won’t be the same. Without mắm tôm, the dish loses a huge part of its charm. The shrimp paste isn’t just a dipping sauce—it’s what makes every bite of crispy tofu, soft vermicelli, and tender pork burst with flavor. So, if you’re going to try bún đậu, be brave and go all in with the mắm tôm! Who knows? You might end up loving it as much as I do!

Address in Ho Chi Minh City for Vietnamese lunch with Bun Dau Mam Tom:

• Bun Dau Homemade: 1 Nguyen Van Trang, District 1
• Bun Dau Anh Beo: 77 Le Duc Tho, Ward 1, Go Vap District
• Bun Dau Mam Tom A Chanh: 175 Thanh Thai, Ward 14, District 10
• Bun Dau Mac Van Khoa: 176 QL13, Ward 16, Binh Thanh District

Address in Hanoi for Vietnamese lunch with Bun Dau Mam Tom:

• Bun Dau Co Tuyet Hang Khay: 199/10 Tran Quoc Hoan, Dich Vong Hau, Cau Giay
• Bun Dau Thanh Cong: 108B4 Thanh Cong, Ba Dinh
• Bun Dau Dong Que: No.6 Alley 67 Mai Dich Street, Cau Giay

What is the Average Cost of Lunch in Vietnam?

Vietnamese lunch is not only diverse but also very affordable, catering to all budgets. If you prefer a simple and familiar meal, family-style rice (cơm gia đình), which includes steamed rice, a savory dish, stir-fried vegetables, and soup, costs around 50,000 – 120,000 VND (~$2 – $5) per person, depending on the eatery or restaurant.

For busy office workers, office Vietnamese lunch (cơm văn phòng) is a popular choice due to its convenience, with a full, nutritious meal priced at 35,000 – 70,000 VND (~$1.50 – $3). If you’re looking for something different, you can try crispy fried chicken rice (cơm gà xối mỡ), featuring crispy golden chicken, fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, served with pickled vegetables, and a flavorful dipping sauce, ranging from 50,000 – 90,000 VND (~$2 – $3.50).

For those who enjoy noodle dishes, bún chả—a Hanoi specialty with grilled pork, vermicelli, and sweet-savory fish sauce—costs 50,000 – 80,000 VND (~$2 – $3.50). If you want to experience the bold flavors of the Mekong Delta, bún mắm is a great choice, featuring a rich fermented fish broth, fresh seafood, and roasted pork, usually priced at 60,000 – 100,000 VND (~$2.50 – $4). No matter what you choose, Vietnamese lunch is always delicious and budget-friendly, ensuring a memorable culinary experience!

Want something a bit more upscale? Maybe an air-conditioned restaurant or a trendy café? You’re looking at $4 to $7 (100,000 to 180,000 VND) for a well-presented meal, often with a drink included.

And if you’re in a fancy Western-style restaurant or hotel dining, Vietnamese lunch can go up to $10 to $20 (250,000 to 500,000 VND) or even more. But honestly, with all the amazing local food available, spending that much isn’t necessary unless you’re craving something specific. Oh, and let’s not forget the drinks! A refreshing iced tea or a local soft drink is usually included for free at many local spots. But if you want a Vietnamese iced coffee or a fresh coconut, you’ll add about $1 to $2 (25,000 to 50,000 VND) to your bill. 

Overall, the cost of Vietnamese lunch is quite affordable with plenty of options. With just 100,000 VND (~$4) in hand, you can easily enjoy a filling and satisfying meal!

Let’s Explore Saigon Foodie Ride in Vietnam with Jackfruit Adventure

Do you think the food journey ends here? Of course not! There’s still so much more to experience, especially on the Saigon Foodie Night Ride—a tour that takes you deep into the hidden alleyways of the city, where you can truly feel the local rhythm and savor authentic street food. With just a bicycle, you’ll glide past bustling eateries, each one packed with hungry locals, slowly indulging in Saigon’s legendary nighttime dishes.

Picture yourself weaving through narrow streets, the warm glow of streetlights casting soft golden hues, while the irresistible aroma of grilled meats, fresh seafood, and sizzling delicacies fills the air. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?

But the Saigon Foodie Night Ride isn’t just about eating—it’s about experiencing the soul of the city after dark. You’ll stop by a humble sidewalk bún riêu stall, sipping on a spoonful of tangy, flavorful broth, or listen for the rhythmic clack-clack of a hủ tiếu gõ vendor before digging into a steaming bowl of noodles. Then maybe it’s time for a crispy bánh tráng nướng, a plate of butter-garlic stir-fried snails, or a sizzling bánh xèo fresh off the pan. And to end the night on a sweet note? A warm glass of soy milk, just like the locals do.

So, are you ready to hop on and dive into the night with us? Let’s contact us and start your ride through the streets of Saigon, explore its hidden culinary gems, and show you what real Vietnamese street food is all about!