Vietnamese cuisine is not only loved locally but has also earned its place on global culinary rankings – from CNN and the Michelin Guide to leading international travel magazines. What makes Vietnamese food especially memorable is not extravagance or complexity, but its balance: familiar flavours, approachable ingredients, and a comfort that many people fall in love with at first taste.
If you are visiting Hanoi for the first time – or if you are a local bringing international friends out for a meal – here are six must-try Vietnamese dishes that have travelled the world, all of which can be enjoyed in their full spirit at Maison 1929.
1. Shrimp & pork fresh spring rolls (Gỏi cuốn) – A Vietnamese classic loved worldwide
Fresh spring rolls are often considered one of the most approachable Vietnamese dishes for international guests. Poached shrimp, tender pork, and fresh herbs are wrapped in thin rice paper and served with either a light sweet-and-sour fish sauce (Northern style) or a peanut sauce (Southern style).
Light, refreshing, and aromatic, this dish fits perfectly with modern tastes and tropical climates. For many travellers, Fresh spring rolls (Gỏi cuốn) is the first step into Vietnamese cuisine – a gentle and welcoming introduction.
2. Fried spring rolls & crab spring rolls – Icons of the Vietnamese table
Fried spring rolls have appeared in Vietnamese restaurants across the globe. Crisp on the outside, savoury on the inside, they are filled with minced pork, wood ear mushrooms, and glass noodles, then enjoyed with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
At Maison 1929, guests can enjoy both traditional fried spring rolls and crab spring rolls, which offer a deeper, richer flavour thanks to the crab filling. These are often chosen for hosting international guests – easy to share, satisfying, and unmistakably Vietnamese.
3. Bún Bò Nam Bộ (Southern-style beef vermicelli bowl) with Hanoi-style spring rolls – a Vietnamese “bowl” loved internationally
Bún Bò Nam Bộ – stir-fried beef served over rice vermicelli with herbs, peanuts, and sweet-and-sour fish sauce – is a favourite among international diners for its balance and completeness in a single bowl.
At Maison 1929, the dish is elevated by serving it alongside Hanoi-style fried spring rolls, adding crispness and depth. Together with dishes like bún chả and grilled vermicelli bowls, this is frequently listed among “Vietnamese dishes you must try.”
4. Beef Wrapped in betel leaves (Bò lá lốt) – A uniquely Vietnamese grilled dish
Bò lá lốt is a grilled dish deeply rooted in Vietnamese culinary identity. Minced beef is wrapped in fragrant betel leaves and grilled until lightly charred, releasing a distinctive aroma unlike any Western barbecue.
Traditionally enjoyed with fish sauce, the richness of the beef is balanced by the herbal notes of the leaves. This dish often fascinates international guests, offering flavours that feel entirely new yet comforting.
5. Grilled pork chop with rice (Cơm sườn) – A humble dish loved around the world
Cơm sườn is a familiar comfort food for Vietnamese people, yet it is also highly appreciated by international diners. Juicy grilled pork chops, fragrant rice, fresh vegetables, and light dipping sauce come together in a dish that feels both local and complete.
At Maison 1929, cơm sườn is served daily, especially as part of a refined lunch set – ideal for travellers seeking a satisfying, efficient, and authentically Vietnamese meal.
Discover world-famous Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of Hanoi
The beauty is that you do not need to travel far to experience Vietnam’s most celebrated dishes. At Maison 1929, these world-known flavours are prepared with care and balance, served in a calm heritage space in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
One table, a few familiar dishes, and many stories waiting to unfold – that is how Vietnamese cuisine continues to charm the world.
