If you’re planning your first visit to a Vietnamese restaurant, expect to enjoy a meal that’s incredibly satisfying, flavorful, and healthy. Vietnamese food has a range of Chinese and French influences that reflect the country’s rich history and cater to a wide range of palates. Expand your cultural horizons by learning more about this delightful fare. 

4 FAQ on Vietnamese Restaurants

What flavors can I expect?

Vietnamese cooking varies from region to region. Northern cuisine was influenced by Chinese bean curd and stir-fries. From the west, Cambodia and Thailand brought spices and coconut flavors. French colonization introduced pate, milk, custard, cakes, baguettes, and butter. Expect the bold flavors of fish sauce, rice vinegar, salt, and sugar as the base for most dishes, which makes for a profoundly palatable menu. Vietnamese food also uses an extensive list of herbs, including spicy chilies and cilantro. Rice and rice noodles are also staples of the Vietnamese table. 

What are the most popular dishes?

Soup-based dishes are widely popular in Vietnam. The most popular is pho, a customizable soup made from broth, rice noodles, a variety of herbs, and either meat, vegetables, or both. It’s a typical street food, and depending on the regional style, it can be salty or slightly sweeter in taste. Another favorite is the Banh mi sandwich, a baguette filled with various meats, condiments like pate and mayonnaise, and pickled vegetables.

What kind of dessert should I order?

Most Vietnamese restaurants serve a few desserts to satisfy a sweet tooth. One such popular dessert is che ba mau or “three color dessert,” which is a combination of yellow mung bean paste, green jelly, and red beans with crushed iced and topped with coconut milk. Another dessert is che bap, a pudding made from sweet corn and tapioca starch.

What types of drinks do they offer?

Vietnamese drinks are usually sweet, made from different types of fruit, coconut, or tea. You can find fruit smoothies, sugar cane juice, coconut drinks, lime soda, and rice wine on most Vietnamese restaurant menus.

Need to break out of your lunch or dinner routine? Visit Mamasan’s in Rochester, NY. Since 1984, this Vietnamese restaurant has served the French-influenced dishes of Thailand and Vietnam. This family-owned establishment has a loyal following for their savory Asian fusion dishes, expertly seasoned and cooked to perfection. The menu features the best of both Thai and Vietnamese cuisine from satay to pho, as well as familiar favorites like spring rolls and fried rice. Call (585) 461-3290 today or visit their website to see their unique menu.