Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers, and vegans are no exception. With a rich culinary heritage that includes plenty of fresh vegetables, herbs, and plant-based proteins, eating vegan food in Vietnam is not only possible but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re exploring bustling city streets or quaint countryside villages, this guide will help you navigate Vietnam’s vibrant vegan food scene.

Before diving into the food, it’s essential to learn a few key phrases that will help you communicate your dietary preferences and ensure you get the right meal without any hidden animal-based ingredients:

• Vegan – "Chay" (pronounced: chai)
• I am vegan – "Tôi ăn chay"
• No meat – "Không thịt"

Vietnamese people are generally familiar with the concept of vegetarianism due to the country’s strong Buddhist traditions. However, it’s still important to clarify your dietary needs, as some dishes may contain fish sauce, shrimp paste, or other non-vegan ingredients.

Must-Try Vegan Dishes in Vietnam

Vietnamese cuisine naturally includes a variety of plant-based dishes that are both flavorful and nutritious. Let Up Travel guide you to the best vegan options you shouldn't miss on your journey! 

1. Vegan Fresh Spring Rolls

These refreshing rice paper rolls are packed with fresh herbs, tofu, vermicelli noodles, and crunchy vegetables. They are typically served with a tangy peanut dipping sauce, which adds extra richness to every bite. Gỏi cuốn is a great light meal or appetizer that showcases the fresh, vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine.

2. Phở chay (Vegan Pho)

A plant-based take on Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup, phở chay features a fragrant broth made from slow-simmered vegetables, star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Instead of meat, the dish is loaded with mushrooms, tofu, and a generous serving of fresh herbs and lime for a refreshing twist.

3. Bánh mì chay (Vegan Bánh Mì)

Similar to pho, banh mi is one of Vietnam’s most popular dishes. It features a crispy baguette packed with flavorful ingredients like fresh cilantro, mint, pickled cucumber, carrots, and daikon radish, along with a protein of your choice. The sandwich is then topped with a generous splash of hot sauce. While pork is the most common filling, vegetarians and vegans can enjoy “banh mi chay,” which is typically made with seared tofu, egg, or vegetables.

4. Green Papaya Salad

A crunchy and refreshing salad made with shredded green papaya, peanuts, and fresh herbs. Traditionally, this dish is dressed with fish sauce, so be sure to request "không nước mắm" (no fish sauce) when ordering. The balance of sweet, sour, and umami flavors makes it a perfect side dish or light meal.

5. Bún chay (Vegan Vermicelli Noodles)

This light yet satisfying dish consists of rice vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, peanuts, and crispy tofu or mushrooms, all served with a flavorful soy-based sauce. It’s a must-try for noodle lovers looking for a plant-based alternative to Vietnam’s famous barbecue pork with vermicelli noodle.

Best Vegan Restaurants in Vietnam

From vibrant street eats to elegant plant-based dining, Vietnam offers a diverse selection of restaurants catering to vegans. These top vegan restaurants in Vietnam - recommended by Up Travel - will take you on a flavorful journey through the country's thriving plant-based scene.

Hanoi

1. Veggie Castle

Address: 38 Ngoc Khanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Veggie Castle is a well-loved vegan buffet chain in Hanoi, established in 2018. The restaurant serves a variety of plant-based dishes inspired by traditional Vietnamese home meals and international cuisine.

2. Vi Lai Vegan Restaurant

Address: 67 Ly Thuong Kiet, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Tucked away in a quiet alley on Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Vi Lai is one of the best vegan restaurants in Hanoi. Spanning four floors, each with a unique interior concept, this restaurant offers a serene dining experience perfect for various occasions—from casual meetups to intimate family gatherings.

3. Huong Thien Vegan Buffet

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Da Nang

1. Bao An Macrobiotic Vegan Restaurant

Address: 56 Hoang Bich Son, An Hai Bac, Son Tra, Da Nang

Known for its rustic atmosphere and organic approach to vegan cuisine, Bảo An serves nourishing plant-based dishes like dill noodle soup, vegan pho, and oatmeal soup.

2. Ans Vegetarian Cuisine

Address: 169F Trung Nu Vuong, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Ans Vegetarian Cuisine is famous for its serene ambiance and diverse vegan menu featuring dishes from different regions of Vietnam and beyond. Popular choices include vegan cao lau, lotus rice, and mushroom hotpot.

3. Ngoc Chi Vegan Restaurant

Address: 202 Hoang Dieu, Hai Chau, Da Nang

Ngoc Chi is a well-loved vegetarian restaurant in Da Nang, recognized by the Michelin Guide for its flavorful plant-based Vietnamese dishes. Using fresh local ingredients and fermented seasonings, the restaurant offers signature dishes like mixed vegetable sour soup, deep-fried wontons, and spring rolls. With a cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and reasonable prices, Ngoc Chi is a must-visit for vegan and vegetarian food lovers.

Ho Chi Minh City

1. Thien Y Vegan Restaurant

Address: 36 Tran Quy Cap, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City

Thiền Ý is a well-established vegan restaurant with a tranquil setting. It features a countryside-inspired menu with dishes like mango salad, vegan bánh xèo, and tamarind hotpot.

2. Sen Vegan House

Address: 93-95 P. Duc Chinh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Sen is a highly-rated vegan restaurant in Saigon, known for its elegant decor and diverse menu. With a perfect blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors and modern culinary creativity, it offers a refined dining experience that caters to both locals and travelers.

3. Hum Signature

Address: 32 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Hum offers a serene dining experience with lush greenery and carefully curated plant-based dishes made from fresh, natural ingredients. The restaurant is also known for its healthy beverages made from fresh fruits and nuts.

Whether you're a long-time vegan or just exploring plant-based cuisine, these restaurants in Vietnam provide a delightful culinary experience that combines health, flavor, and sustainability.

Conclusion

Vietnam is truly a paradise for vegans, offering an incredible variety of flavorful, plant-based dishes that reflect the country's rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re savoring a warm bowl of phở chay in Hanoi, enjoying a crispy bánh mì chay in Ho Chi Minh City, or discovering hidden vegan gems in Da Nang, Vietnam’s vibrant food culture has something for every vegan traveler.

Want to take a taste of Vietnam home with you? Join our vegan cooking class at Dine with Locals and learn how to make authentic Vietnamese vegan dishes from scratch. Book your spot today and bring home the flavors of Vietnam! 🌿