Thoughts from Around the World: Vietnam

In Vietnam, food is at the heart of life, offering not just nourishment but a way of connecting with others. From bustling street markets to family kitchens, meals are a shared experience, full of flavour, tradition, and a sense of welcome. For the Vietnamese, food is a language of care, making it challenging to differentiate hospitality from the dishes they share.

One of the best examples of this is the Vietnamese meal itself. Unlike Western traditions where everyone has their own plate, Vietnamese meals are centred around sharing. Bowls of rice are accompanied by dishes placed in the middle of the table - fragrant soups, stir-fried vegetables, fresh herbs, and grilled meats. Everyone serves themselves, ensuring a balance of flavours and always leaving the best bite for others. Guests are encouraged to eat more, with a genuine insistence that shows their generosity.

Street food is another key part of Vietnamese hospitality. In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the streets are alive with vendors serving everything from pho (noodle soup) to banh mi (baguette sandwiches) and crispy banh xeo (savoury pancakes). These dishes are often prepared in tiny stalls or carts, where vendors take pride in their craft and warmly welcome anyone who stops by. It’s not uncommon for a vendor to suggest their best toppings or explain how to eat a dish properly, making even strangers feel at home.

One unique food tradition in Vietnam is com tam, or broken rice. Originally a humble meal created by farmers who used rice grains that had been damaged during processing, it has become a favoured dish served with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg. It comes from a history of making the most of what was available, and its simple, comforting flavours show the care behind the dish.

Hospitality also shines during Vietnamese celebrations. At weddings, festivals, or New Year (Tet), food plays a central role. One traditional dish is banh chung, a square rice cake filled with pork and mung beans, wrapped in banana leaves. Families often make these together, spending hours cooking, wrapping, and sharing stories. The finished cakes are given to friends, neighbours, and visitors as a gesture of goodwill and community.

Underlying these food traditions is the idea of respect and togetherness. In Vietnam, serving food to someone is an act of kindness, and guests are treated with care. Even a simple offer of green tea or a slice of tropical fruit carries meaning. The Vietnamese people’s natural warmth makes every meal feel special, whether in a family home or at a stall on the side of the road.

In Vietnam, food is much more than what’s on the plate. It’s a way to show care, share stories, and make everyone feel welcome. Through their meals, the Vietnamese invite you not just to taste their cuisine but to experience their culture, one generous bite at a time.

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Written by Izzy McHattie, EP Business in Hospitality