9 must-try Vietnamese dishes that aren’t phở
Vietnamese cuisine varies greatly by region, with strong Chinese influence in the North and Thai and Cambodian influence in the South. Add to that a distinct influence from decades of French colonization and you’re left with a cuisine that is diverse and complex yet beautifully balanced. In honour of the upcoming Lunar New Year here’s a list of incredible must-try Vietnamese dishes and where to find them.
Dish #1: Red wine braised beef stew from Cafe Hanoi
Similar to the braised beef stew mentioned below, but with a French twist with the addition of red wine and a generous amount of onions. Served with noodles or a baguette for dipping.
Cafe Hanoi 784 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC
Dish #2: Bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls) from Cafe Hanoi
One of my all time faves, these delicate steamed rice rolls are filled with ground pork and served with herbs and dipping sauce. Not always available so be sure to call ahead to make sure they have some.
Cafe Hanoi 784 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC
Dish #3: Thịt kho (braised pork belly with eggs) from Cafe Hanoi
Tender pieces of pork belly slow braised in coconut soda, soy sauce, and fish sauce. A delicious sweet and savory stew served with sticky rice.
Cafe Hanoi 784 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC
Dish #4: Bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup) from Vietnam House
This dish is traditionally made with beef and pork using cuts such as ox tail and beef shank. At Vietnam House they include brisket, rare beef slices, meatballs and dill fishcakes. This noodle soup has a rich and flavourful spicy broth; it’s served with round rice noodles, instead of the flat noodles you often get with pho, which is traditional for this dish.
Vietnam House 3189 Quadra St, Victoria, BC
Dish #5: Bo Kho (beef stew) from Vietnam House
Large pieces of beef slowly braised in a broth traditionally made of coconut water, fish sauce, 5-spice, lemongrass and a bit of sugar. Served with either noodles or baguette.
Vietnam House 3189 Quadra St, Victoria, BC
Dish #6: Bánh xèo (Vietnamese crepe) from Greenleaf Bistro
A delicate crepe made of eggs, coconut milk and rice flour filled with shrimps and veggies. Eaten by wrapping a piece of the crepe in lettuce and dipping in nuoc cham sauce.
Greenleaf Bistro 1684 Douglas St, Victoria, BC
Dish #7: Hot and sour soup from Greenleaf Bistro
This satisfying tamarind soup with shrimps and veggies is light and refreshing. Order it as a side dish or as part of their family dinner combo which includes fish and pork cooked in a clay pot.
Greenleaf Bistro 1684 Douglas St, Victoria, BC
Dish #8: Bún riêu (Crab noodle soup) from Original Pho
This bún riêu is the best in town. A rich seafood flavoured broth with tomatoes, tofu, crab, ground pork and a perfectly poached egg. When I’m feeling extra indulgent I order it with extra noodles. Also try their caramalized pork belly with rice, so tasty.
Original Pho Eatery 2972 Jacklin Rd #106, Victoria, BC
Dish #9: Banh mi from Ba Le
We voted the Banh mi at Ba Le to be some of the best in town. Crisp fresh bread, generous amounts of filling, and pickled veg. We like the meatball special but there’s lots of different types to choose from including a few vegetarian options.
Ba Le 774 Fort St, Victoria, BC
