Where to Eat in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, According to a Vietnam Travel Advisor

"You can almost follow your nose through the streets of Hanoi, chasing the aroma of sizzling meat and fragrant herbs until you find the ultimate street delight: bún chả. Bún Chả Hương Liên found itself in the international spotlight when former president Barack Obama and storied traveler Anthony Bourdain met over this smoky, caramelized pork dish served with vermicelli noodles and fresh greens."

"For a more upscale experience, Tầm Vị offers a snapshot of a bygone time. Sequestered in a beautifully restored 1920s home in Hanoi's Old Quarter, this intimate restaurant presents traditional Vietnamese dishes with an understated elegance. Be sure to try the chả cá lã vọng, a turmeric-marinated grilled fish dish that's been a beloved Hanoi delicacy for generations. Served sizzling in a pan at the table, the combination of dill, turmeric, and fresh herbs is the embodiment of classic Vietnamese cuisine."

"In juxtaposition to Hanoi's traditional charm, Ho Chi Minh City's modern luxury has its own personality and charisma. The Deck Saigon in District 2 is an idyllic escape along the Saigon River that transports you away from the hustle and bustle of the city as local boats drift along the water. Its sleek, open-air setting and expertly curated cocktails make it a"

Vietnam's food scene contrasts vibrant, aromatic street food in Hanoi with polished, riverside luxury dining in Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi offers iconic dishes like bún chả—smoky, caramelized pork served with vermicelli noodles and fresh greens—popularized by a visit from Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain. Tầm Vị presents traditional recipes in a restored 1920s Old Quarter home, featuring chả cá lắ vọng, a turmeric-marinated grilled fish paired with dill and fresh herbs. Ho Chi Minh City emphasizes modern, elegant experiences. The Deck Saigon in District 2 sits along the Saigon River with sleek, open-air seating and curated cocktails, offering a tranquil escape from urban bustle.

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