Vietnam is a beautiful country known for its vibrant culture, warm people, and delicious cuisine. One of the most appealing aspects of Vietnam is how affordable it is for food lovers. Whether you’re enjoying street food in Hanoi or dining in a cozy restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam food price is surprisingly low. This article will explain what you can expect when eating out, buying groceries, or enjoying coffee in Vietnam. Understanding food price will help you budget your trip or daily life more effectively
Why Vietnam Food Price Attracts Tourists
Travelers from around the world visit Vietnam not only for its sights but also for its cheap and flavorful food. The low Vietnam food price lets people enjoy high-quality meals several times a day without spending much. Because food is both affordable and fresh, many tourists consider Vietnamese cuisine the highlight of their trip. In cities like Da Nang and Hue, street vendors offer some of the best meals at just a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere.
Popular Street Foods
Street food in Vietnam is famous for its taste and price. You can find options like bánh mì, phở, and gỏi cuốn all over the country.
| Dish Name | Average Price (VND) | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Bánh mì | 20,000 – 30,000 | $0.80 – $1.20 |
| Phở | 40,000 – 60,000 | $1.60 – $2.40 |
| Gỏi cuốn | 20,000 – 40,000 | $0.80 – $1.60 |
| Cơm tấm | 40,000 – 80,000 | $1.60 – $3.20 |
| Bún chả | 50,000 – 90,000 | $2.00 – $3.60 |
These dishes are both cheap and filling, making street food one of the most budget-friendly ways to eat in Vietnam.
Restaurant Meals
Eating at a restaurant in Vietnam is still much cheaper than in most Western countries. The Vietnam food price remains low even for sit-down meals. A basic meal at a small local restaurant may cost around 50,000 to 120,000 VND, which is about $2 to $5. If you prefer a more comfortable dining experience, a mid-range restaurant meal for two may cost 550,000 to 600,000 VND or $22 to $24. Even fast-food chains like KFC or McDonald’s offer combo meals for just 90,000 to 150,000 VND, roughly $3.60 to $6.
Coffee and Drink Prices
Vietnam is also known for its coffee culture. People enjoy Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) at cafes and roadside stalls. A hot cappuccino in Vietnam costs about 43,600 VND, or $1.75, which is far cheaper than in many other countries. A local draft beer usually costs 25,000 VND or $1, while soft drinks are around 12,600 VND, or $0.50. This low price range encourages people to socialize more and enjoy local drinks regularly.
Vietnam Food Price for Groceries
Buying groceries in Vietnam is also very affordable. For people living in the country long-term or on a budget, this is a major benefit.
| Grocery Item | Average Price (VND) | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 liter of milk | 36,800 | $1.50 |
| A dozen eggs | 38,800 | $1.55 |
| 1 kg of rice | 24,200 | $0.97 |
| 1 kg chicken fillet | 96,600 | $3.90 |
| 1 kg apples | 73,200 | $2.95 |
This table shows how easily you can cook healthy meals at home without spending too much.
Local Markets Affect Vietnam Food Price
In Vietnam, local wet markets play a huge role in keeping prices low. These markets sell fresh vegetables, meats, and spices directly from farmers or suppliers. Because there is no middleman, shoppers get food at much cheaper rates. You can buy herbs, noodles, and tofu for pennies, especially if you avoid tourist-heavy areas. Also, buying in bulk usually reduces the per-unit cost even further.
Seasonal Variations in Prices
Vietnam has tropical weather and grows food year-round. Still, prices can go up slightly during holidays like Tết (Vietnamese New Year). During these times, demand increases and sellers raise their prices. However, the Vietnam food price remains affordable compared to global standards. Fruits like mangoes and dragon fruit are cheaper in peak season and more expensive off-season.
Cost of Eating Three Meals a Day
You can eat three full meals per day in Vietnam for about 150,000 to 200,000 VND, which is around $6 to $8. This includes a street breakfast, a local lunch, and a filling dinner. If you cook at home, it gets even cheaper. This makes Vietnam ideal for digital nomads, students, and long-term travelers who need to manage expenses
Food Delivery and App Convenience
Modern apps like GrabFood and Baemin make eating even easier in cities. These apps list food from various vendors with prices clearly shown. Most dishes cost under 100,000 VND, and promotions often reduce the price further.
Delivery fees are usually small, often around 10,000 to 20,000 VND, depending on the distance.
Locations
| Restaurant Name | Location(s) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sao Nam | Kuala Lumpur (Bukit Bintang) | Michelin Bib Gourmand awardee; known for authentic dishes like phở bò and mangosteen prawn salad. |
| Pho Vietz | Multiple locations in Klang Valley | Offers traditional street dishes such as phở, bánh mì, and Vietnamese coffee. |
| Ăn Viet | Kuala Lumpur, Penang | Focuses on reducing food waste; allows customers to choose portion sizes for rice and noodles. |
| Du Viet | Petaling Jaya | Serves a variety of Vietnamese dishes; appreciated for its cozy ambiance. |
| Banhmi Cafe | Kuala Lumpur | Specializes in authentic Vietnamese cuisine; ideal for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. |
| MyViets | Various locations | Offers Halal-certified Vietnamese dishes, including pho and bánh mì. |
Notable Mentions
- Ara Vietnamese Noodles: Located in Damansara Jaya, known for its delicious and affordable Vietnamese noodle dishes.
- Rasa Viet: Situated in The Sphere, it offers Muslim-friendly options and a variety of delectable dishes.
- Super Saigon: Offers a modern take on Vietnamese classics, with locations in Sri Hartamas and other parts of Kuala Lumpur.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a visit or move to Southeast Asia, understanding Vietnam food price in Vietnam helps you prepare better. The country offers an incredible mix of flavor, culture, and savings when it comes to meals. From market stalls to fine dining, there is something delicious for every budget.
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