Vietnam meals cost: Is it cheap to eat in Vietnam in 2024?

So, is it cheap to eat in Vietnam?

The short answer is a resounding yes, it is cheap to eat in Vietnam. However, to give you a more comprehensive understanding, let’s break it down by meal and dining options.

Average Vietnam meal cost for breakfast

Breakfast in Vietnam is not only delicious but also incredibly affordable. Street food options like banh mi or a steaming bowl of pho can cost as little as $1-$2. If you prefer to start your day with a strong Vietnamese coffee and a banh mi, you can expect to pay around $1.50-$3 in total.

For those who prefer to eat at a local restaurant, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast for about $3-$5. Many hotels also offer breakfast buffets, which might be included in your room rate or cost around $5-$10 for a wide variety of both Western and Vietnamese options.

So, is it cheap to eat in Vietnam for breakfast? Absolutely! You can start your day with a satisfying meal without putting a dent in your wallet.

Average Vietnam meal cost for lunch

Lunch prices can vary depending on where you choose to eat, but generally, it is cheap to eat in Vietnam for lunch. Here’s a breakdown of your options:

• Street Food: $1-$3 Enjoy local favorites like banh mi, pho, or com tam from street vendors or small local eateries.
• Local Restaurants: $2-$5 Sit down for a more substantial meal at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes like bun cha or mi quang.
• Mid-range Restaurants: $5-$10 For a more comfortable setting or international cuisine, mid-range restaurants offer good value for money.
• High-end Restaurants: $10-$20 Even at upscale establishments, lunch prices remain reasonable compared to many other countries.

Average Vietnam meal cost for dinner

Dinner can be the most expensive meal of the day, but it’s still affordable by international standards. Here’s what you can expect:

• Street Food: $2-$4 Many street food stalls remain open in the evening, offering quick and cheap dinner options.
• Local Restaurants: $3-$7 Enjoy a sit-down meal at a local restaurant with dishes like grilled seafood or hot pot.
• Mid-range Restaurants: $8-$15 These establishments often offer a mix of Vietnamese and international cuisine in a comfortable setting.
• High-end Restaurants: $20-$30+ For a special night out, you can indulge in gourmet Vietnamese or international cuisine without breaking the bank.

It’s clear that no matter your budget or preferences, it is cheap to eat in Vietnam for dinner compared to many other travel destinations.

Additional Factors to Consider

While we’ve established that it is cheap to eat in Vietnam, there are a few other factors to keep in mind:

• Location: Prices can vary between cities and tourist areas. For example, you might find that it’s slightly more expensive to eat in popular tourist destinations like Ha Long Bay or Hoi An compared to less touristy areas.
• Drinks: While food is generally inexpensive, alcoholic beverages can add to your bill. Local beers are usually cheap ($1-$2), but imported beers and wines can be more expensive.
• Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Vietnam, but it’s appreciated in tourist areas. A small tip of 5-10% in restaurants is sufficient if you’re satisfied with the service.
• Dietary Restrictions: If you have specific dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), you may need to seek out specialized restaurants which could be slightly more expensive.
• Cooking Classes: While not a direct meal cost, many travelers enjoy taking cooking classes in Vietnam. These typically range from $20-$50 and often include a market tour and a full meal.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Eating in Vietnam

To make the most of the affordable food scene and ensure it remains cheap to eat in Vietnam throughout your trip, consider these tips:

• Eat where the locals eat: If you see a place bustling with local customers, it’s likely to be both delicious and affordable.
• Try street food: Some of the best and cheapest food in Vietnam is found on the streets. Look for busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest options.
• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: Knowing how to say “How much?” (Bao nhiêu?) can help you navigate food markets and street stalls.
• Stay hydrated safely: Stick to bottled water or beverages made with boiled water to avoid any health issues.
• Don’t be afraid to negotiate: In markets or for street food, a little friendly bargaining is often expected.
• Explore local markets: Visit local markets to sample fresh produce and snacks at very low prices.

So, is it cheap to eat in Vietnam? The answer is a definitive yes! Whether you’re slurping noodles at a street-side stall, enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant, or treating yourself to a high-end dining experience, you’ll find that your food budget can stretch surprisingly far in Vietnam.

From the aromatic pho in Hanoi to the crispy banh xeo in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers a culinary adventure that’s as easy on the wallet as it is pleasing to the palate. With average meal costs ranging from $1 to $15 for most experiences, you can indulge in the country’s diverse and delicious cuisine without financial worry.

Remember, while it is cheap to eat in Vietnam, it’s always a good idea to budget a bit extra for those special dining experiences or unexpected culinary discoveries. The joy of traveling in Vietnam is that you can eat like a king on a pauper’s budget, but you also have the flexibility to splurge on unforgettable gastronomic experiences when the mood strikes.

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Are you ready to embark on your own culinary journey through Vietnam? Asia Encounter, your true tour company in Vietnam, is here to help you create the perfect food-focused itinerary. We understand that experiencing local cuisine is a crucial part of any trip, and we’re passionate about introducing our clients to the best of Vietnamese food.

Whether you want to sample street food in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, take a cooking class in Hoi An, explore the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, or dine at some of the country’s finest restaurants, we can customize your trip to satisfy your taste buds and your budget.

With Asia Encounter, you’ll not only discover why it is cheap to eat in Vietnam, but also experience the rich culture, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes that make this country a traveler’s paradise. From arranging food tours with local experts to recommending the best hidden gems for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, we’re here to ensure your culinary adventure is unforgettable.

Contact us today to start planning your delicious journey through Vietnam. Let us show you why Vietnam is not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the stomach – all while keeping your budget intact. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!