Singapore’s dining scene offers a vibrant mix of flavors, and Vietnamese cuisine stands out with its fresh ingredients and bold tastes. From savory noodle soups to crispy spring rolls, these dishes bring the essence of Vietnam to local eateries.
Many restaurants across the city, especially in areas like Joo Chiat and Orchard Road, serve authentic recipes passed down through generations. Whether you’re craving street-style bites or upscale dining, there’s something for every palate.
This guide highlights must-try dishes that capture the heart of Vietnamese cooking. Discover hidden gems and popular spots where chefs prioritize tradition and quality.
Key Takeaways
- Singapore boasts over 20 authentic Vietnamese eateries.
- Traditional recipes and fresh ingredients define the experience.
- Popular dining hubs include Joo Chiat and Orchard Road.
- Options range from budget-friendly to premium dining.
- A curated list helps both locals and tourists explore.
Introduction to Vietnamese Cuisine in Singapore
From humble beginnings, Vietnamese flavors have carved a niche in Singapore’s diverse food landscape. Since the 2010s, the number of eateries serving these dishes has skyrocketed from just 3 to over 45 today. Weekly ingredient imports, like those at Moc Quan, ensure authentic vietnamese flavors thrive locally.
Herbs like mint, cilantro, and lemongrass define the cuisine’s fresh, layered taste. Chefs balance sweet, sour, and salty elements—think tangy fish sauce or zesty lime. Some spots add chili for a local twist, blending tradition with Singaporean preferences.
Regional variations also shine. Northern-style pho features clear broths and subtle spices, while Southern versions are bolder with sweeter notes. This diversity mirrors Vietnam’s culinary map right here in the city.
| Regional Style | Key Features | Popular in Singapore |
|---|---|---|
| Northern (Hanoi) | Clear broth, wide noodles, minimal herbs | Co Hai Banh Mi & Phở |
| Southern (Ho Chi Minh) | Rich broth, bean sprouts, basil, lime | Long Phung Vietnamese Cuisine |
Whether you crave street-food authenticity or modern fusions, vietnamese restaurants singapore deliver. The growth reflects a shared love for vibrant, health-conscious meals that tell a story.
Must-Try Vietnamese Dishes in Singapore
Exploring the must-try dishes reveals why these flavors captivate diners in the city. Each plate balances fresh ingredients with vibrant textures, from silky noodles to crunchy rolls. Whether you crave hearty soups or light bites, these picks deliver authenticity.
Beef Pho
Pho lovers debate Northern vs. Southern styles. Northern versions, like those at Co Hai, feature clear broth and wide noodles. Southern pho, such as Long Phung’s beef pho, boasts richer flavors with herbs and lime.
Long Phung’s Pho Tai uses rare beef and a 12-hour simmered bone broth. For variety, try chicken pho at spots like Signs A Taste of Vietnam. Prices range from $8 to $15.
Banh Mi
The perfect banh mi hinges on an airy-crispy baguette. Banh Mi Saigon masters this with 13 fillings, like Spicy Lemongrass Chicken or pork belly. Pâté and pickled veggies add tangy depth.
Budget-friendly at $5–$10, these sandwiches are ideal for quick lunches. Vegetarian options swap meat for tofu and mushrooms.
Spring Rolls
Crunchy spring rolls (cha gio) or fresh ones (goi cuon) offer contrasting textures. Fried rolls are stuffed with minced pork and shrimp, while fresh versions wrap herbs and shrimp in rice paper.
60% of eateries, like Moc Quan, serve vegetarian rolls with avocado or mango. Pair them with peanut sauce for extra flavor.
| Dish | Key Features | Where to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Pho | Rich broth, rare beef, herbs | Long Phung |
| Banh Mi | Crispy baguette, pâté, pickled veggies | Banh Mi Saigon |
| Spring Rolls | Fried or fresh, vegetarian options | Moc Quan |
Top Vietnamese Restaurants in Singapore
Diners seeking bold Southeast Asian tastes will find top-tier options across the city. These spots blend tradition with modern twists, offering everything from hearty pho to crispy banh mi.
Co Hai Banh Mi & Phở
At Co Hai, the broth simmers for 14+ hours, earning its 4.8/5 Google rating. Their homemade baguettes elevate banh mi, while the pho features wide noodles and clear northern-style broth.
Must-try: Beef Pho ($12) and Pâté Banh Mi ($9). Visit weekdays before noon to skip crowds.
Long Phung Vietnamese Cuisine
A Joo Chiat landmark since 2011, Long Phung is famed for Com Thit Kho Hot Vit (braised pork with duck egg). Their rich southern-style pho costs $10–$20.
Pro tip: Arrive by 6 PM or expect a queue. The grilled lemongrass chicken is a crowd-pleaser.
VietSmith
For premium twists, VietSmith at Millenia Walk serves oxtail pho and wagyu beef bowls. The modern ambiance pairs well with their grilled Saigon chicken.
Check their menu for happy hour deals (3–6 PM). Dishes range from $15–$25.
- Co Hai: 359 Beach Rd, budget-friendly ($10–$15).
- Long Phung: 159 Joo Chiat Rd, iconic flavors.
- VietSmith: Upscale takes on classics.
Hidden Gems for Vietnamese Food
Beyond the well-known spots, Singapore hides authentic Vietnamese eateries worth discovering. These hidden gems focus on tradition, from handcrafted baguettes to slow-simmered broths. Perfect for diners seeking quiet corners with bold flavors.
Banh Mi Thit by Star Baguette
At 543 Geylang Rd, this spot bakes 30+ baguettes daily. Their Banh Mi Thit ($5–$8) balances crispy bread with fillings like lemongrass pork or pâté. Ask for the off-menu spicy sardine version—a local favorite.
Parking tip: Use nearby malls like Paya Lebar Square. The owners import fish sauce directly from Vietnam for depth.
Signs A Taste of Vietnam Pho
A deaf-owned vietnamese restaurant at Orchard Gateway, Signs Pho champions inclusivity. Their beef pho ($10–$15) skips service charges and uses 24-hour bone broth. Try the secret garlic noodles—unlisted but unforgettable.
Pro tip: MRT to Somerset Station (Exit 1) avoids traffic. Herbs are sourced fresh thrice weekly for vibrant ingredients.
- Banh Mi Thit: Cash-only, closed Mondays.
- Signs Pho: Social enterprise supporting hearing-impaired staff.
For more authentic Vietnamese flavors, explore these spots off the beaten path.
Vietnamese Barbecue and Hotpot
For a sizzling twist on traditional flavors, vietnamese bbq and hotpot bring interactive dining to the table. At spots like Ăn Là Ghiền, meals become a shared adventure with bold, customizable tastes.
Ăn Là Ghiền
This Geylang gem (45 Lor 27) specializes in unique lolot leaf-wrapped meats. Think minced pork and spices bundled in aromatic leaves, grilled tableside. Their signature platters ($15–$25) easily feed 2–3 people.
The DIY experience shines with:
- Tabletop grills: Cook your own meats, from lemongrass-marinated beef to shrimp.
- Smokeless vents: Advanced ventilation keeps the air clear while you grill.
- Duck Noodles: A must-try with bamboo shoots and herb-packed broth.
Weekday lunch specials offer smaller portions at 20% off. Arrive before 7 PM to snag a booth—this spot fills up fast!
Affordable Vietnamese Eateries
Craving bold flavors without breaking the bank? These wallet-friendly spots deliver authentic tastes. Whether you’re after steaming bowls of chicken pho or crispy banh mi, these eateries prioritize quality and value.
Super Ngon Vietnamese Noodle Cafe
Tucked inside Mercure Hotel, Super Ngon serves $9 pho with broth simmered for hours. Their halal-friendly menu includes $1.90 fried dough sticks—perfect for dipping. Portions rival chain restaurants, but prices are far kinder.
Try the combo: pho + iced coffee for $12. Takeaway packaging is sturdy, keeping noodles separate from broth.
Banh Mi Saigon
Since 2018, this Ang Mo Kio hub has baked fresh baguettes daily. Choose from 13 sandwich types, all under $10. The lemongrass chicken banh mi pairs well with jasmine rice on the side.
- Value tip: Early birds snag warm baguettes by 7 AM.
- Vegetarian: Mushroom pâté option available.
Both spots prove that cheap vietnamese food doesn’t skimp on flavor or freshness.
Exploring Vietnamese Street Food
Step into the bustling world of Vietnamese street food, where every bite tells a story of tradition and innovation. From crispy pancakes to steaming bowls of pho, these dishes bring the vibrancy of Vietnam’s sidewalks to Singapore.
May Pho Culture
At May Pho on South Bridge Rd, the Southern-style pho ($15–$20) stands out with its rich broth infused with cinnamon. Their menu celebrates the culture of sharing, perfect for group dining.
Don’t miss their bánh xèo—sizzling rice flour cakes stuffed with shrimp and bean sprouts. Pair it with ca phe sua da (iced coffee) for a balanced meal.
Moc Quan
Moc Quan at UE Square imports ingredients weekly from Vietnam. Their Pho Bo ($10–$18) features tender beef and a broth simmered for hours. The sauce bar lets you customize each bite.
- Late-night option: Open till 11 PM on weekends.
- Must-try: Fresh spring rolls with peanut dipping sauce.
Conclusion
From hearty pho to crispy banh mi, the city offers a world of bold flavors. Whether you’re at Long Phung for southern-style broth or grabbing a quick sandwich at Banh Mi Saigon, there’s something for every budget.
Plan a tasty crawl: Start with fresh rolls at Moc Quan, then head to VietSmith for modern twists. Don’t miss lesser-known gems like bánh xèo or vegan pho—emerging trends worth exploring.
Keep an eye out for seasonal events like Tết celebrations, where menus shine with special dishes. Ready to dive in? Discover more authentic spots here and savor every bite.
