Announced on September 17, the list is based on feedback from over 170,000 travelers worldwide, evaluating the top 10 countries and cities renowned for their culinary excellence.

Phở gà: a beloved traditional dish

Securing the 12th position, phở gà is celebrated as one of Vietnam’s traditional dishes. Unlike its beef counterpart, phở gà boasts a clearer and more delicate broth. The ingredients used to craft this beloved dish include ginger, fish sauce, shallots, green onions, coriander, lime leaves, and rice noodles.

Phở gà is believed to have originated in the 1930s when beef supply in northern Vietnam was limited. Its enduring popularity speaks to its comforting flavors and cultural significance, making it a staple in Vietnamese cuisine.

Bánh trôi nước: sweet and fragrant delight

At number 23, bánh trôi nước - also known as chè trôi nước - impressed diners with its sweet and aromatic flavors. This dessert features chewy dumplings filled with smooth mung bean paste, cooked in a syrup made from palm sugar and ginger. The soft, sticky dumplings contrast beautifully with the rich, fragrant syrup, creating a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.

Bánh trôi nước is especially favored during the cooler months, offering a delightful treat that warms both body and soul.

Phở trộn: A flavorful fusion

Ranking 25th, phở trộn presents a vibrant twist on traditional phở. The dish includes marinated meat seasoned with salt, ginger, pepper, garlic, and lime juice, mixed with rice noodles. This combination results in a flavorful and refreshing meal that highlights the versatility of Vietnamese culinary techniques.

Phở trộn exemplifies the innovative spirit of Vietnamese cuisine, blending traditional elements with modern flavors to create a unique dining experience.

Boiled chicken: symbol of prosperity

Gà luộc, or boiled chicken, completes the list at the 38th position. This dish is an essential part of northern Vietnamese celebrations, particularly during the Lunar New Year (Tết). The chicken is meticulously cleaned, rubbed with salt, and boiled with ginger, shallots, and turmeric to achieve a golden, glossy skin.

Once cooked, the chicken is sliced and garnished with lime leaves, served with a tangy dipping sauce made from salt and lime juice. Gà luộc symbolizes prosperity and is often paired with sticky rice, making it a cherished dish during festive occasions.

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia, Taste Atlas is renowned for its comprehensive mapping of traditional dishes from around the world. The platform’s rankings are based on the opinions and evaluations of culinary experts and food critics, ensuring the reliability and prestige of its awards.

According to Matija Babić, the founder of Taste Atlas, the rankings reflect not only the popularity of dishes but also their cultural and gastronomic significance. “Vietnam is the gem of Southeast Asia, offering a unique blend of safety, affordability, and rich culinary experiences that cater to a diverse range of travelers,” he stated in a previous publication.

Do An