Jordan and Emily, a couple from Australia, left their stable jobs to travel the world starting in 2022. With a passion for filming and exploring local cuisines, they aim to visit 100 countries by 2026.

Xuan Huong Ward in Da Lat, Lam Dong, was one of the stops on their Vietnam journey. Beyond the stunning scenery and cool climate, they are captivated by the rich culinary scene, particularly the grilled rice paper.

This popular local snack, called ‘banh trang nuong’ by Vietnamese, known for its delicious flavor and affordable price, is often likened by foreign tourists to a “Vietnamese version of pizza.”

On their YouTube channel, Jordan and Emily shared that they initially planned to visit the night market to try grilled rice paper. However, along the way, they stumbled upon a street stall on Nguyen Van Troi Street and decided to stop.

“It didn’t look like a restaurant at all. Just a small elderly woman cooking right in front of her house, but she was so professional, making each piece methodically and remembering exactly who ordered what,” Jordan recounted excitedly.

At the stall, the couple ordered two servings of hot grilled rice paper, which were ready after 5-7 minutes.

According to the Western tourists, the rice paper was placed directly on a charcoal grill. The vendor skillfully added eggs, green onions, and other ingredients, spreading them evenly across the surface. Within minutes, the snack was ready, emitting a mouthwatering aroma.

“The smell was amazing! Each piece was colorful and crispy. We ordered two types - one with cheese, the other with egg and spicy seasoning,” Emily said enthusiastically.

Jordan found the dish familiar yet unique, with its “thin, crispy base, caramelized and slightly charred.”

He was thrilled after the first bite, exclaiming praise. “I don’t know what they put on it, but it’s honestly beyond expectations.”

Jordan jokingly admitted he could eat another serving because it was so good. “This is truly an authentic local food experience that you’ll never forget,” he added.

Beyond the dish’s unique flavor, the couple was also impressed by the vendor’s warm and friendly service.

“As soon as we arrived, she quickly arranged seats for us. The stall was quite busy with locals, but she still remembered who ordered how many and served them in order,” Emily recalled.

Their meal cost about VND80,000. The couple rated grilled rice paper as one of the tastiest and most must-try dishes in Lam Dong.

Minh Anh