Food Prices in Vietnam in 2026: Real Budget and Costs

Thinking about moving to Vietnam and wondering how much you'll spend on food? Great question. Food is a major budget item in any move abroad, and the good news is that in Vietnam, you can eat like a king for a fraction of what you spent in France.

But be careful: the cost of food in Vietnam varies enormously depending on your eating habits. Between a bowl of phở at a street stall for 40,000 VND (€1.50) and a Western brunch in a trendy Saigon café for 400,000 VND (€15), the gap is considerable. In this in-depth guide, I'll reveal real 2026 prices, neighborhood by neighborhood and cuisine by cuisine, so you can set a realistic food budget.

Written from Da Nang, this guide rounds up the best ways to eat healthy without blowing your budget. Whether you're a fan of local street food or you need your French products to feel at home, you'll know exactly what to expect.

01The Real Cost of Local Restaurants in Vietnam

Vietnamese street food and small family restaurants (quán ăn) are the cheapest and most authentic option. This is how 80% of the local population eats, and honestly, it's delicious.

Street food and street stalls: the ultra-cheap option

Street stalls (quán vỉa hè) are everywhere in Vietnam. You'll recognize them by their small, colorful plastic chairs and their makeshift kitchens set up on the sidewalk.

Average prices in 2026:

• Phở (noodle soup): 35,000 - 50,000 VND (€1.30 - €1.85)
• Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich): 15,000 - 25,000 VND (€0.55 - €0.90)
• Cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled meat): 30,000 - 45,000 VND (€1.10 - €1.65)
• Bún chả (noodles with grilled pork): 40,000 - 60,000 VND (€1.50 - €2.20)
• Bánh xèo (Vietnamese crêpe): 35,000 - 50,000 VND (€1.30 - €1.85)
• Vietnamese coffee: 15,000 - 25,000 VND (€0.55 - €0.90)
• Fresh fruit juice: 20,000 - 30,000 VND (€0.75 - €1.10)

Tip: Look for stalls where locals are lining up. It's the best indicator of quality and freshness. Avoid completely empty stands, even if they're cheaper.

With a budget of 100,000 - 150,000 VND per day (€3.70 - €5.50), you can eat three hearty street food meals. That's about 3,000,000 - 4,500,000 VND per month (€110 - €165) for one person.

Local restaurants with air conditioning: affordable comfort

Vietnamese restaurants with an air-conditioned dining room (quán ăn có máy lạnh) offer more comfort while staying very affordable.

Average prices in 2026:

• Main course: 60,000 - 100,000 VND (€2.20 - €3.70)
• Soup: 50,000 - 80,000 VND (€1.85 - €3)
• Fried rice or stir-fried noodles: 70,000 - 120,000 VND (€2.60 - €4.45)
• Hot pot (lẩu) for 2: 300,000 - 500,000 VND (€11 - €18.50)
• Local beer (333, Saigon): 25,000 - 40,000 VND (€0.90 - €1.50)
• Soft drink: 15,000 - 30,000 VND (€0.55 - €1.10)

Monthly budget for one person eating at this type of place every day: 5,000,000 - 7,000,000 VND (€185 - €260).

Upscale Vietnamese restaurants: local excellence

Premium Vietnamese restaurants in the big cities serve refined cuisine in an elegant setting.

Average prices in 2026:

• Tasting menu: 500,000 - 1,200,000 VND (€18.50 - €44.50)
• Signature main course: 200,000 - 400,000 VND (€7.40 - €14.80)
• Cocktail: 150,000 - 250,000 VND (€5.50 - €9.25)
• Imported wine (bottle): 800,000 - 2,000,000 VND (€30 - €74)

These places are still 40-60% cheaper than their French equivalents, for quality that's often better.

02International and Western Restaurants: The Price of Nostalgia

If you can't do without Western food, know that international restaurants are significantly more expensive, but still affordable compared to France.

Western and European cuisine

French, Italian and European restaurants are multiplying in Vietnam's big cities, especially in Hanoi, Saigon and Da Nang.

Average prices in 2026:

• Pizza (medium): 150,000 - 300,000 VND (€5.50 - €11)
• Pasta: 120,000 - 250,000 VND (€4.45 - €9.25)
• Steak and fries: 250,000 - 500,000 VND (€9.25 - €18.50)
• Gourmet burger: 150,000 - 280,000 VND (€5.50 - €10.40)
• Continental breakfast: 100,000 - 200,000 VND (€3.70 - €7.40)
• Full brunch: 250,000 - 450,000 VND (€9.25 - €16.65)

Tip: Restaurants run by European expats in neighborhoods like An Thuong in Da Nang or District 2 in Saigon offer authentic quality, but expect to pay 30-40% more than the local average.

International fast food

International chains (McDonald's, KFC, Burger King, Lotteria) are present in all the big cities.

Average prices in 2026:

• Big Mac meal: 110,000 - 130,000 VND (€4.05 - €4.80)
• KFC meal (3 pieces): 95,000 - 115,000 VND (€3.50 - €4.25)
• Pizza Hut (medium): 180,000 - 250,000 VND (€6.65 - €9.25)
• Starbucks (grande latte): 85,000 - 105,000 VND (€3.15 - €3.90)

Paradoxically, international fast food costs almost as much as in France, while local food is 5 to 10 times cheaper. Do the math.

Non-Vietnamese Asian cuisine

Japanese, Korean, Thai and Chinese restaurants are very popular in Vietnam.

Average prices in 2026:

• Sushi (8-10 pieces): 150,000 - 350,000 VND (€5.50 - €13)
• Japanese ramen: 120,000 - 200,000 VND (€4.45 - €7.40)
• Korean BBQ (per person): 200,000 - 400,000 VND (€7.40 - €14.80)
• Pad Thai: 80,000 - 150,000 VND (€3 - €5.50)
• Dim sum (portion): 60,000 - 120,000 VND (€2.20 - €4.45)

Asian cuisine is an excellent compromise between culinary variety and a controlled budget.

03Supermarket and Grocery Prices in Vietnam

Grocery shopping and cooking at home is still the cheapest option, especially if you favor local products. Here's a detailed comparison of prices at different types of stores.

Modern supermarkets: VinMart, Big C, Lotte Mart

The big supermarket chains sell local and imported products in an air-conditioned, hygienic environment.

Staples (2026 prices):

Imported products (much more expensive):

• French cheese (200g): 150,000 - 300,000 VND (€5.50 - €11)
• French wine (bottle): 300,000 - 800,000 VND (€11 - €30)
• Western cereal: 120,000 - 200,000 VND (€4.45 - €7.40)
• Imported chocolate: 80,000 - 150,000 VND (€3 - €5.50)
• Quality ham: 200,000 - 350,000 VND/kg (€7.40 - €13)

Tip: VinMart+ stores are everywhere and run regular promotions (30-50% off). Download the app to get the weekly deals.

Monthly supermarket grocery budget for one person: 3,500,000 - 6,000,000 VND (€130 - €220) depending on your habits (local vs. imported).

Traditional markets: the cheapest option

Local markets (chợ) offer the best prices on fresh produce, but require a bit of haggling and adjustment.

Average prices in 2026 (15-30% cheaper than supermarkets):

• Seasonal vegetables: 10,000 - 25,000 VND/kg (€0.37 - €0.90)
• Local tropical fruit: 15,000 - 40,000 VND/kg (€0.55 - €1.50)
• Pork: 100,000 - 150,000 VND/kg (€3.70 - €5.50)
• Whole chicken: 70,000 - 100,000 VND/kg (€2.60 - €3.70)
• Fresh fish: 80,000 - 150,000 VND/kg (€3 - €5.50)
• Fresh herbs: 5,000 - 10,000 VND/bunch (€0.18 - €0.37)

Pros:

• Unbeatable prices on fresh produce
• Ultra-fresh products (often same-day)
• Authentic contact with the local culture
• Room to negotiate (especially if you speak Vietnamese)

Cons:

• No air conditioning (heat and smells)
• Hygiene sometimes questionable
• You have to get up early (best products in the morning)
• Language barrier

Monthly market grocery budget for one person cooking local: 2,500,000 - 4,000,000 VND (€90 - €150).

Neighborhood convenience stores and minimarts

Small convenience stores (Circle K, Ministop, Family Mart) are handy but 20-30% more expensive than supermarkets.

Typical prices in 2026:

• Water (1.5L): 10,000 - 15,000 VND (€0.37 - €0.55)
• Local beer (can): 18,000 - 25,000 VND (€0.65 - €0.90)
• Imported snacks: 25,000 - 50,000 VND (€0.90 - €1.85)
• Prepared sandwich: 35,000 - 60,000 VND (€1.30 - €2.20)
• Iced coffee: 25,000 - 40,000 VND (€0.90 - €1.50)

These stores are open 24/7 and often have air-conditioned seating, which makes them popular hangouts for expats.

04Food Budgets Compared by Profile

To help you estimate your food budget in Vietnam, here are four typical profiles with their real monthly spending in 2026.

Profile 1: The adopted local (minimal budget)

Eating habits:

• 90% local Vietnamese food
• Street food and small restaurants
• Shopping at the traditional market
• Home cooking 50% of the time
• Occasional restaurant outings

Detailed monthly budget:

• Street food breakfast (20 days): 600,000 VND (€22)
• Lunch at a local restaurant (25 days): 1,500,000 VND (€55)
• Dinner at home (20 days) + groceries: 2,000,000 VND (€74)
• Dinner at a restaurant (10 days): 800,000 VND (€30)
• Coffee/drinks: 400,000 VND (€15)

TOTAL: 5,300,000 VND/month (€196)

This budget is perfectly viable and lets you eat healthy, generous meals.

Profile 2: The balanced eater (comfortable budget)

Eating habits:

• 60% Vietnamese food, 40% international
• Mix of air-conditioned restaurants and street food
• Supermarket shopping with a few imported products
• Western restaurant outings 1-2 times a week

Detailed monthly budget:

• Varied breakfasts: 1,200,000 VND (€44)
• Lunch (mix of local/international): 2,500,000 VND (€92)
• Supermarket groceries: 3,500,000 VND (€130)
• Restaurant dinners: 2,000,000 VND (€74)
• Coffee/outings: 800,000 VND (€30)

TOTAL: 10,000,000 VND/month (€370)

This is the budget I recommend for optimal comfort without depriving yourself. You can check out our complete guide to the cost of living in Vietnam for other expense categories.

Profile 3: The nostalgic Westerner (high budget)

Eating habits:

• 70% Western/international food
• Air-conditioned restaurants every time
• Imported products from the supermarket (cheese, wine, cold cuts)
• Weekend brunch, Western cafés

Detailed monthly budget:

• Breakfast at Western cafés: 2,000,000 VND (€74)
• Lunch at international restaurants: 4,000,000 VND (€148)
• Imported groceries: 6,000,000 VND (€222)
• Upscale restaurant dinners: 3,500,000 VND (€130)
• Outings/alcohol: 1,500,000 VND (€55)

TOTAL: 17,000,000 VND/month (€630)

This budget is still 40-50% lower than what you'd spend in France for the same lifestyle, but you're not taking full advantage of Vietnam's economic benefits.

Profile 4: The couple with children

Eating habits:

• Mix of home cooking and restaurants
• Gradually adapting to local food
• A few imported products for the kids
• Family restaurant outings on the weekend

Detailed monthly budget (family of 4):

• Supermarket groceries (local + imported products): 10,000,000 VND (€370)
• Local/international restaurants: 5,000,000 VND (€185)
• Kids' snacks: 1,500,000 VND (€55)
• Weekend outings: 2,000,000 VND (€74)
• Kid-specific products: 1,500,000 VND (€55)

TOTAL: 20,000,000 VND/month (€740)

To learn more about family life in Vietnam, see our dedicated article on living in Vietnam with children.

05Tips to Cut Your Food Budget in Vietnam

Here are the best strategies for eating well while saving money.

Gradually adopt local food

The biggest mistake expats make? Trying to reproduce exactly how they ate in France. Not only is it 3-4 times more expensive, but you miss out on an extraordinary cuisine.

My gradual adjustment method:

Months 1-2: Try one Vietnamese dish a day, and keep your usual food for the other meals.

Months 3-4: Move to 2 Vietnamese meals a day. Identify your favorite dishes.

Months 5-6: 80% local food, 20% Western food for special occasions.

Result: You save €200-300/month while discovering an incredible cuisine. Your digestive system will thank you too (Vietnamese food is very healthy).

Master the traditional markets

Local markets can be intimidating at first, but that's where the real savings are.

Tip: Go to the market between 6 and 8 a.m. The produce is ultra-fresh and the vendors are in a better mood. After 10 a.m., the heat and fatigue make the experience less pleasant.

Haggling techniques:

• Learn the numbers in Vietnamese (essential)
• Watch the prices locals are charged before buying
• Buy several items from the same vendor to get a package price
• Become a regular customer: you'll naturally get better prices
• Don't haggle aggressively: a 10,000 VND difference is €0.37

My favorite markets in Da Nang:

• Chợ Hàn: the biggest, ideal for finding everything
• Chợ Cồn: authentic, frequented only by locals
• Neighborhood markets: smaller but friendlier

Cook at home with local ingredients

Cooking at home is still the cheapest option, especially if you favor seasonal produce.

Sample budget weekly menu (for 2 people):

Monday: Cơm gà (chicken rice) - 150,000 VND (€5.50) Tuesday: Beef and vegetable stir-fry - 200,000 VND (€7.40) Wednesday: Grilled fish + rice + steamed vegetables - 180,000 VND (€6.65) Thursday: Seafood pasta - 220,000 VND (€8.15) Friday: Vietnamese chicken curry - 160,000 VND (€5.90) Saturday: Local restaurant (a night off from cooking) Sunday: Homemade hot pot - 300,000 VND (€11)

Total groceries for the week: 1,210,000 VND (€45) for 2 people, or €22.50 per person per week for 5 home-cooked dinners.

Take advantage of happy hours and promotions

Restaurants and bars offer big discounts at certain times.

Deals to know about:

• Happy hours (5-7 p.m.): 30-50% off drinks
• Lunch deals: set menus 50% cheaper than in the evening
• Delivery apps (Grab Food, ShopeeFood): regular promo codes
• Loyalty cards: earn points at your favorite restaurants
• Groupon Vietnam: discounts of up to 50% at restaurants

Tip: Sign up for the newsletters of restaurants you like. They regularly send exclusive promo codes (birthdays, Vietnamese holidays, etc.).

Avoid tourist traps

Some places charge outrageous prices to foreigners.

Red flags to watch for:

• Menu only in English with photos (prices inflated by 50-100%)
• No Vietnamese customers at all
• Ultra-touristy location (seafront, Old Quarter in Hanoi)
• Touts calling out to you in the street
• No prices displayed (always ask before ordering)

Golden rule: If you're the only foreigner in a restaurant full of Vietnamese people, you're in the right place.

06Regional Differences: Where Is Food Cheapest?

The cost of food varies significantly from one Vietnamese city to another. Here's a comparison based on my observations in different regions.

Hanoi: the foodie capital

Hanoi is famous for its food, but prices have gone up in recent years, especially in the historic center.

Average prices in 2026:

• Street food: 10-15% more expensive than the national average
• Local restaurants: in line with the average
• Western restaurants: 20-30% more expensive than in Da Nang
• Supermarkets: prices similar to other big cities

Average monthly budget: 6,000,000 - 12,000,000 VND (€220 - €445)

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): the most expensive

Saigon is the most expensive city in Vietnam for food, especially in the central districts (1, 2, 3, 7).

Average prices in 2026:

• Street food: 20-30% more expensive than average
• International restaurants: the most expensive in the country
• Supermarkets: 10-15% more expensive
• Imported products: the best selection but the highest prices

Average monthly budget: 7,000,000 - 15,000,000 VND (€260 - €555)

Tip: Get out of the central districts. Neighborhoods like Bình Thạnh, Gò Vấp or Tân Bình have prices 30-40% lower for the same quality.

Da Nang: the best value

In my opinion, Da Nang offers the best balance between quality of life, choice of restaurants and affordable prices.

Average prices in 2026:

• Street food: slightly cheaper than Hanoi and Saigon
• International restaurants: 20-30% cheaper than in Saigon
• Seafood: excellent quality at unbeatable prices (coastal city)
• Supermarkets: national average prices

Average monthly budget: 5,000,000 - 10,000,000 VND (€185 - €370)

To dig deeper, see our complete guide to the monthly budget in Da Nang.

Hoi An: the charming tourist trap

Hoi An, 30 km from Da Nang, is beautiful but charges high tourist prices in the historic center.

Average prices in 2026 (old town):

• Restaurants: 50-80% more expensive than Da Nang
• Street food: 30-40% more expensive
• Supermarkets: limited, high prices

Tip: Live in Da Nang and visit Hoi An for fun, not to eat there every day.

Secondary cities: the money-saving champions

Mid-sized cities (Nha Trang, Dalat, Hue, Can Tho) have the lowest prices.

Average prices in 2026:

• Street food: 30-40% cheaper than Saigon
• Local restaurants: 25-35% cheaper
• Supermarkets: limited choice of imported products
• Markets: unbeatable prices

Average monthly budget: 4,000,000 - 8,000,000 VND (€150 - €300)

These cities are ideal if saving money is your priority, but you give up culinary variety and access to Western products.

07Practical Questions About Food in Vietnam

Can you find vegetarian/vegan food?

Absolutely! Vietnamese Buddhism has a strong vegetarian tradition (chay).

Where to find vegetarian food:

• "Cơm chay" restaurants: Vietnamese vegetarian food, very affordable
• Full moon days: many restaurants offer vegetarian menus
• Supermarkets: tofu, tempeh, very cheap local soy milk
• International restaurants: vegan options in the big cities

Average prices:

• Local vegetarian meal: 30,000 - 60,000 VND (€1.10 - €2.20)
• Western vegan restaurant: 100,000 - 200,000 VND (€3.70 - €7.40)

Paradoxically, Vietnam is very veggie-friendly despite high meat consumption.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No, never drink tap water in Vietnam. That's rule number one.

Solutions:

• Bottled water: 10,000 - 15,000 VND/1.5L (€0.37 - €0.55)
• 20L jugs: 30,000 - 50,000 VND (€1.10 - €1.85)
• Water cooler with a subscription: 100,000 - 150,000 VND/month (€3.70 - €5.50)
• Home water filter: initial investment of 2-5 million VND (€74 - €185)

Monthly water budget for 1 person: 100,000 - 200,000 VND (€3.70 - €7.40)

How do you handle food allergies?

Food allergies are less well known in Vietnam than in the West. Here's how to protect yourself.

Common allergens in Vietnamese cuisine:

• Nước mắm (fish sauce): in 80% of dishes
• Peanuts: very common
• Seafood: everywhere
• Gluten: wheat noodles, soy sauce

Tip: Learn how to say your allergy in Vietnamese and show a translated card at restaurants. Vietnamese cooks are generally very accommodating if you explain clearly.

Useful phrases:

• "Tôi bị dị ứng..." (I'm allergic to...)
• "Không tôm" (No shrimp)
• "Không đậu phộng" (No peanuts)

Is street food safe?

A fair question! Here are a few simple rules.

Safety criteria:

• Do: a line of locals (fast turnover = freshness)

• Do: food cooked in front of you (avoid dishes prepared in advance)

• Do: a vendor who uses clean chopsticks to serve

• Do: well-cooked meat (avoid rare meat on the street)

• Do: raw vegetables washed in front of you

• Avoid: a completely empty stand

• Avoid: food left out with no protection from flies

• Avoid: meat or fish sitting at room temperature for a long time

• Avoid: a vendor with questionable hygiene

Adjustment period: Allow 2-4 weeks for your digestive system to adapt. Start gradually.

08FAQ: Your Questions About the Cost of Food in Vietnam

What food budget should you plan for a month in Vietnam?

The monthly food budget in Vietnam ranges from 5,000,000 VND (€185) for a 100% local lifestyle to 17,000,000 VND (€630) for a mostly Western diet. A comfortable, balanced budget is around 10,000,000 VND (€370) per month, letting you enjoy both local food and international restaurants. For a couple, plan on 15-25 million VND (€555-€925) depending on your habits. This budget includes groceries, restaurants and cafés, but excludes imported alcohol, which can quickly drive up the bill.

Is it possible to eat out every day in Vietnam?

Yes, absolutely! It's even the norm for many Vietnamese people and expats. With a budget of 150,000-250,000 VND per day (€5.50-€9.25), you can eat three meals a day at good-quality, air-conditioned local restaurants. That's 4.5-7.5 million VND per month (€165-€280), which is still very affordable. Street food can even bring it down to 3-4 million VND/month (€110-€150). Many expats almost never cook, because the value of local restaurants is unbeatable. It also saves a considerable amount of time, letting you enjoy your life in Vietnam more.

Are French products available, and at what price?

Yes, Vietnam's big cities (Saigon, Hanoi, Da Nang) sell French products in high-end supermarkets (VinMart Premium, Annam Gourmet) and specialty shops. However, expect to pay 2 to 4 times the French price: cheese (150,000-400,000 VND/200g, or €5.50-€15), French wine (400,000-1,500,000 VND a bottle, or €15-€55), cold cuts (250,000-500,000 VND/kg, or €9-€18.50), chocolate (100,000-200,000 VND a bar, or €3.70-€7.40). My advice: save these products for special occasions and discover the excellent local alternatives (Vietnamese artisanal cheeses, Chilean or Australian wines that are much cheaper).

How can you save on food without sacrificing quality?

The winning strategy combines several approaches: favor traditional markets for your groceries (30% savings vs. supermarkets), gradually adopt Vietnamese food, which is delicious AND cheap, cook at home 50% of the time with seasonal local ingredients, and eat at restaurants frequented by Vietnamese people rather than in tourist areas. Learn a few words of Vietnamese to haggle at markets and become a regular customer of your favorite vendors. Take advantage of happy hours (5-7 p.m.) and download delivery apps for their regular promo codes. With these habits, you can easily live on 5-7 million VND/month (€185-€260) while eating healthy and varied meals.

Can you live on a total budget of €500 in Vietnam, food included?

Yes, it's entirely possible, especially in secondary cities or on the outskirts of big cities. With €500 (13,500,000 VND), here's a realistic breakdown: simple studio rent 4,000,000 VND (€150), 100% local food 4,500,000 VND (€165), scooter transportation 500,000 VND (€18.50), electricity/water 800,000 VND (€30), phone/internet 300,000 VND (€11), miscellaneous 3,400,000 VND (€125). This budget requires adopting a local lifestyle (street food, markets, no expensive outings) but lets you live comfortably. In Da Nang or Saigon, it will be tighter. For more comfort, I'd recommend more like €700-800/month. Read our article on the cheapest countries to move abroad for more budget optimization strategies.

09Conclusion: Take Control of Your Food Budget in Vietnam

The cost of food in Vietnam is a considerable advantage for French expats. With a monthly budget of 5,000,000 to 10,000,000 VND (€185 to €370), you can eat healthy, varied and generous meals — 50 to 70% cheaper than in France, for quality that's often better.

The key to success? Gradually adopt local food without completely giving up your Western comfort foods. The happiest expats are the ones who've found their balance: 70% Vietnamese food for everyday meals, 30% international food for pleasure and nostalgia.

To recap the key points:

The three budget levels:

• Minimal budget (100% local): 5-6 million VND/month (€185-€220)
• Comfortable budget (balanced mix): 8-12 million VND/month (€300-€445)
• Western budget: 15-20 million VND/month (€555-€740)

The best money-saving strategies:

• Favor traditional markets (30% savings)
• Eat at restaurants frequented by Vietnamese people
• Cook 50% of the time with local products
• Learn a few phrases in Vietnamese
• Avoid ultra-touristy areas

The most affordable cities:

1. Da Nang: best overall value
2. Secondary cities: the cheapest
3. Hanoi: average prices, excellent food
4. Saigon: the most expensive but the most choice

Food in Vietnam isn't just affordable, it's also delicious, healthy and incredibly varied. You can eat well without feeling deprived, on a food budget well below what you'd spend in France, while discovering one of the richest cuisines in the world.