Vietnam may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about kosher dining, but for Jewish travelers and those following kosher dietary laws, options do exist. From kosher-certified restaurants in Hanoi to local Vietnamese dishes that naturally meet kosher requirements, navigating kosher food in Vietnam is easier than you might expect. But what about everyday staples like milk? Are there authentic Vietnamese kosher foods? Let’s explore the kosher dining scene in Vietnam and uncover where to find the best kosher-friendly options!

1. Are there kosher Vietnamese foods?

Vietnam not only captivates international tourists with its traditional cuisine but also offers a diverse culinary experience. It includes famous dishes from various countries around the world such as Italy, Thailand, and India, as well as specialties catering to different religious dietary needs. 

Thanks to the country’s rich variety of ingredients and spices, certain elements can be substituted while preserving the authentic flavors of different cuisines. This allows visitors to enjoy familiar dishes even in a new setting, making Vietnam a true food lover’s paradise

Beyond its diverse food scene , Vietnam is known for its friendliness and commitment to peace, respect, and religious harmony. Many restaurants that accommodate religious dietary laws are opened in many cities in Vietnam. For Jewish visitors, Kosher food in Vietnam is carefully prepared following Jewish dietary laws. These dishes are best enjoyed at Kosher-certified restaurants, often owned or managed by members of the Jewish community, ensuring authenticity and adherence to strict dietary guidelines.

There are Kosher Vietnamese foods available in Vietnam. While traditional Vietnamese cuisine is not inherently Kosher, some restaurants in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer Kosher-certified dishes prepared according to Jewish dietary laws. These restaurants are often run by members of the Jewish community, providing a trusted and delicious dining experience for those seeking Kosher meals in Vietnam.

 

2. Kosher Experience in Vietnam

2.1. Is milk in Vietnam Kosher?

According to Kosher dietary law (Kashrut), Jews can consume milk, but it must come from Kosher animals, not be mixed with meat, and must have Kosher certification. Understanding these dietary requirements, Kosher dishes in Vietnam are always prepared according to traditional Kosher standards. There are also imported Kosher-certified dairy products available in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. For Jewish travelers following Kashrut, it’s best to check labels or purchase from Kosher-certified stores.

In addition, Jewish travelers can still enjoy delicious Vietnamese cuisine, as most traditional Vietnamese dishes are naturally dairy-free.. To ensure a fully Kosher experience, travelers can simply ask about the ingredients in advance. With this flexibility, Jewish visitors can confidently explore the rich flavors of Vietnamese cuisine while respecting their dietary traditions.

2.2. How Much Does It Cost to Eat at Chabad in Vietnam?

If you’re seeking Kosher meals while traveling in Vietnam, Chabad centers are your go-to destination. Located in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An, Chabad offers two types of meal options, each with its own donation structure:

• Weekday Meals, Chabad centers may offer set menus with Kosher Israeli-style dishes like shakshuka, schnitzel, soups, and salads, typically ranging from 150,000 to 350,000 VND per person (~$6–$14 USD)
• Shabbat Meals (Friday Night & Saturday Lunch), these meals are usually donation-based, with a suggested donation from 250,000 to 400,000 VND per person (~$10–$16 USD)

Tip from Vicky: Reservations are recommended, especially during Jewish holidays or peak tourism season.

 

2.3. Kosher Food & Restaurants in Hanoi

Chabad of Hanoi

If you’re traveling through Vietnam and searching for a welcoming Jewish center with authentic Kosher meals, look no further than Chabad Hanoi. Nestled just a short walk from the stunning West Lake (Hồ Tây), this hidden gem offers not only spiritual connection but also a cozy and heartwarming environment that feels like home whether you’re a local or a tourist.

Address: No. 4, Alley 11, To Ngoc Van Street, Tay Ho District, Hanoi.​

Website: https://www.jewishhanoi.com/

Google map: Chabad of Hanoi

Tel: +84 838728225​

Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 12:00pm – 7:00pm – Friday: Closed

Chabad Hanoi provides a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both tourists and the local Jewish community. Beyond its meticulously prepared Kosher dishes, what truly sets Chabad Hanoi apart is its prime location—just a short distance from the picturesque West Lake, one of the best places in Hanoi to watch the sunset. A perfect itinerary for visitors exploring the city could include watching the sunset at West Lake, enjoying a delicious Kosher meal at Chabad Hanoi, and then taking a leisurely stroll around the lake to soak in Hanoi’s vibrant evening ambiance.

Many Jewish travelers who pass through Hanoi stop at Chabad for a meal, a prayer, or a sense of community and they often leave deeply touched. recently, our tourists – Alexander Vorhand and a group of 8 travelers from Israel visited Chabad Hanoi and had a truly memorable experience. They praised the warm hospitality, the delicious Kosher meals, and the peaceful atmosphere near West Lake. At Asia Viva Travel, we’re proud to help create these meaningful moments for Jewish travelers exploring Vietnam.

 

Note from Vicky : Chabad of Hanoi offers religious services and Kosher food for visitors. They also have a Jewish school for children and can assist with arranging Kosher accommodation.

For travellers finding food with Kosher certified food. Here is list of Western Supermarkets:

• Best store: Housing Shop 21 To Ngoc Van
• Hung Long, 71 To Ngoc Van
• Mini Mart, 19 To Ngoc Van, Hanoi.
• Veggy, 99 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho, Hanoi
• L’s Place, 1 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho, Hanoi

For a large general Supermarket you can visit: 

• Winmart large supermarket Syrena Mall, 2nd floor 51 Xuan Dieu
• An Am, Syrena Mall, 1st floor, 51 Xuan Dieu.

 

2.4. Kosher Food & Restaurants in Danang

Looking for Kosher food while exploring the historic beauty of Hoi An?

Located just 1.5 km from the Thu Bon River and the vibrant night market, Chabad Hoi An is the perfect stop during your journey through Vietnam’s famous ancient town. The space combines Jewish tradition with Vietnamese-inspired decor, creating a truly unique atmosphere for dining and connection.

Whether you’re visiting for Shabbat, a quick lunch, or just curious to explore Jewish life in Hoi An, this cozy spot welcomes all travelers with warmth and care.

Chabad Hoi An

Address: 570A Cua Dai, Hoi An, Quang Nam.​ Chabad Hoi An is located along the main road leading to the Old Town — easily accessible by foot (about a 15-minute walk from the riverside).

Website: https://www.jewishvietnam.com/Chabad-Hoi-An.htm

Google Map: Chabad Hoi An 

Phone: +84 901356770​

Opening Hours:

• Sunday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

• Friday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

• Saturday: Closed (Shabbat)

 

 

Chabad Hoi An offers a cozy space, an ideal stop for Jewish tourists who want to enjoy Kosher cuisine when exploring Hoi An ancient town. Israeli travellers could come experience Kosher cuisine in a space decorated with Vietnamese characteristics, it will definitely be a great and unique way for tourists to check-in.

Tip from Vicky: Please contact in advance to ensure services are available during your visit, especially on holidays or Shabbat.

 

2.5. Kosher Food & Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh city

Chabad of Ho Chi Minh City

Address: 5A (villa) Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.​

Website: https://www.jewishvietnam.com/

Google map: Chabad Saigon

Phone: +84 2839100181​

Opening hours: Sunday – Thursday: 9:00am – 9:00pm – Friday: 9:00am – 1:00pm

 

 

Chabad Ho Chi Minh City offers a spacious and comfortable setting, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking Kosher cuisine. A key highlight that attracts guests is its diverse menu, which strictly adheres to Kosher standards. The restaurant serves high-quality meat and chicken dishes made from fresh ingredients, ensuring compliance with strict dietary regulations.

Additionally, the extensive vegetarian menu offers a variety of refined options, including creative adaptations of traditional savory dishes and plant-based specialties unique to Vietnam. A standout feature is the freshly baked bread, prepared each morning to ensure peak freshness, complemented by coffee and tea served throughout the day, creating a complete and satisfying culinary experience in the heart of Saigon.

Note from Vicky: Chabad of Ho Chi Minh City offers Jewish services such as Shabbat and holiday meals, prayer services, and Torah classes. They also have a Kosher restaurant and can assist in arranging Kosher food for visitors.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for Jewish visitors, many restaurants catering specifically to Jewish travelers have also been established. These restaurants adhere to strict Kosher standards, from ingredient selection to food preparation and service, allowing visitors to enjoy Vietnamese cuisine with peace of mind. Most of the restaurants are built and managed by owners from the Jewish community, so with the big cities and restaurants mentioned above, visitors can rest assured to experience them based on the suggestions of Asia Viva Travel.

 

3.What is the most popular food in Vietnam?

Vietnam is world-famous for its vibrant, flavorful cuisine. From savory street food to fragrant noodle soups, the country offers a wide variety of must-try dishes that reflect its rich culture and regional diversity.

One of the most iconic dishes is Phở (Vietnamese noodle soup), often considered the national dish. But that’s just the beginning! Other popular Vietnamese foods include Bánh mì (Vietnamese baguette sandwich), Gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls), and Bún chả (grilled pork with noodles) – each offering a unique taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage.

Whether you’re wandering the streets of Hanoi or dining along the coast in Da Nang, Vietnamese food is a delicious part of the travel experience you won’t want to miss.

 

3.1. Vietnamese Pho Beef – Chicken ( Phở bò – Phở gà) 

This is the dish that any tourist coming to Vietnam should try because it is the symbol of Vietnamese cuisine, a dish listed by CNN as one of the world’s 50 best foods.

Pho is a hot noodle soup, made with rice noodles in a flavorful broth simmered for hours with herbs and spices. Traditional pho uses beef or chicken, with Kosher adaptations ensuring proper meat sourcing and preparation. The dish is typically garnished with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili.

3.2. Banh mi

Vietnamese baguette sandwiches, featuring a crispy, airy bread filled with Kosher-friendly ingredients such as grilled chicken, beef, or tofu, combined with pickled vegetables, herbs, and savory sauces. Kosher Banh Mi avoids non-Kosher pâté and replaces it with alternative spreads so Israeli visitors can experience this wonderful street food. In additon, Banh Mi was ranked among the world’s top 10 best street foods by Lonely Planet.

3.3.Spring roll (Gỏi Cuốn)

Spring rolls have also been included by CNN in its list of the 50 best dishes in the world.

Spring rolls are a light dish because the ingredients are all fresh, meat such as shrimp, pork, chicken will be boiled or grilled with simple salt or pepper seasoning, rolled with fresh vegetables, rice noodles and some other vegetables, all rolled with rice paper. Unlike the fried version, spring rolls will be eaten directly because the ingredients are all cooked, after rolling, they will be dipped in peanut or soy dipping sauce.

3.4. Grilled meat and rice noodles (Bún chả) 

In 2024, Bun cha was ranked the 17th spot on the list by TasteAtlas, a website recognized for its extensive coverage of various dishes and dining establishments. A Hanoi specialty featuring grilled minced pork patties served with rice vermicelli, fresh herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce. Kosher versions replace traditional pork with Kosher-certified meat and what’s more special is that each region will have a different version of Bun Cha, visitors can experience and will certainly have many surprises.

3.5.Fish Noodle Soup (Bún cá)

Bún cá is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup that highlights the country’s love for fresh seafood and aromatic herbs. A fragrant noodle soup featuring grilled or fried fish fillets in a light, tangy broth flavored with tomatoes, dill, and pineapple. 

At Kosher-friendly establishments like Chabad Hanoi or Chabad Hoi An, the fish used in Bún cá is carefully selected to meet kosher dietary laws, ensuring Jewish travelers can enjoy this traditional Vietnamese dish with full confidence. It’s a delightful local experience, thoughtfully adapted for kosher observance.

3.6.Vietnamese Pancake (Bánh xèo) 

A golden, crispy rice flour pancake filled with chicken, beef, or vegetables, complemented by fresh herbs and lettuce wraps. Kosher adaptations exclude non-Kosher seafood and ensure proper ingredient preparation. In particular, there are now many Vietnamese cooking classes that teach tourists how to make banh xeo. Israeli tourists can participate and make their own special banh xeo.

3.7. La Vong Fish Cake (Chả cá Lã Vọng) 

La Vong Fish cake is considered one of Hanoi’s must-try dishes, often ranked among the world’s top fish dishes by culinary experts.A signature Hanoi dish consisting of turmeric-marinated grilled fish, served with dill, peanuts, and rice noodles. It’s served sizzling hot in a skillet, accompanied by a generous handful of fresh dill, roasted peanuts, green onions, and vermicelli rice noodles. Diners often add fresh herbs, chili, and a splash of lime to suit their taste.

At Kosher-friendly establishments, such as Chabad Hanoi, the fish used is carefully sourced to meet kosher dietary standards, and the dish is prepared in accordance with Jewish dietary laws—ensuring that kosher travelers can savor this local delicacy worry-free.

3.8. Sweet Soup (Chè)

A diverse collection of traditional Vietnamese desserts made with coconut milk, beans, jelly, and fruits. In addition to traditional Vietnamese sweet soups made from beans such as black beans, red beans, green beans, etc., over time, to better suit the needs of diners, many restaurants have created other versions of this dish from ingredients such as jelly, tapioca pearls, etc. Kosher versions ensure no dairy mixing with meat and use Kosher-certified ingredients.

3.9. Broken Rice with Grilled meat (Cơm tấm) 

Việt Nam’s broken rice (locally known as cơm tấm) was chosen the 2nd place among the top 100 most tasty rice dishes in Asia by TasteAtlas.

A hearty dish featuring broken rice served with grilled Kosher-certified chicken, beef, or fish, accompanied by pickled vegetables and a savory sauce. 

In Vietnam,  it is not difficult to see restaurants selling broken rice for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but visitors should note that broken rice is mainly a dish of Ho Chi Minh City, so in this city, it will be easier to find Com Tam restaurants.

3.10. Steamed rice cake (Bánh cuốn)

Bánh cuốn is a beloved Vietnamese breakfast dish, known for its light, silky texture and savory filling. These thin, steamed rice flour rolls are traditionally filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms but for Kosher travelers, a delicious variation is made with minced Kosher beef or chicken, carefully prepared to meet dietary standards.

Each roll is freshly steamed to order, resulting in a soft, slightly chewy texture that melts in your mouth. It’s typically served with a side of fresh herbs, crunchy bean sprouts, and a light dipping sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, and lime—replacing the traditional fish sauce in the Kosher version.

At Kosher kitchens like Chabad Hanoi or Chabad Hoi An, the dish is thoughtfully adapted so that Jewish travelers can enjoy this authentic Vietnamese favorite without compromising on dietary laws.

3.11. Sticky rice (Xôi)

Xôi, or Vietnamese sticky rice, is a popular and versatile dish enjoyed across Vietnam at any time of day, especially for breakfast or a satisfying mid-day snack. A versatile dish made from glutinous rice, served either savory with Kosher chicken or beef, or sweet with coconut and mung beans. Perfect for a filling breakfast or snack.

Conclusion

Exploring kosher food in Vietnam opens up a world of flavorful surprises—from pho made with kosher ingredients to fresh spring rolls that align with dietary laws. While fully kosher-certified establishments may still be limited, many traditional Vietnamese dishes can be enjoyed with a little guidance. Thanks to helpful recommendations from Asia Viva Travel, Jewish travelers can navigate local cuisine with confidence, discovering delicious and culturally rich meals without compromising their dietary needs. So whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, Vietnam offers more kosher-friendly options than you might expect –  just waiting to be tasted!