Introduction
Calgary’s food scene is renowned for its diversity, and Vietnamese cuisine holds a cherished spot among locals and visitors alike. From steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi sandwiches and fresh spring rolls, Vietnamese food in Calgary has something for everyone. If you’re craving authentic flavors or curious to try something new, this guide will help you discover some of the best Vietnamese food options across the city. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to Vietnamese cuisine, this list will introduce you to must-try dishes and top locations.
Why Vietnamese Food is a Favorite in Calgary
Vietnamese cuisine has carved out a prominent space in Calgary for several reasons. Known for its vibrant flavors, healthy ingredients, and balance of textures, Vietnamese food Calgary is as satisfying as it is nutritious. Many dishes are naturally gluten-free and feature fresh herbs, lean meats, and crisp vegetables, making it popular among health-conscious diners. Calgary’s Vietnamese restaurants are known for delivering authentic recipes that combine traditional flavors with modern twists, creating dishes that are uniquely satisfying and memorable.
1. Pho: The Ultimate Vietnamese Comfort Food
One of the most popular Vietnamese dishes, pho (pronounced “fuh”) is a savory soup made with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and tender slices of beef, chicken, or tofu. The broth, simmered for hours with aromatic spices, is the heart of this dish. For many, pho is a staple, especially during Calgary’s colder months.
- Where to Try Pho in Calgary: Pho Huong Viet and Pho Dau Bo are two iconic spots for pho in Calgary. Each restaurant has its own take on this classic soup, offering rich broths and generous servings of fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili peppers so you can customize each bowl to your taste.
- Tip: When ordering, don’t miss the “pho dac biet” or house special, which usually includes a mix of beef cuts for an authentic experience.
2. Vietnamese Sub (Banh Mi)
A favorite for those seeking a quick and delicious meal, the Vietnamese sub, or banh mi, is a sandwich that fuses French and Vietnamese flavors. These subs typically feature a light, airy baguette filled with layers of savory ingredients like pickled carrots, daikon, cucumber, cilantro, pate, and your choice of meat or tofu.
- Where to Find the Best Vietnamese Sub Near You: Thi Thi Vietnamese Submarine in Calgary is known for its fresh and flavorful banh mi. Their sandwiches are packed with traditional ingredients and are perfect for lunch or an on-the-go meal.
- Tip: Look for places that bake their baguettes fresh daily, as this is the key to a truly authentic Vietnamese sub experience.
3. Fresh and Fried Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are another Vietnamese classic, and you’ll find two main types: fresh spring rolls and fried spring rolls. Fresh spring rolls, or goi cuon, are typically made with rice paper wraps filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh vegetables. Fried spring rolls, or cha gio, are crispy delights filled with a mix of meat and vegetables, perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
- Where to Order Spring Rolls in Calgary: Vietnam Palace and Green Cilantro are excellent choices. Their fresh spring rolls come with a tangy peanut dipping sauce, while their fried versions are perfectly crispy without being greasy.
- Tip: Order a mix of fresh and fried rolls to enjoy different textures and flavors!
4. Bun Thit Nuong (Vermicelli Bowls)
For a flavorful and filling option, try a vermicelli bowl. Known as bun thit nuong, these bowls are filled with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and your choice of grilled meat, usually pork or chicken. Served with a tangy fish sauce-based dressing, vermicelli bowls are light yet satisfying and packed with flavor.
- Best Vermicelli Bowls in Calgary: Co Do Vietnamese Restaurant is highly recommended for its bun thit nuong. They offer options with grilled pork, beef, or shrimp, and each bowl is garnished with crunchy peanuts and fried shallots for added texture.
- Tip: Don’t be shy about pouring the fish sauce dressing over your bowl—it ties the flavors together and adds a delicious depth to the dish.
5. Vietnamese Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da)
If you’re looking for a unique coffee experience, Vietnamese coffee is a must-try. Made using strong, dark-roast coffee beans and mixed with sweetened condensed milk, Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) is bold, sweet, and refreshing. It’s the perfect pick-me-up on a warm day or a delightful end to a Vietnamese meal.
- Top Spots for Vietnamese Coffee: Saigon Pho Vietnamese Restaurant and Delightful Cafe offer some of the best Vietnamese coffee in Calgary. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or grabbing a coffee to-go, this drink is sure to make an impression.
- Tip: Try it both iced and hot—each version offers a slightly different flavor profile.
6. Com Tam (Broken Rice)
Com tam is a popular Vietnamese dish made with broken rice grains and topped with a variety of grilled meats, a fried egg, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Known for its satisfying combination of flavors and textures, com tam is a hearty option that brings out the best of Vietnamese cuisine.
- Best Com Tam in Calgary: Pho 26 Vietnamese Restaurant is well-regarded for its com tam. The dish comes with a perfectly grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, and an egg, all over a bed of broken rice, creating a savory and satisfying meal.
- Tip: Drizzle some fish sauce over the dish for an extra burst of flavor!
7. Vegetarian Vietnamese Options
Vietnamese food in Calgary caters to all dietary preferences, including vegetarians. Many Vietnamese dishes can be customized to be vegetarian-friendly, and you’ll often find options like tofu pho, vegetarian spring rolls, and vermicelli bowls with grilled tofu.
- Where to Find Great Vegetarian Vietnamese Dishes: Pad Thai Vietnamese Restaurant and Indochine Vietnamese Sub offer various vegetarian-friendly options. Their fresh spring rolls with tofu and vegetarian pho are favorites among veggie lovers.
- Tip: Ask for extra herbs and vegetables to make your vegetarian meal even more flavorful and nutritious.
Tips for Finding the Best Vietnamese Food in Calgary
- Check Online Reviews: Websites like Yelp and Google Reviews can give you insight into local favorites.
- Explore Different Neighborhoods: Vietnamese restaurants are scattered throughout Calgary, so explore areas beyond downtown for hidden gems.
- Ask for Recommendations: If you have friends or family who are familiar with Vietnamese cuisine, ask them for recommendations!
- Try Different Dishes: Vietnamese cuisine has a lot to offer, so don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.
Conclusion
Calgary’s Vietnamese food scene is rich and varied, offering everything from classic pho to fresh and fried spring rolls, hearty vermicelli bowls, and even Vietnamese coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick Vietnamese sub or want to sit down to a comforting bowl of pho, there’s something for every palate. Use this guide to explore Vietnamese sub near you and enjoy some of the best Vietnamese food Calgary has to offer.