Calgary is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and Vietnamese food holds a special place in this vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of pho, a crispy banh mi, or fresh spring rolls, Calgary offers a variety of options to satisfy your taste buds. From family-owned eateries to modern dining spots, Vietnamese food in Calgary is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and heartwarming dishes.
If you’re wondering where to dive into Spring Vietnamese cuisine in Calgary or explore the city’s best authentic eats, this guide has you covered.
A Quick Introduction to Vietnamese Cuisine
Vietnamese food Calgary is famous for its balance of flavors: sweet, sour, salty, and spicy. Dishes often highlight fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and Thai basil, alongside bold spices and tangy sauces like fish sauce and hoisin. Whether it’s a hearty bowl of pho or a light, refreshing vermicelli salad, the cuisine offers something for every palate.
Now, let’s dive into where you can find the best Vietnamese food in Calgary!
1. The Best Pho in Calgary
Pho, a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup, is arguably the most famous dish from the cuisine. It features silky rice noodles, tender slices of meat, and a broth simmered for hours to perfection. In Calgary, you’ll find plenty of amazing spots serving authentic pho.
Top Picks for Pho in Calgary
- Pho Dau Bo: A local favorite, this spot is known for its rich, flavorful broth and generous portions. Their beef pho (Pho Tai) is a must-try.
- Pho Hoai Vietnamese Noodle House: Located in Chinatown, this cozy restaurant offers traditional pho with fresh herbs and plenty of customization options.
- Bagolac Saigon Restaurant: Known for their classic pho dishes, they also offer vegetarian pho options for plant-based diners.
When visiting these restaurants, don’t forget to garnish your pho with bean sprouts, lime, and chili for the perfect flavor boost.
2. The Crispiest Banh Mi in Calgary
A banh mi is the ultimate Vietnamese sandwich. It combines French influence with Vietnamese flavors, featuring a crusty baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. It’s a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal for anyone on the go.
Where to Find the Best Banh Mi in Calgary
- Thi Thi Vietnamese Submarine: A must-visit spot in Chinatown for delicious banh mi loaded with grilled meats and fresh veggies. Their BBQ pork banh mi is particularly popular.
- Banh Mi Sub Express: Known for their perfectly baked baguettes and flavorful fillings, this is a go-to spot for banh mi lovers.
- Saigon Deli: This hidden gem serves some of the most authentic and affordable banh mi in the city.
Pair your banh mi with a refreshing bubble tea or Vietnamese iced coffee for the perfect meal combo.
3. Fresh Spring Rolls and Vermicelli Bowls
For those who enjoy lighter dishes, spring rolls and vermicelli bowls are excellent options. Spring rolls are typically made with rice paper, fresh vegetables, shrimp, or pork, and served with a tangy dipping sauce. Vermicelli bowls, on the other hand, are a refreshing combination of rice noodles, grilled meats, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of fish sauce.
Best Spots for Spring Vietnamese Cuisine in Calgary
- Vietnam Palace: Their spring rolls are freshly made, bursting with flavor, and served with a side of their signature dipping sauce.
- Simply Irie: While known for fusion cuisine, they offer incredible Vietnamese-style spring rolls and vermicelli bowls.
- Golden Bell Vietnamese Restaurant: This spot is well-loved for its fresh and flavorful spring rolls as well as their generous vermicelli portions.
These dishes are perfect for a light lunch or a healthy dinner option.
4. Unique Vietnamese Dishes to Try in Calgary
Beyond the classics like pho and banh mi, Vietnamese cuisine has plenty of other unique offerings that you should explore. Here are a few standout dishes available in Calgary:
- Bun Bo Hue: A spicy beef noodle soup from central Vietnam, this dish is perfect for spice lovers. Check out Pho Binh Minh for an authentic taste.
- Com Tam: Known as “broken rice,” this dish is a hearty plate of rice served with grilled pork, egg, and pickled vegetables. Try it at Co Do Hue Vietnamese Cuisine.
- Che Ba Mau: A Vietnamese dessert made with sweet beans, jelly, and coconut milk. For a sweet treat, head to Saigon Star.
5. Vietnamese Restaurants with a Modern Twist
While many Vietnamese eateries in Calgary focus on traditional dishes, others bring a modern twist to the cuisine. These spots offer unique takes on classic recipes while staying true to authentic flavors.
Top Modern Vietnamese Spots in Calgary
- Pure Modern Asian Kitchen: A contemporary restaurant blending Vietnamese and other Asian cuisines, offering creative takes on pho and banh mi.
- Paper Lantern: This trendy spot in Calgary serves Vietnamese-inspired cocktails alongside modernized classics like lemongrass chicken sliders.
- Hoang Long Vietnamese & Thai Cuisine: Perfect for fusion lovers, this restaurant combines Vietnamese and Thai flavors in a chic, modern setting.
These restaurants are ideal for those looking to explore new flavors or enjoy a stylish dining experience.
Tips for Enjoying Vietnamese Food in Calgary
- Go Early: Popular spots can get busy during lunch and dinner hours. Arriving early ensures you get a table and the freshest dishes.
- Ask for Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask staff for their recommendations, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the menu.
- Pair Your Meal: Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da) or fresh coconut juice are excellent accompaniments to any meal.
Why Vietnamese Cuisine Thrives in Calgary
Calgary’s diverse population and love for global cuisines make it a haven for Vietnamese food enthusiasts. Many restaurants are family-owned, bringing generations of authentic recipes to the table. Additionally, Calgary’s proximity to fresh, high-quality ingredients ensures that every dish is made with care and precision.
Final Thoughts
From steaming bowls of pho to crispy banh mi and refreshing spring rolls, Vietnamese food in Calgary is a culinary journey worth taking. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the cuisine, the city’s Vietnamese restaurants offer something for everyone.
So, the next time you’re craving bold flavors and comforting dishes, head to one of Calgary’s many Vietnamese eateries. Don’t forget to explore Spring Vietnamese cuisine Calgary for a taste of freshness and authenticity!