Vietnamese restaurants in Dubai have grown rapidly over the past few years, becoming favourites among residents, expats, and travellers who love fresh flavours and comforting bowls of phở. Whether you’re craving homestyle recipes or modern takes on classic dishes, Dubai now offers a wide range of Vietnamese dining experiences across different neighbourhoods and budgets, so let’s find you the best restaurant to dine in.
In this guide, know everything about:
- All about Vietnamese cuisine in Dubai
- Top Vietnamese restaurants in Dubai (Curated List)
- Comparison table: Top picks at a glance
- What to expect from Vietnamese food in Dubai
- Tips for choosing the best Vietnamese restaurant in Dubai
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
All about Vietnamese cuisine in Dubai
Vietnamese restaurants in Dubai continue to gain popularity thanks to their balance of flavour, freshness, and affordability. What makes the cuisine stand out is its harmony of herbs, aromatic broths, grilled meats, and light textures that suit the UAE’s warm climate. From steaming pho to crunchy bánh mì, Vietnamese food appeals to diners who enjoy meals that are satisfying yet not heavy.
What defines a great Vietnamese restaurant?
A truly great Vietnamese restaurant captures authenticity through traditional recipes, slow-cooked broths, and fresh herbs like coriander, basil, and mint. Many diners look for a menu that includes phở, bánh mì, bún, spring rolls, and Vietnamese coffee. Pricing, atmosphere, and service quality also shape the dining experience, whether it’s a casual meal or a fine dining evening.
Top Vietnamese restaurants in Dubai (Curated List)
Below is a curated list of some of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Dubai, from fine dining favourites to street-style gems.
1. Vietnamese Foodies – JLT & Downtown Dubai
Vietnamese Foodies is one of Dubai’s most loved Vietnamese restaurants, known for homestyle dishes, light broths, and affordable meals. Signature plates include Phở Bò, Summer Rolls, and Bún Chả, all made with fresh herbs and clean flavours. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for family-friendly dining or a quick lunch break.
Location
Burj Vista Tower 1, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact
2. Hoi An – Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road
Hoi An offers a refined Vietnamese dining experience in the heart of Dubai, blending traditional recipes with elegant presentation. The restaurant is known for classic dishes like grilled lemongrass chicken, fresh rolls, and delicately crafted desserts. It’s a wonderful choice for romantic evenings or special celebrations in a luxury setting.
Location
Level 1, Shangri-la Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact
3. Lao – Waldorf Astoria, Palm Jumeirah
Lao features a Southeast Asian menu with strong Vietnamese influences, offering dishes like fresh rolls, grilled meats, and aromatic bowls inspired by traditional recipes. Its setting within a luxury resort makes it ideal for date nights, weekend escapes, or treating guests to a relaxed yet sophisticated meal.
For diners who enjoy resort-style areas, Al Satwa restaurants showcase another vibrant culinary zone in Dubai.
Location
East, Crescent Rd, Nakhlat Jumeira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact
4. Saigon – Al Barsha
Saigon in Al Barsha is a popular budget-friendly spot specialising in traditional Vietnamese soups, noodles, and street-style meals. Diners love its simple, comforting dishes served in a casual environment, making it ideal for quick meals and daily cravings.
Location
Balcony Level, Lake Terrace Tower, JLT Cluster D, Al Thanyah Fifth, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact
5. Hanoi Naturally – JLT
As one of the best restaurants in JLT, Hanoi Naturally focuses on Northern Vietnamese recipes, offering herb-forward dishes and broths known for their lightness and clarity. Its no-frills, cosy setting appeals to diners who prioritise flavour and authenticity over formality.
Location
Goldcrest Executive, Cluster C, Al Thanyah Fifth, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Contact
Comparison table: Top picks at a glance
| Restaurant | Location | Approximate prices (for two people) | Best for | Popular dish |
| Vietnamese Foodies | JLT / Downtown | AED 170 | Casual dining | Phở Bò |
| Hoi An | SZR | AED 350 | Fine dining | Lemongrass chicken |
| Lao | Palm Jumeirah | AED 500 | Resort dining | Fresh rolls |
| Saigon | Al Barsha | AED 130 | Budget meals | Street noodles |
| Hanoi Naturally | JLT | AED 105 | Northern cuisine | Traditional broth |
What to expect from Vietnamese food in Dubai
Vietnamese restaurants in Dubai usually offer a variety of traditional dishes such as phở, bánh mì, bún, grilled meats, and vegetarian options. Spice levels are moderate, but most restaurants allow customisation. Vegan and gluten-free options are increasingly available across the city.
Tips for choosing the best Vietnamese restaurant in Dubai
- Casual vs. fine dining: Choose based on the experience you want; street-style spots are ideal for quick, comforting meals, while hotel venues offer refined settings for special occasions.
- Check regional specialities: Some restaurants focus on Northern-style broths, while others highlight Southern herbs or Central spice. Knowing your preference helps you pick the right menu.
- Look for fresh herbs and broths: Authentic Vietnamese restaurants prioritise fragrance and clarity in their broths, along with crisp herbs, a reliable sign of quality.
- Consider weekend crowds: Popular venues fill up quickly, especially in hotel districts. Making a booking ahead of time can save waiting time.
- Booking responsiveness: Restaurants that confirm reservations quickly offer a smoother, more convenient dining experience, especially during busy weekends.
Key takeaways
Dubai’s Vietnamese restaurants offer a mix of authentic, homestyle dishes and upscale, modern interpretations. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly spots to fine dining experiences, with signature dishes like phở and bánh mì widely available across the city. Choosing the right restaurant ultimately depends on your preferred atmosphere, taste, and budget, and planning ahead is always recommended on busy weekends.
FAQs
Vietnamese Foodies and Hanoi Naturally are top choices for traditional, aromatic phở.
Yes. Saigon and Làng Quán offer affordable meals without compromising flavour.
Most do, including Vietnamese Foodies, which has plant-based broths and dishes.
Hoi An and Lao provide elevated Vietnamese dining suitable for special occasions.
They’re not mandatory everywhere but are recommended for weekends, hotel-based restaurants, and peak hours.
