Sharing a meal in Vietnam is more than just eating together – it’s an important social and cultural experience. The way you behave at the table shows your respect, appreciation, and willingness to connect. Here are some essential tips for foreigners dining with Vietnamese people.
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1. Wait to Be Invited Before Eating
In Vietnam, it’s polite to wait until the host or the eldest person at the table says, “Mời cả nhà ăn cơm” (“Please enjoy the meal”) before you start eating.
You can reply with a friendly “Cảm ơn, mời cả nhà!” (“Thank you, please enjoy too!”). It’s a simple gesture that shows respect and cultural awareness.
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2. Use Chopsticks Properly
Chopsticks are an essential part of Vietnamese dining culture.
Hold them near the top, not the middle or bottom, and never stick them upright into a bowl of rice – this resembles incense sticks at funerals and is considered bad luck.
When sharing dishes, take food from the top of the plate, and don’t dig around to find the best pieces.
3. Share Dishes Gracefully
Vietnamese meals are usually served family-style, with all dishes placed in the center of the table for everyone to share.
If you’d like to offer food to someone else, it’s a kind gesture – but remember to use a clean spoon or the other end of your chopsticks to serve them, not the end you’ve eaten from.
4. Compliment the Food
Vietnamese hosts truly appreciate compliments about their cooking.
Simple phrases like “It’s delicious!” or “This dish is amazing!” go a long way.
It shows gratitude and makes your host feel proud and happy.
5. Drink and Socialize Respectfully
If alcohol is served, you may be invited to drink together. Raise your glass, make eye contact, and say “Một, hai, ba, dô!” (One, two, three, cheers!).
If you don’t drink alcohol, just smile and say politely, “Thank you, I don’t drink much.” Most Vietnamese people will understand and won’t pressure you.
6. Respect the Elders
Respect for elders is a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture.
Before eating, it’s polite to invite older people to start first.
Pouring them a drink or serving them food shows good manners and earns instant respect.
7. Things to Avoid
In addition to the things you should do when dining with Vietnamese people, below are some things you should avoid doing when dining with Vietnamese people:
- Don’t point your chopsticks directly at others.
- Don’t stir through shared dishes looking for your favorite piece.
- Don’t leave too much food uneaten – finishing your meal shows respect for the cook.
- Don’t sit down or start eating before you’re invited, especially at formal meals.
A Vietnamese meal is not just about food – it’s about connection.
People talk, laugh, and share stories. Eating together is a way to build relationships and express warmth.
If you approach the meal with an open heart, curiosity, and respect, you’ll not only enjoy great food but also gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture.
