Prague has one of the largest Vietnamese communities in Central Europe, so the city is full of Vietnamese restaurants and bistros. Quality varies a lot. Some places cook exactly as in Hanoi or Saigon, others serve a generic “Asian” menu. This guide shows how to choose a good Vietnamese restaurant in Prague, where to go and what to order.
How to spot a good Vietnamese restaurant
- A short menu. A bistro that makes ten dishes usually makes them better than a place with two hundred items and sushi on the side.
- The phở broth. It should be clear, smell of star anise and cinnamon and be made from bones, not stock cubes.
- Fresh herbs. Soup should come with a plate of herbs, bean sprouts, lime and chilli.
- Vietnamese guests. If Vietnamese families eat there, it is a good sign.
Vietnamese bistros in central Prague
Central Prague has many places that focus on a few specific dishes. Well-known examples include Pho Tien in Prague 5, BUNČA, which specialises in bún chả, NV Restaurace in Smíchov, the Pholẽvka bistros (Harfa and Flora) and Café Buddha, known for its bún bò Nam Bộ. Most of them also deliver through Wolt or Foodora. Check opening hours and menus directly with each restaurant.
Sapa market: Prague’s “Little Hanoi”
For the most authentic Vietnamese food, head to Sapa market in Prague 4. Dozens of small bistros there cook mainly for the Vietnamese community: phở, bún chả, bánh cuốn, bánh mì and dishes you rarely see in the city centre. Sapa also has vegetarian and vegan places, such as Bo De Tam.
What to order
- Phở bò or phở gà: beef or chicken noodle soup.
- Bún bò Nam Bộ: noodles with beef, peanuts and herbs.
- Bún chả: grilled pork with noodles and dipping sauce.
- Nem rán and summer rolls as starters.
- Bánh mì for a quick lunch to go.
- Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk to finish.
Bistro or restaurant?
A Vietnamese bistro is usually smaller, cheaper and faster, often with a good-value lunch menu and takeaway. Restaurants have longer menus, table service and dishes for sharing, such as hot pot (lẩu) or whole fish. For a first taste of Vietnamese cuisine, a good bistro is enough.
FAQ
Where are most Vietnamese restaurants in Prague?
At Sapa market in Libuš, Prague 4. In the centre, Vietnamese bistros are spread all over the city.
How much does a meal cost?
A bowl of phở or bún bò Nam Bộ costs roughly 200 to 300 CZK in a typical bistro. Food at Sapa is often a little cheaper.
Do Vietnamese restaurants have vegetarian food?
Yes. Look for the word “chay” on the menu or tofu versions of dishes.