When most people think of Vietnamese food, the first dish that comes to mind is typically pho. Although the meal is delicious, eateries specializing in this cuisine offer many other tantalizing options that every diner should try at least once. Here’s what you should order next time you visit a Vietnamese restaurant.

A Guide to Vietnamese Food Beyond Pho

1. Banh Xeo

For a unique Vietnamese take on a popular French dish, try banh xeo. This plate consists of a fried turmeric powder and rice flour crepe stuffed with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. Restaurants usually serve it with lettuce, herbs, and fish sauce. When enjoying banh xeo, cut it into strips and wrap the pieces around the lettuce and herbs. Then, dip it into your sauce for the perfect savory bite.

2. Hu Tieu

If you’re craving a noodle dish, hu tieu is an excellent choice. Popularized in southern Vietnam, it can be served dry or in a pork bone broth. It is generally made with tapioca noodles, herbs, and seafood or meat. However, some restaurants use rice or egg noodles rather than tapioca. When served dry, the noodles are often topped with crispy fried shallots, bean sprouts, green onions, and garlic chives.

3. Banh Cuon

Banh cuon translates to “rolled cakes,” referring to the delicate and steamed rice sheet used to make this dish. This outer layer is filled and rolled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. It gets served topped with fried shallots and a side of fish sauce for dipping and is best eaten while still warm.

4. Bun Bo Hue

Some Vietnamese food is mildly spicy, but most dishes aim for balanced flavors. However, if you’d prefer something with a kick, bun bo hue packs a punch. This noodle soup consists of lemongrass broth, chili oil, and vegetables, along with your choice of beef, pork, chicken, or tofu. Although hot, bun bo hue provides a delightful mix of spicy, savory, sour, and sweet.

5. Banh Mi

Alongside pho, banh mi is one of the most popular Vietnamese foods in the United States. Also referred to as a Vietnamese sandwich, the dish starts with a warm, toasted baguette. The bread is split and filled with various toppings, including pickled vegetables, pate, cilantro, fresh cucumber, and a meat of your choice. For a great combination of savory and nutty flavors, pair your sandwich with an order of fresh spring rolls.

If you love pho but want to try something new, order a delicious dish from Pho’ Vietnam. Located in Anchorage, AK, this restaurant serves authentic Vietnamese and Thai cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment. They offer a variety of dishes to suit your tastes, from pho bo vien and banh cuon to fried tilapia and rib-eye steak. Browse their menu online, and call (907) 929-9938 to make a reservation or place a carry-out order.