Restaurant Basics

There are a few general things to know about eating in Vietnam.  These are guidelines rather than firm rules, and the list will probably evolve over time.

• The busier a business is, the less likely you are to get food poisoning.  Food sells out before it has time to go bad.
• Don't be afraid of street food or cheap open storefronts.  My worst food experiences have been at "reputable" restaurants.  Bakeries in Vietnam are especially hazardous.
• Food poisoning is not the only food-related problem here.  Be aware, some things are just dirty.
• Some businesses have napkin dispensers, some do not.  Nearly all businesses will give you wrapped wet hand towels.  They are not free, even if they are on the table when you arrive.  They usually cost about 2,000 VND each.  I like to carry my own wet towels, the supermarkets sell them at about 9,000 VND for a pack of 20.
• Similarly, some businesses will place food items on your table without being asked.  You will most likely be charged for anything you take.  If in doubt, ask.  This is not dishonest in Vietnam, they are merely encouraging impulse buys.
• Most dishes come with a plate of vegetables.  Some have other sides, like crackers or a small bowl of soup.  If it comes with something you ordered, it should be included in the price.
• Iced tea -- trà đá (tra da) -- is usually free.  It is often quite good.  If in doubt, ask.  I would consider paying 2,000 VND for trà đá, but some places charge 10,000 VND, which is a bit insulting.
• A drink will often cost you more than a hot meal.  Snacks and desserts are even worse.
• I hear rumors that some businesses have higher prices on their English-language menu than they do on their Vietnamese-language menu.  I often check, and I have never seen it happen, but be aware it is possible.
• Eat with a spoon if the food is on a plate, eat with chopsticks if the food is in a bowl.  This is a loose rule--eating soup with a spoon or eating noodles (from a plate) with chopsticks is fine.
• Cover your mouth when you yawn or when you pick your teeth.
• Requests and substitutions, even when understood, are normally refused.  There are exceptions, and it doesn't hurt to ask.
• You usually need to ask for your bill because it is considered rude to bring someone their bill prematurely.
• There is a 10% sales tax called VAT on food.  Honest businesses include it in the menu price, some businesses print a warning on the menu, and less honest businesses leave it as a surprise for your final bill.  The really dishonest restaurants put an extra "tip" or "service charge" on your bill, even though one does not tip at Vietnamese restaurants.
• One does not tip at Vietnamese restaurants.

These are not free.

Rice on a plate: Use a spoon, not chopsticks.