Western Tourists Express Profound Gratitude for Vietnamese Cuisine, Return for More

Vietnam's vibrant culinary scene is leaving a lasting impression on international tourists, with a recent viral video showcasing a group of Western visitors expressing profound gratitude for their dining experience. The heartwarming interaction highlights the appeal of authentic Vietnamese flavors and warm hospitality. The clip captures the group beaming and nodding in delight throughout their meal, clearly captivated by the authentic flavors. As they finished, they bowed to show their appreciation to the owner. The owner responded with a radiant smile, visibly moved by their warmth. Since its release, the video has garnered hundreds of thousands of views and a flood of positive comments, with many viewers agreeing that Vietnam’s culinary landscape is a primary reason for such fond impressions. Bui Duong Nam, 30, from Cat Hai Special Zone in Hai Phong, shared with Thanh Nien that the group visited his restaurant just a few days prior. Having read glowing online reviews, they ordered bun cha, beef pho, and stir-fried seafood glass noodles. “They kept raving about the food, constantly discussing the unique flavors of every dish,” Nam recalled. “Suddenly, they approached my mother, knelt down, and pressed their hands together to thank her. They were so satisfied that they wanted to show special appreciation to the head chef.” The group’s appreciation extended beyond the initial meal. The following day, they returned to purchase banh mi and brought nearly ten more people for dinner. They were visiting Cat Hai for a three-day trip before heading to their next destination. Nam’s family-run restaurant has operated for three years, with him and his mother, Vien Thi Tuong, 57, running the kitchen together. They began as a small sidewalk stall selling banh mi and fruit, eventually opening a well-equipped storefront thanks to customer support. From late October to March, the shop primarily caters to international travelers, with the family utilizing their English skills to welcome guests. Banh mi at the shop costs between 30,000 and 60,000 VND, while main dishes are priced around 90,000 VND. During peak season, the shop sells up to 250 loaves of banh mi daily. “Seeing customers return and introduce our food to their friends is our greatest joy,” Nam expressed. “I feel truly happy to share Vietnamese cuisine with travelers from around the world.” This heartwarming connection is becoming a trend. Recently, a Russian tourist at a restaurant in Da Nang rang a bell placed outside the door and bowed to thank the staff for a delicious meal, leaving a lasting impression on the owners. Nam’s restaurant has been open for about three years. (Photo: Provided by interviewee) Pham Thi Yen Nhi, manager of an Indian restaurant on Che Lan Vien Street in Da Nang, placed a bell outside their shop with a sign that reads: “Ring bell if you like food.” While many guests ring it, the Russian tourist’s gesture remains the most memorable moment for the staff to this day.