In the past, people from Vietnam’s Central region living far from home would consider tender, flavorful, and aromatic Tra Que herbs from Hoi An, Quang Nam to be a luxury in a bowl of ‘mì Quảng’. Now, fresh fish bought at a Japanese wholesale market at 6:00 AM may find their way to Japanese restaurants in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City by 4:00 PM on the same day.  Throughout the ages, whether the ingredients were scarce or abundant, in the hands of skilled chefs, delicious dishes were bound to emerge. A journey that fills the stomach is one that warms diners’ hearts and awakens their senses.

People from all corners of the country flock to Ho Chi Minh City to build their careers. They often regard this metropolis as their second home. Their stories full of nostalgia and longing are reflected through their favorite dishes, which are specific to each region. The simplest of gifts come in the form of regional delicacies sent via intercity buses, overnight trains, or weekly flights. Somewhere along the way, a Vietnamese person unconsciously slows down, takes a deep breath of a familiar scent, and tilts their head as if listening intently. Is that the cracking sound of Binh Dinh rice paper, which is three times thicker than the delicate and crispy version from the Mekong Delta region? Is it the subtle crackling of sugar on a sweet potato crust from the Central Highlands, amidst the bustling urban noise? Indeed, it’s incredible how those subtle nuances are still audible, and yet, the habit persists, making them tilting their head intently, seemingly to touch their memories.