Best Fruits for Expats in Vietnam: Tasty Picks You’ll Love

Vietnam is a tropical haven for fresh produce, making it easy to enjoy the best fruits for expats in Vietnam. From juicy mangoes to unique durians, local fruits are picked ripe for full flavor and nutrition. At Les Fruit Mart, expats in Ho Chi Minh City can conveniently order fresh, high-quality fruits online with English support and fast delivery.

Top 10 Best Fruits for Expats Living in Vietnam

Living in Vietnam opens up a world of tropical fruits that many expats find both exciting and delicious. Whether you’re settling in Ho Chi Minh City or just visiting, exploring the best fruits for expats in Vietnam is a must-do experience. From seasonal specialties to year-round favorites, here’s a guide to the top 10 fruits that are popular, nutritious, and widely available.

Mango (Xoài) – A Juicy Favorite

When it comes to the best fruits for expats in Vietnam, mango is a clear favorite. Known locally as xoài, mangoes are not only delicious and aromatic but also incredibly versatile, enjoyed fresh, in smoothies, or with a sprinkle of chili salt. 

Vietnam is home to several beloved mango varieties, each with unique flavors and textures that suit different preferences:

• Xoài cát Hòa Lộc: Golden flesh, intense sweetness, smooth texture 
• Xoài keo: Slightly tart, firm, ideal for dipping in chili salt

Nutritional Benefits Of Mango

Mangoes aren’t just delicious—they’re also packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, they help boost the immune system, keeping your body strong and resilient. Mangoes also contain natural digestive enzymes like amylase, which aid in breaking down food and improving gut health. Additionally, their high content of beta-carotene supports eye health and contributes to a natural skin glow, making mangoes both a tasty and nourishing choice for daily consumption.

Seasonality

• Peak season: March to June 
• Availability: Year-round in Vietnam, especially in southern provinces and cities like Ho Chi Minh City

Tips for Expats on Choosing Mangoes

• Touch & Smell: Ripe mangoes will feel slightly soft to the touch and have a fruity aroma at the stem. 
• Color isn’t everything: Some mangoes stay green even when ripe, so rely more on smell and texture than just appearance.

Dragon Fruit (Thanh long) – Exotic and Refreshing

With its striking appearance and refreshing taste, dragon fruit (thanh long) is one of the most iconic tropical fruits in Vietnam. For expats, it’s a must-try not only for its vibrant look but also for its health benefits and hydrating qualities, especially in Vietnam’s warm climate.

Dragon fruit is a cactus fruit, with a thick, spiky skin and soft, speckled flesh that’s either white or red, depending on the variety. Its mildly sweet flavor and crunchy texture (similar to kiwi) make it perfect for eating fresh, adding to smoothies, or even topping your morning yogurt.

• White-flesh: Milder taste, more common
• Red-flesh: Sweeter, rich in antioxidants

Nutritional Benefits Of Dragon Fruit

This exotic fruit is high in vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system, and a good source of fiber to aid digestion. It also contains magnesium, essential for supporting muscle and nerve function. In particular, the red-fleshed variety is rich in antioxidants, offering additional protection against oxidative stress.

Seasonality

• Best time to enjoy: May to October 
• Availability: Almost year-round in Vietnam due to multiple harvests 
• Grown mainly in Bình Thuận, Vietnam’s top dragon fruit-producing province

Tips for Expats on Choosing Dragon Fruit

• Look for evenly colored skin with no dark spots or bruises. 
• Slight softness indicates ripeness, but avoid overly mushy ones. 
• Chill before serving for extra refreshment on hot days.

Rambutan (Chôm chôm) – A Hairy Delight

Rambutan, known in Vietnamese as chôm chôm, is one of the most visually unique tropical fruits in Vietnam. With its soft, spiky red skin, it may seem unusual at first glance, but inside lies a sweet, juicy flesh that closely resembles lychee—making it a delightful surprise for many expats discovering local fruits.

Despite its exotic look, rambutan is incredibly easy to enjoy:

How to Eat Rambutan

• Gently press or slice open the hairy skin to reveal the white, translucent flesh inside. 
• Avoid the seed in the center and enjoy the sweet, mildly floral flavor.

Health Benefits Of Rambutan

Rambutan is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It’s high in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, and contains iron to support energy levels and reduce fatigue. Additionally, it’s rich in antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory benefits and support overall wellness.

Tips for Expats on Choosing Rambutan

• Look for bright red or red-yellow skin with flexible “hairs”, a sign of freshness. 
• Avoid dark or overly dry skins, which indicate overripe or old fruit. 
• Gently squeeze the fruit, it should feel firm but slightly springy.

Mangosteen (Măng cụt) – The Queen of Fruits

Often called the “queen of tropical fruits in Vietnam,” mangosteen is beloved for its soft white segments and perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavor. Its elegant purple rind and refreshing taste make it especially popular among expats seeking an exotic yet approachable fruit.

Health Benefits Of Mangosteen 

Mangosteen is rich in vitamin C, which supports immunity and skin health. It also contains xanthones, powerful antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. The fruit is low in calories, making it a guilt-free tropical indulgence.

Seasonality

• Best season: May to September 
• During peak season, the fruit is juicier, sweeter, and more fragrant, ideal for enjoying fresh.

Tips for Expats on Choosing Mangosteen

• Look for fruit with deep purple skin that yields slightly when pressed — a sign of ripeness. 
• Avoid fruits with cracked or hardened shells, which may be dried out inside. 
• A bright green stem usually indicates freshness.

Papaya (Đu đủ) – Tropical and Digestive

Papaya is a year-round tropical fruit in Vietnam and a go-to choice for health-conscious expats. Its mild sweetness, soft texture, and notable digestive benefits make it a versatile addition to both savory and sweet dishes.

• Green papaya is often shredded into fresh salads like gỏi đu đủ, a popular Vietnamese street food. 
• Ripe papaya is soft, naturally sweet, and commonly eaten as a refreshing breakfast or light dessert.

Health Benefits Of Papaya

Papaya contains papain, a natural enzyme that helps break down proteins and support healthy digestion. It’s also high in vitamin C, vitamin A, and folate, making it great for the immune system, skin health, and reducing inflammation. The fruit is low in calories but rich in antioxidants and fiber.

Seasonality

• Available all year round in Vietnam 
• However, peak flavor is often enjoyed in spring and early summer, when fruits are ripest and most fragrant

Tips for Expats on Choosing Papaya

• Choose papayas with golden-yellow skin and a slightly soft texture — this indicates ripeness. 
• If the skin is fully green and firm, it’s better suited for salads and cooking. 
• Avoid papayas with soft spots, cracks, or fermented odor.

Coconut (Dừa) – For Hydration and Versatility

Coconut is one of the most essential and versatile tropical fruits in Vietnam, beloved by locals and expats alike. Whether you’re sipping fresh coconut water or cooking with coconut milk, this fruit offers both hydration and nutrition in a naturally refreshing form.

• Fresh coconut (dừa tươi): Ideal for drinking chilled on hot days, often sold with a straw straight from the shell. 
• Dừa xiêm: A smaller, sweeter variety with tender meat, perfect for sipping or enjoying as a dessert. 
• Bottled coconut water & coconut milk: Convenient and widely used in cooking, smoothies, and wellness routines.

A go-to post-workout drink and tropical refreshment for Vietnam’s hot, humid climate.

Health Benefits Of Coconut

Coconut water is rich in electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, making it excellent for hydration, especially after workouts or in hot weather. The healthy fats (MCTs) found in coconut may support heart health and energy metabolism. Additionally, coconut meat is a good source of fiber, promoting digestion and gut health. Packed with antioxidants, coconut also helps reduce inflammation and supports overall well-being.

Seasonality

• Available year-round across Vietnam 
• Peak freshness is often during the dry season (December to April) when coconuts are harvested most consistently.

Tips for Expats on Choosing Coconut

• For drinking, choose coconuts that feel heavy for their size and still have a greenish or light brown husk,  a sign they’re full of water. 
• Dừa xiêm is preferred for sweetness; ask vendors specifically if that’s your taste preference. 
• Avoid coconuts with cracked shells or sour smell, which could indicate fermentation.

Longan (Nhãn) and Lychee (Vải) – Sweet Seasonal Picks

Among the most popular seasonal fruits in Vietnam, longan and lychee offer a juicy, fragrant treat that many expats look forward to each summer. Though similar in appearance, each fruit brings its own unique flavor and texture.

• Longan is small and sweet, with a slightly caramel-like taste and translucent flesh. 
• Lychee is juicier, with a bolder floral aroma and bright, refreshing sweetness that makes it perfect for hot days.

You can find both fruits fresh in local markets during the summer months, and they are also commonly available dried or canned year-round for convenience.

Health Benefits Of Longan and Lychee

Longan and lychee are both rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They also contain antioxidants like polyphenols that help protect against cell damage. Lychee is a good source of copper and potassium, while longan is known for its calming properties in traditional medicine.

Seasonality

• Peak season: June to August, especially in the north and central regions of Vietnam 
• Available in dried or preserved form outside of peak months

Tips for Expats on Choosing Longan and Lychee

• Choose fruits with firm, unbroken skins and a strong, natural fragrance. 
• Fresh longan should feel heavy for its size and not mushy. 
• Lychee skins should be pink to red and slightly bumpy—not brown or cracked.

Star Apple (Vú sữa) – Unique Vietnamese Taste

Star apple, known locally as vú sữa, is a uniquely Vietnamese tropical fruit that offers a creamy, sweet flavor and a jelly-like texture that often surprises first-time eaters. When cut crosswise, the fruit reveals a beautiful star-shaped pattern, hence the name.

Its soft, milky pulp and fragrant sweetness make it a delightful and fun addition to any fruit basket, especially for expats looking to explore local delicacies.

Health Benefits Of Star Apple

Vú sữa is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron, which support immunity, bone health, and energy levels. It also contains dietary fiber, aiding digestion and making it a gentle fruit for the gut. The natural sugars in star apple offer a quick energy boost without being overly heavy.

Seasonality

• Best season: November to April, especially in southern Vietnam 
• Most flavorful when consumed in the middle of the season (December–February)

How to Eat Star Apple

• Gently press the fruit until the skin softens slightly, which helps release the natural sweetness 
• Slice it in half and scoop out the soft, jelly-like flesh with a spoon 
• Avoid biting into the seeds, which are inedible

Tips for Expats on Choosing Star Apple

• Choose fruits with smooth, shiny, and slightly soft skin—avoid those with cracks or bruises 
• The fruit should feel heavy and dense in the hand, indicating ripeness 
• Store at room temperature if not fully ripe; refrigerate for 1–2 days once ripe

Durian (Sầu riêng) – Love it or Hate it

Durian is undoubtedly one of the most polarizing tropical fruits in Vietnam, earning a reputation as the “King of Fruits” across Southeast Asia. Its bold aroma, buttery texture, and rich, custard-like taste either captivate or repel first-time eaters there’s rarely a middle ground.

For adventurous expats, durian is a must-try experience and a unique cultural food moment not to be missed.

Health Benefits Of Durian

Despite its controversial scent, durian is packed with nutrients. It’s rich in potassium, vitamin C, healthy fats, and B vitamins, which support energy metabolism and heart health. The fruit also provides fiber, aiding digestion, and contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.

Seasonality

• Peak season: May to September, especially in the Mekong Delta 
• Some regions may offer frozen or vacuum-packed durian off-season

Tips for Expats Trying Durian

• Start small: Try a durian-flavored dessert or ice cream before going for the real fruit 
• Look for ripe, cracked husks with a strong but not fermented smell 
• For convenience, buy pre-packed pods to avoid handling the thorny shell 
• Store in a sealed container to prevent lingering odor in your fridge

Imported Fruits Also Popular with Expats

While Vietnam offers a wide variety of tropical fruits, many expats still enjoy having access to familiar international favorites. These imported fruits provide a comforting taste of home and are perfect for mixing with local produce in smoothies, salads, or snacks.

Popular Imported Fruits Among Expats:

• Apples: Crisp and sweet, great for snacking or juicing 
• Grapes: Seedless varieties are especially popular for convenience 
• Kiwi: Tart yet refreshing, rich in vitamin C 
• Cherries: A seasonal luxury, often enjoyed fresh or frozen

Where to Buy in Vietnam

Imported fruits are widely available in big cities like Ho Chi Minh City, but not all sources guarantee quality and freshness. At Les Fruit Mart, expats can easily shop for both premium local and imported fruits that meet international standards. All products are carefully selected, stored under proper conditions, and delivered fresh to your doorstep.

Pro Tip for Expats

Create a fruit mix platter by combining tropical fruits like mango and dragon fruit with imported ones such as grapes and kiwi. It’s not only colorful and delicious but also a fun way to balance local discovery with familiar favorites.

Where Can Expats Buy Fresh Fruits in Vietnam?

Finding fresh, safe, and delicious fruits in Vietnam can be both exciting and overwhelming for expats. Whether you’re living in Ho Chi Minh City or elsewhere, knowing where to shop makes all the difference. Each option has its own pros and cons:

If you’re new to Vietnam, specialty shops are a great start, especially those offering English support.

Why Les Fruit Mart is Trusted by Expats in Ho Chi Minh City

When it comes to buying high-quality fruits in Vietnam, Les Fruit Mart has become a trusted name among expats living in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re missing the cleanliness of fruit shopping back home or simply want the best tropical produce without the hassle, Les Fruit Mart offers a premium, reliable experience that many expats rely on.

Here’s what sets Les Fruit Mart apart:

• Premium, hand-selected fruits: All products are carefully sourced from reputable farms in Vietnam and abroad. Whether it’s juicy mangoes or imported cherries, quality and freshness are top priorities.
• English-friendly online ordering: Their website and customer service are designed to make shopping easy for non-Vietnamese speakers. You can browse, order, and check out—all in English.
• Fast, same-day delivery: Orders are delivered swiftly across Ho Chi Minh City, often within hours. Your fruits arrive fresh and well-packed, ready to enjoy.
• Expat-friendly customer support: The staff understands the preferences and concerns of foreigners, making the shopping experience smoother and more personalized.

Savor the Best of Vietnamese Fruits with Ease

Vietnam’s fruit scene is a vibrant mix of taste, health, and cultural charm. From local staples like mangoes and papayas to exotic treats like star apple and durian, there’s something for every expat to love. Ready to explore Vietnam’s tropical fruits the easy way?
Order now at Les Fruit Mart and enjoy curated freshness delivered to your door!