Vú dê — goat dishes including dê nướng (grilled goat), cà ri dê (goat curry), and lẩu dê (goat hot pot) — is a Vietnamese specialty with a dedicated following in San Jose's Little Saigon. The best preparations feature goat marinated in lemongrass, chili, and five-spice, then grilled over charcoal or simmered in aromatic hot pot broth.
Quan De top-pick
Mon-Sun 11AM-10PM
San Jose's dedicated goat restaurant features grilled goat with lemongrass, goat curry, and goat hot pot. Goat marinated in traditional Vietnamese seasonings — lemongrass, chili, and five-spice — then grilled over charcoal. Also serves goat udder when available, prized for its unique tender-yet-chewy texture.
Nha Trang Restaurant best-value
Mon-Sun 10AM-10PM
Goat hot pot is the star here — a communal pot of goat meat, bones, and aromatics served with fresh herbs, rice vermicelli, and fermented tofu dip. Rich, complex broth with tender goat from long simmering. Perfect for groups of 4 or more alongside their grilled spring rolls specialties.
De Nuong Story Road hidden-gem
Mon-Sun 11AM-10PM
Specializes in grilled goat — goat grilled tableside on a charcoal brazier. The goat comes marinated in lemongrass, chili, and garlic, and diners grill it themselves, wrapping the meat in rice paper with fresh herbs and dipping in fermented tofu sauce. Interactive and fun for groups and celebrations.