Peta Mathias's quest for the perfect pho takes her on a culinary journey through Vietnam, from crowded Hanoi and exquisite Ha Long Bay in the north, through the ancient imperial city of HuE and romantic Hoi An in the centre, to the food capital Saigon and the country's bread basket, Can Tho, in the south. Everywhere she goes she walks the markets, meets the people and samples the local fare - in homes, on the street and in a variety of superb restaurants. She discovers a rich culture and an engaging people who, despite occupation by the Chinese and the French, have retained a unique cuisine that is fresh, healthy and always overwhelmingly tasty. Peta Mathias is the ideal companion on this gastronomic journey. Funny, informative and adventurous, she vividly brings to life the secret delights of one of the world's most fascinating and diverse cultures.