Best Places to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Foodie Paradise: Must-Try Eats in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a bustling metropolis teeming with culinary delights. From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble street stalls, there’s something for every palate and budget. Here are some top picks to tantalize your taste buds:

Street Food Extravaganza:

  • Bún Chả: This Hanoi specialty has found its home in Saigon! Grilled pork patties served with cold vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, dipping sauce, and often spring rolls.

    • Recommendation: Bún chả Hương Liên (multiple locations)

  • Phở: A national treasure, this fragrant beef noodle soup is a must-try.

    • Recommendation: Phở 2000 (13 branches) for the classic version or Pho Le (25/17 Nguyễn Thi Minh Khai) for a more unique twist.

  • Bánh Mì: Crispy baguette filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, cilantro, and often pate. A perfect on-the-go meal.

    • Recommendation: Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa (26 Lê Thị Riêng) for the legendary “special” bánh mì.

  • Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls): Delicate rice paper rolls filled with vermicelli noodles, fresh vegetables, herbs, and your choice of protein (shrimp, pork, tofu).

    • Recommendation: Gỏi cuốn Thanh Vân (127 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu) for delicious dipping sauces.

  • Cơm Tấm: Broken rice dish served with grilled pork chop, shredded pork skin, a fried egg, pickled vegetables, and nuoc cham sauce.

    • Recommendation: Cơm tấm Cali (multiple locations) or Cơm tấm Ba Ghiền (209 Nguyễn Tri Phương).

Beyond the Streets:

  • Secret Garden: A hidden gem with a lush courtyard, serving Vietnamese classics with modern twists.

  • The Workshop: Contemporary Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

  • Pizza 4P’s: Don’t miss their famous cheese-stuffed crust pizzas!

Sweet Treats:

  • Chè: A sweet dessert soup often made with beans, tapioca pearls, coconut milk, and various toppings like fruits or jellies.

    • Recommendation: Chè Chuối Ngon (188 Nguyễn Thái Bình) for banana chè.

  • Bánh Flan: Vietnamese custard pudding, creamy and smooth.

Tips for Street Food Adventures:

  • Look for busy stalls with lots of locals - a good sign of quality!
  • Be adventurous and try something new!
  • Carry cash as many street vendors don’t accept cards.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals.

Enjoy your culinary journey through Ho Chi Minh City!