Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s bustling cultural and culinary capital. As the heartbeat of southern Vietnam, this dynamic metropolis offers a delightful food scene that blends French, Chinese, and indigenous Vietnamese flavors. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, no trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without savoring its unique street food. In this guide, we explore top 10 exciting dishes in Ho Chi Minh City you absolutely must try—perfect for culinary enthusiasts looking to enjoy an authentic taste of Vietnam.
Savor Saigon with Top 10 Exciting Dishes in Ho Chi Minh City
1. Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
Arguably the most famous Vietnamese street food, Bánh mì is a delicious reflection of Vietnam’s colonial past and vibrant present. This crunchy French baguette is stuffed with a fusion of meats, pickled vegetables, pate, and fresh herbs. Popular fillings include grilled pork (thịt nướng), chicken, or even sardines. Bánh mì vendors are found on nearly every street corner, offering an affordable, tasty meal for travelers on the go.
2. Bánh Tráng Trộn (Mixed Rice Paper Salad)
This zesty street snack is a hit among Vietnamese youth. Bánh tráng trộn is a mixture of shredded rice paper, dried shrimp, beef jerky, quail eggs, mango slivers, herbs, and a tangy chili dressing. It’s a snack that perfectly balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.
3. Bánh Xèo (Crispy Vietnamese Pancake)
Bánh xèo, which translates to “sizzling cake,” is a savory pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It is folded like an omelet and served with fresh herbs and fish sauce for dipping. The outer crust is made from rice flour and turmeric, giving it a crispy, golden texture.
4. Bún Bò (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup)
Often overshadowed by its cousin phở, Bún bò (or Bún bò Huế) is a bold, spicy beef noodle soup that originates from Central Vietnam but is widely enjoyed in Saigon. The broth is rich and aromatic, thanks to lemongrass, fermented shrimp paste, and slow-cooked beef shanks.
5. Xôi (Sticky Rice)
Xôi is a versatile dish made with glutinous rice, often topped with mung beans, fried shallots, shredded chicken, or Chinese sausage. There are sweet and savory versions, making it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Vendors usually wrap it in banana leaves, adding a lovely fragrance.
6. Chè (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)
Chè is a family of traditional Vietnamese desserts served in a glass or bowl. These sweet soups or puddings are made from a combination of beans, jellies, tapioca pearls, and coconut milk. Some popular types include chè ba màu (three-color dessert) and chè báp (corn sweet soup).
7. Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice)
Cơm tấm, or broken rice, is a local favorite typically served with grilled pork chop (sườn nướng), fried egg, pickled vegetables, and scallion oil. Originally made from fractured rice grains, this dish is now a staple breakfast or lunch meal across southern Vietnam.
8. Hủ Tiếu (Glass Noodle Soup)
Hủ tiếu is a delicious noodle soup that comes in both dry and soup versions. The broth is typically sweeter and lighter than phở, and the noodles are chewy and springy. It often includes pork, shrimp, and quail eggs.
9. Ốc (Vietnamese Snails and Shellfish)
If you’re adventurous, a visit to one of Saigon’s many snail eateries is a must. Ốc dishes vary from grilled scallops to stir-fried clams in tamarind sauce. Usually paired with cold beer and enjoyed with friends, this is more of a social and cultural experience than just a meal.
10. Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
No Vietnamese food list is complete without Phở. This iconic noodle soup made with aromatic broth, rice noodles, herbs, and beef or chicken is a national dish. In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find countless versions—some southern-style with sweet broth and lots of herbs.
Conclusion: Savoring Saigon’s Street Food Scene
From sweet treats like Chè to savory staples like Phở and Cơm tấm, the top 10 exciting dishes in Ho Chi Minh City tells the story of its diverse history and vibrant daily life. Each dish is more than a meal—it’s an experience that captures the heart of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re exploring bustling Ben Thanh Market or strolling through District 1’s hidden alleys, you’re bound to stumble upon a new favorite.
If you want to maximize your time and culinary adventures in Ho Chi Minh City, consider using Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City Fast Track Service. Their airport assistance can help you breeze through immigration and visa-on-arrival procedures, giving you more time to enjoy the food, culture, and charm of this vibrant city.
Top 10 Exciting Dishes in Ho Chi Minh City – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What food is Ho Chi Minh City famous for?
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for street food like Bánh mì, Phở, Cơm tấm, and Bánh xèo. These top 10 exciting dishes in Ho Chi Minh City reflect the diverse culinary culture of southern Vietnam.
Where can I find the best Bánh mì in Ho Chi Minh City?
Some of the top-rated Bánh mì stalls include Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa, Bánh Mì 37 Nguyen Trai, and Bánh Mì Hong Hoa.
Is street food in Saigon safe to eat?
Yes, street food in Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe, especially when cooked fresh. Stick to busy vendors with high turnover for the best experience.
What is the difference between Phở and Bún Bò?
Phở has a clear, mildly sweet broth made from beef bones, while Bún bò has a richer, spicier broth with lemongrass and shrimp paste.
How much does street food cost in Ho Chi Minh City?
Most street food items cost between 20,000 to 50,000 VND ($1–2 USD), making it an affordable culinary destination.
When is the best time to eat street food in Ho Chi Minh City?
Morning and evening are peak times for street food. Breakfast dishes like Phở and Xôi are best in the early hours, while items like Bánh tráng trộn and Ốc are great for evening snacking.
Can I take a food tour in Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, there are many excellent food tours that guide you through the best local eats. They are a great way to sample a variety of dishes safely and enjoyably.
Do I need to speak Vietnamese to order street food?
Not necessarily. Many vendors understand basic English, and pointing to the item or showing pictures works well. Learning a few phrases in Vietnamese helps, too.
What should I try first in Ho Chi Minh City?
Start with Bánh mì or Phở for a safe and delicious introduction to the local cuisine.
Is airport fast track service available in Vietnam?
Yes. Services like Vietnam Airport Assistance Fast Track Service offer VIP airport assistance, helping you avoid long queues and streamline your arrival in Vietnam. The staffs may also guide you through places for the top 10 exciting dishes in Ho Chi Minh City
Explore the culinary treasures of Ho Chi Minh City today and let your taste buds lead the way with these top 10 exciting dishes in Ho Chi Minh City!
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