Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City (part 1)
Vietnamese cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is renowned for its deliciousness and diversity, reflecting the vibrant mix of people who call this city home. The culinary scene in Ho Chi Minh City is akin to a grand buffet, offering a wide array of Vietnam’s finest dishes. To make your culinary adventure in Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh City, complete, here’s a compilation of 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City (part 1):
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Com tam
Who doesn’t love Com tam—Vietnamese broken rice with grilled pork chop, shredded pork skins, and steamed egg meatloaf? Ho Chi Minh City people eat Com tam ALL THE TIME, proudly.
Com tam, a quintessential Vietnamese dish, transcends the boundaries of time and dining settings in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether it’s a hurried breakfast or a leisurely dinner at a local Vietnamese eatery, Com tam is always a comforting choice.
While the allure of Com tam lies in its various components, some local connoisseurs insist that the true secret to a remarkable plate doesn’t solely rest on the succulent grilled pork cutlet or the savory “cha trung” (Vietnamese steamed egg meatloaf). Instead, it’s the piping hot, fragrant rice paired with the exquisite sweet fish sauce and generously garnished with scallion oil that elevates this dish to greatness. This perfect fusion of flavors and textures is what makes Com tam an enduring favorite among both locals and visitors in the vibrant culinary landscape of Ho Chi Minh City.
You can try this at:
- Com tam Nguyen Van Cu
Address: 74 Nguyen Van Cu Street, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
Open hours: 07:30–15:30
Price: ~110,000 VND ($4.8)
- Com tam Moc
Address: 85 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
Open hours: 06:00–21:30
Price: 78,100-101,200 VND ($3.45-4.47)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Banh mi
Banh mi, the beloved Vietnamese baguette sandwich, reigns as the undisputed champion of street food in Vietnam, and nowhere is it more ubiquitous than on the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City.
A traditional Banh mi is a tantalizing assembly of flavors, featuring mayo, pâté, Vietnamese ham, jambon, pickles, cucumber, spring onion, cilantro, chili, and soy sauce. Yet, the beauty of Banh mi in Ho Chi Minh City lies in its limitless creativity. Here, the Banh mi artisans craft a symphony of flavors that extends far beyond the basics. You can savor Banh mi with succulent grilled pork, savory fish cakes, sardines in tomato sauce, or the irresistible roasted pork.
Indeed, the Vietnamese imagination knows no bounds when it comes to Banh mi, making it a delightful adventure for your taste buds on every street corner of Ho Chi Minh City.
You can try this at:
- Banh mi Huynh Hoa
Address: 26 Le Thi Rieng, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
Open hours: 13:30–23:00
Price: 58,000 VND ($2.56)
- Banh mi Bay Ho
Address: 19 Huynh Khuong Ninh, Da Kao Ward, District 1
Open hours: 07:00-09:00 and 13:30–19:00
Price: 20,000 VND ($0.88)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Banh mi chao
Banh mi chao, a delightful twist on the classic Banh mi, adds a unique dimension to the world of Vietnamese sandwiches. Unlike its portable counterpart, Banh mi chao is a dish meant to be savored on the spot, offering a culinary experience that goes beyond convenience.
The genesis of this variation can be traced to the Vietnamese penchant for savoring Banh mi with hot, delectable accompaniments. At Banh mi chao stalls, you’ll find a sizzling pan brimming with an array of tantalizing toppings, including sunny-side eggs, Vietnamese ham, meatballs, pâté, mayo, and tomato sauce.
You can try this at:
- Chao Restaurant
Address: 31 Tran Quang Dieu, Ward 14, District 3
Open hours: 10:00–22:00
Price: 49,000-99,000 VND ($2.16-4.37)
- Banh mi chao Hoa Ma
Address: 53 Cao Thang, Ward 3, District 3
Open hours: 06:00–11:00
Price: 50,000-60,000 VND ($2.21-2.65)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Pho – Vietnamese rice noodle soup with beef broth
Pho, undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most renowned culinary exports, has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the globe. In Ho Chi Minh City, or HCMC, Pho takes on a unique character, blending tradition with modernity and uniting the distinct flavors of Northern and Southern Vietnam.
While traditional Pho remains a culinary masterpiece in its own right, the Pho found in HCMC presents a captivating twist. It boasts a deeper and more robust flavor profile, often accompanied by an abundant selection of fresh herbs that infuse each spoonful with fragrant goodness.
For a truly memorable Pho experience in HCMC, don’t miss the chance to add a poached egg to your steaming bowl of noodle soup. This delightful addition brings an extra layer of richness and texture to an already extraordinary dish. So, when you find yourself in Ho Chi Minh City, embrace the Pho culture and embark on a culinary journey that fuses tradition, innovation, and a dash of Southern Vietnamese charm.
You can try this at:
- Pho Hoa Pasteur
Address: 260C Pasteur, Ward 8, District 3
Open hours: 05:00 – 23:30
Price: 55,000-95,000 VND ($2.43-4.20)
- Anan Saigon
Address: 89 Ton That Dam, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Open hours: 17:00 – 00:00
Price: 50,000-250,000 VND ($2.21-11.00)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Hu Tieu – Southern rice noodle soup
Hu Tieu, a delightful Vietnamese dish, bears testament to the country’s culinary diversity and its ability to adapt and infuse flavors from various cultures. Originating from Chinese and Cambodian cuisines, Hu Tieu has undergone a transformation to cater to the distinct palate of the Vietnamese people.
A steaming bowl of Hu Tieu typically features rice noodles bathed in a flavorful broth crafted from simmering pork bones and radish. The ensemble of ingredients in this soup is a sensory delight, including sliced pork, succulent shrimp, tender pork ribs, savory minced pork, quail eggs, and crisp bean sprouts.
Yet, the gastronomic adventure doesn’t stop there. Another beloved rendition is “Hu tieu kho,” often referred to as “dry” Hu Tieu. In this version, the rice noodles and soup are served separately. The noodles are tossed with the chef’s secret sauce, creating an enticing medley of flavors. It’s a must-try variation of Hu Tieu, showcasing the ingenuity and versatility of Vietnamese cuisine. So, whether you prefer the classic version or the dry twist, Hu Tieu promises a gratifying culinary experience you won’t soon forget.
You can try this at:
- Hu tieu Ca Can
Address: 110 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 9, District 5
Open hours: 06:00 – 23:55
Price: 37,000-75,000 VND ($1.63-3.31)
- Hu tieu Thanh Dat
Address: 34 Co Bac, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1
Open hours: 00:00 – 04:30 and 05:30 – 23:59
Price: 54,000-80,000 VND ($2.39-3.53)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Banh xeo – Vietnamese pancake stuffed with meat
Banh xeo, also known as Vietnamese pancake, is a beloved culinary gem hailing from the picturesque Mekong Delta region. Its unique name, “Banh xeo,” is derived from the delightful sizzling sound that emanates when the batter is poured into the hot pan during cooking.
The heart of Banh xeo lies in its batter, a harmonious blend of rice flour, creamy coconut milk, and a hint of turmeric powder. Within the delicate and golden-hued crepe, you’ll discover a flavorful medley of ingredients, typically featuring sliced pork belly, succulent shrimp, crisp bean sprouts, and the subtle sweetness of jicama.
Despite its deep-frying preparation, Banh xeo manages to maintain a delicate balance, steering clear of excessive greasiness. Its paper-thin, crispy exterior serves as the perfect canvas for a vibrant bouquet of fresh herbs, making each bite a symphony of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a meal, Banh xeo is a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of Vietnamese cuisine and the rich culture of the Mekong Delta.
You can try this at:
- Banh xeo 46A
Address: 46 Dinh Cong Trang, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1
Open hours: 10:00 – 13:00 and 16:00 – 21:00
Price: 100,000-200,000 VND ($4.42-8.84)
- Banh xeo An La Ghien
Address: 11A Tu Xuong, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3
Open hours: 09:00 – 23:00
Price: 70,000-108,000 VND ($3.09-4.77)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Bun bo Hue – Hue style spicy beef noodle soup
“Bun,” the delicate rice vermicelli, is a cornerstone of Vietnamese cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and ability to harmonize with various broths and ingredients. Among the many tantalizing vermicelli dishes, “Bun bo Hue” stands as one of the most illustrious, hailing from the historic city of Hue.
Originating in the imperial city of Hue, Bun bo Hue soup encapsulates the essence of this regal region. Its broth is a symphony of flavors, boasting richness, spiciness, and an aromatic blend of lemongrass and chili. The savory depth of the broth is derived from a combination of shrimp paste and simmered beef bones. In this aromatic bath, you’ll find slices of tender beef brisket, succulent beef shank, and delectable pork leg, all adding their unique textures and tastes to the mix.
For those seeking an extra layer of culinary indulgence, ordering beef marrow is a hidden gem. Adding this marrow not only enhances the broth’s flavors but also introduces a luxurious creaminess that elevates the entire dish. So, when savoring a bowl of Bun bo Hue, don’t miss the opportunity to unlock its full potential with this secret ingredient, a tribute to the intricate artistry of Vietnamese cuisine.
You can try this at:
- Bun bo Ganh
Address: 110 Ly Chinh Thang, Ward 8, District 3
Open hours: 06:00 – 21:00
Price: 60,000-70,000 ($2.65-3.09)
- Bun bo Nam Giao
Address: 248 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
Open hours: 06:00 – 23:00
Price: 60,000-100,000 VND ($2.65-4.42)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Oc – Seafood dishes in general
In the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll often receive warm invitations from locals to “an oc,” which literally translates to “eat snails.” However, this charming phrase encompasses much more than just snails – it’s an invitation to indulge in a delightful array of edible mollusks and seafood.
At these “Oc” restaurants, the culinary possibilities are virtually endless. Seafood is prepared in a multitude of ways, from grilling and stir-frying to steaming and boiling, each method highlighting the natural flavors and textures of the ocean’s bounty. What makes dining on seafood in HCMC truly exceptional is its unparalleled freshness. Seafood arrives daily from the nearby seas, ensuring that every dish bursts with the vibrant taste of the ocean.
You can try this at:
- Ut Ca Mau Restaurant
Address: 215 Dien Bien Phu, Ward 6, District 3
Open hours: 10:00 – 23:00
Price: 90,000-200,000 VND ($3.98-8.84)
- Oc Dao
Address: C79 Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
Open hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Price: 60,000-110,000 VND ($2.65-4.86)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Banh uot, Banh cuon – Steamed rice pancake stuffed with minced pork
For a delectable Vietnamese breakfast experience, look no further than Banh cuon and Banh uot. These dishes, crafted from a blend of rice flour and tapioca flour, are cherished for their distinctive textures and flavors.
Banh uot resembles delicate, wet rice noodles, boasting a chewy and ultra-thin composition. On the other hand, Banh cuon shares similarities with Banh uot but takes it a step further. It features a delightful filling of minced pork and stir-fried wood ear mushrooms, providing a savory surprise within each delicate roll.
The magic of Banh cuon and Banh uot is further elevated when served with a side of sweet and sour fish sauce, crispy fried shallots, and slices of Vietnamese ham. What makes these dishes truly exceptional is that they are made fresh to order, ensuring that each bite is a warm and delightful experience.
Here’s a pro tip: Elevate your Banh cuon experience by ordering “banh cuon trung,” which includes an egg mixed into the batter. This addition introduces a luscious creaminess that takes the dish to a whole new level. So, when in Vietnam, don’t miss the opportunity to start your day with the comforting and flavorsome Banh cuon and Banh uot, a true breakfast delight.
You can try this at:
- Banh cuon Thien Huong
Address: 179A 3/2 Street, Ward 11, District 10
Open hours: 06:00-21:30
Price: 24,000-64,000 VND ($1.04-2.83)
- Banh cuon Hong Hanh
Address: 17A Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Open hours: 06:00 – 23:00
Price: 43,000-69,000 VND ($1.90-3.05)
Top 20 must-try dishes in Ho Chi Minh City: Banh trang tron – Mixed rice paper
Banh trang tron, also known as “Mixed rice paper,” is a beloved and easily accessible street food delight in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This delectable treat can be found virtually everywhere, from bustling street stalls and vibrant markets to supermarkets, cozy cafes, and even traditional restaurants.
The recipe for Banh trang tron is wonderfully straightforward, yet it results in a burst of flavors and textures. It begins with chopped rice paper, to which a medley of ingredients is added. These components include shrimp salt for a savory punch, chili oil for a hint of heat, green mango for a refreshing tang, Vietnamese coriander for aromatic freshness, quail eggs for richness, and a delightful mix of dried beef, chicken, and squid for an irresistible protein-packed crunch.
You can try this at:
- Banh trang tron Chu Vien
Address: 38 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Ward 5, District 3
Open hours: 11:30 – 19:00
Price: 25,000-40,000 VND ($1.10-1.77)
- Banh trang cuon tron Ba Bac
Address: 40 Street No. 11, Ward 4, District 4
Open hours: 10:00 – 22:00
Price: ~23,000 VND ($1.00)
