best-places-to-eat-in-Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City’s Street Food Heaven

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a culinary paradise for foodies. The city offers a diverse range of delicious and affordable street food options that will tantalize your taste buds. Here are some of the best places to eat in Ho Chi Minh City, with a focus on popular street food destinations:

1. Banh Mi 37 Nguyen Trai

  • Address: 37 Nguyen Trai, District 1
  • Must-try: Classic Vietnamese sandwich (banh mi) with various fillings like grilled pork, chicken, or tofu

This humble stall has been serving some of the city’s best banh mi since 1993. The crispy baguette, fresh herbs, and flavorful meats make for a perfect snack.

2. Pho 24

  • Address: 24 Le Thi Rieng, District 1
  • Must-try: Beef noodle soup (pho) with rare beef and brisket

This popular pho joint has been featured in various food guides and is a local favorite. Their rich broth and tender beef make for a satisfying meal.

3. Goi Cuon Nguyen Van Chieu

  • Address: 145 Nguyen Van Chieu, District 4
  • Must-try: Fresh spring rolls (goi cuon) with shrimp, pork, and vegetables

This street food stall has been around since 1995 and serves some of the city’s freshest and tastiest spring rolls. Be prepared for a flavorful and refreshing snack.

4. Banh Xeo Muoi Xiem

  • Address: 204 De Tham, District 1
  • Must-try: Crispy rice flour pancake (banh xeo) with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts

This small eatery specializes in banh xeo, a popular Vietnamese dish. Their crispy pancake is served with fresh herbs, sweet sauce, and a side of tangy pickles.

5. Com Tam Moc

  • Address: 339 Le Thanh Ton, District 1
  • Must-try: Broken rice (com tam) with grilled pork, egg, and spicy sauce

This casual eatery serves delicious broken rice dishes with various toppings like grilled pork, chicken, or seafood. Their flavorful sauce adds an extra layer of flavor.

6. Bun Cha Dac Kim

  • Address: 144 Pasteur, District 1
  • Must-try: Grilled pork and rice noodles (bun cha) with dipping sauce

This popular street food stall has been around since 1992 and serves some of the city’s best bun cha. Their grilled pork is tender, and their dipping sauce adds a sweet and sour flavor.

7. Bot Chien Goc Da

  • Address: 136 Nguyen Thai Binh, District 1
  • Must-try: Fried dough fritters (bot chien) with honey and sesame seeds

This street food stall serves crispy fried dough fritters drizzled with sweet honey and sprinkled with toasted sesame seeds. A perfect snack to accompany your coffee or tea.

Tips and Essentials

  • Always eat at stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness and food safety.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines, especially during peak hours.
  • Bring cash, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
  • Don’t be afraid to try new things and ask locals for recommendations!
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

With these recommendations, you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Ho Chi Minh City. Enjoy exploring the city’s vibrant street food scene!