Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as locals still affectionately call it, welcomes food lovers with a paradise of flavors. Full of color and culture, Saigon food tells the city’s story in every bite. Whether you stroll through street markets or sit down at a family-run restaurant, these dishes should be on your must-eat list.
Top Dishes You Must Try in Saigon
1. Pho – The Iconic Vietnamese Noodle Soup
Pho represents Vietnam’s national pride, and Saigon offers its own sweet and aromatic version. In the south, vendors often serve pho with plenty of fresh herbs, lime, and bean sprouts to enhance the flavor.
👉 Tip: Try Pho Le or Pho Hoa – legendary spots for authentic pho in Saigon.
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2. Com Tam – Broken Rice Delight
People in Saigon love Com Tam, a traditional dish that transforms simple broken rice into something memorable. You’ll usually get grilled pork, a steamed egg, pickled vegetables, and a savory fish sauce dip.
🍽️ Popular place: Com Tam Ba Ghien
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3. Banh Mi – Vietnam’s Famous Sandwich
Locals and tourists alike enjoy banh mi, a crispy baguette filled with pork, pate, pickled carrots, cucumber, and herbs. Each vendor adds their own twist, creating endless variations across the city.
🥖 Don’t miss Banh Mi Huynh Hoa – considered the best in town.
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4. Banh Xeo – Crispy Vietnamese Pancake
When the pancake batter hits the hot pan, it sizzles—just like the name suggests. Cooks fill it with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, then serve it with lettuce and herbs to wrap, and a bowl of nuoc cham sauce to dip.
5. Hu Tieu – Southern-style Noodle Soup
Unlike pho, hu tieu features a clear pork-based broth, and can be served wet or dry. It’s commonly topped with minced pork, shrimp, quail eggs, and chives.
Recommended: Hu Tieu Thanh Xuan, one of the city’s oldest noodle shops.
Where to Try These Dishes
Saigon’s food culture thrives in street corners, traditional markets, and local restaurants. For a true taste of the city:
Visit Ben Thanh Market for a variety of food stalls
Try local eateries in District 1 and District 5
Join a Saigon food tour on Almondtravel for guided tastings
Final Thoughts
If you want to experience the soul of Saigon, start with its food. Each dish reflects the region’s history, flavor, and local life. Whether you’re tasting banh xeo at a street stall or savoring pho in a cozy shop, Saigon food will leave a lasting impression.
Ready to eat your way through Vietnam?