Best Vietnam Food In Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh is a food lover’s paradise. With a rich culinary heritage and diverse influences from China, France, and Southeast Asia, it is no wonder that the city has become a hub for food tourism. If you’re planning to visit Ho Chi Minh, here are the must-try foods that you shouldn’t miss:

Pho – The Iconic Vietnamese Dish 🍜

No trip to Vietnam is complete without trying pho, a popular noodle soup dish that has become an iconic part of Vietnamese cuisine. This dish is made with a savory broth, rice noodles, meat (usually beef or chicken), and various herbs and spices. It is typically served with a side of bean sprouts, lime wedges, and chili peppers, which you can add to your liking.

Banh Mi – The Perfect Sandwich 🥪

Banh mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that has gained worldwide popularity for its delicious and unique flavor. This sandwich is made with a crispy baguette, filled with various meats (such as pork, chicken, or beef), pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili peppers. It is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls 🌯

Goi cuon is a fresh spring roll that is a healthy and delicious snack or appetizer. It is made with rice paper, which is filled with vegetables, herbs, and either shrimp or pork. It is served with a peanut dipping sauce that complements the fresh and light flavors of the spring roll.

Bun Cha – Grilled Pork with Noodles 🍲

Bun cha is a popular street food in Vietnam that consists of grilled pork served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a dipping sauce. The pork is marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, which is then grilled to perfection. It is typically served with a side of pickled vegetables and Vietnamese herbs, making it a refreshing and flavorful meal.

Xoi – Sticky Rice 🍚

Xoi is a staple food in Vietnam that is made with sticky rice and various toppings. It is typically served as a breakfast food or snack and can be savory or sweet. Some popular toppings include fried shallots, shredded chicken, or pork floss. It is a filling and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick meal on the go.

Cha Ca – Turmeric Fish 🐟

Cha ca is a famous Vietnamese dish that originated in Hanoi but has become a popular meal in Ho Chi Minh. It is made with turmeric-marinated fish that is pan-fried and served with rice noodles, herbs, and peanuts. It is typically served family-style, with everyone sharing the same dish.

Com Tam – Broken Rice with Grilled Pork 🍛

Com tam is a dish that is unique to Ho Chi Minh and is made with broken rice that is served with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Pancake 🥞

Banh xeo is a crispy pancake that is made with rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric. It is typically filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and herbs, then folded in half and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. It is a popular street food that is perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Mi Quang – Turmeric Noodle Soup 🍲

Mi quang is a noodle soup that is made with turmeric-infused noodles, which are served with various meats (such as shrimp, pork, or chicken), herbs, and peanuts. It is a specialty dish of the Quang Nam province, but it has become popular throughout Vietnam, especially in Ho Chi Minh.

Banh Cuon – Steamed Rice Rolls 🍙

Banh cuon is a simple yet delicious dish that is made with steamed rice rolls, which are filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and onions. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made with fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chili peppers. It is a light and healthy meal that is perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Ca Phe Sua Da – Vietnamese Iced Coffee ☕

Ca phe sua da is a popular Vietnamese iced coffee that is made with strong coffee, condensed milk, and ice. It is a refreshing and sweet drink that is perfect for the hot and humid weather in Ho Chi Minh.

Chao – Rice Porridge 🍲

Chao is a comforting and hearty rice porridge that is a popular breakfast food in Vietnam. It is made with rice and various meats (such as chicken or pork), then cooked in a broth until it becomes soft and creamy. It is typically served with scallions, ginger, and fish sauce.

Banh Canh – Thick Noodle Soup 🍜

Banh canh is a thick and chewy noodle soup that is made with tapioca flour and wheat flour. It is typically served with a seafood or pork broth, along with various meats (such as shrimp or pork) and herbs. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a chilly day.

My Quang – Quang Noodles 🍜

My quang is a specialty noodle dish from the Quang Nam province, made with thick rice noodles, pork, shrimp, and various herbs. It is typically served in a shallow bowl with a small amount of broth, making it a unique and flavorful dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Where can I find the best pho in Ho Chi Minh?

A: Some of the best places to try pho in Ho Chi Minh include Pho Hoa Pasteur, Pho 2000, and Pho Le.

Q: What is the best time to try street food in Ho Chi Minh?

A: The best time to try street food in Ho Chi Minh is in the evening when the street food vendors come out.

Q: Are there any vegetarian options for Vietnamese food in Ho Chi Minh?

A: Yes, there are many vegetarian options for Vietnamese food in Ho Chi Minh, such as vegetarian pho, banh mi, and spring rolls.

Q: How much should I expect to pay for a meal in Ho Chi Minh?

A: The cost of a meal in Ho Chi Minh can vary depending on the type of food and the location, but you can expect to pay around 50,000 to 150,000 VND (2 to 6 USD) for a meal.

Q: What is the most popular drink in Ho Chi Minh?

A: The most popular drink in Ho Chi Minh is ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee).

Q: Are there any food tours available in Ho Chi Minh?

A: Yes, there are many food tours available in Ho Chi Minh that will take you to the best street food spots and local restaurants.

Q: What is the best area in Ho Chi Minh for food?

A: District 1 and District 3 are the best areas in Ho Chi Minh for food because they have a wide variety of street food vendors and local restaurants.

Q: What is the difference between pho and bun bo Hue?

A: Pho is made with rice noodles, while bun bo Hue is made with thicker noodles that are typically made with tapioca flour. Bun bo Hue also has a spicy and tangy broth, while pho has a milder and smoother broth.

Q: Is it safe to eat street food in Ho Chi Minh?

A: Yes, it is generally safe to eat street food in Ho Chi Minh as long as you choose vendors that are busy and popular.

Q: What is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh for food?

A: The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh for food is between December and April when the weather is cool and dry.

Q: What is the best way to get around Ho Chi Minh to try different foods?

A: The best way to get around Ho Chi Minh to try different foods is by motorbike taxi or taxi.

Q: What is the most unique food in Ho Chi Minh?

A: The most unique food in Ho Chi Minh is probably banh trang nuong (grilled rice paper), which is a popular street food that is crispy and savory.

Q: What is the best dessert in Ho Chi Minh?

A: Some of the best desserts in Ho Chi Minh include che (sweet soup), banh flan (creme caramel), and kem (ice cream).

Q: What is the best way to