What to eat in Saigon? 30+ MOST POPULAR dishes and discovery itinerary for visitors

Saigon’s culinary scene is highly regarded for its diversity and creativity, showcasing the harmonious blend of influences from Chinese, Cambodian, and even Western cultures. Whether you’re a fan of street food or traditional dishes, Saigon is sure to win over your heart with its countless delicious offerings. Let's explore 15+ famous Saigon dishes and detailed experience plans with Joytime below.

Overview of list of famous dishes in Saigon

1. Broken Rice 

Broken rice is a popular street food that can be found on every corner and alley of Saigon. As one of the most well-loved dishes, it proudly represents the culinary scene and stands out as a famous food in Ho Chi Minh. Today, this dish has been creatively adapted with diverse ingredients and flavors compared to the traditional version.

• Ingredients: A typical plate of broken rice includes rice made from fractured grains, aromatic grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin, steamed egg cake, cucumber, tomatoes, and fresh greens. The dish cannot be perfect without sweet and tangy fish sauce and savory scallion oil.

• Flavor: The dish combines the smoky aroma of grilled pork, the nuttiness of broken rice, and the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables. The fish sauce and scallion oil enhance the overall richness and appeal of the dish.

• What Makes This Dish Special? Broken rice is actually the fragmented top part of the grain, created during the milling process. Traditionally, the dish was served in bowls with chopsticks, resembling a typical Vietnamese family meal. However, over time, as it gained popularity among international diners, the presentation evolved to feature larger plates and utensils like spoons and forks, resembling Western-style dining.

Large plate of broken rice, full of nutrition for the whole day - Photo source Facebook Com Tam Saigon

3 places to enjoy broken rice

2. Nam Vang Noodle Soup

Nam Vang noodle soup originated from Cambodia and was brought to Saigon by the Chinese community, blending flavors from three different cultures for a unique and delightful dish.

• Ingredients: A standard bowl includes chewy noodles, flavorful broth, pork liver, minced pork, boiled shrimp, and fresh greens. The broth is delicately sweet, made from simmered bones and vegetables.

• Flavor: Guests can enjoy this dish either dry or with broth. The noodles are perfectly chewy, paired with savory, rich toppings and a hearty, flavorful soup.

• What Makes This Dish Special? When enjoying the dry version of this dish, you simply need to mix the noodles with a flavorful sauce made from sugar, soy sauce, and a touch of aromatic fried garlic oil.

Nam Vang Noodle Soup is the quintessence of Saigon cuisine - Photo source: Facebook A Dai - Nam Vang Noodle Soup

3 places to enjoy Nam Vang noodle soup

3. Pha Lau

This street snack is beloved by Saigon’s youth, especially students. With its rich and creamy flavor, Pha Lau has captivated countless diners.

• Ingredients: Made from pork offal that is thoroughly cleaned and marinated with bold spices like five-spice powder, garlic, sugar, and fish sauce. The broth is made with coconut milk and curry powder.

• Flavor: The dish stands out with its creamy coconut milk, balanced sweetness and saltiness, and tender offal soaked in flavorful sauce. It pairs well with crusty bread or instant noodles.

• What Makes This Dish Special? This dish carries the childhood memories of most Saigon residents, reminiscent of after-school gatherings and moments spent with friends. Its flavor bears a subtle resemblance to Indian curry, adding a unique twist to its appeal.

Unique and attractive street food - Photo source: Facebook Pha lau bo district 4 

3 places to enjoy Pha Lau dish

4. Pan bread

Instead of the traditional stuffed baguette style, Pan Bread reminds many visitors of European steak sandwiches. The ingredients are presented in a small pan, creating a vibrant and visually appealing dish.

• Ingredient: A serving typically includes a crispy baguette paired with a small pan containing sunny-side-up eggs, pâté, beef, sausages, and rich tomato sauce. Some restaurants may add cheese, fish cakes, or onions for extra flavor.

• Flavor: The dish offers a mix of flavors, from the creaminess of eggs and pâté to the tangy sweetness of the sauce and the savory tenderness of beef and sausages. The crispy, warm bread dipped in the sauce provides a rustic yet unique culinary experience.

• What Makes This Dish Special? This dish isn’t bound by strict rules, allowing diners to freely customize and adjust the fillings to suit their taste. It’s perfect for enjoying during the late afternoon at small roadside eateries.

 

The late-night snack is both delicious and convenient for tourists - Photo source: Facebook Wok Bread - Thanh Hoa Electric Pole  

3 places to enjoy pan bread

5. Vermicelli fish sauce

This dish embraces the authentic flavors of riverine regions. Its distinct taste comes from fermented fish sauce made from locally caught and processed fish.

• Ingredients: The broth is made from fermented fish like snakehead or Siamese gourami. A hearty bowl includes noodles topped with shrimp, squid, fish cakes, and roasted pork. You can eat with fresh and unique vegetables such as sesbania flowers, water lily stems, morning glory, bean sprouts, chives, and banana blossoms.

• Flavor: The fermented fish sauce has a naturally sweet and rich flavor without being overly fishy. The broth’s robust taste harmonizes perfectly with the fresh seafood and crunchy vegetables, creating a balanced blend of bold and refreshing flavors.

• What Makes This Dish Special? The fish sauce component is meticulously prepared through a complex process. Small fish are carefully cleaned, deboned, tightly pressed, and seasoned with salt. The pure fish sauce is then cooked with coconut water and aromatic spices before being aged for at least three weeks to develop its rich flavor.

 Fragrant dish with typical fish sauce flavor - Photo source: Facebook Bun Mam Ne Ba Tam

3 places to enjoy vermicelli fish sauce

6. Crab soup

This nutritious and convenient dish is a must-try for visitors in Ho Chi Minh City. Typically enjoyed in the morning, as an afternoon snack, or as a starter in upscale restaurants, it’s both versatile and satisfying.

• Ingredients: The soup includes fresh crab meat, abalone, mushrooms, and quail eggs. Its naturally sweet, slightly thick broth is made by simmering pork bones and seafood.

• Flavors: Crab soup is moderately thick with a subtle and visually appealing color. The harmonious blend of crab meat, eggs, and vegetables creates a light yet flavorful dish that is easy to enjoy without feeling too much.

• What Makes This Dish Special? This dish is highly nutritious, providing a rich source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Warm, nutritious dish - Photo source: Facebook SAIGON CRAB SOUP 

3 places to enjoy crab soup

7. Banh xeo

Banh Xeo is a quintessential traditional Vietnamese dish. The preparation of this dish is relatively simple, offering a sense of rustic charm and familiarity. 

• Ingredients: The pancake is made from rice flour mixed with coconut milk, while the filling typically includes shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and green onions. It is served with fresh herbs (lettuce, mustard greens, and basil) and a signature sweet-and-sour fish sauce.

• Taste: The dish boasts an irresistible flavor. Its crispy, golden exterior pairs perfectly with the rich, savory filling inside. When wrapped with fresh herbs and dipped into the sauce, it delivers a harmonious and vibrant taste.

• What Makes This Dish Special? The name of this dish originates from the sizzling sound it makes while frying in the pan. The crust is large, delightfully crispy, yet not hard, adding to its unique appeal.

Rustic pancakes have a crispy crust - Photo source: Facebook Nguyen Thi Thu Huong  

3 places to enjoy banh xeo

8. Banh Khot

Banh Khot, with its petite size, often reminds diners of a mini version of Banh Xeo. While similar in preparation, Banh Khot’s unique ingredients and flavors make it distinct.

• Ingredients: Made from pure rice flour with a hint of turmeric for a golden hue. The filling ranges from scallops and fresh shrimp to minced pork. Cooked in round molds, the dish is topped with dried shrimp and scallion oil upon serving.

• Taste: With its crisp texture and creamy filling, Banh Khot offers a unique, sweet-savory flavor profile. Served with fresh herbs, it maintains a light and refreshing balance.

• What Makes This Dish Special? These charming, visually appealing little cakes can bring a sense of relaxation to diners, even as they watch the chef skillfully prepare them. The origins of the dish remain unclear, but some suggest that it was inspired by South Indian cuisine.

The beautiful little banh khot will conquer the hearts of visitors right from the first try - Photo source: Facebook Banh Khot PT 

3 places to enjoy banh khot

9. Bo Ne

A Vietnamese twist on steak, Bo Ne offers a hearty and comforting dining experience without the fuss of fine dining.

• Ingredients: The dish features thinly-sliced beef alongside fried eggs, pâté, sausage, baguette, or fries. It is served sizzling on a cast-iron pan, ensuring the dish remains hot and aromatic.

• Taste: The beef is tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by creamy eggs and rich pâté. The aroma from the sizzling pan enhances the overall dining experience.

• What Makes This Dish Special? This dish is uniquely served on a sizzling cast-iron pan, keeping it warm and releasing an irresistible aroma. Its name, "Bo Ne," is quite interesting, stemming from the experience of diners dodging splattering oil from the hot pan.

Special dishes will bring unique culinary experiences to visitors - Photo source: Facebook Bo Ne 3 Brothers   

3 places to enjoy bo ne

10. Braised beef noodle soup

Braised beef noodle soup is a unique combination of traditional and modern cooking styles. Its distinctive flavors and innovative presentation have made it a famous food in Ho Chi Minh, solidifying its status as a beloved culinary symbol of Saigon.

• Ingredients: Made with tender beef, lemongrass, cinnamon, five-spice, tomatoes, carrots, and chewy rice noodles.

• Taste: The broth is rich, slightly thick, with a mild spiciness from chili and black pepper. The beef is soft and juicy, pairing well with fresh herbs for added freshness.

• What Makes This Dish Special? The broth is thick and richly colored, served only halfway up the bowl. The beef is carefully selected, featuring a balance of lean meat, tendon, and fat, cut into bite-sized chunks rather than thin slices like in Bo Ne.

Strange dish, fragrant - Photo source: Sam Thai Facebook 

3 places to enjoy braised beef noodle soup

11. Goat hot pot

Goat hotpot is the perfect choice for family gatherings or meeting with friends. This dish brings a cozy, warm atmosphere where guests can enjoy the meal while chatting with loved ones.

• Ingredients: Goat bones are simmered to create a sweet broth, while fresh goat meat serves as the main hotpot dipping ingredient. Spices such as cinnamon, star anise, ginger, and lemongrass help eliminate the strong odor and enhance the unique flavors. A variety of vegetables are served with the hotpot, from mustard greens and water spinach to fresh mushrooms. 

• Flavor: The mild sweetness of the broth, the distinctive aroma, and the tempting fragrance of the goat meat. Dipping a piece of tender goat meat into the rich fermented tofu sauce, diners will be immersed in a unique, creamy flavor. 

• What Makes This Dish Special? Experienced chefs ensure that the goat meat is prepared without any unpleasant odor. Beyond its flavor, the uniqueness of this dish also lies in the lively and friendly dining atmosphere, filled with bustling and cheerful energy.

 

Tourists cannot miss goat hot pot when visiting Saigon - Photo source: Facebook Cay Dua Goat Hot Pot Restaurant  

3 places to enjoy goat hot pot

12. Dumplings

Dumplings are considered a highlight of Chinese cuisine right in the heart of Saigon. This dish originates from China and has been modified to suit the tastes of the Vietnamese people.

• Ingredients: Dumplings are made from thin wheat dough wrapped around a filling of finely minced pork, whole fresh shrimp, and shiitake mushrooms. The dish is often served with a clear, sweet broth made from pork bones or fried until crispy.

• Flavor: The dumpling wrappers are soft and transparent, with a moderate length and thickness. The filling is evenly cooked and rich in flavor, with a subtle, pleasant aroma. The dumplings are usually the perfect size, not too heavy.

• What Makes This Dish Special? This dish embodies the unique cultural fusion between Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine. Besides dumplings, visitors can also try the local version of wontons. The dish shares many similarities with dumplings and is equally delicious and delightful to experience. 

The dumplings are plump and extremely soft - Photo source: Facebook Nguyễn Thị Tuyết Chinh 

 3 places to enjoy dumplings

13. Beef jerky salad

This traditional snack has been a favorite of Saigon locals for generations. Visitors can enjoy it while strolling the streets of Saigon or exploring local food markets.

• Ingredients: The salad includes shredded green papaya, spicy dried beef, flavorful fried liver, roasted peanuts, and fresh herbs. The highlight is the elaborate sweet and sour fish sauce, topped with crispy fried shallots.

• Flavor: The dish offers a perfect balance between the mild sweetness of the papaya, the salty spiciness of the dried beef, the rich flavor of the peanuts, and the sourness of the special fish sauce.

• What Makes This Dish Special? This dish is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, evoking memories of street vendors and bustling city streets. Its preparation is simple and handmade, making it an easy and convenient dish to enjoy anytime, anywhere.

The snack is light, attractive, and quite cheap - Photo source: Facebook Co Thanh Dried Beef Salad

3 places to enjoy dried beef salad

14. Bo Bia

Bo Bia is a beloved snack featuring round beef dumplings that are both affordable and delicious, typically priced between 4,000 - 7,000 VND. You can find these tasty rolls at popular eateries or street vendors.

• Ingredients: Bo Bia is made by wrapping thin rice paper around a variety of fillings, including sausage, sliced fried eggs, soft-boiled cassava, shredded carrots, fresh herbs, and sometimes a touch of dried shrimp to elevate the flavor. It is served with a cup of sweet and salty black sauce, topped with roasted peanuts and a sprinkle of ground chili.

• Flavor: The beef used in Saigon Bo Bia is salty, so the flavor is rich with the salty, fatty taste of sausage and eggs. When dipped in the savory soy sauce, the dish becomes even more flavorful and unforgettable.

• What Makes This Dish Special? Bo Bia stands out for its unique combination of humble ingredients and quick, simple preparation. It’s convenient for both takeaway and on-the-spot enjoyment. The soul of the dish lies in its flavorful black soy sauce dip, often meticulously prepared and sometimes a secret family recipe passed down by street vendors.

Snack dish with a thin layer of dried beef rolls - Photo source: Facebook Snacks with Beef Bia Two Thousand  

 3 places to try Bo Bia

15. Banh Canh

Start your day with a bowl of Banh Canh for a delightful culinary experience that captures the essence of Saigon's street food culture. This noodle soup stands out due to its diverse ingredients with a unique preparation method.

• Ingredients: Banh Canh consists of two main parts: the chewy rice noodles and the rich broth. The noodles are made from a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, or cassava flour, and cut into thick, soft strips. The broth is typically prepared with shrimp, fish, crab, and pork trotters.

• Flavor: The dish offers a rich variety of flavors, depending on the type of Banh Canh chosen by diners. Overall, the broth is light and naturally sweet, Banh Canh is soft with a slight chewiness, and the toppings are generously served, including shrimp, pork brain, and flavorful pork hock.

• What Makes This Dish Special? There is a wide variety of delicious Banh Canh options for diners to choose from. Some of the most popular versions include crab, mantis shrimp, pork hock, snakehead fish, and crispy-skinned chicken.

Traditional noodle soup contributes to the quintessence of Vietnamese cuisine - Photo source: Facebook Pi Official

3 places to enjoy Banh Canh

16. Quang-Style Noodles (Mi Quang) 

Mi Quang is a vibrant and flavorful noodle dish from Central Vietnam, famous for its rich turmeric-infused broth and diverse toppings. Unlike traditional Vietnamese soups, Mì Quảng has just enough broth to coat the thick, chewy rice noodles. It’s usually served with a combination of shrimp, pork and quail eggs, garnished with roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, crispy rice crackers, and a squeeze of lime. This dish is a must-try for those who love a perfect balance of texture and bold flavors.

17. Crab Noodle Soup (Bun Rieu)

Bun Rieu is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup known for its light yet tangy tomato-based broth and rich crab flavor. The dish is made with a delicate crab and egg mixture that floats in the broth, creating soft, fluffy clusters of crab meat. Other ingredients include tofu, blood pudding, and sometimes freshwater snails, served alongside vermicelli noodles. It’s traditionally enjoyed with a variety of fresh herbs, shredded banana blossoms and a side of shrimp paste for extra depth of flavor. 

18. Snakehead Fish Hot Pot (Lau Ca Keo)

Lẩu Cá Kèo is a Southern Vietnamese specialty that highlights the delicate and slightly sweet flavors of fresh snakehead fish. The fish is cooked whole in a steaming hot pot filled with a fragrant and slightly sour broth made from tamarind, fresh herbs, and local spices. This dish is often accompanied by a variety of fresh greens, such as water spinach and banana flowers, which are dipped into the flavorful broth. The hot pot experience is interactive, making it a fun and social dining option for groups of friends or families exploring Vietnamese cuisine.

19. Vietnamese Rice Paper Pizza (Banh Trang Nuong)

Often referred to as "Vietnamese pizza," Bánh Tráng Nướng is a popular street food snack that originated in Da Lat but has gained a massive following in Ho Chi Minh City. A thin sheet of rice paper is grilled over charcoal, topped with ingredients like quail eggs, dried shrimp, scallions, and chili sauce. Some variations also include cheese, beef jerky, or mayonnaise for an extra indulgent twist. The result is a crispy, smoky, and flavor-packed snack that’s perfect for a quick bite while exploring the bustling streets of Saigon.

20. Mixed Rice Paper Salad (Banh Trang Tron)

If you love bold and tangy flavors, Bánh Tráng Trộn is a must-try street food. This addictive salad is made by shredding rice paper into thin strips and mixing it with dried beef, shrimp salt, quail eggs, fresh herbs, peanuts, and a special tamarind-based dressing. The result is a chewy, spicy, and umami-packed dish that’s full of exciting textures and flavors. It’s commonly enjoyed as a snack by locals, especially students, and is best eaten fresh while sitting at a small plastic table on the sidewalk - just like the locals do!

21. Clay-Pot Roasted Chicken (Ga Nuong Lu)

Gà Nướng Lu is a delicious Vietnamese-style roasted chicken that is slow-cooked in a traditional clay pot, giving it an incredibly smoky and aromatic flavor. The chicken is marinated with lemongrass, garlic, honey, and local spices before being placed in the pot, where it develops crispy golden-brown skin while remaining juicy and tender inside. This dish is often served with a side of pickled vegetables and a dipping sauce made from salt, pepper and lime juice. The unique cooking method and flavorful marinade make this a must-try for meat lovers visiting Saigon.

22. Desserts & Drinks

If you have a sweet tooth or love refreshing drinks, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) has plenty of delicious treats to offer. Here are some must-try desserts and drinks:

Vietnamese Caramel Flan

Bánh Flan is a creamy caramel custard that has been embraced in Vietnamese cuisine thanks to French influence. Unlike its Western counterparts, Vietnamese flan is often served with crushed ice and a drizzle of strong black coffee, creating a unique contrast between its sweet, silky texture and the bitter depth of the coffee. It’s a perfect dessert to cool down after a flavorful Vietnamese meal.

Vietnamese Honeycomb Cake

This bright green pandan-flavored cake is famous for its airy, honeycomb-like texture. Made from tapioca flour, coconut milk, and pandan leaves, Bánh Bò Nướng has a slightly chewy bite with a hint of sweetness. It pairs beautifully with Vietnamese tea or coffee and is a fun dessert to try if you want something unique.

Kumquat Coconut Juice

Dừa Tắc is a refreshing tropical drink that combines the natural sweetness of coconut water with the tangy kick of kumquat juice. Served over ice, it’s a perfect beverage for hot days in Saigon, offering a balance of sweet, sour, and citrusy flavors.

Grass Jelly with Basil Seeds

This traditional Vietnamese dessert drink is made with soft grass jelly, sweet syrup and basil seeds, which have a fun, chewy texture similar to chia seeds. It’s believed to have cooling properties, making it a popular choice in Vietnam’s hot climate.

Coconut Ice Cream

Coconut Ice Cream is a famous street dessert served in a coconut shell, topped with peanuts, toasted coconut flakes, and even sticky rice for an extra indulgent bite. The ice cream itself is rich, creamy, and has a naturally sweet coconut flavor, making it an absolute must-try for dessert lovers.

Vietnamese Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk

Vietnamese coffee is legendary, and Cà Phê Sữa Đá is one of the best ways to enjoy it. This strong Robusta coffee is brewed using a traditional metal drip filter, then mixed with sweet condensed milk and poured over ice. The result is a bold, creamy, and highly addictive drink that will keep you energized as you explore the city.

Herbal Tea

Sâm Lạnh is a traditional Vietnamese herbal tea made from various cooling herbs, often served with lotus seeds or seaweed. It’s believed to have health benefits, including helping to reduce body heat and aid digestion. This drink is popular among locals, especially in the summer months.

23. Secrets to discovering cuisine in Saigon for tourists

To have a memorable food-tour in Saigon, here are some tips:

• Ask Locals for Recommendations: Don't hesitate to ask hotel staff, tour guides, or even street vendors for suggestions on the best eateries. Locals can point you to hidden gems that aren't on tourist maps, often featuring the best food to eat in Saigon.

• Look for Crowded Places: If a restaurant is packed, it's often a sign of quality. These spots are popular for a reason, so join the crowd and find out why.

• Just try!: Saigon street food is famous for its variety. Be open to trying new dishes you’ve never tasted before.

Explore Local Food Markets:

• Ba Hoa Food Market: Located in the heart of the city, this market offers a variety of delicious dishes from Saigon and the Central region.

• Food Market 200: Known as a "snack paradise," this market serves delicacies like grilled pork vermicelli and mixed rice paper.

• Tan Dinh Market Food Court: A bustling market at night, perfect for enjoying goat hotpot, noodles, and colorful sweet soups.

24. Suggested dining schedule for FIRST TIME visitors to Saigon

The following food-tour schedule is designed for first-time visitors to Saigon or feel confused when choosing dishes. This suggestion is for reference only, visitors can change flexibly based on personal needs and preferences.

Suggestions for exploring Saigon cuisine Day 1

Suggestions for exploring Saigon cuisine Day 2

We hope this list of 15+ typical dishes in Saigon gives visitors a deeper appreciation of Vietnam's rich culture and the warm, humble nature of its people. Packed with flavors and history, these dishes are among the best food to eat in Saigon. After enjoying these local favorites, take some time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, and Nguyen Hue Walking Street to complete an unforgettable trip.

For more personalized food tours in Saigon, let Joytime guide you on your journey. Contact us today to begin your adventure!