Ho Chi Minh City Foodie Guide: Complete Culinary Experience
Explore the best restaurants, food tours, local cuisine, street food, and culinary experiences in Ho Chi Minh City. Your complete guide to dining in Ho Chi Minh City.
Welcome to the ultimate foodie guide for Ho Chi Minh City! Whether you're a local food enthusiast or a visiting gourmand, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the very best culinary experiences that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer. From Michelin-starred restaurants to hidden street food gems, authentic local specialties to innovative fusion cuisine, we've curated the essential dining experiences that showcase Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant food scene. Our carefully selected recommendations include insider tips, must-try dishes, and everything you need to eat your way through Ho Chi Minh City like a true food lover.
Key Takeaways
- Ho Chi Minh City offers diverse culinary experiences from fine dining to street food
- Local specialties and regional dishes are must-tries for authentic flavors
- Food tours and cooking classes provide immersive culinary experiences
- Reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekends
- Markets and food halls offer great variety and local atmosphere
Must-Try Restaurants
From hidden gems to acclaimed establishments, these restaurants showcase the best of local and international cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City.
Nhà Hàng Lúa Đại Việt
Highly rated Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 5708 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 189 - 191 - 193 Đề Thám, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Pandan Leaf Saigon Restaurant & Rooftop Bar
Highly rated Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 3767 reviews.
📍 107 Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Home Saigon Restaurant
Highly rated Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 4575 reviews.
📍 185/28 Phạm Ngũ Lão, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Cloud Nine Restaurant Sai Gon
Highly rated Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 414 reviews.
📍 180-188 Lý Tự Trọng, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Sol Kitchen & Bar
Highly rated Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 4010 reviews.
📍 110 - 112 Lý Tự Trọng, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
A Taste Of Saigon - Old Market
Highly rated Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 4378 reviews.
📍 42/6B Đ. Tôn Thất Thiệp, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Vị Sài Gòn Restaurant & Café
Highly rated Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 1721 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 254 Bis Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường Võ Thị Sáu, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Tung's Restaurant - Vietnamese Cuisine & vegetarian Food
Highly rated Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 9419 reviews.
📍 230 Lê Thánh Tôn, Phường Sài Gòn, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Noir. Dining in the Dark
Highly rated Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.7 stars from 1536 reviews.
📍 180D Hai Bà Trưng, Street, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 710000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
Hoang’s Kitchen -Vietnamese cuisine & Vegan food
Highly rated Vietnamese in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 15655 reviews.
📍 45 Thủ Khoa Huân, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Å by TUNG
Highly rated Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 766 reviews. Offers fine dining experience with exceptional service.
📍 31-33 Đặng Dung, Phường Tân Định, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
L’Entrecote - Social Meating
Highly rated Steakhouse in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 2984 reviews.
📍 Lầu 2, 63 Đông Du, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Steakhouse cuisine
Street Food & Food Markets
Authentic street food vendors, bustling food markets, and local favorites where you'll find the most flavorful and affordable bites in Ho Chi Minh City.
Ben Thanh Market
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 4 stars from 77528 reviews.
📍 Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Knowledgeable staff
Ben Nghe Street Food
Highly rated Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.3 stars from 11780 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 134 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
Food Tours & Culinary Experiences
Guided food tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, and immersive culinary experiences led by local experts in Ho Chi Minh City.
Street Food Man
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 5 stars from 2565 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Saigon Adventure - Food Tour In Ho Chi Minh City
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 5 stars from 5902 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
XO Tours - Saigon Food Tours and City Tours Led by Women
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 5 stars from 2040 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Back of the Bike Tours - Ho Chi Minh City Food Tours
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 398 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Saigon Food Tour
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 145 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
AN Tours Vietnam - Vietnam Travel Tours/ Transfer/ Visa
Highly rated International in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 235 reviews.
- •Book in advance, especially during peak season
- •Arrive 10-15 minutes early
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes
- •Bring a camera for memorable moments
- •Ask your guide for local recommendations
Cafes & Bakeries
Artisanal coffee shops, charming cafes, and bakeries serving fresh pastries, breads, and sweet treats in Ho Chi Minh City.
Little HaNoi Egg Coffee (Yersin)
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 4834 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 119/5 Yersin, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Tonkin Specialty Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 3758 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 91 Lý Tự Trọng, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Budget-friendly prices
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Soo Kafe
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.7 stars from 1845 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Lầu 2, 35 Phan Chu Trinh, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Po Cafe
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 2783 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 42 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Tonkin Garden Egg Coffee & Eatery [Cafe & Croissant]
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 2955 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 135/50 Trần Hưng Đạo, Phường Cầu Ông Lãnh, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 71009, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
XLIII Specialty Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 8039 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 178a Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
CHOICE - Fresh Coffee and Tea
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 982 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 9 Công trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
The Workshop Coffee
Highly rated Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.5 stars from 3839 reviews. Cozy cafe atmosphere ideal for coffee and light meals.
📍 Tầng 2, 27 Ngô Đức Kế, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Cafe cuisine
Local Specialties & Signature Dishes
Regional dishes, local delicacies, and signature foods you absolutely must try during your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.
Signature Dish
A must-try Ho Chi Minh City specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Local Delicacy
This beloved Ho Chi Minh City dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Traditional Recipe
Experience the authentic taste of Ho Chi Minh City with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Street Food Favorite
Discover why this Ho Chi Minh City specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Regional Specialty
This iconic Ho Chi Minh City creation perfectly captures the essence of the local food culture.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Seasonal Treat
A Ho Chi Minh City classic that combines traditional techniques with fresh, quality ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Classic Comfort Food
A must-try Ho Chi Minh City specialty that showcases the region's unique flavors and culinary traditions.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Modern Fusion
This beloved Ho Chi Minh City dish has been perfected over generations and remains a local favorite.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Artisanal Product
Experience the authentic taste of Ho Chi Minh City with this traditional preparation that honors local ingredients.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Heritage Recipe
Discover why this Ho Chi Minh City specialty has earned its reputation as an essential culinary experience.
- •Ask locals for their favorite spots to try this
- •Best enjoyed fresh and in season
- •Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations
- •Try it at multiple places to compare
- •Pair with local beverages for the full experience
Bars & Nightlife
Craft cocktail bars, wine bars, breweries, and unique drinking establishments with character and quality in Ho Chi Minh City.
Layla - Eatery & Bar
Highly rated Bar in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 5167 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Second floor, 63 Đông Du, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Bar 22 Girl Bar Ho Chi Minh City
Highly rated Bar in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 420 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 22 Huỳnh Thúc Kháng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Chill Skybar & Dining
Highly rated Bar in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.4 stars from 5378 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 Tầng 26 - 27, AB Tower, 76A Lê Lai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Well-reviewed establishment
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Upscale dining experience
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Kim's Tavern
Highly rated Bar in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 582 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 20 Huỳnh Thúc Kháng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Boosh Rooftop
Highly rated Bar in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.9 stars from 836 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 6 Bùi Viện, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Established local favorite
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Loop 1 - Cocktail & Kitchen
Highly rated Bar in Ho Chi Minh City with 4.8 stars from 1789 reviews. Great selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
📍 1st Floor, Lý Tự Trọng/39 Ward, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
- 🍽️Highly rated by customers
- 🍽️Popular with locals and visitors
- 🍽️Authentic Bar cuisine
Essential Tips
- 🍽️Make reservations at popular restaurants well in advance
- 🍽️Try local specialties and regional dishes unique to the area
- 🍽️Ask locals and hotel staff for their favorite food spots
- 🍽️Visit food markets early in the morning for the freshest selection
- 🍽️Don't be afraid to try street food from busy, popular vendors
- 🍽️Take a food tour early in your visit to discover hidden gems
- 🍽️Check restaurant hours as they can vary by day and season
- 🍽️Bring cash for street food vendors and small local eateries
- 🍽️Pace yourself - save room to try multiple dishes and restaurants
- 🍽️Document your culinary journey with photos and notes
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
Ho Chi Minh City's food scene thrives year-round, though each season brings unique culinary experiences. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor dining and food festivals. Summer features fresh seasonal produce and lively food markets. Winter brings comfort food specialties and cozy indoor dining. Check local food festival calendars for special events.
Average Price
Dining costs in Ho Chi Minh City vary widely. Street food and casual eateries: $5-15 per person. Mid-range restaurants: $20-50 per person. Fine dining: $75-150+ per person. Food tours typically range from $50-150. Cooking classes: $75-200. Markets offer budget-friendly options for self-catering.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ho Chi Minh City is known for its diverse culinary offerings. Be sure to try the local specialties and regional dishes that showcase the area's unique flavors and traditions. Ask locals for their recommendations, and don't miss the signature dishes at acclaimed restaurants.
For popular and fine dining restaurants, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Many sought-after spots book up weeks in advance. Casual eateries and street food vendors typically don't require reservations.
Consider taking a food tour early in your visit to get oriented and discover hidden gems. Visit local markets to see fresh ingredients and try samples. Mix fine dining with casual spots and street food for a complete experience. Don't be afraid to venture beyond tourist areas.
Most restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City offer vegetarian options, and vegan choices are increasingly common. Many establishments can accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice. Check menus online or call ahead to confirm options that meet your needs.
Tipping customs vary by location. In the US, 15-20% is standard for table service. In Europe, service is often included, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated. In Asia, tipping is less common. Check local customs for Ho Chi Minh City specifically.
Lunch is typically served 11:30am-2pm, dinner 6pm-10pm, though hours vary by establishment and culture. For popular restaurants, consider dining earlier (before 7pm) or later (after 9pm) to avoid peak crowds. Weekend brunch is popular at many spots.
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