Saigon, officially known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a vibrant hub of culture and history, and a paradise for food enthusiasts. During my recent trip, I explored some of the best food spots in Saigon, each offering a unique and delightful experience. Here’s a detailed guide to the food spots that made my trip unforgettable.
Bún Thịt Nướng Chị Tuyền: Vermicelli Pork Bowls
One of the first food places we visited in Saigon was a local gem known for its vermicelli pork. Unlike typical tourist spots, this restaurant was frequented mostly by locals. The turnover was impressively fast, with residents coming in and out, suggesting its popularity among the community. As we walked in, the irresistible aroma of grilled pork filled the air. Most patrons ordered similar dishes, with many opting for extra grilled pork.
The spring rolls were a delightful surprise, remaining incredibly crispy even when doused in fish sauce. This spot truly captured the essence of authentic Saigon dining with its genuine flavours and bustling atmosphere.
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: The Ultimate Banh Mi Experience
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is often touted as having the best Banh Mi in Saigon, and it lived up to its reputation. This massive pork roll was packed with thick cuts of meat, smoky pate, and creamy mayonnaise. As a fan of the Marrickville Pork Roll in Sydney, I thought I had tasted the best, but this Banh Mi took it to another level.
The inclusion of crunchy and flavorful pork floss was an unexpected and delightful twist. This sandwich was a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for anyone visiting Saigon.
Madam Win: A Banh Mi that Rivals Banh Mi Hyunh Hoa
Madam Win, a rival Banh Mi store, offers a similar yet distinct experience. Located on a busier street, this larger store is often hailed by locals as the best new Banh Mi place in town. The vibrant atmosphere and the promise of a delicious pork roll make it worth a visit.
The pork roll is similar to Banh Mi Hyunh Hoa but somehow different as well? The construct of the pork roll is very similar with thicker cuts and fresher tasting ingredients. The difference is that it doesn’t have the same smokey taste as the mayo / pate in the Banh Mi Hyunh Hoa pork roll.
Supermarket Run: Discovering Local Snacks
Arriving late on our first night, we decided to grab some snacks from a supermarket beneath our hotel, Vinpearl Landmark 81. The grocery store offered an array of international products, but it was the addictive local snacks that caught our attention.
Among the highlights were the tom yum chips, which, despite my usual aversion to tom yum, were irresistibly spicy, sweet, and tangy. Exploring the supermarket turned out to be a fun and tasty adventure even though we weren’t sure how local it was!
Blank: A Bar with Stunning Views
Situated in one of the tallest buildings in Saigon, Blanc offers stunning views of the city. The bar is designed to wrap around the building, providing narrow seating with tall windows to maximize the view. The creative cocktails, featuring Vietnamese flavors like pandan and lemongrass, were a highlight.
The desserts were equally impressive, with the salted egg cheesecake arriving in a pan shaped like an egg. Although we visited in the afternoon and quickly wrapped up due to the heat, the experience was memorable.
Tre Dining: Fine Dining with Theatrics
Fine dining in Vietnam might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but Tre Dining offers an exceptional experience for those who enjoy theatrics with their meal. Each dish came with a story, expertly explained by the generous staff. Chef Luu’s creations were not only delicious but also visually captivating.
My favorite dish for theatrics was the strawberry watermelon cake, reminiscent of a famous Sydney dessert, involving a rose immersed in liquid nitrogen and shattered between palms. The entire meal was surprisingly affordable and incredibly satisfying.
Anan Restaurant: Creative Vietnamese Cuisine
Anan Restaurant, with its three establishments within one building, offered a creative twist on Vietnamese cuisine. Each dish, whether visually or functionally unique, was a treat for the senses. From the Banh Mi served in a small baguette to a dish served from a teapot into a cocktail glass, the creativity was remarkable.
Though pricier, the experience was worth it, and we left thoroughly satisfied.
Bánh Bèo Chợ Bến Thành at Ben Thanh Market: Traditional Hue Rice Cakes
Hidden among the various food stalls in Ben Thanh Market, Banh Beo Cho Ben Thanh was a delightful find. The presence of locals around us ordering the same dish assured us of its authenticity. The traditional Hue rice cakes were soft, pillowy, and doused in fish sauce and coriander, offering a true taste of Vietnamese cuisine.
Pho Vietnam: A Unique Pho Experience
Despite Saigon not being the primary destination for pho, Pho Vietnam is a chain worth visiting. With a mix of tourists and locals, this lively restaurant offers a glimpse into the noodle-making process through a glass wall separating the kitchen from the dining area.
The signature dish, pho in a hot stone bowl, keeps the soup sizzling hot, allowing diners to cook their meat to their liking. This unique twist on a classic dish was a delightful experience.
Overview
Saigon’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of flavours and experiences. From local gems to creative fine dining, each meal offered something special.
Ange on a plane 
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