Best food places in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Vietnam has been an increasingly popular destination amongst Singaporean travellers, and for good reason. Crowned Asia’s Best Culinary Destination in the 2025 World Culinary Awards, the country boasts everything from humble street eats to world-class restaurants and is nothing short of a foodie’s paradise.
As a frequent visitor to Vietnam’s capital, Ho Chi Minh City—also known by its old name Saigon—I’ve spent months sniffing out the best breakfast bowls, chic cafes, and international restaurants. Here are my top picks for the best food in Ho Chi Minh City catered to Singaporean visitors, all centrally located for easy access.
The current exchange rate is 10,000 VND = ~S$0.50 as of 26 November 2025.
Table of Contents
Best street eateries in Ho Chi Minh City
The quintessential core of the Vietnamese foodie experience, street eateries are the heart of Vietnam’s food culture. Think family-owned shophouse fronts and humble roadside carts, which are often partially open-air and have diners stoop on iconic low stools and tables.
In my opinion, the best Vietnamese street eats often come from nomadic carts and alleyway setups, which are difficult to locate due to this nature. For this list, we’ve curated the most accessible, popular, and delicious locations to find cheap Vietnamese eats.
1. Bun Rieu Ganh
Located on the same street as the famous Ben Thanh Market, Bun Rieu Ganh is one of the premier spots to get bun rieu, a locally favoured rice noodle dish. With its clear stock made from crab and tomatoes, it’s markedly different from the likes of pho and bun bo hue, possessing a light and tangy quality that’s rich in umami.
You’ll only find the eponymous Bun Rieu (65,000 VND) here, served up with blood cake, fried beancurd, and rieu—a patty made of crab, minced pork, and eggs. While the bowls are on the smaller side, the blood cake and rieu are sizable and filling. If you’re game, add in the purple shrimp paste on the side to deepen the flavour of the broth.
Address: 163 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 7am to 7pm
Website
Bun Rieu Ganh is not a halal-certified eatery.
2. Pho Viet Nam
Image credit: Pho Viet Nam
A mainstay of the Ho Chi Minh tourist’s itinerary, Pho Viet Nam’s rice noodles are handmade live in-store, where visitors can see their pho being cut up from sheets right before their eyes. Their District 1 outlet has been featured on the Michelin Guide, recognised for their tasty Pho To Dac Biet (85,000 VND), where beef shank, oxtail, well-done flank, and beef ribs are all thrown into the bowl. Don’t forget to add in the various herbs and condiments provided on the side!
Image credit: NancyAnna via Google Maps
This pho spot is also widely known for their Pho Tho Da (105,000 VND), or pho served in a hot stone bowl. You can choose different combinations of meaty toppings for each bowl. Those feeling particularly luxurious can go for the Pho Tho Da Bo Wagyu (145,000 VND), which includes premium cuts of Australian Wagyu beef.
Address: 14 Pham Hong Thai, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 6am to 3am
Website
Pho Viet Nam is not a halal-certified eatery.
3. Banh Mi Ba Huynh
Image credit: Kha Liem Phan via Google Maps
Banh mi can be found all around Ho Chi Minh City, sold from roadside carts to small establishments. No other banh mi stop has made such a name for itself as Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, known for their overloaded banh mi and crazy queues. However, I’ll be recommending their once-sister outlet, now turned rival Banh Mi Ba Huynh, for its shorter queues and equally tasty banh mi, if not better.
Image credit: Mordecai Lee
The Banh Mi Dac Biet (from 50,000 VND) here is so massive, it’s difficult for even a voracious eater like myself to finish a whole portion. The Vietnamese baguette is stuffed with a salacious amount of Vietnamese cold cuts and pork floss, then loaded with pork liver pate and butter. If that wasn’t enough, giant-sized versions of typical banh mi veggies are also included in a separate packet for you to add to your baguette.
Address: 185K Cong Quynh, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 5:30am to 11pm
Website
Banh Mi Ba Huynh is not a halal-certified eatery.
4. Com Tam Sa Bi Chuong
Image credit: Thao Tran Thanh via Google Maps
Com tam, or broken rice, is a daily staple amongst the Vietnamese. Originating from the South, it’s composed of “broken” rice grains, and most commonly enjoyed with a piece of suon (pork chop), bi (shredded pork skin), and cha (pork and egg meatloaf).
While the best com tam I’ve had was found at street stalls, my recommendation for restaurant-quality com tam is at Com Tam Sa Bi Chuong. Founded by three extremely popular streamers, this chain serves up the classic Com Suon Bi Cha (from 94,000 VND) in a fresh, clean, and modern space.
Image credit: Thao Trang via Google Maps
Sa Bi Chuong’s com tam is spiced up with the addition of their speciality Crispy Pork Fat, which, unlike other locations, has a distinct airy, popcorn-like texture. Their grilled pork is also well-charred and has a good amount of fat. Diners can opt to get the Pork Rib instead of the cutlet, and you can also get seaweed soup on the side with the combo.
Website | Full list of outlets
Com Tam Sa Bi Chuong is not a halal-certified eatery.
5. Banh Canh Cua 87
Image credit: Tuan Nguyen Trung via Google Maps
Each and every time I’ve dined at Banh Canh Cua 87, I’ve encountered other Singaporeans slurping up these crab noodles and chatting with thick Singlish accents. Coincidence or not, all I know is that the Banh Canh Cua (55,000 VND) here is top-tier.
Image credit: Mordecai Lee
Thick-cut tapioca noodles, much akin to our bee tai mak, are served in a full-bodied crab broth and topped with a myriad of ingredients, namely crab meat, prawns, quail eggs, crab balls, and blood cake. The soup is viscous and slightly sticky, but is packed with concentrated flavours of the sea. Don’t skimp on ordering the Quay (3,000 VND each), which are basically pieces of you tiao that help soak up all that crabby goodness.
Address: 87 Tran Khac Chan, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Sat-Thurs 11am to 9pm, Fri 11am to 7pm
Website
Banh Canh Cua 87 is not a halal-certified eatery.
6. Bun Thit Nuong Kieu Bao
Image credit: Mordecai Lee
Bun Thit Nuong, or rice noodles with barbecued pork, is a rather simple dish in its own right, and Bun Thit Nuong Kieu Bao is one of the more popular spots in Ho Chi Minh City to get them. Despite being in District 1, their standard offering To Day Du (full bowl) costs only 32,000 VND.
Image credit: Adriana E via Google Maps
This bowl comes with two grilled pork skewers and a fried spring roll, but you can add or subtract these toppings to form different combinations as you wish. The pork here is smoky and juicy, while the spring rolls are sizable and very crispy. Don’t forget to add the fish sauce provided at the side of each table!
Address: 139 De Tham, Co Giang Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 11am to 9pm
Website
Bun Thit Nuong Kieu Bao is not a halal-certified eatery.
7. Ganh Non Tron Vi – Bun Cha Ha Noi
Hidden within an alleyway along Nguyen Thi Minh Kai Street is Ganh Non Tron Vi, an unassuming eatery specialising in Bun Cha Ha Noi. While not the most popular bun cha spot in Ho Chi Minh City, I can certainly confirm that the bun cha here is understated and deserves wider recognition.
Bun cha originates from Hanoi, where the family running this establishment hails from. The Bun Cha Truyen Thong (45,000 VND) here is as authentic as the ones from the Old Quarter—the broth was sweet with peppery accents, and avoided being too salty. Each slice of pork and meatballs was grilled for just the right amount of time, allowing the juicy meat to shine alongside a substantial portion of flavourful fat. Bun cha is typically enjoyed with a side of Nem (fried spring rolls), and each piece here costs 15,000 VND.
Address: Hem 18Bis Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 6am to 10pm
Ganh Non Tron Vi – Bun Cha Ha Noi is not a halal-certified eatery.
8. Bun Bo 725 Hoang Sa
Image credit: Den Bun Bo via Google Maps
There are too many places to count for finding Bun Bo Hue, which are Central-style beef noodles originating from the Hue province. Some might say that this dish rivals that of pho! One of the better spots I’ve found this dish is at Bun Bo 725 Hoang Sa, known as Den Bun Bo on Google Maps.
Image credit: Mordecai Lee
For 50,000 VND, you’ll receive a bowl simply loaded with a myriad of toppings: tender beef cuts, pork trotter, crab cake, fish sausage and more. The broth here is indeed darkly brown and richly savoury, and you can tell it has been simmered for many hours. You can also add extra toppings as you wish for an even more nourishing bowl. No wonder that this spot is obscenely crowded during dinner!
Address: 725 Hoang Sa, Ward 14, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 4pm to 9pm
Bun Bo 725 Hoang Sa is not a halal-certified eatery.
Best cafes in Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnamese coffee is world-renowned, with the country ranking as the second-largest producer of coffee beans after Brazil. Most are of the bold, bitter Robusta variety, traditionally brewed using a phin filter—the slow-drip method that defines Vietnamese coffee’s distinct strength.
Due to its strong coffee culture, Ho Chi Minh City is rife with cafes, ranging from established chains to hip, Instagrammable spaces. While locals often swear by humble alleyway pop-up stalls, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s trendiest and most picturesque spots to unwind and enjoy a potent Vietnamese cuppa.
9. Tonkin Specialty Coffee
Vietnam is famous for egg coffee, and no other cafe in Saigon does it better than Tonkin Specialty Coffee—I’d even say that it rivals those in Hanoi! Their signature Egg Cream Coffee (59,000 VND) is mostly what you’ll be here for; pour the intense shot of Robusta espresso into the thick egg cream and stir. What results is a super silky and creamy texture, and a mellow sweetness balancing the bitter Vietnamese coffee.
Image credit: Sandra Villanueva via Google Maps
Tonkin Specialty Coffee also provides Vietnamese matcha, sourced from the verdant hills of Kim Tuyen in Lai Chau province. If you’re wondering whether it holds up to its Japanese counterparts, be rest assured—the matcha here is genuinely superb. You can try it out yourself with the Egg Cream Matcha (69,000 VND) or the Vietnamese Matcha with Honey Comb (59,000 VND). If you’re feeling peckish, order the Salted Egg Cream Croissant (49,000 VND) or the Banh Mi Pate Dac Biet (59,000 VND).
Address: 91 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 8am to 9pm
Website
Tonkin Specialty Coffee is not a halal-certified eatery.
10. Momentous
Tucked away along a quiet residential alley is Momentous, a hidden rooftop cafe that charms with its lush greenery and vintage elements—including a striking British phone booth and an assortment of retro film cameras. It might be difficult to locate from the outside, but this tranquil spot is worth the climb thanks to its relaxing “overgrown garden” vibe, which is perfect for snapping some dreamy photos.
Unwind with a variety of drinks here: Ca Phe Sua Da (40,000 VND) is a common pick, but I like mine done Bac Xiu (45,000 VND) with more condensed milk. Those who wish to stray from caffeine can get iced teas, such as Rose Lychee Tea (55,000 VND) and my personal favourite Pink Guava Tea (55,000 VND). You can also beat the Saigonese heat with the Soda Chewing Gum (45,000 VND) and Soda Blue Ocean (45,000 VND).
Address: 33/11 Ly Van Phuc, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 9am to 10:30pm
Website
Momentous is not a halal-certified eatery.
11. The Dreamers Bakery And Coffee
Sitting behind the iconic Independence Palace, The Dreamers Bakery & Coffee is a three-storey cafe that is renowned for their luxurious desserts. As you step up the stairs, you’ll be greeted with a gallery-like aesthetic that blends designer toy culture with modern pop art. Go one floor further, and the scenery completely shifts to a calming terrace with lots of open light from a large window.
Their range of bespoke dessert creations varies regularly, and on our visit, we tried the Silkberry (127,000 VND)—a tangy-sweet combination of tea and vanilla mousse, blueberry mousse, pistachio chiffon, and mulberry fillings. They also have a wide variety of bakes—we particularly enjoyed the Ham & Cheese Croissant (79,000 VND) and the Salted Egg Yolk Croissant (40,000 VND). Other than the standard cafe beverages, you can go for uniquely Vietnamese offerings such as the Tra Sua Cascara (75,000 VND), or Cascara milk tea, which uses a tea-like base made from coffee cherry husks.
Address: 15 Han Thuyen Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 8am to 9pm
Website
The Dreamers Bakery and Coffee is not a halal-certified eatery.
12. XLIII Specialty Coffee
Image credit: XLIII Specialty Coffee
This is the spot to be for discerning coffee connoisseurs or those curious about speciality coffee. XLIII Specialty Coffee is famous—some might say infamous—for a reason: its steep prices, often compared to cheap alleyway offerings that go for less than 50 cents. However, what you’re in for here is not just a caffeine fix. The XLIII experience promises a globe-trotting selection of coffee beans, brewed by their lineup of knowledgeable baristas, that patrons can taste and compare.
Image credit: Kind Lamb Health Mentor착한양건강멘토 via Google Maps
Choose from a categorical range of curated coffee beans, ranging from Specialty Coffee I (125,000 VND) to Outstanding Coffee IV (500,000 VND). The coffee is then brewed according to your choice of method and served alongside a card explaining the bean’s origins. You can enjoy the brew alongside pastries such as Sourdough Banana and Madelines, which all cost 95,000 VND each.
Address: 178a Pasteur, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 6:30am to 10:30pm
Website
XLIII Specialty Coffee is not a halal-certified eatery.
13. The Workshop Coffee
Right along the Saigon River lies The Workshop Coffee, and to locate this industrially themed cafe, you’ll have to traverse a garage-like space before ascending a hidden flight of stairs. Do that, and you’ll be rewarded with a cosy brewing bar where you can watch baristas hand-drip coffee right before you.
Image credit: @logancafes
Their house-blended espressos use beans from Vietnam, Ethiopia, and Peru, and you can choose the beans as well as their brewing method. Immersion coffees go for 135,000 VND, which use either the French Press or Aeropress, and pour-over coffees will set you back 95,000 VND for a small. You can also get barista-crafted creations, such as the Starfire Dance (75,000 VND)—cold brew with starfruit syrup and bird’s eye chilli—and Mango In Bloom (80,000 VND), featuring clarified mango juice and a vibrant hibiscus ginger-lime foam.
Address: 27 Ngo Duc Ke, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 8am to 8:30pm
Website
The Workshop Coffee is not a halal-certified eatery.
14. Ngam Cafe
Image credit: Gérard Drouville via Google Maps
Ngam Cafe has been making rounds all over Vietnamese social media, thanks to its retro vibe, with messy book shelves, vinyl records, and sewing machines everywhere. Book lover or not, the space is visually stunning and great for the ‘gram. What’s more, they’re open 24/7, meaning you can even visit late into the night!
Image credit: Hoang An Thai via Google Maps
Ngam Cafe is also not short of drinks and pastries that serve as great fodder for your camera. The Fruit Teas (from 58,000 VND) are popular here, with the Tra Oi Thach Oi (guava tea with guava jelly) and Tra Vai Khuc Bach (lychee tea with almond panna cotta) top picks. Aside from the long list of coffee and matcha options, the Sua Chua Dac Biet (63,000 VND) is notable if you love a yoghurt drink topped with fruits.
Address: 193/19 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 24 hours
Ngam Cafe is not a halal-certified eatery.
15. Cafe Oshima’s
Image credit: Cafe Oshima’s
Nestled in the heart of District 3 is the cosy, minimalistic Cafe Oshima’s. Sporting a Japanese-style garden, a glass roof, and a warm, wooden interior, this charming location is a favourite among the Saigonese to unwind.
Image credit: Michaela Pospisilova via Google Maps
You’ll be surprised to find many unique mocktail-like creations here, which are a great alternative to the usual cafe fare. A crowd favourite is the Midsummer Madness (85,000 VND), comprising orange juice and espresso and served with salt and lime, akin to a Margarita. Another perk-me-up is the Golden Slumbers (85,000 VND), featuring cold brew with peach and orange juice, topped with pink salt and thyme. A standout is the Old Pine (95,000 VND), which mixes espresso, pineapple juice, milk, and pandan for a uniquely Southeast-Asian tinge.
Address: 2/37 Cao Thang, Ward 5, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Daily 8am to 10pm
Website
Cafe Oshima’s is not a halal-certified eatery.
Best restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re planning to splurge on a date or celebrate a special occasion, Ho Chi Minh City offers no shortage of restaurant options to fit every budget. From laid-back bistros to upscale fine-dining venues, here are our top Ho Chi Minh City restaurant picks spanning a variety of cuisines.
16. Pizza 4Ps
Image credit: MINH Vo Tuan via Google Maps
No guide to Saigon is complete without a mention of Pizza 4Ps. Despite being a large pizza chain—where most Singaporeans would think along the lines of Pizza Hut—Pizza 4Ps is on a whole other level of sophistication. Think openly woodfired pizzas, cheese made in-house, and handmade pasta, all served in a luxurious setting. Pizza 4Ps has become a top recommendation for visitors, thanks to its blend of Japanese craftsmanship with Italian cuisine.
Image credit: Thanh Tat via Google Maps
The Burrata Parma Ham Margherita (398,000 VND) is a top choice here, coming with a freshly-made blob of burrata cheese that is cut open before you. Fun fact: all their cheeses are made in-house, and if you’re a cheese lover, don’t miss the 5 Cheese Pizza (298,000 VND) made with premium cheeses. Their appetisers are standouts too, with the 4P’s Cheese Fondue (128,000 VND) particularly delicious. Reservations are recommended as it can get very crowded at each location.
Website | Full list of locations
Pizza 4Ps is not a halal-certified eatery.
17. Naked Sushi
Image credit: Mordecai Lee
Saigon is no short of Japanese restaurants, but I was most impressed by Naked Sushi for their extremely fresh cuts of seafood and extensive menu. Sushi lovers will want to order the Special Nigiri Sushi (299,000 VND) immediately, a platter that includes items such as Ikura, Uni, Anago, and more. If you prefer fresh sashimi, go for the Zen Sashimi (229,000 VND) or Mekajiki Sashimi (99,000 VND) instead.
Image credit: Ngân Võ Hữu via Google Maps
Don’t leave without trying their showstopping Naked Roll (169,000 VND)—a maki roll featuring blowtorched salmon, tempura bits, and cream cheese, served on an impressive step-ladder. Their other rolls are also equally delectable—the Saigon Roll (149,000 VND) and Unagi Cheese Roll (159,000 VND) are popular picks, while adventurous durian lovers should try the Durian Salmon Roll (175,000 VND)—a surprisingly pleasant creation made with aburi salmon and a sweet durian sauce that doesn’t overpower.
Website | Full list of outlets
Naked Sushi is not a halal-certified eatery.
18. 15 Grams Homemade Kitchen
With an open kitchen on the first floor and a retro-themed cafe-cum-restaurant on the second, 15 Grams Homemade Kitchen offers a quiet escape and fully handmade pasta. Pasta made from scratch has a distinct, expressive character, and here, you can truly taste the care that goes into crafting each strand. There are usually only 5 options for pasta here—our top recommendation is Spicy Clams (195,000 VND), which has a rich butter-based sauce and a generous helping of clams.
The Pesto Shrimp (190,000 VND) stands out with its vibrant green pesto and plump, meaty shrimp. The homemade fettuccine is soft yet structured, its fresh, clean flavours allowing the other ingredients to shine. The Salmon Creamy (185,000 VND) is also a recurring favourite, featuring a creamy tomato sauce and tender, juicy salmon pieces. Even their drinks are homemade here—the slightly alcoholic Mulberry Ferment (85,000 VND) is a sweet alternative to wine, made with mulberries from the highlands of Da Lat.
Address: 214/19/24 Nguyen Van Nguyen, Tan Dinh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Opening hours: Tues-Sun 11am to 1pm, Daily 6pm to 10pm
Website
15 Grams Homemade Kitchen is not a halal-certified eatery.
19. Kokoria
Image credit: Ly Na via Google Maps
Korean fried chicken is one of the best ways to bond with your mates, and locally grown chain Kokoria does it to a T. They currently boast seven brightly-lit outlets, and you might want to head down to their Le Van Duyen outpost, which is the closest to District 1. A plate of their Koko Chicken starts from 129,000 VND for six pieces of wings or boneless chicken, and comes in a wide variety of flavours: Honey Mustard, Onion, Garlic, and Cheese Powder were our favourites. You can even mix two or three of these flavours to sample them!
Image credit: KANE Nguyen via Google Maps
For something more spectacular, go for the Chicken with Melted Cheese (from 209,000 VND), which sees their fried chicken in Yangnyum or Spicy Gochujang Sauce served on a large hotplate with ooey, gooey cheese. Pair it with a refreshing Soda Yakult (40,000 VND) or Soju (100,000 VND) for an authentic Korean fried chicken experience with your chingu.
Website | Full list of outlets
Kokoria is not a halal-certified eatery.
20. Eddie’s New York Deli & Diner
Image credit: Steve Butterfield via Google Maps
Step into Eddie’s New York Deli & Diner, and you’ll be transported to an American diner straight out of the 1950s. This spot is extremely popular with expats and local Vietnamese alike, and serves up a huge variety of authentic American dishes. In fact, their menu is so extensive that I don’t even know where to start, but I’ll give it a shot: the Philly Cheesesteak (229,000 VND) is a classic American diner recipe done really well.
Image credit: @eddies.vn
Apart from their long list of deli sandwiches, their burgers are also famed for being juicy and delicious. Try the Classic Diner Steakburger (199,000 VND), which uses a house-blended patty made from chuck and ribeye, or the Chicken Fillet Burger (169,000 VND) that features a flame-grilled chicken breast. The Cast Iron Skillets (199,000 VND) here also make for a filling meal—The Barnyard comes with a huge chicken cutlet, hashbrowns, and two eggs, while the Tex-Mex is packed with Cajun chicken, cheddar, peppers, onions, black beans, corn, and two eggs. Also, don’t skimp on a Milkshake (from 119,000 VND)—a staple of every American diner.
Website | Full list of outlets
Eddie’s New York Deli & Diner is not a halal-certified eatery.
Where to eat in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is a foodie’s paradise, but it can get difficult to navigate the sheer amount of eateries and restaurants in the city. The next time you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, we hope our guide can help clear the path towards finding the best food in Saigon!
If you’re still craving Vietnamese food back at home, check out our best Vietnamese food guide in Singapore. Also, check out Bac Viet in Bedok for some of the most authentic Northern Vietnamese food in Singapore.
15 Vietnamese Food Places In Singapore For Legit Banh Mi, Beef Pho And More
Photos taken and provided by Mordecai Lee, and edited by Jordan Ong
Feature image adapted from XLIII Specialty Coffee and Pho Viet Nam
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