1. Chú Chen's Pork Rib Porridge - Taiwanese Tea


2. The Cajun Cua
The Cajun Cua is a well-known eatery in Ho Chi Minh City offering a variety of delicious seafood dishes featuring crabs, oysters, mud crabs, and lobsters. The highlight of the menu is the spicy flavor of the dishes, though the spice is balanced with sweetness, so even those who are not used to spicy food can enjoy it. The restaurant is famous for its signature American-style sauces paired with fresh seafood. Recently, they’ve introduced fresh, chewy abalone combined with Cajun sauce or garlic butter sauce, promising an unforgettable taste experience.
The most popular dish at The Cajun Cua is the mud lobster, which is served steamed, fried, or stir-fried with a special recipe, accompanied by a rich sauce that is perfectly adjusted to suit each guest's taste. The Cajun Cua boasts a cozy atmosphere. Though the tables are close together, the setting doesn’t feel crowded or cramped. Additionally, the fried potatoes and appetizers are also quite tasty, perfect for snacking while waiting for the main course. The crab hotpot here is sure to impress everyone—it’s made with fresh, meaty crabs and a sweet broth flavored by the crab and fresh vegetables. Guests are bound to be amazed by the familiar yet slightly new flavors of the hotpot.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 267 Lý Tự Trọng, District 1, HCMC
Phone: 028 6291 0697 & 0902 959 645
Email: [email protected]
Website: thecajuncua.com
Fanpage: www.facebook.com/TheCajunCua/
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM


3. Ốc Chảo 535
Located on Pham Van Dong Street near Binh Loi Bridge, Ốc Chảo 535 is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The restaurant serves mouthwatering dishes featuring a variety of shellfish that change daily, with most dishes priced around 30k. Special items like golden-scented snails, squid teeth, grilled shrimp, grilled octopus, and sea urchins are priced at 50k. The fish sauce used for the seafood is unique, resembling a salty version, and you'll need to mix it before eating.
With fresh, affordable seafood, Ốc Chảo 535 attracts a large crowd, making it a popular spot for weekend gatherings or late-night chats. The place offers a wide selection of shellfish, shrimp, clams, and crabs that will tempt you as you walk by. The seasoning is just right, and there are many ways to prepare the dishes, such as stir-fried with butter, steamed with lemongrass, or salted. The prices are reasonable, ranging from 20k to 30k per dish, making it ideal for students and working people. This affordability makes the place extremely popular, so it’s best to arrive early to get a good spot and select your dishes.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 535 Pham Van Dong, Binh Thanh District, HCMC
Phone: 0937 949 337
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: www.facebook.com/occhao535/
Opening Hours: 15:30 – 23:30


4. Mỳ Cay Khuya
Mỳ Cay Khuya is a favorite spot for young people craving Korean dishes. Known for its bold, flavorful meals that reflect the sophisticated taste of Korean cuisine, this place offers a wide variety of options, with chicken being the main attraction in various styles. The Korean spicy cheese sauce chicken is well-seasoned, leaving no room for boredom as the tender chicken is coated with crispy skin and a spicy sauce, giving you a refreshing taste with every bite.
Particularly popular is the honey garlic chicken tteokbokki, which has a rich, savory flavor that will leave you hooked after the first try. And no visit to a Korean restaurant is complete without sampling the spicy noodles. The chewy noodles paired with the spicy broth from Korean chili paste create a flavor explosion that will excite your taste buds. At Mỳ Cay Khuya, you can enjoy the best of Korean cuisine at very affordable prices. Plus, the restaurant is open until midnight, making it a perfect late-night stop for those who crave a delicious meal after hours.
Address: 233/18 Nguyễn Trãi, District 1, HCMC
Phone: 0989 709 138
Email: [email protected]
Fanpage: www.facebook.com/Khuya.micay/
Opening Hours: 16:00 – 00:00


5. Cháo trắng Hàng Xanh
Cháo trắng Hàng Xanh is one of the most famous late-night eateries in Saigon, located at the corner of Hàng Xanh intersection, Xô Viết Nghệ Tĩnh street, Bình Thạnh district. This restaurant operates from 5:00 PM to 3:00 AM, with peak hours being after 10:00 PM. The specialty of Cháo Hàng Xanh is its hot, aromatic bowls of rice porridge cooked with pandan leaves, served with various delicious side dishes such as salted duck eggs, braised pork, braised snakehead fish, and pickled vegetables.
The price for a bowl of porridge at Cháo trắng Hàng Xanh is around 10,000 VND, excluding side dishes, with the total cost for a complete meal ranging from 15,000 VND to 30,000 VND. The porridge is flavorful and affordable, and the staff is friendly and attentive. With over 43 years of serving hearty meals, this place is a beloved spot for both locals and visitors alike. Be sure to stop by and enjoy their delightful porridge!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Alley 283 Xô Viết Nghệ Tĩnh, Bình Thạnh District, HCMC
Phone: 0909 610 078
Opening Hours: 14:00 – 03:00


6. Fried Oyster with Egg
Fried Oyster with Egg has been a beloved dish for two generations. Before 1975, around 6 PM every day, rain or shine, a couple could be seen setting up their small stall, lighting the fire, frying, and stir-frying under the streetlights until late at night. The cooking method may look simple, but it’s quite detailed: a small amount of oil is spread across a deep pan, then carefully dusted with flour to create a crispy base. The oyster and egg mixture is added, stirred continuously until everything sticks together. This technique results in crispy oysters on the outside but tender and juicy on the inside.
At Fried Oyster with Egg, the dish is an intriguing fusion. The crispy batter contrasts with the sweetness and softness of the oysters, perfectly blended with the richness of the egg, and seasoned with a tangy-sweet fish sauce. The dish is served with a side of fresh lettuce and cilantro, completing the flavor profile.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 128 Phùng Hưng, District 5, HCMC
Phone: 0931 542 268
Opening Hours: 18:30 – 00:00


7. Cháo Lòng 144
Cháo Lòng 144 is a favorite spot for many, especially for workers looking for a comforting meal after a long day. It’s common to see people stopping by here for a bowl of hot porridge before heading home. The place has become a trusted stop for local laborers. If you’re here, be sure to order an extra plate of pig’s intestines to add to your porridge, and dip it in fish sauce for an extra kick.
The restaurant may not have an extravagant atmosphere, but the delicious, flavorful porridge always keeps the place bustling with customers. A bowl here is affordably priced, depending on the portion you choose, but it’s guaranteed to satisfy your hunger. Cháo Lòng 144 is open from late afternoon until midnight, making it perfect for a post-work or late-night meal. If you want to spice it up, order a side of pig’s intestines with chili fish sauce. Plus, the friendly and cheerful owner always makes sure customers are happy. Don’t wait any longer—come and give it a try!
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 144 Phan Đăng Lưu, Phú Nhuận District, HCMC
Phone: 0327 658 620
Opening Hours: 17:30 – 00:00


8. Xôi Cadé
Xôi Cadé is a unique type of sticky rice originating from China, and this late-night spot in Saigon has been a favorite for over 40 years. The dish is a blend of durian, sugar, eggs, coconut milk, and flour, mixed using a secret recipe to create a fragrant and delicious treat. Once prepared, the sticky rice is wrapped in banana leaves into a small, triangular shape, offering a rich, smooth flavor that isn’t overly sweet. The moment you taste it, the rice seems to melt in your mouth. Besides Xôi Cadé, the shop also serves other treats like bánh da lợn, cassava, and jelly, providing more options for dessert lovers. The stall is always clean, and the food is freshly made. The friendly owners are warm, welcoming, and always ready to serve with a smile.
The sticky rice here is flavorful, with a subtle hint of fried shallots, and the rice grains are plump and creamy. A standout is the pate, which is exceptionally rich and complements the dish perfectly. When you visit, make sure to order the pate—it’s sure to be a highlight of your meal.
Address: 451 Trần Phú, District 5, HCMC
Opening Hours: 18:00 – 23:00


9. Mì Vịt Tiềm Thiêm Huy
Mì Vịt Tiềm Thiêm Huy is a hidden gem worth discovering in Saigon. Nestled in a quiet alley, the restaurant offers a unique culinary experience with its delicious duck noodle soup. The dish stands out for its rich, flavorful broth, made from mushrooms, spices, and natural ingredients. The noodles are perfectly cooked, soft and soaked in the savory duck broth. The duck meat is tender and aromatic, perfectly complementing the noodles. This perfect harmony of flavors makes it an unforgettable dish.
The service at Mì Vịt Tiềm Thiêm Huy is also fast and friendly. The staff are always attentive, ensuring customers are welcomed warmly and served promptly. The restaurant itself is clean and airy, creating a comfortable atmosphere for diners. Another plus is the reasonable pricing. Despite the high quality and delicious taste of the duck noodle soup, the prices remain affordable, making it a great choice for a tasty yet budget-friendly meal. The restaurant also offers other popular dishes, making it a favorite late-night spot in Saigon.
Address: 455 Nguyễn Trãi, District 5, HCMC
Phone: 028 3923 9168
Opening Hours: 07:30 – 01:00


10. Phở Bò Viên Hớn Hưng
For years, the traditional bowls of beef ball pho at Phở Bò Viên Hớn Hưng have left customers impressed. While pho today comes in many variations, this spot sticks to its roots, serving only pho with beef brisket, flank, beef balls, and well-done beef. The rich broth, brewed for 12 hours with beef bones and spices like ginger, roasted onion, cinnamon, cardamom, and star anise, is an aromatic delight. The thin, tender pho noodles, combined with the thinly sliced beef, create a perfect texture. The broth is savory, fragrant, and filled with the umami of long-simmered beef, creating a mouthwatering, satisfying experience. The toppings of fresh herbs, fish sauce, pepper, and a squeeze of lime add the final touches to this irresistible dish.
Each bowl of pho at Phở Bò Viên Hớn Hưng also includes large, firm beef balls, perfectly seasoned, and complemented by rich, creamy egg yolks. The meticulously simmered broth offers a naturally sweet taste, making it a comforting meal for those hungry late-night eaters in Saigon.
Address: 488 Ngô Gia Tự, District 10, HCMC
Phone: 0968 691 990
Opening Hours: 15:30 – 01:00


11. Vườn Ốc Wongnai
Vườn Ốc Wongnai has recently celebrated its 5th anniversary. The menu has expanded to include a variety of dishes for all tastes: from bar snacks to family meals, casual bites to more refined dishes. There’s something for everyone. The seafood selection remains a highlight, especially for those looking to enjoy fresh and flavorful shellfish. Despite the rise in take-out options, the in-house dining experience remains the busiest part of the restaurant, with crowds filling up the space every night. Located behind Big C on Tô Hiến Thành Street, District 10, HCMC, this place continues to attract both locals and celebrities.
The clientele at Vườn Ốc Wongnai varies, but the majority come from the more affluent classes, including people from the entertainment industry. While prices are slightly higher than average compared to other local eateries, the generous portion sizes and consistently high quality of the food make it well worth the price. Some dishes are pre-made for efficiency during busy hours, which may cause them to lose some of their freshness, but the seafood is always freshly prepared upon request. All in all, Vườn Ốc Wongnai is one of the best spots for seafood in District 10, and it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for a great meal and a fun atmosphere.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: Behind Big C, 268 Tô Hiến Thành, District 10, HCMC
Phone: 0903 159 911 & 0797 000 300
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ocwongnai
Opening Hours: 08:00 – 00:00


12. Đô Bất Tử - 110D Tô Hiệu
Kho quẹt, a traditional dish beloved in Southern Vietnam, has become a favorite among connoisseurs in Saigon. At Đô Bất Tử, it’s a must-try, making it a great spot for intimate family dinners or lively gatherings with friends and colleagues. The restaurant, located at 110D Tô Hiệu, is easy to find and boasts a spacious and airy atmosphere in the late afternoon. The décor is simple but charming, and the music sets a lively tone, especially for birthday parties and celebrations.
The menu at Đô Bất Tử offers a wide variety of dishes, with seafood like fish being served with a unique twist—paired with chili salt and a squeeze of lime instead of the typical salt and pepper. The food is reasonably priced, and the beer is sold at a flat rate of 16k, so you don’t have to worry about running out. The restaurant can get noisy and lively, but if you’re up for the energetic vibe, it’s the perfect place for a gathering with friends. The place is open from the afternoon until 2 AM, making it easy to enjoy a long night of delicious grilled meats, fresh drinks, and great company in a spacious, well-ventilated space with modern smoke extraction systems.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 110D Tô Hiệu, Tan Phu District, HCMC
Phone: 0906 674 152
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dobattusaigon/
Opening Hours: 14:00 – 02:00


13. Lẩu Cá Cô Thư
Lẩu Cá Cô Thư is one of the most renowned fish hotpot spots in Saigon, widely recommended by locals. I've heard so much about this popular restaurant, and finally, passing by the area today, I couldn't resist stopping by to try it. I took a few photos for those who may not yet be familiar with this bustling eatery. Lẩu Cá Cô Thư is located at 14 Trần Văn Kiểu Apartment, District 10, HCMC, and operates from 4:30 PM to midnight.
The restaurant offers a very comfortable, spacious, and breezy outdoor seating area. With so many customers, the atmosphere is always lively and joyful. Since it's located in a busy apartment complex, it naturally attracts a lot of regulars from the neighborhood, as well as many visitors from other areas. In fact, during peak hours, some dishes can sell out within just one or two hours. The hotpot ingredients are served fresh, including vegetables that are crisp and clean, and noodles that are firm and tasty—not like the soggy ones you might find elsewhere.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: D14 Trần Văn Kiểu Apartment, District 10, HCMC
Phone: 0849 444 440
Email: [email protected]
Website: Laucacothu.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nguyenanhthu1985/
Opening Hours: 16:30 - 00:00

