Top 15 Must-Try Dishes When Visiting Ho Chi Minh City

Duck noodle soup, known as "Mì Vịt Tiềm," is a rare dish that is hard to find outside Saigon. It originates from Chinese cuisine and is perfect for those who enjoy slow-cooked or stewed dishes. The main highlight of this dish is the large, tender duck leg that nearly fills the bowl, offering a delicious balance of softness without falling apart. The broth, rich and full of distinct flavors, is a hallmark of this dish. While it may not be as popular as other local dishes, it is definitely worth trying. The combination of Chinese culinary traditions and Vietnamese flavors makes this dish unique and extra tasty. This soup is especially loved as a late-night snack in Saigon, making it a must-try when you're in the city.

Located to the right of Bến Thành Market at 7 Phan Chu Chinh Street, this spot is famous for its mixed bánh bèo, one of the best in Saigon, especially around the market area. For just 20,000 VND, you'll get a generous serving of bánh bèo that is both filling and perfectly flavorful. The bánh bèo here is perfectly textured—neither too soft nor too chewy—ensuring a satisfying bite without being overwhelming. The dipping sauce is expertly balanced, with a combination of sweet and savory notes that elevate the dish. Although the shop is humble, it consistently draws a crowd, often leaving no available seats. A visit here is a must for anyone wanting to taste this local treat.

Along Pasteur Street in District 3, it's hard to miss the colorful carts offering refreshing coconut water and herbal drinks. In the hot midday heat of Saigon, spotting one of these carts feels like finding a roadside oasis.

For just 10,000 VND, you can enjoy a cool, sweet, fragrant coconut drink with a hint of sourness from the shredded herbal ingredients. Whether you're sipping it in the heat of the day or in the evening, it's the perfect way to refresh. If you're in a hurry, you can easily grab a cup to-go in a plastic cup. But if you have time, take a seat at one of the small tables beside the cart, sip your chilled drink, and enjoy the shade of the trees lining Pasteur Street. While these stands may not have a sign, you'll have no trouble spotting them.

The preparation for this dish is quite simple. First, a piece of rice paper is placed on a grill, and a mixture of beaten egg, green onions, and dried shrimp is evenly spread over the surface. A dash of chili sauce is added, and the rice paper is folded up to form a compact snack. This dish is sold on many streets and is incredibly popular with locals in Saigon. Its unique flavor, quick preparation time, and low price make grilled rice paper a common treat in the everyday life of the city's residents.

Grilled meatballs on a stick are a popular street snack in Saigon that originated from China. After making its way to Vietnam, it has become a must-try dish. To prepare, small meatballs are skewered and grilled over glowing charcoal until the outer layer is slightly charred, while the inside remains perfectly cooked. Served hot, this dish is often paired with a bit of chili sauce for extra flavor. The contrast of tender meat, crispy outer shell, spicy sauce, and the delicious aroma makes for a truly delightful experience.

Balut, known as 'hột vịt lộn' in the South and 'trứng vịt lộn' in the North, is a popular and nutritious snack, known for being both affordable and delicious. This dish is commonly enjoyed by locals across Vietnam. For visitors in Saigon, it’s a unique experience, as the boiled duck egg is served with fresh herbs, ginger, peanuts, and soy sauce, creating a rich and unforgettable flavor. There’s also the crispy version, balut fried with tamarind, which adds a delightful twist to this street food. Its combination of taste and convenience makes it a favorite snack for many in Saigon.

The first dish you should try is Broken Rice. A beloved and affordable meal in Saigon, it's found in alleyways and streets across the city. Made from broken rice grains, the texture is slightly fragmented, and it's typically served with grilled pork, shredded pork skin, or Vietnamese-style sausage. It's complemented with a sweet fish sauce and a side of fresh cucumber. Once you’ve tried Saigon’s broken rice, it’s unforgettable. A great place to try it is at Cao Đạt Broken Rice (at the corner of Nguyễn Trãi - Trần Bình Trọng), especially late at night when the place becomes busier. The service is fast, and you’re always served with a hot bowl of soup. The large portion of pork ribs costs just 25,000 VND.

Spicy Rice Paper Salad, also known as Bánh Tráng Trộn, is a popular dish among the youth. Originally from Central Vietnam, this street snack has spread across the country. In Saigon, it takes on a unique Southern twist. This dish is an ideal snack for the locals, with each serving priced between 10,000 and 15,000 VND. It features thinly sliced rice paper mixed with ingredients like fried shallots, chili paste, mango or green apple, quail eggs, Vietnamese coriander, sautéed shrimp, and dried squid. While some variations exist, the core flavor remains the same. If you're exploring Saigon, don't miss out on grabbing a portion of this delicious street snack to enjoy while strolling around – it's an experience not to be missed!

Phá Lấu is a unique and special dish, often considered a Saigon specialty. It's particularly popular among the younger crowd. The dish is made from offals such as stomach, intestines, lungs, liver, and heart, which are marinated in spices, deep-fried until crispy, and then simmered to become tender. The signature broth of Phá Lấu is coconut milk, which adds a rich sweetness and creamy texture. Phá Lấu is versatile and can be enjoyed with bread, noodles, or even grilled or fried. You can find this street food at nearly every alley and street corner in Saigon. It's a must-try dish for visitors looking to experience the vibrant and youthful atmosphere of this dynamic city.