Saigon's Time-Honored 5 Sticky Rice Spots

Whether it's the enduring tradition of Xôi Tám Cẩu or the famous Corpse House Sticky Rice in District 5, not to mention Bùi Thị Xuân's delectable sticky rice... these are the beloved places serving delicious sticky rice that Saigonese have cherished for decades.

Saigon's Historic Sticky Rice Destinations

These sticky rice stalls have been an integral part of many generations of Saigonese.

Xôi Tám Cẩu

For nearly 60 years, the Xôi Tám Cẩu stall at the intersection of Cao Thắng and Điện Biên Phủ has been a familiar morning gift for Saigonese. Customers remember Xôi Tám Cẩu for the fragrant aroma of glutinous rice and the savory richness of pork. According to the owner, before boiling the meat, garlic is crushed and applied to eliminate the meaty odor. The boiled meat is fragrant and devoid of garlic smell, making the boiled sticky rice with meat a favorite among diners, especially when paired with a black soy sauce. Prices range from 15,000 to 25,000 VND per portion, and the stall operates from morning till evening.

The Mortuary Sticky Rice

The owner reveals that this sticky rice cart has been around for nearly 40 years, initially located at the corner of Nguyễn Tri Phương – Trần Phú before moving in front of house number 409 Trần Phú. With numerous tomb houses, funeral homes, and mourning-related businesses in the area, it's fondly referred to as the Mortuary Sticky Rice. Each pack of sticky rice is not overly abundant but exquisitely fragrant, featuring ingredients such as shredded pork, Chinese sausage, and pickled bean curd, priced at 10,000 VND. Starting from 4 PM each day, the sticky rice cart attracts a crowd of eager customers.

Bùi Thị Xuân's Sweet Sticky Rice

First introduced in 1977, Bùi Thị Xuân's sweet sticky rice now boasts nearly 40 years of establishment, evolving from a small shop into a well-known brand in Ho Chi Minh City. Offering over 10 different types of sticky rice, the most renowned ones are chicken sticky rice and barbecue pork sticky rice, featuring marinated and flavorful meat. In addition to enjoying the sticky rice, diners can indulge in a variety of equally delicious sweet desserts. Prices range from 15,000 to 40,000 VND per portion, and the shop serves customers throughout the day.

Cadé Sticky Rice in District 5

The Cadé sticky rice cart, owned by a Chinese proprietor for 40 years, operates at unusual hours: from 8 PM to a remarkable 2 AM. Occasionally taking breaks for travel, the owner's absence doesn't deter the steady flow of customers. Hot sticky rice is scooped onto banana leaves, then the seller skillfully ladles cadé (made from coconut milk, eggs, flour, and sugar) onto the rice and deftly wraps it, securing the edges with bamboo sticks.

This xôi cart is situated in front of Giai Ký noodle shop (house number 451 Trần Phú). Customers wanting to dine here have to use the noodle shop's seating since the xôi cart doesn't provide tables for diners. Regulars mostly opt for takeaway orders.

Bình Tiên Sticky Rice

Named after the intersection and the temple of the same name in District 6, where a significant number of Chinese residents reside, Bình Tiên Sticky Rice has been around for nearly 30 years. The shop offers a wide variety of sticky rice, with savory and cadé sticky rice being the most distinctive. The rice packs are wrapped in banana leaves and an additional layer of paper, ensuring prolonged warmth. Prices range from 10,000 VND per pack, depending on the accompanying ingredients, and the shop operates from 5 PM until late at night.

***

Reference: Mytour Travel Guide