Explore 12 must-visit breakfast spots in District 1

District 1 is considered the heart of Saigon, boasting numerous eateries serving meals from morning till night. If you're looking for a breakfast spot in District 1, don't miss out on this article! Our list covers everything from trendy breakfast cafes to delicious yet affordable eateries.

1. Trendy breakfast cafes in District 1 with great views and delicious food

1.1. The Vintage Emporium

• Address: 95B Nguyen Van Thu, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:30 PM
• Price Range: 100,000 – 200,000VND per person

The Vintage Emporium is a well-known chain of cafe restaurants in Saigon. The District 1 branch is located on a quiet street amidst the hustle and bustle of Saigon. However, stepping inside, you'll immediately be impressed by the elegant and sophisticated architecture.

@pphuong303

This cafe serves European-style dishes from breakfast to lunch. You can enjoy a luxurious French-style breakfast with Eggs Benedict, Avocado Poached Eggs, or Hearty Breakfast with eggs, sausages, smoked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, fresh butter, and Sourdough bread... Alternatively, for a healthier option, you can opt for a breakfast with Greek yogurt, oatmeal, cereals, etc.

Photo: The Vintage Emporium Da Kao

The dishes at The Vintage Emporium are always beautifully decorated, very glamorous. Guaranteed Instagram-worthy. But at the same time, the quality of the food and service is also highly emphasized. The meals are both delicious and visually appealing, truly worth every penny.

1.2. Cafe Central Nguyen Hue

• Address: 74 Nguyen Hue, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price Range: 50,000 – 150,000VND per person

Located in the vibrant heart of District 1, near the famous Nguyen Hue walking street, Cafe Central is an unmissable destination. Not only does it boast a prime location but also beautiful space. The restaurant spans across 3 floors, including outdoor seating and air-conditioned rooms. The design is elegant and sophisticated with warm earthy tones, highlighted by intricate wood paneling and accents.

Photo: Café Central Nguyen Hue

Cafe Central not only impresses with its exterior but is also a favorite breakfast spot in District 1 for many. The restaurant offers a diverse menu with a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes.

You can choose from traditional breakfast options such as: beef pho, chicken pho, rice noodle soup, rolled cakes, grilled meat vermicelli,... Or opt for something more Western like French Toast, croissants served with jam and eggs, grilled sirloin steak,...

Photo: Café Central Nguyen Hue

However, the downside of this District 1 breakfast spot is that it comes with a hefty price tag. In addition to the meal cost, you'll have to pay an additional 10% VAT and 5% service charge.

1.3. Cà Phê Cô Ba

• Address: 4-6 Dong Khoi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM
• Price Range: 45,000 – 70,000VND per person

Another fantastic breakfast cafe in District 1 that you shouldn't miss. When you visit this District 1 breakfast spot, you'll get to enjoy familiar Saigonese dishes. From Nam Vang noodles, beef stew sandwiches, sausage sandwiches, fried eggs and bacon to more Western options like cold cuts and cheese rolled eggs.

Photo: Cà Phê Cô Ba Dong Khoi (5th Floor - Rooftop Dong Khoi)

Although the menu isn't extensive, every dish is of high quality. Tender beef cooked in rich sauce with crispy hot bread. The presentation of the dishes is also beautiful, making them even more delicious.

The cafe is spacious and decorated in vintage style, with a rooftop view on the 5th floor. The atmosphere is very tranquil, making it suitable for those looking for a place to chill and enjoy the view of Saigon.

Photo: Cà Phê Cô Ba Dong Khoi (5th Floor - Rooftop Dong Khoi)

Explore more: 5 irresistible Saigonese duck hotpot restaurants

2. Famous breakfast spots in District 1

2.1. Pho Phu Vuong

• Address: 120 Nguyen Thai Binh, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
• Price Range: 40,000 – 65,000VND per person

Pho Phu Vuong is a well-known name among food enthusiasts. It's also a bustling breakfast spot in District 1. When it comes to the quality of Pho Phu Vuong, many have likened it to enduring excellence.

As soon as you step into the restaurant, you'll be immediately drawn by the rich aroma of grilled ginger, star anise, cinnamon, etc. A complete bowl of pho will include rare beef slices, brisket, tendon, beef balls, etc. The noodles are firm, the green onions fresh, the beef tender and fragrant, and the broth rich and flavorful. Adding a few pieces of fried dough sticks and a plate of fresh herbs completes the delicious breakfast dish.

Photo: @chanlovefoods

The restaurant is spacious, with high tables and chairs for comfortable seating. The dining utensils are neatly arranged and clean. The service is quick and enthusiastic.

2.2. Nam Vang Noodle Soup Thanh Dat

• Address: 34 Co Bac, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 24/7
• Price Range: 35,000 – 50,000VND per person

This District 1 breakfast spot is also a top choice for many diners. Additionally, being open 24/7, it's also a breakfast destination for early risers or night shift workers.

Here, you can choose between dry and soup-based noodles. A complete bowl includes shrimp, minced pork, liver, heart, quail eggs, and if you like bones, you can ask for extra. Despite being open 24/7, all ingredients are fresh. The broth is rich and fragrant with a delicate shrimp and bone flavor, neither bland nor overly intense.

Photo: @momentoffood

If the soup noodles are delicious, the dry noodles are equally impressive. The dry noodles are perfectly cooked, long and soft, absorbing the flavors beautifully, with a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. They also serve homemade black soy sauce and pickled garlic, as per Chinese tradition.

The restaurant is not overly spacious but neat and clean. There are plenty of fans, so it's quite airy and cool.

You might be interested: 10 must-try Saigon noodle soup joints

2.3. Bun Bo Hue Ut Ti

• Address: 59 Mac Dinh Chi, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
• Price Range: 35,000 – 50,000VND per person

This District 1 breakfast spot has been around for over 30 years. The Bun Bo Hue here is considered authentic. The broth is clear and true to Hue's style, not greasy like the variations in the South. There are two options: regular bowl (40k) and special bowl (70k). A large bowl with plenty of noodles and toppings. One bowl is usually enough to keep you full all morning.

The broth is clear yet flavorful, with a rich beef aroma. The beef slices are large but tender, and the beef tendons are stewed just right to maintain their chewiness without being too soft. Additionally, the meatballs or spring rolls are delicious.

Photo: Thanh Thuy

The spacious and airy atmosphere ensures that you can enjoy your bun bo without worrying about any lingering odors. The tables and chairs are clean. Utensils and condiments are always available. The staff are professional and efficient. The food comes out quickly and without any fuss. The restaurant is open almost all day, so you can easily drop by to enjoy your meal.

2.4. Banh Mi Chao Dang Tran Con

• Address: 8 Dang Tran Con, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 4:00 AM – 10:30 AM
• Price Range: 30,000 – 47,000 VND per person

This District 1 breakfast spot is perfect for early risers as it opens at 4:00 AM. It's also a go-to for night shift workers looking to fill their stomachs with a hearty banh mi skillet for a good night's sleep.

A fully loaded skillet includes sunny-side-up eggs, sausages, cold cuts, house-made pate, ham, pork loaf, fish cake, and a laughing cow cheese wedge. Enjoying this skillet with a piece of bread and a glass of soy milk will guarantee a satisfying meal until afternoon.

Photo: @motngaybabua__

All the ingredients are delicious, especially the meatballs, which are fragrant and chewy. The sauce is thick but not overly rich, making it easy to eat. To balance the flavors, you can enjoy it with a side of pickled vegetables, some fresh cilantro, and a touch of spicy chili.

Located on the quiet alley of Dang Tran Con street, the sidewalk space here is quite peaceful. The cool morning breeze adds to the relaxed atmosphere while enjoying the food. Despite being elderly, the service is still quick and friendly.

2.5. Kieu Giang Broken Rice

• Address: 192E Tran Quang Khai, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price Range: 28,000 – 55,000 VND per person

If Hanoi has pho as its familiar breakfast dish, then Saigonese have broken rice. As a specialized restaurant in broken rice, the quality is always guaranteed. There are plenty of toppings to choose from: ribs, shredded pork skin, meatloaf, grilled chicken, roasted pork, meatballs, Chinese sausage, etc.

The biggest difference of Kieu Giang Broken Rice compared to other places is its flavorful curved ribs. The ribs are large, grilled to a golden brown, rich in flavor; the meatloaf is fragrant and tender, the shredded pork skin is crispy, all accompanied by sweet and sour fish sauce. The rice is cooked from small, tender grains of broken rice, perfectly fluffy and evenly cooked.

Photo: @anhnguyen0314

The restaurant is elegant and spacious, clean and tidy. The staff are quick and enthusiastic in serving customers. Although the prices are relatively high, the restaurant is always crowded, partly because of the high-quality broken rice dishes, partly because of the excellent service.

2.6. Sister Tuyen's Grilled Meat Vermicelli

• Address: 175 Co Giang, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Price range: 50,000 – 60,000 VND/person

Sister Tuyen's Grilled Meat Vermicelli is a well-known spot, especially among the locals in District 1. The restaurant specializes in grilled meat vermicelli and thin rice vermicelli dishes such as grilled meat spring rolls vermicelli, grilled meat & beef vermicelli, thin rice vermicelli with grilled meat, beef vermicelli,...

The portions here are always generous, with the bowl filled to the brim. The quality is also highly rated. The flavorful stir-fried beef is tender, and the spring rolls have a meaty taste without excessive fillers like potatoes and turnips found in other places. The highlight remains the fragrant skewers of grilled meat, each bite bursting with flavor and chewiness.

Photo: @ruahaman

The fish sauce bowl is served separately, to be poured over the bowl when eating for an even flavor distribution. The fish sauce is made in the typical Saigon style, slightly sweet and tangy, with the aroma of chili and garlic.

Besides the vermicelli, the thin rice vermicelli cakes are also delicious. The cakes here are thinly rolled, not too thick, so they are not overwhelming to eat. Sometimes, instead of vermicelli, switching to eating rice vermicelli cakes is a more satisfying option.

3. Top Delicious and Affordable Breakfast Spots in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

3.1. 2C Hoà Mỹ Skillet Bread

• Address: 2C Hoà Mỹ, Đa Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Price Range: 20,000 – 50,000 VND per person

When it comes to delicious and affordable skillet bread in District 1, this place must be mentioned. A portion of skillet bread (45k) will be overflowing with toppings. There's sausage, sunny-side-up eggs, a large piece of homemade pate, tender beef marinated with lemongrass, and even a generous slab of butter on the side. It's truly outstanding, a solid 10/10.

The bread is toasted to perfection, served with a rich sauce and a creamy egg yolk, making it incredibly delicious. Despite being a street-side eatery, the food is well-prepared, and there's even a homemade salad with lettuce and tomatoes to freshen up your palate.

Photo: Anh Thu

Additionally, they offer meatball sandwiches, sunny-side-up egg sandwiches, and canned fish sandwiches. The shop also serves rice dishes and various types of noodles such as vermicelli, egg noodles, and rice noodles. For drinks, they have milk coffee, iced coffee, and orange juice. A combo of a sandwich and coffee of high quality is only 50k. Another plus point is that the shop owner is very friendly and enthusiastic.

3.2. Mellow Chicken Sticky Rice

• Address: 19 Nguyen Trung Truc, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Price Range: 20,000 – 55,000 VND per person

This Saigon breakfast spot has garnered many positive reviews on various websites. With a wide storefront and a constant stream of customers and delivery drivers coming in and out, the menu boasts over 60 dishes, ranging from fish sauce noodles to fresh spring rolls. The newest addition to their menu, the sticky rice dishes, are the best sellers, with the chicken sticky rice being a standout.

The chicken sticky rice is quite generous, with the rice cooked perfectly sticky and flavorful, and the shredded chicken containing both meat and skin, making it tender and not dry. The fried shallots are homemade, so there's no unpleasant smell. Other toppings like Chinese sausage, young egg, or chicken sticky rice with offal are also of high quality. The corn sticky rice or mung bean sticky rice are also highly popular choices.

Photo: @hukha.foodaholic

Another plus point is that they provide pickled vegetables on the side to refresh your palate. Takeaway boxes are lined with banana leaves underneath to prevent the plastic from getting too hot and look cleaner. The seating area is spacious and clean.

3.3. Hong Hoa Baguette

• Address: 54 Nguyen Van Trang, Ward Pham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 9:30 PM
• Price range: 17,000 – 30,000 VND per person

Banh mi might just be the best and most affordable dish for breakfast, offering a quick and convenient option. This bakery has been renowned for its quality for many years and is trusted by the locals.

The menu features a wide variety of banh mi, including mixed banh mi, grilled meat banh mi, meatball banh mi, fried egg banh mi, and even vegetarian banh mi. What makes the banh mi at this District 1 breakfast spot stand out is its perfect crispiness on the outside and softness on the inside, rather than being overly crunchy and crumbly. With generous fillings and lean meat, ingredients like pate, sausage, and cold cuts are distinctly flavorful.

Photo: @everydayrestaurants

The eatery doesn't have seating, so you can either take away or order delivery through Now. The staff work quickly, so you won't have to wait long, but they tend to forget sometimes. So, if you don't want chili or vegetables, make sure to remind the staff!

Here is a list of the 14 breakfast eateries in District 1 that are popular and high-quality. With prices ranging from budget-friendly to upscale, with fantastic views, Mytour hopes to provide you with plenty of quality options for a energetic breakfast.

Avatar photos belong to you: @hukha.foodaholic, @momentoffood, @chanlovefoods

Explore more:

• 10 awesome breakfast spots in Saigon
• 8 spicy noodle joints in District 10 with amazing toppings