Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is one of Vietnam’s most vibrant cities, with a food culture that blends French colonial influences with traditional Vietnamese flavors, making it a pilgrimage site for food lovers worldwide. In 2025, the gradual opening of the metro system will make it easier for visitors to explore the city’s culinary landmarks. From street food stalls to retro cafés, Ho Chi Minh City offers a diverse dining experience. This article highlights ten must-eat dishes in Ho Chi Minh City for 2025, with a special recommendation for the city’s most famous bánh mì shop, Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa, allowing you to savor the essence of Vietnam during your travels.
Why Choose Ho Chi Minh City’s Food?
Ho Chi Minh City’s cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients, rich textures, and affordable prices. According to TripAdvisor reviews, the city’s street food and restaurants enjoy global acclaim. Whether it’s refreshing phở or indulgent egg coffee, each dish reflects Vietnam’s culinary culture and creativity. In 2025, the metro system’s launch will make food hotspots in Districts 1 and 3 more accessible, enabling visitors to conveniently sample local specialties.
Must-Eat Food List
1. Phở (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Phở is Vietnam’s national dish, featuring a sweet beef bone broth, chewy rice noodles, and tender beef or chicken. Paired with lime, green chilies, Thai basil, and bean sprouts, it’s refreshing yet rich. Here are three must-visit phở spots:
- Phở Phú Vương: Known for high-quality beef, offering options like tendon, brisket, and meatballs. The sweet broth is enhanced with a special sauce. Conveniently located near Phạm Ngũ Lão Street.
- Address: District 1, near 97 Calmette Station
- Hours: Daily 5:30 AM–11:00 PM
- Price: ~50,000–80,000 VND (US$2–3)
- Phở Hoà Pasteur: Near the Pink Church, its slightly oily yet refreshing broth pairs well with fried dough sticks. The combination phở includes various beef cuts, ideal for sampling multiple textures.
- Address: District 3, near Pasteur Institute Station
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Price: ~40,000–70,000 VND (US$1.5–2.5)
- Phở 2000: Famous for hosting former U.S. President Bill Clinton in 2000, located near Bến Thành Market. Features thick beef slices, fragrant broth, and popular fried spring rolls.
- Address: District 1, Khách Sạn Golden Station
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
- Price: ~60,000–100,000 VND (US$2.5–4)
2. Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice)
Cơm tấm is a signature dish made with finely broken rice grains, offering a delicate texture. Served with grilled pork ribs, pickled vegetables, and fish sauce, it’s bold and flavorful.
- Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền: Famous for massive grilled pork ribs, tender and juicy with a subtle charred aroma. The soft, chewy rice is perfect for meat lovers.
- Address: District 3, 279 Lê Văn Sỹ Station
- Hours: Daily 7:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Price: ~70,000–120,000 VND (US$3–5)
3. Bột Chiên (Vietnamese Fried Dough)
A popular street food, bột chiên is made from rice flour dough cut into small pieces, fried with egg and chives until golden and crispy. Served with chili sauce and pickled papaya salad, it’s light yet satisfying.
- Bột Chiên Đạt Thành: A local favorite offering bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Their small meatballs are also a recommended, juicy treat.
- Address: District 3, near Vườn Chuối Market
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Price: ~30,000–50,000 VND (US$1–2)
4. Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
A popular street food, bột chiên is made from rice flour dough cut into small pieces, fried with egg and chives until golden and crispy. Served with chili sauce and pickled papaya salad, it’s light yet satisfying.
- Bột Chiên Đạt Thành: A local favorite offering bite-sized pieces for easy eating. Their small meatballs are also a recommended, juicy treat.
- Address: District 3, near Vườn Chuối Market
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Price: ~30,000–50,000 VND (US$1–2)
- Bánh Mì Hồng Hoa: Known for rich liver pâté and thick ham, offering large and small portions. Their special chili sauce enhances the flavor.
- Address: District 1, near Trong Dong Station Hours:
- Daily 5:30 AM–9:30 PM
- Price: ~40,000–60,000 VND (US$1.5–2.5)
- Bánh Mì Hòa Mã: A morning-only breakfast spot with thick ham and pan-fried eggs, offering an authentic local vibe.
- Address: District 3, 596A Nguyễn Đình Chiểu Station
- Hours: Daily 6:00 AM–11:00 AM
- Price: ~50,000–80,000 VND (US$2–3)
5. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Crepe)
Made from rice flour and coconut milk, bánh xèo is filled with bean sprouts, onions, shrimp, and pork belly, served with lettuce and fish sauce. It’s crispy and flavorful.
- Banh Xeo 46A: Offers large crepes and grilled shrimp, great for sharing. The bustling stir-fry atmosphere adds to the dining experience.
- Address: District 3, 298 Hai Bà Trưng Station
- Hours: Daily 10:00 AM–2:00 PM, 4:00 PM–9:00 PM
- Price: ~80,000–150,000 VND (US$3–6)
6. Bún Thịt Nướng (Grilled Pork Vermicelli)
A refreshing cold noodle dish with grilled pork, vermicelli, and vegetables, topped with a sweet sauce.
- Bún Thịt Nướng Chị Tuyền: Famous for freshly grilled meat and fried spring rolls. The thick, southern-style sauce is a highlight.
- Address: District 1, 263 Trần Hưng Đạo Station
- Hours: Daily 7:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Price: ~60,000–100,000 VND (US$2.5–4)
7. Bún Chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
Bún chả features grilled pork in a special fish sauce broth, served with herbs and chilies for a unique flavor.
- Bún Chả 145: A popular spot with slightly sweet broth, charred pork, and a standout fried banana dessert.
- Address: District 1, 277 Phạm Ngũ Lão Station
- Hours: Daily 12:30 PM–3:00 PM, 5:30 PM–8:00 PM
- Price: ~50,000–90,000 VND (US$2–3.5)
8. Vietnamese Coffee (Cà Phê)
Ho Chi Minh City’s coffee culture is world-famous, featuring strong espresso and creative drinks.
- Cộng Cà Phê: A retro Viet Cong-themed café with sweet, creamy coconut milk coffee, ideal for coffee enthusiasts. Also sells souvenirs.
- Address: District 3, near Turtle Lake
- Hours: Daily 7:00 AM–9:00 PM
- Price: ~40,000–80,000 VND (US$1.5–3)
9. Egg Coffee
Made with espresso and frothy egg yolk, egg coffee is smooth and aromatic.
- Little HaNoi Egg Coffee: A cozy café hidden in an alley, serving melt-in-your-mouth egg coffee paired perfectly with hot pressed toast for a delightful afternoon tea.
- Address: District 1, 8 Trần Hưng Đạo Station
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Price: ~50,000–100,000 VND (US$2–4)
10. Nem Rán (Fried Spring Rolls)
Rice paper wraps pork, tofu, and vegetables, fried until crispy and served with a tangy dipping sauce.
- Bep Me In: Known for home-style cooking, offering both meat and vegetarian spring rolls. Their coconut fried rice is also worth trying.
- Address: District 1 (exact address requires lookup)
- Hours: Daily 10:00 AM–10:00 PM
- Price: ~40,000–80,000 VND (US$1.5–3)
Special Recommendation: Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa
Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic culinary landmarks. According to its official website, the shop has earned praise from global food bloggers and international media. Its highlights include:
- Signature Bánh Mì: Offers one flavor with ham, pâté, goose liver paste, pickled carrots, cucumber, and green chilies (can request no spice). The bread is crispy outside, soft inside, with generous fillings, making it a satisfying meal.
- Popularity: Over 35 years of history, efficient service, and consistent quality make it a must-visit. Hong Kong’s South China Morning Post called it “a microcosm of Vietnam’s food paradise.”
- Note: Expect long queues; visit at 11:30 AM opening or during off-peak afternoon hours. Takeout only, no dine-in seating.
- Address: District 1, 26 Lê Thị Riêng, 10-minute walk from Bến Thành Market
- Hours: Daily 11:30 AM–9:00 PM
- Price: ~59,000 VND (US$2.5)
Food Location Overview Table
| Dish | Recommended Spot | Address | Hours | Price Range (VND) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phở | Phở Phú Vương | District 1, 97 Calmette Station | 5:30-23:00 | 50,000-80,000 |
| Cơm Tấm | Cơm tấm Ba Ghiền | District 3, 279 Lê Văn Sỹ Station | 7:00-21:00 | 70,000-120,000 |
| Bột Chiên | Bột Chiên Đạt Thành | District 3, Vườn Chuối Market | 8:00-16:00 | 30,000-50,000 |
| Bánh Mì | Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa | District 1, 26 Lê Thị Riêng | 11:30-21:00 | 59,000 |
| Bánh Xèo | Banh Xeo 46A | District 3, 298 Hai Bà Trưng Station | 10:00-14:00, 16:00-21:00 | 80,000-150,000 |
| Bún Thịt Nướng | Bun Thit Nuong Chị Tuyền | District 1, 263 Trần Hưng Đạo Station | 7:00-21:00 | 60,000-100,000 |
| Bún Chả | Bún Chả 145 | District 1, 277 Phạm Ngũ Lão Station | 12:30-15:00, 17:30-20:00 | 50,000-90,000 |
| Vietnamese Coffee | Cộng Cà Phê | District 3, Turtle Lake | 7:00-21:00 | 40,000-80,000 |
| Egg Coffee | Little HaNoi Egg Coffee | District 1, 8 Trần Hưng Đạo Station | 8:00-22:00 | 50,000-100,000 |
| Nem Rán | Bep Me In | District 1 | 10:00-22:00 | 40,000-80,000 |
Why 2025 Is the Best Time to Savor Ho Chi Minh City’s Food?
Ho Chi Minh City in 2025 is in a phase of rapid development. According to Lonely Planet, the metro system’s gradual rollout will make Districts 1 and 3 food spots more accessible. Upgraded tourism infrastructure has also improved hygiene standards at restaurants and street stalls, attracting more international visitors. Additionally, the city’s food prices remain affordable, with street dishes costing ~US$1–3, suitable for all budgets.
Travel Planning Tips
Best Time to Visit
Ho Chi Minh City has a tropical climate. The dry season (December–April) offers comfortable temperatures for exploring street food. The rainy season (May–November) brings showers, but indoor restaurants and cafés provide cozy dining options.
Transportation
- City Transport: Use Grab or taxis for quick access to food spots. Motorbike rentals are ideal for exploring alleyway eateries.
- Metro: In 2025, Metro Line 1 partially opens, covering District 1 and Bến Thành Market areas, convenient for tourists.
- Bus: Routes like 34, 38, and 44 connect key food spots, with fares ~US$0.3.
Accommodation Recommendations
Districts 1 and 3 are ideal for food lovers, close to most recommended eateries:
- Luxury Hotels: Five-star options in District 1, like Rex Hotel.
- Budget Hostels: Backpacker hostels in District 3, ~US$10–20/night.
Itinerary Planning
Here’s a suggested 3-day food tour:
- Day 1: Breakfast at Phở Phú Vương, lunch at Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa, afternoon coconut milk coffee at Cộng Cà Phê.
- Day 2: Breakfast at Bánh Mì Hòa Mã, lunch at Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền, dinner at Banh Xeo 46A.
- Day 3: Morning egg coffee at Little HaNoi Egg Coffee, lunch at Bún Chả 145, afternoon bột chiên at Bột Chiên Đạt Thành.
Other Food Suggestions
- Coconut Fried Rice: A unique dish at Bep Me In, served in a coconut shell.
- Cold Pork Vermicelli: A refreshing summer option available at many restaurants.
- Fruit Smoothies: Made with local tropical fruits, perfect for cooling off.
Notes
- Hygiene: Choose popular vendors for fresh ingredients. Per Foody.vn, Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa has had occasional hygiene complaints; check recent reviews.
- Language: Some vendors only speak Vietnamese; use a translation app or learn basic phrases.
- Queues: Popular spots like Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa may have 30+ minute waits; avoid peak hours.
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City’s food is a vital part of its culture, from street phở to café egg coffee, each dish showcasing Vietnam’s creativity and passion. Bánh Mì Huynh Hoa, with its rich fillings and storied history, is an unmissable culinary landmark for 2025. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a first-time visitor, these must-eat dishes will create unforgettable taste experiences on your journey.
