23 Best Street Foods In Saigon, Vietnam: Your Incredible Checklist (Plus Address)

Welcome to our ultimate street food checklist in Saigon! Are you excited to explore Vietnam’s famous flavors? You’re in the perfect place.

In Saigon, every street corner buzzes with delicious tastes. Our guide takes you through the city’s favorite foods, from hot dishes to cool sweets.

Ready for a flavor adventure?

1. Phở – Vietnamese Noodle Soup

This is the superstar of Vietnamese cuisine. It’s a bowl of smooth rice noodles in a hot, fragrant soup, offering a simple yet delicious taste experience.

You’ve got your choice of beef (phở bò) or chicken (phở gà), topped with fresh herbs. It’s like a hug in a bowl – warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious!

Highly Recommended:

• Phở Lệ: 415 Nguyen Trai, Ward 7, District 5; and 303-305 Vo Van Tan, Ward 5, District 3
• Phở Hòa Pasteur: 260C Pasteur, Ward 8, District 3
• Phở 2000 Saigon: 208-210 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Any neighborhood restaurant that’s busy with lots of customers.

2. Bánh Xèo – Vietnamese Crispy Pancake

Picture a crispy, golden pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. This crunchy treat, made from rice flour and turmeric, is a party in your mouth.

The mix of textures and fresh herbs is like a dance of flavors. Don’t forget to dip it in the tangy sauce!

Highly Recommended:

• Bánh Xèo Ăn Là Ghiền: 74 Suong Nguyet Anh, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Bánh Xèo 46A: 46A Dinh Cong Trang, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1
• Banh Xèo Thanh Phương: 31/6 Hoang Hoa Tham, Ward 13, Tan Binh District

3. Gỏi Cuốn – Vietnamese Summer Rolls

These are summer rolls, a cooler cousin of the spring roll. They’re like little parcels of freshness, wrapped in rice paper with shrimp, pork, and loads of fresh veggies and herbs.

Dip them in a yummy peanut sauce, and you’re in for a treat!

Highly Recommended:

• Gỏi cuốn & Bò Bía: 148/18 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1.
• Gỏi Cuốn Minh – 84/32 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1

4. Cơm Tấm – Vietnamese Broken Rice

This dish is all about the humble rice, but with a twist – it’s broken!

Topped with grilled pork, a sunny-side-up fried egg, and pickled veggies, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel right at home.

Highly Recommended:

• Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền: 84 Dang Van Ngu, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan
• Cơm Tấm Mộc: 85 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Cơm Tấm Nguyễn Văn Cừ: 74 Nguyen Van Cu, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
• Any well-attended local “Cơm Tấm” spots.

5. Ốc – Snails

In Saigon, there are many different kinds of snails, and the way they’re cooked is creative. This makes the street food in Saigon very special.

Because Saigon is close to the Mekong Delta and the coast, they have plenty of snails to use. People cook them in special ways to make them taste different from each other.

You can find snails that are stir-fried, roasted, or grilled. These snail dishes not only taste great but also show how rich Saigon’s ecosystem is and how inventive their cuisine is.

Highly Recommended:

• Ốc Đào Nguyễn Trãi: 212B/C79 Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
• Ốc Oanh: 534 Vinh Khanh, Ward 8, District 4
• Any regional Ốc restaurant swarming with eaters.

6. Bò Né – Sizzling Beef Steak

This is a sizzling experience! Imagine a hot plate with juicy beef steak, potatoes, and an omelet, served with a side of bread. It’s a bit like the Vietnamese version of steak and eggs.

Each bite is a mix of savory, hearty goodness.

Highly Recommended:

• Beef Steak Two Cows: 85 Nguyen Cu Trinh Street, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
• Bò Né Lệ Hồng: 489/29/20 Huynh Van Banh, Ward 13, Phu Nhuan District
• Any busy local “Bò Né” places frequently visited by crowds.

7. Bánh Mì – Vietnamese Sandwich

The world-famous Vietnamese sandwich! Crunchy baguette filled with an array of ingredients like pork, pâté, veggies, and herbs.

It’s a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Each sandwich is a little different, making every bite a new adventure.

Highly Recommended:

• Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa: 26 Le Thi Rieng, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1.
• Bánh Mì Hồng Hoa: 62 Nguyen Van Trang, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1.
• Bánh Mì 37 Nguyễn Trãi: 37 Nguyen Trai, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1.
• Any local “Bánh Mì” street vendor carts that are crowded.

8. Hủ Tiếu – Vietnamese Rice Noodle Soup

A noodle soup that’s big on flavor. It’s got a lighter broth than phở, but don’t let that fool you.

The mix of noodles with pork, seafood, or chicken, plus a bunch of fresh herbs and veggies, is as comforting and delicious as can be.

Highly Recommended:

• Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang Thảo Quán: 164 A4, Ward 12, Tan Binh District
• Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang Thành Đạt: 34 Co Bac Street, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Any local “Hủ Tiếu” restaurant filled with customers.

9. Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ – Fried Chicken with Rice

Here’s a fun change-up for chicken and rice. The chicken is fried just right – crunchy on the outside, soft inside – and comes with rice that’s nicely oily.

It’s a bit of indulgence that’s absolutely worth trying.

Highly Recommended:

• Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ Su Su: 117/1D Cong Quynh, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
• Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ Thanh: 648/28 Cach Mang Thang 8, Ward 11, District 3
• Any local restaurant with a constant flow of customers.

10. Xôi – Sticky Rice

Sticky rice is like the glue that holds together so many Asian cuisines, and in Vietnam, it’s a star.

Whether sweet or savory, topped with meats, beans, or coconut – it’s a versatile dish that never gets boring.

Highly Recommended:

• Xôi Gà Number One: 15 Nguyen Trung Truc, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Xôi Chè Bùi Thị Xuân: 111 Bui Thi Xuan, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
• Any crowded street vendors you can find.

11. Bún Bò Huế – Spicy Beef Noodle Soup

This one’s a bit spicy and a lot flavorful. It’s a beef noodle soup like phở, but with a kick of lemongrass and chili.

The broth is rich and hearty, and every spoonful is like a warm, spicy hug.

Highly Recommended:

• Bún bò Huế Đông Ba – Since 1988: 207B Nguyen Van Thu, Da Kao Ward, District 1
• Bún bò Huế 31: 31 Mac Dinh Chi, Da Kao Ward, District 1
• Any nearby “Bún Bò” restaurant filled with many customers

12. Bò Lá Lốt – Beef Wrapped in Betel Leaf

Beef delicately wrapped in betel leaves and grilled offers a unique culinary experience. The leaves give the meat a unique flavor, mixing a bit of spiciness and tanginess. This dish is a joy to eat, combining fun and exquisite taste in every bite.

Highly Recommended:

• Bò Nướng Lá Lốt Đường Ray: 80/23 Nguyen Van Troi, Ward 8, Phu Nhuan District (highly recommended)
• Quán Ăn Cô Liêng: 321 Vo Van Tan, Ward 5, District 3
• Thanh Vy – Bò Lá Lốt & Gà Nướng: 249 Minh Phung, Ward 2, District 11
• Quán Anh Ba: 460 Phan Xich Long, Ward 2, Phu Nhuan District

13. Súp Cua – Crab Soup

Crab soup is popular in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s known for being easy to digest and rich in nutrients, making it a versatile dish available from morning to midnight​.

Highly Recommended:

• Súp cua Hạnh: 144 Pham Viet Chanh, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1

• Súp cua chợ Thiếc: 166 Phó Cơ Điều, Ward 6, District 11
• Súp cua Thảo chợ Hồ Thị Kỷ: 68/8 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10

14. Bắp Xào – Stir-fried Corn

Step aside, popcorn! Meet Saigon’s answer to a savory snack – stir-fried corn. This isn’t just any corn; it’s a sizzling mix of sweet corn kernels, butter, green onions, and tiny dried shrimp.

Some vendors add a bit of chili for that extra kick.

It’s a crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet snack that’s perfect for munching while you explore the city.

Highly Recommended:

• Cô Ba – Bắp Xào Trứng Muối: 2/24C Cao Thang, Ward 2, District 3
• Bắp Xào Hồ Con Rùa: 118 Co Giang, Ward 2, Phu Nhuan District
• SUDO Bắp Xào Trứng Muối: 435/47/12C Huynh Tan Phat, Tan Thuan Dong Ward, District 7
• Street vendors or hawkers near the park or residential areas (mostly)

15. Trứng Gà Nướng – Grilled Chicken Eggs

This is a fascinating treat! They are grilled chicken eggs, but not just boiled and grilled. These are partially cooked, seasoned with a mix of spices and herbs, and then grilled to perfection.

The result is a smoky, flavorful twist on your regular boiled egg, making it a simple yet unexpectedly delightful snack.

Highly Recommended:

• Ho Thi Ky Food Street, District 10
• Street vendors near the park or residential areas (mostly)

16. Bột Chiên – Fried rice flour cakes

Crispy and chewy at the same time, ‘Bột Chiên’ is a fried dough cake, often mixed with eggs and green onions. The dough is rice flour-based, which gives it a unique texture.

Often served with a tangy papaya salad, it’s a harmony of flavors and textures – crispy, chewy, tangy, and savory, all in one bite.

Highly Recommended:

• Bột Chiên Nguyễn Kim: 187 Nguyen Kim, Ward 7, District 10
• Bột Chiên Đạt Thành: 277 Vo Van Tan, Ward 5, District 3

17. Cá Viên Chiên – Fried Fish Balls

Fishcake lovers, rejoice! These are deep-fried fish balls, a common sight at many street corners. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and are usually served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.

It’s a perfect snack for seafood enthusiasts and anyone who loves a good, crispy bite.

Highly Recommended:

• 112 Dong Den, Ward 14, Tan Binh District, TPHCM (this place has no name)
• Cá Viên Chiên-33 LHK: 33 Luong Huu Khanh, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
• Anh Mỹ – Cá Viên Chiên: 81 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1

18. Chè – Vietnamese Sweet Soup or Pudding

This is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. ‘Chè’ refers to a variety of Vietnamese sweet soups or puddings.

There are so many kinds, from mung bean puddings to tapioca and fruit concoctions, each with its own unique taste and texture. It’s sweet, refreshing, and the perfect way to cool down after a day in Saigon’s heat.

Highly Recommended:

• Chè mâm Khánh Vy: 242B Su Van Hanh, Ward 2, District 10
• Chè Hiển Khánh: 718 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ward 1, District 3
• Chè Thái Ý Phương: 380-382-384 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Ward 4, District 10

19. Hột Vịt Lộn – Fertilized Duck Egg

This one is for adventurous eaters! Hột vịt lộn, or balut, is a fertilized duck egg with a nearly-developed embryo inside.

Boiled and eaten straight from the shell, it’s considered a delicacy. The flavor is rich, and the texture is a mix of creamy and chewy. It’s a unique dish that’s an integral part of street food culture in Saigon.

Highly Recommended:

• Street vendors or hawkers near the park or residential areas (mostly)
• Hột vịt lộn Kim Thảo: 104 Xuan Thuy, Thao Dien Ward, District 2
• Bếp Bà Mập: 39 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Ward 5, District 3

20. Bánh Mì Chảo – Baguette with Combo Pan

Take the classic Bánh Mì you love and give it a creative spin. ‘Bánh Mì Chảo’ isn’t your typical sandwich; it’s a skillet-based dish that transforms the traditional experience into something uniquely delicious.

You get a sizzling hot plate with meats like sausages, pâté, and fried eggs, all served with fresh baguette slices on the side. It’s like a Vietnamese take on a hearty breakfast platter, and it’s absolutely delicious.

Highly Recommended:

• Bánh Mì Chảo Cô 3 Hậu: 36 Duong So 18, Ward 8, Go Vap District
• Bánh Mì Chảo Hòa Mã: 53 Cao Thang, Ward 3, District 3
• Bánh Mì Áp Chảo Xuân Lạc: 172 Hoa Hung, Ward 13, District 10

21. Lẩu – Vietnamese Hotpots

• Fish Hotpot (Lẩu Cá): A flavorful broth filled with fresh, tender fish, vegetables, and herbs. It’s light but hearty.
• Beef Hotpot (Lẩu Bò): Rich and robust, this hotpot is loaded with beef slices, veggies, and often noodles, making it a filling choice.
• Goat Hotpot (Lẩu Dê): A unique choice for the adventurous, featuring tender goat meat in a spiced broth.
• Seafood Hotpot (Lẩu Hải Sản): A seafood lover’s dream, brimming with everything from shrimp to clams, cooked in a delicious broth.

Highly Recommended:

• Lẩu Bò Quang Khải: 338 Vo Van Kiet, Co Giang Ward, District 1 (Beef Hotpot)
• Lẩu Cá Cô Thư: Alley 252 Ly Thuong Kiet, Ward 14, District 10 (Fish Hotpot)
• Lẩu Ếch Sáu Hiếu: 429/9 Quang Trung, Ward 10, Go Vap District (Frog Hotpot)
• Lẩu Dê Minh Tuấn: 59/1 Nguyen Son, Phu Thanh Ward, Tan Phu District (Goat Hotpot)

22. Nướng – Vietnamese Barbecue

Street-side grills are everywhere, offering everything from skewered meats to grilled vegetables. The smell of the smoky, marinated meats is irresistible.

Each skewer is grilled to perfection, often served with a side of tangy sauce or fresh herbs.

Highly Recommended:

• You will easily find a variety of barbecues on Truong Sa, Hoang Sa, and other streets. They are everywhere!

23. Street Coffee

This isn’t just a drink; it’s a cultural experience. Vietnamese coffee is strong and flavorful, often served over ice with sweet condensed milk. But it’s not just about the coffee—it’s about the atmosphere.

Pull up a plastic stool on the sidewalk, and watch the city buzz by as you sip your coffee. It’s the perfect way to take a break and soak in the vibes of Saigon.

Highly Recommended:

• Any coffee shops you find on the street, try them all!

Wrap it up

That’s all for our Saigon street food journey! We’ve seen so many tasty dishes, from spicy soups to crunchy snacks.

Saigon’s street food is not just about eating; it’s about having fun and enjoying the flavors of the city.

In Saigon, every street corner has something yummy waiting for you. So go out there, try these foods, and enjoy every bite!