Street Food in Saigon

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Vietnam is known for many things. Whether it be dodging motorbikes while crossing the street, the beauty of Ha Long Bay, a sunset on the Mekong Delta, or the bustling markets that are full of life. However, one thing most can agree on is the curiosity and popularity of street food that fuels life in Saigon (also known as Ho Chi Minh City).

One of the best ways to find street food in Saigon is by wandering tiny alleyways.

What makes street food in Saigon so vibrant?

You’ve seen the little blue chairs, snuggled comfortably on the sidewalk paired with the little metal tables that you will probably wonder how in the world you’ll sit comfortably. Then you see and smell the food - whether noodles in a bowl of hot broth, or a bánh mì stall. Snails - known as Ốc in Vietnamese - soaked in coconut and lemongrass (don’t knock them until you try them!), or lobsters grilled perfectly with garlic and cheese, the only thing you’ll want to do is indulge in the street food that Saigon - and Vietnam - have to offer.

Street food in Saigon isn’t always served in a bowl of noodles - some are best served grilled!

Anthony Bourdain summed up street food in Saigon in the most perfect yet delicate way.

“This is the way so many of the great meals of my life have been enjoyed. Sitting in the street, eating something out of a bowl that I’m not exactly sure what it is. And scooters going by. So delicious. I feel like an animal. Where have you been all my life? Fellow travelers, this is what you want. This is what you need. This is the path to true happiness and wisdom.”

“In my way of thinking, in the hierarchy of delicious slurpy stuff in a bowl, bún bò Huế is at the very top.”

Street food in Saigon is a full experience. It’s fast, loud - chaotic beauty, in a way. Sometimes you’ll enjoy street food on a busy street or down a tiny hidden alley. Whether you’re an experienced Vietnam traveler or a first-timer, there’s a good chance you’ll have no idea what you’ve ordered but we can assure you that no matter what, your tastebuds will be in for an adventure.

What are some of the popular street foods in Saigon, Vietnam?

Happy guests enjoying street food (and their tiny blue stools!) in Vietnam.

The list of the best street food in Saigon can be seemingly endless so we don’t want to spill all of the secrets. Most people are on the hunt for the best bánh mì but here are some of our other must try street food recommendations.

Phở - duh! Phở is made with a flavorful broth that combines spices like cinnamon, star anise and cardamom that is poured over rice noodles with your choice of chicken or various cuts of beef. Don’t eat meat? Don’t worry! Get phở chay and you can enjoy a vegetarian based phở without missing out on any flavor. Top with fresh herbs such as basil, cilantro, a fresh squeeze of lime and if you’re brave, fresh chili sauce for even more taste.
Bún chả. Bún chả is a dish of grilled pork and noodles that has made its way from the North to the South over the years. Bún chả is served with the freshest of herbs and savory dipping sauce. Trust us, just try it. The rest will be history.
Xôi. Glutinous “sticky” rice that is usually topped with chicken or pork. Topped with fried shallots and spring onions, it may not sound like not a lot but it’s a full meal certain to warm your tummy.
As the man, myth, and legend, Anthony Bourdain said… bún bò Huế. Thick beef noodle soup with a mix of spicy, salty, and savory flavors. This soup uses thicker noodles than other popular Vietnamese street foods which makes it sure to leave you full and content.
Gỏi cuốn. The freshest of fresh. Think healthy, light, but delicious spring roll. Gỏi cuốn is rice paper that is filled and rolled with shrimp, pork, or a combination of both along with fresh herbs and rice noodles. Best enjoyed with fresh peanut sauce. The perfect guilt free street food in Saigon. Especially on a hot day!

What’s the best way to enjoy street food in Vietnam?

One of the best ways to enjoy street food in Ho Chi Minh City is to start walking the streets and let your nose guide you to the aromas that best wet your palette.

However, we recommend an even better way to enjoy street food in Saigon is to let our expert tour guides make sure you enjoy the best of the best flavors Vietnam has to offer. We guarantee you’ll be talking about your street food experience in Saigon as one of the highlights of your trip!

Vespa A Go Go

ADDRESS: 3/6 Thanh Thai Street, Ward 14, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

PHONE & WHATSAPP : +84 385 312 407

EMAIL: support@vespagogo.com

Website: https://vespaagogo.com/

Travel Tips

Street Food in Saigon

What makes street food in Saigon so vibrant?

What are some of the popular street foods in Saigon, Vietnam?

What’s the best way to enjoy street food in Vietnam?

Other tips