Discover the Best Restaurant in Saigon: Top 20 Must-Try Dining Spots

Exploring the Ho Chi Minh restaurants

Exploring the best food in Ho Chi Minh City allows you to uncover the defining characteristics of dining in Saigon.

Relishing Saigon’s Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine

Best restaurants near me in Saigon premier restaurants pride themselves on showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. From iconic dishes like pho and banh mi to regional specialties such as bun bo Hue and cao lau, these establishments offer authentic flavors that truly capture the essence of Vietnamese culinary heritage. Renowned eateries like Pho Hoa and Banh Mi Huynh Hoa use fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes to deliver a genuine taste of Vietnam.

Delighting in International Culinary Delights

Beyond traditional Vietnamese fare, Saigon’s dining scene offers an impressive array of international cuisines. The city’s top dining spots feature a global culinary journey, with Italian pasta, Japanese sushi, and American burgers all on the menu.

Restaurants such as Pizza 4P’s and Propaganda Bistro are celebrated for their fusion of Western techniques with local ingredients, creating unique and memorable dining experiences that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Embracing best food in Ho Chi Minh City

Street food is a vital part of Saigon’s culinary identity, and many top restaurants in the city incorporate street food-inspired dishes into their menus. Venues like The Lunch Lady and Secret Garden serve innovative takes on traditional street food favorites, blending the vibrant flavors of street food with the comfort and ambiance of a sit-down restaurant. This approach allows diners to enjoy the authenticity of street food in a more relaxed and upscale setting.

Experiencing Fine Dining Excellence in Saigon

For those seeking an elevated dining experience, Saigon offers a burgeoning fine dining scene with restaurants that provide impeccable service, elegant ambiance, and gourmet cuisine. Michelin-starred establishments such as Anan Saigon and stylish rooftop venues like EON51 offer sophisticated settings for indulging in culinary delights. These restaurants focus on high-quality ingredients, innovative cooking techniques, and meticulous presentation, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience.

Discovering Saigon’s Culinary Diversity on Any Budget

Saigon’s best restaurants cater to a diverse range of budgets, ensuring that exceptional dining experiences are accessible to everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a budget-friendly meal at a local eatery or splurging on a gourmet dinner, the city’s dining options accommodate every wallet size.

Affordable yet delicious choices can be found in bustling places like Ben Thanh Market, while upscale dining can be enjoyed at venues like La Villa French Restaurant, making Saigon a culinary destination that truly has something for everyone.

Best Restaurants in Saigon: Selection Tips

Exploring the bustling culinary landscape of Saigon while on Southern Vietnam motorcycle tours demands savvy decision-making and a discerning palate. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dining experiences in the city are nothing short of extraordinary:

Research and Read Reviews for the Best Options

Start your culinary journey by conducting thorough research and reading reviews. Online platforms such as TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google Reviews, as well as popular food blogs, offer valuable insights into the best restaurants in Saigon.

Look for consistently high ratings and detailed feedback about the food quality, service, and overall dining experience. This helps you narrow down your options and make informed decisions about where to dine.

Get Local Recommendations for Hidden Gems

For insider tips and hidden gems, consult with local residents or expatriates familiar with Saigon’s dining scene. Engage with locals through social media groups, forums, or by simply asking around in markets and shops.

Their firsthand knowledge and personal experiences can guide you to authentic eateries and off-the-beaten-path establishments that may not be readily apparent to tourists. These recommendations often lead to discovering unique culinary experiences and lesser-known yet excellent dining spots.

Match the Ambiance to Your Dining Mood

The ambiance of a restaurant significantly shapes your overall dining experience. Whether you prefer a cozy bistro with a relaxed atmosphere, a lively street-side eatery bustling with activity, or an elegant fine dining establishment with sophisticated decor, take the time to assess the ambiance.

Visit the restaurant’s website or social media pages to view photos and read descriptions. This helps ensure the atmosphere aligns with your preferences and the occasion, whether it’s a casual meal, a romantic dinner, or a celebratory event.

Consider Location and Accessibility for Convenience

When choosing where to dine, consider the restaurant’s location and accessibility in relation to your accommodations and planned activities. Opt for places that are conveniently located and easy to reach, especially if you’re exploring the city on foot or using public transportation.

Use mapping apps to check the distance and estimated travel time. Also, consider the surrounding area—choosing a restaurant in a vibrant neighborhood might offer additional post-dining entertainment options, enhancing your overall experience.

Check Menus for Dietary Preferences and Restrictions

Before making a reservation or placing your order, review the restaurant’s menu to ensure it offers a variety of options that cater to your dietary preferences and restrictions. Most restaurants have their menus available online. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or have food allergies, check if the restaurant can accommodate your needs.

Don’t hesitate to call ahead to inquire about specific dietary accommodations. Ensuring the menu aligns with your dietary needs will make your dining experience more enjoyable and stress-free.

Trust Your Instincts for a Great Dining Experience

Ultimately, trust your gut instincts when choosing a restaurant in Saigon. Pay attention to your intuition and initial impressions from reviews, photos, and recommendations. If something feels off or doesn’t meet your expectations, it’s okay to choose another option.

By listening to your inner foodie and being open to exploration, you’re more likely to discover hidden culinary gems and have unforgettable dining experiences in the vibrant streets of Saigon. Trusting your instincts helps you avoid tourist traps and find authentic, high-quality dining options that resonate with your tastes and preferences.

Top 20 Best Restaurant in Saigon You Can’t Miss

Anyone who comes to Saigon cannot miss this rich “culinary paradise”. Every dish in Saigon is available, converging enough North – Central – South culture that is difficult to find in any other region. Indochina Motorcycle Tours would like to suggest to you a list of the best restaurant in Saigon that you must try below.

1. Crab and Century Egg Soup at Tan Dinh Market

Tan Dinh District in Saigon is famous for its crab and century egg soup, so this is a delicious food stall that you should take note of as soon as you come here. The store is open all day from morning to afternoon. The soup is thick and includes lots of meat, shredded chicken, and crab meat, making it a satisfying meal. This food location always attracts many tourists to enjoy the food.

• Address: Tan Dinh Market, District 1, HCM City.
• Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• Price: 10,000 VND – 35,000 VND.

2. Mrs. Loan’s Snail Stall

For seafood lovers, Mrs. Loan’s Snail Stall is a must-visit. Located below the busy Nguyen Thien Thuat apartment building, this stall has long been a favorite place for snail enthusiasts. The dining space is extremely airy, with tables and chairs placed outside, not cramped in the restaurant space.

The menu here is very diverse and offers many dishes made from snails with different delicious flavors, including stir-fried snails with garlic butter, steamed snails with lemongrass, and snails in tamarind sauce.

• Address: Alley 166 Ly Thai To, Ward 1, District 3.
• Opening hours: 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Price: 30,000 – 60,000 VND.

3. Hien Khanh Sweet Soup Stall

To satisfy your sweet tooth, Hien Khanh Sweet Soup Stall is an iconic spot. Known as one of the most delicious sweet soup stalls in Saigon, it has been loved by many since it opened in 1959. The sweet soups are mainly prepared in the Northern style to suit the taste of Saigon people. The menu features various types of jelly, including white jelly, lotus jelly, jaggery jelly, and coconut jelly. They also offer traditional sweet soups like mung bean soup, black sesame soup, and red bean soup.

• Address: 718 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ward 1, District 3.
• Opening hours: 2:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Price: 10,000 VND – 33,000 VND/person.

4. Ms. Thao’s Beef Offal Restaurant

For something heartier, Ms. Thao’s Beef Offal Restaurant is a must-visit. With its rich, sweet flavor, you just need to tear a piece of bread, dip it in the beef offal soup, eat it with a piece of crispy leek leaves, and enjoy this unforgettable dish. The beef offal dishes are complemented by a cup of sweet, sour dipping sauce with kumquat flavor and a bit of spicy chili. The menu includes various beef offal dishes like beef intestines, liver, heart, and tongue, all cooked to perfection.

• Address: Ton Dan, District 4.
• Price: 25,000 VND.

5. Ba Chieu Sticky Rice

For a traditional Vietnamese breakfast or snack, Ba Chieu Sticky Rice is the place to go. This famous sticky rice restaurant in Saigon is located right behind Ba Chieu market. This is the oldest sticky rice restaurant in the city, known for its sticky rice with chicken and char siu meat.

A portion of sticky rice filled with meat is wrapped in banana leaves to enhance the flavor and keep it hot. When eaten with a little onion fat and sauce, it is truly wonderful. They also offer other sticky rice dishes such as sticky rice with Chinese sausage, sticky rice with salted egg, and sweet sticky rice with mung beans.

• Address: Behind Ba Chieu Market, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District.
• Opening hours: 3:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
• Price: 10,000 VND – 30,000 VND/portion.

6. Nam Vang Noodles at Thanh Dat

To experience a unique fusion of flavors, try Nam Vang Noodles at Thanh Dat. This noodle soup is prepared in the style of Vietnamese people living in Nam Vang (present-day Phnom Penh). The noodles are well-cooked and topped with layers of minced meat, lean meat, liver, kidney, shrimp, quail eggs, and green onions. The broth is made from bones and pork ribs. This 24/7 restaurant on Co Bac Street is a place where you can always enjoy this delicious dish. They also serve it dry with a side of flavorful broth.

• Address: 25 Co Bac, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1.
• Opening hours: 24/7.
• Price: 35,000 VND/bowl.

7. Mrs. Ut’s Pork Organ Congee

For a comforting bowl of congee, visit Mrs. Ut’s Pork Organ Congee is the best places to eat in Ho Chi Minh . For more than 80 years, Mrs. Ut’s pork organ congee stall on Co Giang Street has been a familiar address for diners in Saigon. With its rich, delicious flavor, everyone who eats it praises her congee.

The congee includes a variety of pork organs such as liver, intestines, and heart, all cooked to tender perfection. This is one of the best places to eat in Saigon that you should enjoy at least once when visiting.

• Address: 193 Co Giang, District 1.
• Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
• Price: 10,000 VND – 40,000 VND.

8. Banh Xeo Restaurant

If you’re a fan of Vietnamese pancakes, this Banh Xeo Restaurant is a must-visit. If you want to enjoy the authentic flavor of banh xeo, this restaurant has been one of the best places in Ho Chi Minh City for a long time.

The Southern-style banh xeo has a very crispy shell, with lots of shrimp and soft shrimp inside, making it convenient to roll. The restaurant also offers a variety of fillings such as pork, bean sprouts, and mushrooms, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

• Address: 46A Dinh Cong Trang, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1.
• Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Price: 50,000 VND – 100,000 VND.

9. Hoa Ma Baguette with Combo Pan

For a delightful breakfast experience, try Hoa Ma Baguette with Combo Pan is the best restaurants in ho chi minh city. It will not be difficult to find the small “bánh mì chảo” Hoa Ma located on Cao Thang Street. This is one of the first places to sell meat “bánh mì chảo” in Saigon.

A delicious loaf of bread must include the mixture fried in a small pan with ingredients like fried eggs, ham, sausages, grilled chopped fish, and pork bologna. All are meticulously fried and served hot with bread.

• Address: 53 Cao Thang, District 3.
• Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Price: 50,000 VND – 60,000 VND.

10. Pho Le Restaurant

No visit to Saigon is complete without trying pho, and Pho Le is the place to go. Since 1970, Pho Le has been a must-visit for tourists in Saigon. The restaurant’s broth has a sweet taste from the bones and perfect beef balls, making this dish popular among many tourists.

The bowl of pho is beautifully decorated with a few slices of onion and fresh green onions. They also offer variations like pho tai (rare beef), pho nam (brisket), and pho ga (chicken pho).

• Address: 413 – 415 Nguyen Trai, Ward 7, District 5.
• Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
• Price: 55,000 VND – 60,000 VND.

11. Tien Phat Dimsum Restaurant

For those who love dim sum, Tien Phat Dimsum Restaurant is a must-visit. Tien Phat is a famous dim sum brand of Chinese people in the Cho Lon area. Although the space is not as luxurious as other dim sum restaurants, it offers a familiar feeling reminiscent of a Hong Kong movie. The menu includes a wide variety of dim sum such as shrimp dumplings, pork buns, and siu mai, all served fresh and hot.

• Address: 18 Ky Hoa, Ward 11, District 5.
• Opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
• Price: 40,000 VND – 110,000 VND.

12. Plain Rice Flan at Phan Dang Luu

If you have a penchant for savory snacks, the Plain Rice Flan at Phan Dang Luu is a great choice. The plain rice flan store on Phan Dang Luu Street is known for its longevity and flavor. The cakes are attractive due to the toughness of the dough and the well-seasoned mushroom meat filling. Mixing in cooked green beans adds flavor and aroma to the cakes, making this dish a must-try.

• Address: 116/11 Phan Dang Luu, Phu Nhuan District.
• Opening hours: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Price: 22,000 VND/serving.

13. Dan Ich Fish Hotpot Restaurant

For hotpot lovers, Dan Ich Fish Hotpot Restaurant is a must-try. Located on Chau Van Liem Street, Dan Ich Fish Hotpot has been serving Saigon for over 40 years. The restaurant is known for its strong Chinese flavors, such as island fish hotpot.

The hot pot broth is sweet from stewed bones, and the hot pot includes fish, shrimp, grilled chopped fish, pork skin, mushrooms, vegetables, and noodles. Fried dough sticks are served with the hot pot for a unique and delicious combination.

• Address: 99 Chau Van Liem, Ward 14, District 5.
• Opening hours: 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Price: 50,000 VND – 110,000 VND.

14. Vietnamese Duck with Bamboo Shoots Noodle Soup

For a unique and traditional Vietnamese dish, try Vietnamese Duck with Bamboo Shoots Noodle Soup. In the middle of Saigon, finding a delicious Vietnamese duck with bamboo shoots noodle soup can be a challenge.

Located in an alley on Le Van Sy Street, this famous bamboo duck noodle shop has been selling out within an hour for nearly 50 years. The bowl is filled with duck meat, thin skin, firm and tender meat, and delicious bamboo shoots.

• Address: Alley 281 Le Van Sy, Ward 1, Tan Binh District.
• Opening hours: 3:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Price: 30,000 VND – 55,000 VND.

15. Nguyen Phi Khanh Vietnamese Thick Noodle Soup

For those who love rich and flavorful soups, Nguyen Phi Khanh Vietnamese Thick Noodle Soup is a must-visit. This spot is famous for its Vietnamese thick noodle soup. The noodles are well-hydrated, soft, chewy, and rich with a characteristic orange color. The pork leg dipped in chili pepper sauce adds a greasy, crispy, and chewy texture, making this dish twice as valuable. This is a must-try when in Saigon.

• Address: 12C Nguyen Phi Khanh, District 1
• Opening hours: 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Price: 13,000 VND – 40,000 VND

16. Tan Hoa Cau Restaurant

For a comprehensive Vietnamese buffet experience, visit Tan Hoa Cau Restaurant. This “Vietnamese buffet” restaurant offers unique traditional dishes. You can find ethnic dishes such as spring rolls, eggs, shrimp, and fish, as well as street-style dishes like grilled and skewered items. The restaurant also offers high-end hot pot and seafood dishes with delicate, natural flavors.

• Address: 149 Le Van Luong, Tan Kieng Ward, District 7, HCM City.
• Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Price: 300,000 VND – 350,000 VND/person.

17. Pachi Pachi Japanese Grill Restaurant

For those who love Japanese cuisine, Pachi Pachi Japanese Grill Restaurant is your best choice. The deliciousness of Tare sauce has made the meat pieces at the restaurant more delicious, softer, and sweeter than in many other restaurants. This is one of the famous delicious restaurants in Saigon that you should visit to enjoy Japanese cuisine.

• Address: 52 Mac Dinh Chi, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCM City
• Opening hours: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m., 5:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Price: 180,000 VND – 250,000 VND/person

18. Lang Nuong Nam Bo Restaurant

To experience the authentic cuisine of Southern Vietnam, visit Lang Nuong Nam Bo Restaurant. This restaurant vividly recreates the vibe of this fertile land. The most unique dish is roasted suckling pig, with a golden and crispy outside and extremely soft and fragrant inside. The restaurant also offers signature traditional dishes such as steamed snakehead fish with gourd and steamed grouper goby stomach.

• Address:
• 19B Nguyen Thi Dieu, District 3.
• 285/C145 CMT8, Ward 12, District 3.
• 302A To Hien Thanh, Ward 15, District 10.
• 4 Duong Duc Hien, Tan Phu District.
• Opening hours: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 p.m.
• Price: 200,000 VND – 320,000 VND/person.

19. An Nam Quan Restaurant Chain

For a taste of Central Vietnamese cuisine, visit the An Nam Quan Restaurant Chain. With a menu of over 80 Central dishes from Da Nang, An Nam Quan is a top recommendation in Saigon.

The special chicken dish on the tray is highly recommended, featuring sticky rice with scallion pate, stir-fried chicken intestines with turmeric, mixed chicken salad, and marinated chopped chicken.

• Address:
• 51B Tu Xuong, District 3.
• 59 Nguyen Binh Khiem, District 1.
• Opening hours: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
• Price: 120,000 – 140,000 VND/person.

20. Bui Restaurant

To enjoy a cozy and traditional Vietnamese meal, visit Bui Restaurant. Owned by Miss Mai Phuong Thuy, Bui Restaurant is a favorite among domestic and international tourists. Signature dishes include crispy crab spring rolls, brown rice fried with chicken and cashews, fried tofu with salted egg, and grilled pork.

The restaurant offers an ideal space with a traditional, cozy atmosphere and relaxing music by Trinh Cong Son, Pham Duy, and Ngo Thuy Mien.

• Address: 17A Ngo Van Nam, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCM City.
• Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
• Price: 30,000 VND – 150,000 VND.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to explore and savor the diverse and rich culinary landscape of Saigon, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

FAQs About Dining at the Best Restaurants in Saigon

Do I Need to Make Reservations at Restaurants in Saigon?

It depends on the restaurant and the time of day. Popular and upscale eateries often require reservations, especially during peak dining hours. However, many smaller establishments and street food vendors operate on a first-come, first-served basis, making reservations unnecessary.

Is Tipping Expected at Saigon’s Restaurants?

Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for excellent service. In upscale restaurants, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary. At street food stalls and smaller eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving loose change is a common practice.

Are Vegetarian and Vegan Options Available in Saigon?

Yes, many of the best restaurants in Saigon offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. However, it’s always a good idea to communicate your dietary restrictions clearly to ensure suitable choices are available.

What Are the Dining Etiquette Rules in Saigon?

Dining etiquette in Saigon is similar to other parts of Vietnam. It is customary to wait for the host to start eating, use chopsticks to pick up food, and avoid placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles a funeral ritual. Additionally, sharing dishes family-style is common, and showing appreciation for the meal is considered polite.

Is It Safe to Eat from Street Food Vendors in Saigon?

Street food is a beloved part of Saigon’s culinary culture, and many vendors maintain high hygiene standards. Look for vendors with a high turnover of food, which indicates freshness, and consider choosing cooked-to-order dishes to minimize the risk of foodborne illness. If in doubt, observe where locals are eating, as they usually know the safest and most delicious spots.

These FAQs should help you navigate the dining scene in Saigon, ensuring you have a delightful and safe culinary experience.

Why Choose These Best Restaurants in Saigon?

Let’s delve into the compelling reasons for selecting the best restaurants in Saigon.

Culinary Mastery

The best restaurants in Saigon are renowned for their dedication to culinary mastery. Each establishment prides itself on offering high-quality dishes prepared with the finest ingredients and authentic flavors. From traditional Vietnamese delicacies to exquisite international cuisine, these restaurants provide exceptional dining experiences that cater to even the most sophisticated tastes.

Unique Ambiance

Beyond the food, these restaurants are celebrated for their distinctive atmospheres that elevate the dining experience. Whether it’s a cozy bistro tucked away in a charming alley, a trendy rooftop bar with sweeping city views, or a lively street-side eatery teeming with local character, each venue offers a unique ambiance that enhances the enjoyment of your meal. The combination of great food and a captivating environment creates a memorable dining experience.

Cultural Immersion

In addition to the unique ambiance, dining at these top restaurants in Saigon offers more than just a culinary experience; it’s a chance to immerse yourself in the city’s rich culture and heritage. From traditional Vietnamese dining practices to contemporary culinary innovations, each meal provides a window into Saigon’s vibrant history and evolving gastronomic scene. This cultural depth enriches the overall dining experience, making it more than just a meal.

Outstanding Service

Completing the experience is the impeccable service that is a hallmark of the best restaurants in Saigon. Attentive staff members strive to make every guest feel welcome and valued, ensuring that your dining experience is smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a loyal customer, you can expect exceptional service characterized by warmth, professionalism, and a true passion for hospitality. The combination of culinary excellence, unique ambiance, cultural immersion, and outstanding service ensures an extraordinary dining experience.

By choosing these restaurants, you are assured of a dining experience that seamlessly combines superb food, a unique setting, cultural richness, and outstanding service. Each aspect complements the others, creating a holistic and unforgettable dining experience in Saigon.

While exploring Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the finest dining experiences at the best restaurant in Saigon. Whether it’s the intriguing street life adventure or the tantalizing traditional fusions found at other excellent fine dining restaurants, there’s a plethora of options to elevate your dining experience beyond mere culinary excellence.