Savoring the Flavors of Ho Chi Minh City: 5 Must-Try Restaurants
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is a vibrant metropolis and the largest city in Vietnam. Known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and bustling streets, the city is also home to an incredibly diverse food scene. With influences from both Vietnamese and international cuisines, Ho Chi Minh City has something to offer every foodie. Here are the top 5 restaurants and eateries in the city
Hearty bowl of Hu tieu (Hủ tiếu)
1. Bun Cha 145
Bun Cha is a traditional Vietnamese dish that consists of grilled pork and noodles. The pork is marinated in a delicious blend of herbs and spices before being grilled to perfection. The noodles are served with a side of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce that's made with fish sauce, sugar, vinegar, and chili. Bun Cha 145 is a small and unassuming restaurant located in the heart of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City. The restaurant has a no-frills atmosphere, with simple wooden tables and chairs, and a few fans to keep customers cool in the heat of the day. Despite its humble appearance, Bun Cha 145 is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike, and the restaurant is often crowded during peak hours.
Price Range: VND 50,000 - 70,000 (2.50 - 3.00 USD)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Open daily)
Address: 145 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Spread of fresh food at Cuc Gach Quan
2. Cuc Gach Quan (Cục Gạch Quán)
Cuc Gach Quan is a charming restaurant that offers a unique dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in a restored French colonial villa in District 1, the restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with exposed brick walls, wooden beams, and antique furniture. The name "Cuc Gach" means "clay bricks," which pays tribute to the building's history and the traditional materials used in its construction.
The menu at Cuc Gach Quan features traditional Vietnamese dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes include the Saigon-style fried spring rolls, the caramelized pork belly, and the grilled eggplant with scallion oil. The food is beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful when it comes to choosing dishes.
The restaurant also has an extensive drinks menu, with a selection of Vietnamese and international wines, cocktails, and fresh juices. There is also a rooftop bar that offers stunning views of the city skyline, making it a great spot for a pre-dinner drink or nightcap.
The prices at Cuc Gach Quan are higher than some of the other restaurants on this list, but the quality of the food and the ambiance of the restaurant make it worth the splurge.
Price Range: VND 300,000 - 400,000 (12 - 17 USD)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Open daily)
Address: 10 Dang Tat, Ward Tan Dinh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa
3. Banh Mi Huynh Hoa
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is a street-side eatery that serves some of the best Banh Mi in Ho Chi Minh City. The shop is located on Le Thi Rieng Street in District 1, a busy area that's popular with locals and tourists alike. Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that consists of a crispy baguette filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces. Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is known for its generous portions and flavorful combinations, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists.
The menu at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is limited to Banh Mi, but the options are varied enough to satisfy any palate. Some of the most popular fillings include grilled pork, pate, ham, and sausage, and the sandwiches are loaded with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a spicy chili sauce. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making for a perfect contrast to the savory fillings.
Banh Mi Huynh Hoa is clean and well-maintained, with a few small tables and chairs set up for customers who want to dine in. However, most customers choose to take their Banh Mi to go and enjoy it on the go.
Price Range: VND 25,000 - 50,000 (1 - 2 USD)
Opening Hours: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Open daily)
Address: 26 Đ. Lê Thị Riêng, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Intimate setting at The Refinery
4. The Refinery
The Refinery is a French-inspired bistro that offers a sophisticated dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in a beautifully restored building in District 1, the restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere with exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and soft lighting. The menu at The Refinery features classic French dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and the wine list is extensive, with a selection of French and international wines.
Some of the standout dishes at The Refinery include the steak frites, the seared foie gras, and the escargots de Bourgogne. The menu also includes vegetarian options, as well as a selection of charcuterie and cheese boards that are perfect for sharing. The desserts at The Refinery are also not to be missed, with the crème brûlée and the chocolate mousse being particularly popular.
The Refinery also has a stylish bar area that serves a selection of cocktails, spirits, and beers. The bar is a popular spot for after-work drinks, and there's a daily happy hour from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with discounted drinks and snacks.
Price Range: VND 600,000 - 1,000,000 (26 - 43 USD)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Open daily)
Address: 74 Hai Ba Trung, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
5. Quan Ut Ut
Quan Ut Ut is a popular barbecue restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, with a casual and fun atmosphere that's perfect for groups and families. The restaurant specializes in American-style barbecue, with a menu that includes pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and chicken wings. The meats are cooked low and slow, and served with a variety of sides such as mac and cheese, coleslaw, and cornbread.
One of the standout dishes at Quan Ut Ut is the pulled pork sandwich, which features tender and flavorful pulled pork piled high on a soft bun, topped with barbecue sauce and pickles. The restaurant also offers a selection of craft beers, with a rotating selection of local and international brews. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or just looking for a fun dining experience, Quan Ut Ut is definitely worth a visit.
Quan Ut Ut has two locations in Ho Chi Minh City, one in District 1 and one in District 2. The District 1 location is at 168 Vo Van Kiet Street, which is a short walk from Ben Thanh Market. The District 2 location is at 60 Truong Dinh Street, which is a bit further out but still easily accessible by taxi or motorbike.
Price Range: VND 150,000 - 400,000
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Open daily)
Addresses -
Location 1: 168 Võ Văn Kiệt, Phường Cầu Ông Lãnh, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
Location 2: 47 Xuân Thủy, P. Phú Thuận, Quận 2, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
