Vietnam’s biggest metropolis, Ho Chi Minh City, with its vibrant street food scene and distinctive culinary traditions, has become a culinary haven that beckons food enthusiasts from around the globe. Here are just a few of the bustling markets and lively streets that you can explore to discover the hidden gems that make it a true foodie paradise.
Begin your culinary expedition at the iconic Ben Thanh Market in District 1, a lively hub known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings. As you meander through its crowded alleys, the air becomes saturated with the enticing scent of regional specialties. We find ourselves drawn to stalls offering Banh Beo, delicate water fern cakes that melt in the mouth, and Banh Nam, flat steamed rice dumplings filled with savory delights. However, it’s Gate 7 of Ben Thanh Market that steals the spotlight, boasting a concentration of stalls selling delectable sweet desserts that will satisfy even the most ardent sweet tooth.
Next on the city’s culinary roadmap is Tan Dinh Market, a historic gem with a legacy spanning over 90 years. As the sun sets, the market’s food court springs to life, offering a medley of dishes ranging from comforting bowls of broken rice to tantalizing noodles and refreshing beverages. The evening ambiance adds a touch of enchantment, making Tan Dinh Market a must-visit for those seeking not just food but a cultural experience.
Venturing into Cho Lon, encompassing Districts 5 and 6, you can delve into the unique culinary traditions of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinese community. Binh Tay Market, Soai Kinh Lam and Dai Quang Minh Market beckon with the aromatic allure of roast duck, dumplings, chicken pot and the artistry of kung fu noodles. The interplay of flavours here serves is an example of the cultural diversity embedded in the city’s gastronomic landscape.
District 10 unveils its culinary treasure, Ho Thi Ky Food Street, a vibrant destination where myriad food and drink stalls line the bustling streets. Here, visitors immerse themselves in the bold and spicy notes of Hu Tieu Oc, a snail noodle soup that tingles the taste buds, and the rich, flavourful broth of Pha Lau Oc, perfect for dipping freshly baked bread. The energy of the street adds an extra layer of authenticity to this street food adventure.
Your culinary quest takes a delicious turn to Turtle Lake in District 3, where an array of rice paper, spring rolls and cakes await to captivate your senses. As you stroll along Nguyen Thuong Hien Street in District 3, you will encounter mixed rice paper delights featuring golden beef sauce and fermented pork skin, each bite echoing the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam.
Complete your foodie our journey on Phan Xich Long Street in Phu Nhuan District, a culinary crossroads where Vietnamese regional cuisines seamlessly blend with the influences of Korean and Japanese dishes. The symphony of flavours here is one more example of the cultural melting pot that Ho Chi Minh City has become.
Source: Ho Chi Minh City Tourism Promotion Center