Savouring Saigon: What to eat in Vietnam’s lively capital
When you arrive in Saigon, popularly known as Ho Chi Minh City, it’s hard to ignore the skilled motorcyclists. But it’s harder to ignore (or forget) the mouth-watering meals that are served around the city.
Whether you prefer to treat yourself to the abundant street food or go to a restaurant, it’s important to note that Vietnamese cuisine is like no other. If you have tried it in the West, you could have a sense of what to expect, but trust me, it’s not the same.
If you are travelling to Saigon, here are a few recommendations on where to go eat:
1. Quán Cơm Tấm Hùng
A bit more far from the touristy downtown area lays the wonderful Quán Cơm Tấm Hùng. This was a recommendation from Linh, a dear Saigonese friend whom I met in Canada.
This absolute gem serves Cơm tấm, a dish made from rice with fractured rice grains. In English, it’s called broken rice and oh my god, this is one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life. The rice was accompanied by grilled pork, veggies and a meatloaf made up of egg, rice and tofu, with fish sauce on the side.
To say it was delicious would be an understatement. It was tasty, memorable and inexpensive. My boyfriend and I stayed in Vietnam for 15 days and we couldn’t get over this meal.
Their hours are 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., so don’t forget to go there early because it sells out. It’s a must-try dish!
Side note: This establishment reminded me of the taco establishments on the streets of my dear Mexico, and it was funny because many of the customers are locals, so the owner was surprised to see tourists wandering around but welcomed us with warmth.
You can find it at: 194/2 Võ Văn Tần, Phường 5, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
2. Ann Quán
When you step into Ann Quán, the atmosphere makes you feel like you’ve been transported into the Vietnam of hundreds of years ago. The staff wear traditional Vietnamese attire, and with a friendly smile, they may prepare some of the dishes in front of you.
Hien, our new Vietnamese friend who has lived in Ho Chi Minh for several years (and whom we met through my Vietnamese Canadian friend Minh) knew that my boyfriend and I were familiar with bánh mì’s and Pho, so he wanted us to try other dishes that are familiar to Vietnamese palates.
The menu is very large, and it contains everything from pork dishes to beef broth, salads, and noodles.
Ann Quán also offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, brunch and late-night drinks.
The address is: 66 Ngô Đức Kế, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
3. Chiyoda Sushi Bến Thành
If you’re in for a long trip, there comes a point where you want to try something different from Vietnamese cuisine, and that’s okay. No judgement here.
In Ho Chi Minh, you can also find everything from Japanese food to Indian food and surprisingly, Popeye’s.
But if you decide to visit the Mariamman Hindu temple during your stay in the city (I highly recommend it), after your visit, on the left side of the street you can find Chiyoda Sushi Bến Thành, a Japanese restaurant that serves delicious and fresh sushi, rolls, tempura, udon, and more.
The atmosphere is traditional yet modern, and their virgin cocktails are refreshing, especially during those hot, humid days.
I couldn’t tell you the name of the specific rolls I ordered because I can’t remember (yes, I should’ve taken notes). But the lemonade in the middle, as well as the rolls were an 11 out of 10.
Address: 256 Đ. Lê Thánh Tôn, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
4. Brodard Bakery
With a French background, Brodard Bakery has served macaroons, cake and various pastries since 1948.
If you need a break from the heat and walking and could use a rest in a cute and elegant, air-conditioned establishment, this is it.
Brodard Bakery also has a great menu of sweet and salty dishes. From croissant sandwiches to crepes and soups, it caters to every taste.
Their drink menu contains delicious coffee drinks, smoothies, and cocktails. My recommendation? Their passionfruit juice AND smoothie.
Find it at: 131–133 Đồng Khởi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam 700000.
5. M. Bar
This outdoor bar is located on the eight floor of the famous Hotel Majestic Saigon.
With mesmerizing views of Ho Chi Minh’s skyline, M. Bar’s menu includes both Western and Vietnamese dishes to accommodate any palate.
It also offers an extensive drink menu that includes everything from Vietnamese beer and cocktails to your usual margaritas or daiquiris.
M. Bar opens at 3 p.m., so if you’re craving an afternoon coffee with a view, this is also an excellent option. They also serve non-alcoholic drinks, including the famous oolong tea.
Tip: Take advantage of the happy hour, which runs every day from 3 to 6 p.m. And don’t forget to catch the sunset at 6 p.m. as well!
Address: M Bar, Vietnam, Hồ Chí Minh, Quận 1, Đ. Đồng Khởi, 3–5 (Khach san
