Where I’ve eaten, and why I keep coming back
Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is not only the thriving center of Vietnam; it’s also a culinary enthusiast’s paradise. Around every corner, there’s something to sample, from street vendors that offer aromatized pho to high-end restaurants with a combination of Vietnamese and foreign cuisines. Having spent considerable time here, I’ve found that the real beauty of this city is in its culinary variety and its capacity to combine tradition with innovation. Whether you’re hankering for something simple and homely or want a gourmet experience, Ho Chi Minh City has it all to offer. Over the years, I’ve eaten at countless places, but these five restaurants always stand out, drawing me back time and time again. Here’s where you’ll find me every time I’m back in this vibrant city.
1. Pho 2000 – For the Most Iconic Pho
I’ve eaten pho all over Vietnam, but nothing compares to Pho 2000. Located near Ben Thanh Market, this place is famous for one reason: it’s where Bill Clinton ate during his visit to Ho Chi Minh City in 2000. The celebrity connection is nice, but it’s the pho that keeps me coming back.
The broth is rich, deep, and evenly balanced, with the appropriate combination of herbs and spices. The beef is tender, the noodles are soft, and the portion is just right. Whenever I sit down, it’s like I’m having pho the way it’s supposed to be.
Bonus Tip: Don’t miss asking for additional chili and lime. It brings a nice zing to the taste that’s great with the hearty broth.
2. The Deck Saigon – A Riverfront Dining Experience
If you want to impress someone (or yourself), The Deck Saigon is where you head. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s worth it. Overlooking the Saigon River, the view is amazingly tranquil, particularly at sunset.
I have had everything from fresh seafood to grilled meat there. The food is complex but clean, and the service is excellent. The best thing? Dining while gazing out over the water is something you will never forget.
Pro Tip: If you’re there for a celebration, ask for a table right at the river’s edge for the absolutely stunning view. It’s the sort of place you would want to stay for hours.
3. Quan An Ngon – Street Food with a Twist
Occasionally, you desire the street food authenticity but in a neater and cozier environment. That’s where Quan An Ngon excels. It’s an easygoing place, but the diversity is what I love about it. You can choose from dozens of various regional offerings.
I always begin with their bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes). They are crispy on the outside and soft and savory inside, and the dipping sauce is perfect. Each time I have gone, the restaurant has been hopping with locals and tourists alike, and I always end up leaving full and grinning.
Insider Tip: If you love pho, the one served here is prepared using just the right amount of herbs, and they offer both beef and chicken.
4. Sushi Rei – A Taste of Japan in Ho Chi Minh City
Sushi Rei is not the most well-known establishment in the city, but it’s certainly one of the finest. I found it on a rainy afternoon, having a hankering for sushi. What I did not anticipate was a sushi experience on par with any that I have ever had in Japan.
The fish is super fresh, and the presentation is impeccable. The sashimi just melts, and the rolls are equally well-balanced. It’s small, quiet, and hidden on Le Thanh Ton Street, which is part of its charm. It’s my destination whenever I crave a sushi fix in the city.
Quick Tip: Don’t skip the uni (sea urchin). It’s one of their offerings and always fresh.
5. Cục Gạch Quán – Cozy Vietnamese Dining at Its Best
Cục Gạch Quán has a cozy, almost homey feel. The interior is decorated like a traditional Vietnamese house, with wooden tables and lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The vibe is relaxed, and it feels like you’re eating in someone’s home, even though it’s a busy restaurant.
Their Vietnamese hotpot isn’t matched anywhere, and I’ve spent countless hours with friends sharing plates and catching up on bowls of rich, hot broth. The food here just tastes like it was prepared with love, and that is something I can never have enough of.
Fun Fact: This restaurant is famous for its “bánh cuốn” (steamed rice rolls), a silky and delicious dish that’s great as a breakfast or lunch option. It’s one of the restaurant’s best-kept secrets!
Final Thoughts
Ho Chi Minh City is food heaven for all food lovers. The variety of flavors and dishes is incredible, ranging from herbs and spices to soft meat and seafood. The good news is that there is something tasty at almost any price. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of pho at a simple street stall or having an elegant meal at a riverside restaurant, the food scene here is unparalleled. Each of these restaurants on this list has something that brings me back whether it’s the quality of food, the ambiance, or the experiences that are unforgettable. Ho Chi Minh City is the type of city where food is not merely to fill the belly; it’s about interacting with the culture, the people, and the traditions that make this city extraordinary. If you’re planning a trip here, trust me, these five spots should be at the top of your list.