Explore iconic local foods in Ho Chi Minh City! Savor Bún Riêu Gánh and Phở with Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours in Saigon. Book your culinary adventure now!
Capture the savory essence of Ho Chi Minh City’s street food gem (Source: Internet)A Culinary Paradise in Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City, known as Saigon, is a vibrant culinary capital in Vietnam’s southeast, where street stalls and upscale restaurants serve a dazzling array of dishes. From the tangy crab broth of Bún Riêu Gánh in Ward 1’s Ben Thanh Market to the savory snails at Đào’s Snails in Ward 5, Saigon’s food scene blends Southern Vietnamese flavors with Chinese, French, and Khmer influences. In a 6,772 km² megacity, iconic dishes like phở, bánh mì, and bánh xèo captivate foodies worldwide, offering a taste of history and culture. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly foodie tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, guide you through this gastronomic haven sustainably, supporting local vendors. Embark on a culinary journey—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City
Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, creating a 6,772 km² megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, including District 1 now Ward 1 and District 5 now Ward 5. This reorganization enhances culinary exploration with improved cycling paths, electric buses, and Metro Line 1, connecting Ward 1’s Ben Thanh Market to Ward 5’s Cholon and beyond to Thu Duc’s modern districts and Can Gio’s eco-attractions. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.
Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers curated, eco-conscious foodie tours to Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic eateries. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, led by local experts sharing Saigon’s culinary heritage. Supporting communities in Ward 1, Ward 5, and Thu Duc, we align with the city’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and savor Saigon sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews
Photograph the vibrant allure of Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary scene (Source: Internet)Located ~1,730 km south of Hanoi in Ward 1 and surrounding wards, Ho Chi Minh City thrives in a tropical monsoon climate: dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in June–September (150–400 mm). Saigon’s food scene spans street stalls like Bún Riêu Gánh in Ben Thanh Market to hidden gems like Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần in Ward 5, offering dishes from phở to bánh xèo. Rooted in Southern Vietnam’s agricultural abundance, the cuisine emphasizes fresh herbs, tangy sauces, and bold flavors. Accessible via Metro Line 1, Saigon’s culinary hotspots, near landmarks like Independence Palace, draw millions to Ward 1 and Ward 5, making it a global foodie destination.
Saigon’s culinary landscape is defined by these iconic dishes, available from street stalls to restaurants:
Phở: Aromatic beef or chicken noodle soup with rice noodles, herbs, and lime, served with chili sauce. Try Phở Hòa at 260C Pasteur, Ward 1 ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND).
Bánh Mì: Crispy baguette sandwiches with pate, pork, pickled carrots, and cilantro. Visit Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa, 26 Lê Thị Riêng, Ward 1 ($1.50–$2.50 or 35,000–60,000 VND).
Bún Riêu: Crab paste noodle soup with tomatoes, tofu, and tamarind sauce, best at Bún Riêu Gánh (details below).
Bánh Xèo: Crispy rice flour pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fish sauce. Find at Bánh Xèo 46A Đinh Công Tráng, Ward 1 ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND).
Cơm Tấm: Broken rice with grilled pork, egg, and pickled vegetables, a Southern staple. Try Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền, 84 Đặng Văn Ngữ, Ward 10 ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND).
Gỏi Cuốn: Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, pork, vermicelli, and herbs, dipped in peanut sauce. Available at street stalls in Ward 1 ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Hủ Tiếu: Rice noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and herbs, best at Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần (details below).
Ốc (Snails): Grilled, steamed, or stir-fried snails with chili or tamarind, iconic at Đào’s Snails (details below).
These dishes reflect Saigon’s blend of tradition and innovation, accessible across Ward 1 and Ward 5.
Experience Ho Chi Minh City Tours with sustainable dining (Source: Internet)Savor My Tho-style hủ tiếu at 450 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 5, a family-run stall for over 30 years, open 7:00 AM–3:00 PM. Choose soup or dry noodles with pork ribs, shrimp, minced meat, and herbs, topped with a sweet-sour sauce unique to this eatery. The rice noodles retain a chewy texture, paired with bean sprouts and chives.
Cost: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM.
Tip: Visit early for freshest broth; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).
Taste Southern-style bún riêu at 4 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh Market, Ward 1, operating for over 40 years, open 9:30 AM–7:00 PM. Founded by Mrs. Mai Thi Lien, this stall serves a sweet, umami-rich crab broth with vermicelli, crab cake, fried tofu, blood curd, and tomatoes, served with tamarind-shrimp paste sauce and herbs.
Cost: $2.50–$3.50 (60,000–85,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM–7:00 PM.
Tip: Arrive before noon to avoid crowds; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) (web:16, web:24).
Indulge in seafood at Đào’s Snails, 166 Nguyễn Thượng Hiền, Ward 5, a celebrity-frequented spot since 2005, open 3:00 PM–11:00 PM. Offering grilled, steamed, or stir-fried snails, clams, and crabs with tamarind or chili sauces, this eatery is known for fresh ingredients and fast service. Popular dishes include tamarind clams and chili snails.
Cost: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) per dish.
Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Tip: Try the signature tamarind clams; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).
Start your Ho Chi Minh City Travel with flavorful vibes (Source: Internet)Photo @thanhnien Speaking of popular eateries in Saigon, it is impossible not to mention the Bun Rieu Ganh of Ben Thanh market. Over 30 years, this noodle shop has become the familiar address of many Saigon people when craving noodles. The noodles here are not too big, but the quality with broth, fried tofu, pork chops, tomatoes and large croquettes are all over the bowl. Each bowl of noodles is served with a bowl of fresh vegetables and a plate of shrimp paste, tamarind and chilli paste. Along with the quality, the price of noodles here is not cheap when a full bowl of up to 50,000 VND. Many people comment that although the price is higher than the normal premises, with the location in the central district, food quality should be this price can understand. Particularly, the guests are no longer having to sit on the sidewalk, but the restaurant has spacious and clean seats.
Ho Chi Minh City’s foodie destinations, like Ben Thanh Market in Ward 1 and eateries in Ward 5, are easily accessible:
By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually via Terminal T3 (Vietnam Airlines domestic) and T1/T2. Round-trip costs:
Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).
Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).
Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.
Taxis/Grab to Ward 1 (7 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).
By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–22 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local bus #109 to Ward 1: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).
By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.
Getting to Ben Thanh Market (Ward 1) or Ward 5:
Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (Ward 1), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), 1-minute walk to Bún Riêu Gánh; 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND) to Ward 5.
Bus #109: Stops at Quach Thi Trang Square (Ward 1), 2-minute walk to Ben Thanh Market; connects to Ward 5, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).
Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1 or to Ward 5; use Vinasun or Mai Linh.
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for flat streets in Ward 1 or Ward 5.
Walking: 10-minute walk from Independence Palace to Ben Thanh Market in Ward 1.
Tip: Use bicycles or Metro Line 1 for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) for guided access to top eateries.
Dao’s snails (Source: Internet)The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for street food strolls in Ward 1’s Ben Thanh Market or Ward 5’s Cholon. Tet (January–February) brings festive street food stalls but busier eateries. The rainy season (May–November) features cooler temperatures (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with indoor market dining perfect during showers. Morning visits (7:00 AM–11:00 AM) ensure fresher ingredients, while evenings (5:00 PM–8:00 PM) offer vibrant street food scenes, especially at Đào’s Snails.
Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet; visit mornings for quieter dining. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Pack these essentials for a comfortable culinary experience:
Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Casual attire for street dining.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for market walks.
Footwear: Comfortable shoes for navigating stalls; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes for rainy season.
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab app, Maps.me, portable charger, camera for food photos.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for small purchases.
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick stall payments; use a crossbody bag to deter pickpockets.
Taste crab paste noodle soup at 4 Phan Boi Chau, Ward 1, a 40-year-old icon.
Cost: $2.50–$3.50 (60,000–85,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM–7:00 PM.
Tip: Included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).
Relish My Tho-style noodles at 450 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 5, with sweet-sour sauce.
Cost: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–3:00 PM.
Tip: Included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).
Indulge in tamarind clams at 166 Nguyễn Thượng Hiền, Ward 5, a seafood hotspot.
Cost: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) per dish.
Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Tip: Included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).
Explore this 1966 landmark, 700m from Ben Thanh Market in Ward 1.
Cost: Adults $3.45 (80,000 VND); children $0.85 (20,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.
Tip: Included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Visit this 1760 Chinese temple in Ward 5, 4 km from Ward 1, for cultural immersion.
Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Tip: Included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).
Culinary Costs
Bún Riêu Gánh: $2.50–$3.50 (60,000–85,000 VND).
Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Đào’s Snails: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND).
Other Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Transportation
Metro Line 1: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Bus #109: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).
Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1 or to Ward 5.
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).
Dining (Nearby)
Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Accommodation (Ward 1 or Ward 5)
Hostels: $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND).
Hotels: $25–$80/night (625,000–2,000,000 VND).
Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost
Budget: $15–$40 (includes food, metro, souvenirs).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes tours, Grab, dining).
Luxury: $100–$300 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).
Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are widespread in Ward 1 and Ward 5.
Begin your Ho Chi Minh City Tours with a savory adventure (Source: Internet)Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead, especially for Tet.
Seasonal Tips:
Dry Season: Use sunscreen; explore markets mornings for cooler weather.
Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); dine indoors at Ben Thanh Market.
Bargaining: Negotiate politely for souvenirs at Ben Thanh Market; start at 50% of quoted prices.
Safety: Wear crossbody bags; watch for pickpockets in crowded markets.
Sustainability: Use reusable straws; support local vendors like Bún Riêu Gánh.
Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Ben Thanh Market (4 Phan Boi Chau, Ward 1) as a landmark.
Cultural Respect: Eat neatly; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip servers $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) for good service.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); choose busy stalls for hygiene
Our sustainable tours showcase Saigon’s iconic foods and cultural heritage:
Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Bún Riêu Gánh, Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, Đào’s Snails, Cholon street food. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.
Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Bún Riêu Gánh, Thien Hau Pagoda, Independence Palace. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.
Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Bún Riêu Gánh, Ho Chi Minh City Museum, Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.
Saigon Culinary Escape ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Bún Riêu Gánh, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews
Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic local foods, from Bún Riêu Gánh’s crab soup to Đào’s Snails’ tangy seafood, offer an unforgettable culinary adventure in Saigon’s bustling streets. With Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly Ho Chi Minh City Tours, you’ll savor these dishes sustainably, exploring cultural gems and supporting local vendors. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Saigon foodie journey today!
Ready to taste Saigon’s culinary treasures? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant food scene!
Author Bio: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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