Savor Bún Riêu Gánh at Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City! Explore Saigon’s iconic dish with Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours. Book your foodie adventure now!
Capture the savory essence of Ben Thanh Market’s culinary gem (Source: Internet)A Taste of Saigon’s Culinary Heritage
Nestled at 4 Phan Boi Chau within Ben Thanh Market in Ward 1, Bún Riêu Gánh is a culinary legend, serving its signature crab paste noodle soup for over 40 years. Founded by Mrs. Mai Thi Lien in the 1970s, this humble stall has become a must-visit for Saigon locals and global foodies craving authentic Southern Vietnamese flavors. Its sweeter, umami-rich broth, paired with fresh herbs and tangy sauces, embodies Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant food scene in a 6,772 km² megacity. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly foodie tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, guide you to this iconic stall sustainably, supporting local vendors. Dive into Saigon’s culinary soul—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. This reorganization enhances Ben Thanh Market’s accessibility with new cycling paths, electric buses, and Metro Line 1, connecting Ward 1’s culinary hub 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 immersive, eco-conscious foodie tours to Bún Riêu Gánh and Ben Thanh Market. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by local experts sharing Saigon’s culinary traditions. 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 authentic allure of Ben Thanh Market’s food scene (Source: Internet)Located at 4 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh Market, Ward 1, ~1,730 km south of Hanoi, Bún Riêu Gánh thrives in Ho Chi Minh City’s 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). Operating for over 40 years, this stall serves Southern-style bún riêu, a crab paste noodle soup, daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM. Housed in Ben Thanh Market’s iconic 1914 French colonial structure, with its clock tower and ~1,500 stalls, the stall offers a meaty crab cake, fried tofu, blood curd, and vermicelli in a sweet, umami broth, priced at $2.50–$3.50 (60,000–85,000 VND). Accessible via Metro Line 1, it’s a culinary must-visit near landmarks like Independence Palace.
Bún Riêu Gánh has earned its fame over four decades as a culinary institution in Ben Thanh Market, Ward 1. Founded by Mrs. Mai Thi Lien, it began as a street cart before securing a permanent stall, attracting locals, celebrities, and tourists. Its Southern-style bún riêu stands out with a sweeter broth, distinct from Northern versions, blending crab paste, tomatoes, and pork for a rich, umami flavor. The stall’s generous portions, fresh herbs, and tangy tamarind-shrimp paste sauces create an unforgettable taste, earning accolades from foodies worldwide. Its central location in Saigon’s bustling market, combined with consistent quality, cements its status as a must-visit for authentic Vietnamese cuisine
Experience Ben Thanh Market Tours with sustainable dining (Source: Internet)A bowl of Bún Riêu Gánh at Ben Thanh Market is a culinary masterpiece, featuring:
Broth: Sweet, umami-rich, made from crab paste, pork bones, and tomatoes, simmered for hours.
Crab Cake: Meaty, tender, with a texture between pâté and shumai, crafted from fresh crab.
Toppings: Fried tofu, blood curd (huyết), pork slices, and tomato chunks for depth.
Noodles: Fine rice vermicelli (bún), absorbing the broth’s flavors.
Accompaniments: Fresh herbs (perilla, basil), bean sprouts, and a side of tamarind fish sauce, shrimp paste, and chili paste for customizable tanginess.
Price: $2.50–$3.50 (60,000–85,000 VND), reflecting premium quality in Ward 1.
Served with a side plate of greens, each bowl is ladled to order by Mrs. Lien or her family, ensuring freshness and authenticity.
To fully savor Bún Riêu Gánh at Ben Thanh Market:
Timing: Visit between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM to avoid lunch crowds; expect a 10–15-minute wait during peak hours (12:00 PM–2:00 PM).
Seating: Enjoy the spacious, clean dining area inside the market, not a sidewalk setup, with fans for comfort.
Ordering: Request a “full” bowl (đầy đủ) for all toppings; add tamarind sauce and chili paste for extra zing.
Pairing: Complement with Vietnamese iced coffee ($1 or 25,000 VND) or sugarcane juice ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) from nearby stalls.
Guided Tours: Join our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) for a curated tasting, including Bún Riêu Gánh, with eco-friendly transport and expert guides.
Tip: Arrive early and bring small VND notes for quick payment; the stall’s popularity draws steady crowds
Start your Ben Thanh Market Travel with a flavorful bite (Source: Internet)Bún Riêu Gánh, within Ben Thanh Market at 4 Phan Boi Chau, Ward 1, is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City’s transport hub:
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:
Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (across the street), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), 1-minute walk (web:22).
Bus #109: Stops at Quach Thi Trang Square, 2-minute walk, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).
Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1; use Vinasun or Mai Linh.
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for Ward 1’s flat streets.
Walking: 10-minute walk from Independence Palace (700m).
Tip: Use bicycles or Metro Line 1 for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) for guided access to Bún Riêu Gánh.
The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for strolling Ben Thanh Market and dining at Bún Riêu Gánh. Tet (January–February) brings festive vibes but busier stalls. 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 seating perfect during showers. Morning visits (9:30 AM–11:00 AM) ensure fresher broth and fewer crowds, while lunch hours (12:00 PM–2:00 PM) are livelier but busier.
Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet; visit early for a relaxed dining experience. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Pack these essentials for a comfortable visit:
Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Casual attire for market dining.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for market exploration.
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 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 payment at Bún Riêu Gánh; use a crossbody bag to deter pickpockets.
Enjoy a bowl of crab paste noodle soup with tamarind sauce at 4 Phan Boi Chau, Ben Thanh Market.
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) (web:16).
Try phở, bánh mì, or sweet chè at nearby Ben Thanh Market stalls for a foodie adventure.
Cost: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Tip: Included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) (web:4).
Browse Ben Thanh Market’s ~1,500 stalls for silk scarves, conical hats, or coffee.
Cost: $1–$20 (25,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.
Tip: Guided in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).
Walk 700m to Ward 1’s 1966 palace, a modernist architectural gem.
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).
Stroll 500m to this 1880 French colonial landmark in Ward 1.
Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 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).
Other Market Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Souvenirs: $1–$20 (25,000–500,000 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.
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)
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.
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; visit mornings for cooler market exploration.
Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); dine under market cover.
Bargaining: Negotiate politely for souvenirs at nearby stalls; start at 50% of quoted prices.
Safety: Wear crossbody bags; watch for pickpockets in crowded market aisles.
Sustainability: Use reusable straws; support local vendors like Bún Riêu Gánh.
Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Bún Riêu Gánh (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); ensure food stalls are busy for hygiene
Our sustainable tours showcase Bún Riêu Gánh and Saigon’s culinary heritage:
Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Bún Riêu Gánh, Ben Thanh Market, Cholon street food. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.
Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Bún Riêu Gánh, Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.
Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Bún Riêu Gánh, Ho Chi Minh City Museum, War Remnants Museum. 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
Bún Riêu Gánh at Ben Thanh Market is a culinary icon, offering an authentic taste of Saigon’s heritage in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. With Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours, you’ll savor this legendary noodle soup sustainably, exploring nearby cultural gems and supporting local vendors. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Ho Chi Minh City Travel foodie adventure today!
Ready to taste the heroic flavors of Bún Riêu Gánh? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Saigon’s culinary soul!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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