Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho: A Flavorful Noodle Soup Icon in Tien Giang

In the vibrant heart of My Tho, Tien Giang, Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho stands as a culinary cornerstone of the Mekong Delta, renowned for its sweet, aromatic broth, chewy rice noodles, and fresh toppings. This iconic noodle soup, blending pork, seafood, and local herbs, captures the essence of Tien Giang’s riverine culture and agricultural bounty. A must-try at My Tho’s bustling markets or cozy eateries, it’s a favorite for foodies seeking authentic Mekong flavors. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, offers curated foodie tours to enjoy this dish while exploring My Tho’s eco-attractions. Start your culinary journey—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its lively hub, now encompasses the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its status as a culinary and cultural destination. Upgraded eco-friendly infrastructure, including electric boats and cycling paths, supports sustainable exploration of My Tho’s food markets and attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s culinary and cultural heritage. Our Tien Giang tours pair eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with authentic tastings of Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, guided by local experts. Supporting My Tho’s farmers and vendors, we offer transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for a flavorful, eco-conscious adventure!

Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, a signature noodle soup of My Tho, features chewy rice noodles made from local Cố Cát rice, a sweet broth simmered with pork bones and dried seafood, and toppings like shrimp, pork, and fresh herbs. Originating from Chinese immigrants in the 17th century, it has evolved into a uniquely Vietnamese dish, distinct for its clear, fragrant broth. Tien Giang’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—ensures year-round fresh ingredients, from herbs to seafood. Enjoy it in My Tho’s markets, eateries, or on Thoi Son Island, paired with eco-tours for a complete Mekong experience.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• Rice noodles (hủ tiếu, 400g, preferably Cố Cát rice noodles)

• Pork bones (500g, for broth)

• Chicken bones (200g, optional, for richer broth)

• Dried shrimp (30g)

• Dried squid (1 small, grilled)

• Daikon radish (1, peeled and chopped)

• Fresh shrimp (200g, peeled and deveined)

• Pork shoulder or loin (200g, thinly sliced)

• Pork liver (100g, thinly sliced, optional)

• Quail eggs (8, boiled and peeled, optional)

• Fresh herbs: bean sprouts, chives, cilantro, green onions

• Fried shallots (2 tbsp)

• Lime (1, cut into wedges)

• Chili (1, sliced)

• Soy sauce (1 tbsp)

• Fish sauce (2 tbsp)

• Sugar (1 tsp)

• Water (2 liters)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare Broth: Scrub pork and chicken bones with salt, rinse, and simmer in 2 liters of water for 2 hours, skimming foam. Add dried shrimp, grilled squid, daikon, and sugar. Simmer for another hour until fragrant and clear. Season with fish sauce.

2. Cook Noodles and Proteins: Boil rice noodles until al dente (3–5 minutes), then drain. Boil shrimp, pork slices, and liver (if using) for 2–3 minutes until cooked.

3. Assemble Bowl: Place noodles in bowls. Top with shrimp, pork, liver, and quail eggs. Add bean sprouts, chives, cilantro, green onions, and fried shallots.

4. Serve: Ladle hot broth over the noodles. Serve with lime wedges, chili, and soy sauce on the side for customization.

5. Optional Dry Style (Hủ Tiếu Khô): Toss noodles with a mix of soy sauce, fish sauce, and a touch of broth instead of serving with broth. Serve broth separately.

Tips: Use fresh Cố Cát rice noodles for authentic texture; add a dash of chili oil for extra heat. Fresh herbs are essential for the dish’s vibrant flavor.

1. Hủ Tiếu Sâu Sen

A legendary My Tho eatery on Tran Hung Dao Street, famous for its traditional Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho recipe.

• Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per bowl.

• Hours: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Rich broth, fresh toppings, spacious dining.

• Tips: Try the dry style (khô); included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. My Tho Night Market

A vibrant food court on 30/4 Street, offering affordable Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho at bustling stalls.

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per bowl.

• Hours: 6:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Lively atmosphere, diverse Mekong dishes, budget-friendly.

• Tips: Arrive by 7:00 PM for freshest bowls; included in our My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

3. Mekong Taste Restaurant

A riverside My Tho spot serving refined Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho with premium ingredients and scenic views.

• Cost: $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND) per bowl.

• Hours: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Elegant presentation, riverfront seating, seafood options.

• Tips: Reserve for sunset dining; included in our Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

4. Thoi Son Island Eateries

Savor homemade Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho at homestays or small restaurants on Thoi Son Island, with local ingredients.

• Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per bowl.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Rustic setting, fresh herbs, canal views.

• Tips: Pair with a boat tour; included in our Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Taste at Markets: Sample Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho at My Tho’s night market for a budget-friendly, authentic experience.

• Join Cooking Workshops: Learn to make this noodle soup on Thoi Son Island or in My Tho, guided by local chefs ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).

• Pair with Eco-Tours: Combine tastings with canal cruises, orchard visits, or cycling for a full Mekong adventure.

• Dine at Homestays: Enjoy homemade versions at Thoi Son homestays, paired with cultural exchanges.

• Explore Local Flavors: Complement with Tien Giang specialties like bánh bèo or bún gỏi già.

• Tips:

  • Add a squeeze of lime and a pinch of chili for a flavor boost.

  • Book guided foodie tours for curated tastings; included in our eco-tours.

  • Visit in summer for vibrant markets and fresh herbs.

My Tho, Tien Giang’s culinary hub, is easily accessible:

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours, 70 km).

  • Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND, 1.5 hours).

  • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND, 1.5–2 hours).

  • Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).

• Tips:

  • Book buses via VeXeRe or Baolau for convenience.

  • Use offline maps (Maps.me); save My Tho Night Market as a landmark.

  • Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450) for seamless transfers.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for market visits and outdoor dining; Tet (January–February) features festive food stalls.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush scenery and fresh herbs; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts. August–October is perfect for vibrant markets.

• Tips: Book 3–4 weeks in advance for peak seasons; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack for a sustainable foodie trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; sandals for markets; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger; camera for food shots.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for market buys, bamboo straw for sustainability.

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for small vendors; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho: $1–$7 (25,000–175,000 VND) per bowl, depending on venue.

• Activities:

  • Cooking workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Boat tours to Thoi Son: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Bicycle rental: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Dining (Other Dishes): Bánh bèo, bún gỏi già at eateries: $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation (My Tho):

  • Homestays: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Hotels (e.g., Minh Kieu Hotel): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

• Transport to My Tho:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi from Ho Chi Minh City: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$35 (bus, market meals, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, restaurant dining, hotel).

• Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for markets.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or summer.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for market dining.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush river views.

• Sustainability: Support local vendors; use eco-transport like bicycles or electric boats.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Hủ Tiếu Sâu Sen as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; respect vendor stalls.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào” (hello); tip servers $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent at riverside spots.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s culinary and cultural gems:

• Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, bánh bèo, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Thoi Son Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Enjoy Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho at homestays, canal cruises, and orchard visits. Includes boat transfers, snacks, guide.

• My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Taste Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho at the night market, visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, and enjoy “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore My Tho’s markets, Cai Be Floating Market, and homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, a soulful taste of Tien Giang Region, Dong Thap Province’s Mekong Delta heritage, blends sweet pork broth, chewy rice noodles, and fresh toppings like shrimp and herbs into a culinary masterpiece, priced at $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per bowl. Found at My Tho’s lively night market or tranquil homestays in Thoi Son Islet, this iconic noodle soup draws food lovers to savor local traditions in Tien Giang, located 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours guide you to enjoy this dish, ensuring a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience with eco-friendly practices like locally sourced ingredients and low-impact tours, paired with visits to Cai Be Floating Market and Vinh Trang Pagoda. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly foodie adventure today!
Ready to taste Tien Giang’s legendary Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the Mekong Delta’s flavorful heart!

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.

Sources:

• Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, tnktravel.com, vinpearl.com