Savoring Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần: A Taste of Saigon’s Culinary Heritage

A Culinary Legacy in Saigon’s Heart
Tucked away at 450 Nguyễn Trãi in Ward 5, Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần is a beloved culinary gem, serving My Tho-style rice noodle dishes for over 30 years. This family-run stall, with its faded sign and bustling crowds, embodies Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant food culture, offering a taste of Southern Vietnam’s heritage in a 6,772 km² megacity. Known for its chewy noodles and distinctive sweet-sour sauce, Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần draws locals and foodies to Ward 5, Saigon’s historic Chinatown. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly foodie tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, guide you to this iconic eatery 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 5 now Ward 5. This reorganization enhances culinary exploration with Metro Line 1 and cycling paths, connecting Ward 5’s foodie hubs like Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần to Ward 1’s urban core and coastal Vung Tau Ward. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1, ~4 km from the eatery.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious foodie tours to Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần and Saigon’s culinary landmarks. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by local experts sharing Southern Vietnam’s food traditions. Supporting communities in Ward 1, Ward 5, and Thu Duc, we align with Saigon’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

Located at 450 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 5, ~4 km southwest of Ward 1, Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần thrives in Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical savanna climate: dry season (December–April, 25–33°C or 77–91.4°F) and rainy season (May–November, 25–32°C or 77–89.6°F, 150–400 mm monthly rainfall). This modest stall, open daily from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, serves My Tho-style hủ tiếu, a rice noodle dish in soup or dry form, for over three decades. With a loyal following, it offers bowls priced at $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND), featuring pork ribs, shrimp, and a signature sweet-sour sauce. Accessible via Metro Line 1, it’s a culinary highlight in Ward 5’s Cholon, near landmarks like Thien Hau Pagoda.

Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần at 450 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 5, is easily reachable from Saigon’s transport hub:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually. 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 5 (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 Nguyễn Trãi: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND) (web:22).

• 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 Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần:

• Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (4 km away), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), then 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Bus #109: Stops at Nguyễn Trãi, 100m walk, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 5; $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND) from Ward 1. Use Vinasun or Mai Linh.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for Ward 5’s flat streets.

• Walking: 15-minute walk from Thien Hau Pagoda (1 km).

Tip: Use bicycles for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) for guided access.

To fully savor Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần at 450 Nguyễn Trãi:

• Timing: Visit between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM for the freshest bowls and to avoid peak lunch crowds (10:00 AM–1:00 PM). Expect a 5–10-minute wait during busy hours.

• Seating: Sit at simple plastic stools in the open-air stall, cooled by fans, offering an authentic Saigon street food vibe.

• Ordering: Choose between soup hủ tiếu (light broth with pork ribs, shrimp, cauliflower, bean sprouts, chives) or dry hủ tiếu (noodles with minced meat, ribs, shrimp, and sweet-sour sauce). Request “đầy đủ” (full toppings) for the complete experience. Price: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Pairing: Complement with Vietnamese iced coffee ($1 or 25,000 VND) or sugarcane juice ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) from nearby vendors.

• Guided Tours: Join our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75) for a curated tasting, including Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, with eco-friendly transport and expert guides sharing My Tho culinary history.

Tip: Arrive early for the freshest ingredients; bring small VND notes for quick payment. Savor the sweet-sour sauce with dry noodles for a unique flavor.

Photo @baomoi Ca Can Noodles is a special cause in that the noodles are made from rice noodles, while with boiling water, noodles will be soft but still tough, not be eaten, do not find sour taste. As such, in addition to regular bowls of noodles, the restaurant also has special dry noodles, has "reminiscing" with how many generations of Saigon people have had the opportunity to enjoy. Dried noodles are filled with many layers of minced meat, ribs, cauliflower, boiled shrimp, dried shrimp and garlic. But what is unique about this dish is the sweet and sour sauce that is sweet and sour, unlike any other flavours of noodles.

Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần stands out for its My Tho-style preparation, a Southern Vietnamese specialty:

• Noodles: Made from rice, boiled to a chewy, non-sticky texture, distinct from softer phở or sour-tasting bún.

• Broth (Soup Version): Light, savory, simmered with pork bones and dried shrimp, served with bean sprouts, chives, and cauliflower.

• Dry Version: Features a signature sweet-sour sauce, blending tamarind and fish sauce, tossed with minced pork, ribs, boiled shrimp, dried shrimp, and garlic.

• Toppings: Fresh herbs, lime, and chili paste on the side allow customization, enhancing the umami-rich profile.

• Cultural Roots: Reflects My Tho’s coastal influence, brought to Saigon by migrants, making it a nostalgic dish for locals.

This family-run stall, with over 30 years of history, preserves an authentic recipe, earning a loyal following in Ward 5’s culinary scene.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–33°C or 77–91.4°F), ideal for strolling Ward 5’s Cholon and dining at Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần’s open-air stall. Tet (January–February) brings festive vibes but busier streets. The rainy season (May–November) features cooler temperatures (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with short showers easily managed under the stall’s awning. Morning visits (7:00 AM–9:00 AM) ensure the freshest noodles and quieter seating, while lunch hours (11:00 AM–1:00 PM) are livelier but crowded.

Tip: Visit early mornings for a serene dining experience; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates. Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable experience:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jacket for rainy season. Casual attire for street dining.

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

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes for navigating streets; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Maps.me, Grab app, 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; use a crossbody bag to deter pickpockets in busy Cholon.

1. Thien Hau Pagoda, Ward 5

A 15-minute walk to 710 Nguyen Trai, this 1760 Chinese temple features yin-yang roofs and ceramic figurines.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Join during Tet for lion dances; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

2. Binh Tay Market, Ward 5

A 10-minute walk to 57A Thap Muoi, this 1928 market offers Chinese-style architecture and local snacks.

• Cost: Free; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Try bánh xèo; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

3. Notre-Dame Basilica, Ward 1

A 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND) to 1 Cong Xa Paris, this 1880 basilica is a colonial icon.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Capture the facade; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

4. Independence Palace, Ward 1

A 15-minute Grab to 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, this 1966 palace marks Vietnam’s reunification.

• Cost: Adults $3.45 (80,000 VND); children $0.85 (20,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: Explore the bunker; included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

5. War Remnants Museum, Ward 3

A 12-minute Grab to 28 Vo Van Tan, this museum details Vietnam’s war history.

• Cost: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Allow 2 hours; included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

Culinary Costs

• Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Nearby Food Stalls: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (Binh Tay Market): $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 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 5; $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND) from 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 5 or 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, donations).

• 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 5.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead, especially for Tet.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season (December–April): Use sunscreen; visit mornings for cooler dining (25–33°C or 77–91.4°F).

  • Rainy Season (May–November): Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); dine under awnings during showers (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F).

• Bargaining: Negotiate politely for souvenirs at Binh Tay Market; start at 50% of quoted prices.

• Safety: Wear crossbody bags; watch for pickpockets in Cholon’s busy streets.

• Sustainability: Use reusable straws; support local vendors like Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần (450 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 5) 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 stalls are busy for hygiene.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần and Saigon’s culinary heritage:

• Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, Binh Tay Market, Cholon street food. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.

• Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, Thien Hau Pagoda, Notre-Dame Basilica. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Culinary Escape ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, 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

Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần, a culinary treasure in Ward 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, offers an authentic taste of Saigon’s My Tho-style noodle heritage, blending chewy noodles with a unique sweet-sour sauce, priced at $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per bowl. With its roots in Mekong Delta traditions, this dish shines at bustling eateries in Ward 5, drawing foodies to savor its flavorful broth and fresh toppings. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you to this iconic dish, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience with eco-friendly practices like locally sourced ingredients and support for vendors across the city’s 168 wards, paired with visits to Ben Thanh Market and Notre-Dame Basilica. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to taste Saigon’s culinary legacy? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into the flavors of Hủ Tiếu Cả Cần!

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 Cả Cần Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group