Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City, is a bustling metropolis that offers a vibrant culinary scene blending traditional Vietnamese flavors with modern twists. From mouth-watering street food stalls to exquisite fine dining restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate. Dive into this guide with Frontier Travel Vietnam to discover the top 20+ must-try eateries that capture the essence of Saigon's rich and diverse food culture.
20+ Must-Visit Saigon Restaurants and Street Food stalls
Saigon's culinary landscape is as diverse as its culture, offering a blend of luxury and exciting dining experiences. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a casual diner, these 20+ must-visit restaurants and street food stalls promise an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
1. Kabin Restaurant in HCMC - One of Asia’s top 25 restaurants 2022.
- Address: 15 Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1, next to the Saigon River
- Opening Hours: Lunch: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM | Dinner: 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM
- Website: Kabin Restaurant
- Average Price: from VND 250,000/ dish
Located in the Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon, Kabin Restaurant is ranked 24th in TripAdvisor’s list of Asia's top restaurants for 2022. This 5-star Chinese restaurant is known for its luxurious ambiance and traditional recipes. Signature dishes include dim sum, monk duck, roast milk pig porridge, soy sauce pickled chicken, broken tofu, and Peking duck.
2. AKUNA
- Address: 9th Floor, Le Méridien Saigon, 3C Ton Duc Thang, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Website: AKUNA Restaurant
- Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Last seating: 8:45 PM | Last order: 9:00 PM)
- Average Price: VND 3,840,000 - VND 6,240,000/person
AKUNA, the newest fine dining restaurant at Le Méridien Saigon, is led by award-winning Chef Sam Aisbett. Renowned for his "No Boundaries" cuisine, Chef Aisbett incorporates Vietnamese ingredients into his innovative dishes. Guests can indulge in a meticulously crafted 6-course tasting menu, paired with Australian or global wines, under the soft glow of wave-like chandeliers made of 1,100 glass tubes.
3. Reflections Restaurant
- Address: 19-23 Lam Son Square, 3rd Floor, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 17:30 – 22:00
- Average Price: VND 960,000 - VND 3,000,000/person
- Website: Reflections Restaurant
Reflections Restaurant offers an upscale fine-dining experience in the heart of Saigon, featuring a luxurious atmosphere and professional staff. The restaurant serves creative dishes from around the world, frequently updated with new menus every two months, using the best seasonal ingredients globally and fresh, organically grown Vietnamese produce.
The restaurant hosts guest chefs, wine parties, and cooking sessions to promote Saigon’s unique cuisine. Located on the third floor, it provides a serene dining space above one of the city's busiest intersections, with views of Lam Son Square and the City Theater. The walls are adorned with photos honoring Saigon's heritage, adding to the magical and memorable culinary experience. Additionally, a 24-hour in-room dining service is available for guests.
4. Anan Saigon
- Address: 89 Ton That Dam Street, District 1
- Opening Hours: 05:00 – 11:00
- Average Price: VND 1,944,000/person
- Website: Anan Saigon
Anan Saigon, located on a lively street, is a popular choice for important gatherings due to its unique culinary style and warm, luxurious ambiance. Led by famous executive chef and founder Peter Cường Franklin, Anan Saigon offers a menu of delicious and enticing dishes, making it a standout fine dining destination in Saigon.
5. Hervé Dining Room
- Address: 204/20 Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City
- Opening Hours: 06:00 PM – 09:00 PM (Closed on Monday)
- Average Price: VND 2,640,000/person
- Website: Herve Dining Restaurant
Nestled in a peaceful alley in the Thao Dien neighborhood, Hervé Dining Room offers a cozy and intimate fine dining experience. Led by French chef Hervé Rodriguez, the restaurant provides a meditative ambiance and exquisite culinary delights. Honored by Robb Report Vietnam magazine as one of the top 25 restaurants for its outstanding service, Hervé Dining Room is a must-visit destination in Saigon.
6. Le Corto
- Address: 5D Nguyen Sieu Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Closed on Saturday Afternoon)
- Average Price: VND 2,400,000/person
- Website: Le Corto Restaurant
Le Corto, located in the heart of District 1 near the city opera house, offers a unique culinary journey in Saigon. The restaurant features luxurious, modern, and sophisticated French-inspired architecture. Behind its wooden doors, guests will find a meticulously adorned space and a menu crafted by renowned chef Sakal Phoeung, President of the Vietnam International Chefs Association, with 15 years of experience in 5-star hotel restaurants.
7. ROS Yacht Club - Premier Fine Dining in Saigon
- Address: Bach Dang Wharf, 10B Ton Duc Thang, District 1
- Opening Hours: 11:00 am - late
- Average Price: VND 120,000 - 2,000,000 per dish and above
- Website: ROS Yacht Club
ROS Yacht Club is a renowned destination for fine dining in Saigon, offering a stunning view of the Saigon River. Guests can savor exquisite Pan-Asian cuisine and drinks in a unique, sense-awakening setting. In the evening, live DJ sessions elevate the ambiance, creating an electrifying atmosphere and providing guests with unforgettable experiences that last until the early hours.
8. The Log Restaurant
- Address: 8 Nguyen Binh Khiem, District 1
- Opening Hours: 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm
- Average Price: 1,650,000 VND per person and above
- Website: The Log Restaurant
Located atop the GEM Center building, The Log Restaurant is inspired by a wooden treehouse, featuring red-brown wood decor and lush greenery. The restaurant offers two distinct dining areas: one for a la carte and another for buffet, with options for both indoor and outdoor seating. Advance reservations are recommended to secure a table with a better view.
9. Le Petit Chef - Exquisite Fine Dining in Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: Park Hyatt Saigon Hotel, 2 Lam Son Square, District 1
- Opening Hours: 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm | 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm
- Average Price: 3,000,000 - 7,000,000 VND per person
- Website: Le Petit Chef
Experience a captivating blend of entertainment and fine dining at Le Petit Chef in Ho Chi Minh City. Utilizing 3D projection mapping, your table transforms into an interactive screen, where a six-centimeter-tall chef guides you on a culinary adventure to become the world's greatest chef. Guests can choose from two exquisite five-course menus, including options for children and vegans.
10. Truffle Restaurant
- Address: 73rd floor, Landmark 81, Binh Thanh District
- Opening Hours: 3:00 pm - 11:00 pm (Tuesday - Sunday)
- Average Price: 7,700,000 - 10,800,000 VND per person and above
- Website: Truffle Restaurant
Truffle Restaurant, a pinnacle of fine dining in Saigon, is located over 300 meters above the city in Landmark 81. The grand dining area, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, offers breathtaking views of Saigon as you enjoy exquisite truffle specialties. With menus that change every two months, Truffle provides an inclusive culinary experience for all.
11. Basilico - A Charming Italian Restaurant in Saigon
- Address: Lobby Level, Corner Le Van Huu Street & Nguyen Du Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 6:30 am - 10:30 pm
- Average Price: 180,000 - 2,500,000 VND per dish
- Website: Basilico
Basilico offers a warm feeling and fine dining experience with artisanal pizzas and an extensive wine selection. The restaurant features premium Australian steaks and creative monthly signature dishes. Enjoy a delightful journey of Italian specialties, accompanied by soulful melodies every Sunday.
12. Sol Kitchen & Bar
- Address: 110 - 112 Ly Tu Trong, District 1
- Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm & 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm
- Average Price: From 100,000 VND per dish
- Website: Sol Kitchen & Bar
Experience fine dining in Saigon at Sol Kitchen & Bar, a Latin American culinary oasis in District 1. The enticing menu features mouth-watering empanadas, scallop ceviche, and burrata salad. Indulge in Sol's renowned marinated steak with chimichurri sauce, BBQ ribs glazed with fish sauce, and roasted chicken infused with mojo sauce.
13. Blanc. Restaurant - Premier Fine Dining in Saigon
- Address: Lane 178/180D, Hai Ba Trung Street, District 1
- Opening Hours: 5:30 pm - 11:00 pm
- Average Price: From 150,000 VND per dish
- Website: Blanc. Restaurant
Blanc. Restaurant always provides opportunities for hearing-impaired staff members, offering a unique fine dining experience in Saigon. Guests can enjoy a tranquil dining experience, where noise is minimized. The menu features intriguing starters such as honey lemongrass grilled scallops, sous-vide pork, and sea bass with truffle anchovy sauce. Each dish is accompanied by visual aids showing how to sign its name, allowing diners to easily communicate with the service staff.
14. Nous Dine - The First Capsule Restaurant in Vietnam
- Address: 42 Ly Tu Trong, District 1
- Opening Hours: 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm (closed on Monday)
- Average Price: 2,000,000 VND per person
- Website: Nous Dine
Nous Dine is Vietnam's premier capsule restaurant, offering an exclusive fine dining experience with a speakeasy vibe. With an intimate kitchen-side dining area, only 10 lucky guests per night can savor the omakase-style tasting menu while overlooking the open kitchen. The theme changes every three months, providing an impressive and ever-evolving culinary adventure.
15. The Trieu Institute
- Address: 10 Mac Thi Buoi, District 1
- Opening Hours:
11:30 am - 2:00 pm (Monday - Friday)
5:00 pm - 12:00 am (Saturday & Sunday)
- Average Price: From 120,000 VND per dish
- Website: The Trieu Institute
Named after Vietnam's legendary heroine, Lady Trieu, The Trieu Institute is an empowering all-woman restaurant. Renowned as one of the best restaurants in Saigon Vietnam, it captivates with exotic cocktails and a menu infused with ingredients reminiscent of their gin selection.
Guests can indulge in a five-course menu, accompanied by cocktails, or opt for a la carte dining with recommended gin pairings for a truly immersive fine dining experience in Saigon.
16. Vo Roof - Vietnamese Kitchen & Bar
- Address: 113 Ton That Dam St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am - 12:00 am
- Price Range: VND 36,000 - VND 185,000
- Website: Vo Roof Restaurant
Vo Roof is a top choice for international tourists seeking affordable, delicious, and healthy Vietnamese dishes. Established in 2018, it's a branch of the renowned Bep Vo Kitchen in Thao Dien.
Recently reopened after a two-year closure due to Covid-19, Vo Roof now offers a laid-back vibe in the heart of Saigon. Enjoy modern Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh ingredients and umami flavors, sans MSG. The menu includes savory vegetarian options and a variety of drinks, from juices to cocktails.
17 . Secret Garden Restaurant
- Address: 158 Pasteur St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 10:00 pm
- Price Range: VND 168,000 - VND 3,600,000
With rave reviews on TripAdvisor, Secret Garden offers an authentic taste of Asian and Vietnamese cuisine. Located on the rooftop of a historic colonial-era structure, the restaurant exudes the charm of a Hoian ancient house from the 1600s, complete with brightly colored lanterns and wooden furnishings.
Enjoy familiar Vietnamese dishes in a lively atmosphere with views of the entire district. Made with 100% Vietnamese ingredients, the food is both well-decorated and flavorful. Popular dishes include stir-fried morning glory with beef and grilled beef in betel leaves. Dining at Secret Garden with friends is an experience not to be missed in Ho Chi Minh City.
18. The Refinery Bar and Restaurant
- Address: 74/7C Hai Ba Trung St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 11:00 pm
- Happy Hours: 3:30 pm - 6:00 pm
- Price Range: VND 108,000 - VND 636,000
- Website: The Refinery Bar and Restaurant
The Refinery stands out among French restaurants in District 1 with its distinct style in both space decoration and taste of dishes. Luxuriously designed in Western style, it exudes the splendor of a truly European restaurant. Whether enjoying the airy outdoor seating or the quiet, romantic interior, it's perfect for couples' dinner nights.
Indulge in a variety of French dishes made with Vietnamese ingredients for an exciting culinary experience. Recommended dishes include beef filet with red wine jus, potato galette roll, salad nicoise, and sesame chicken salad. While prices may be high due to its focus on Western cuisine, the experience is undoubtedly worth it.
19. Propaganda Saigon Bistro Restaurant
- Address: 21 Han Thuyen St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 7:30 am - 11:00 pm
- Price Range: VND 108,000 - VND 636,000
- Website: Propaganda Saigon Bistro Restaurant
Propaganda Saigon Bistro offers familiar home-cooked Vietnamese dishes in District 1. The colorful interior, inspired by 1980s Vietnamese propaganda slogans, creates a vibrant and comfortable dining atmosphere. Enjoy diverse and authentic Vietnamese cuisine made from fresh ingredients, including signature dishes like rice noodle salad, Pho, and pulled pork Banh mi. Vegetarian options are also available.
20. Ngon Restaurant Saigon
- Address: 160 Pasteur St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am - 11:15 pm
- Price Range: VND 216,000 - VND 530,000
Ngon Restaurant offers luxury Vietnamese dining in the heart of District 1. Traditionally decorated with elaborate wooden frames and comfortable armchairs, the interior exudes elegance and sophistication.
Enjoy your meal in the spacious and stylish setting indoors, or opt for outdoor seating surrounded by trees and fresh air. Indulge in exquisite Vietnamese dishes like fried rice, Vietnamese pancake, and steamed fish. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, making it suitable for everyone.
21. Hoa Tuc Saigon
- Address: 74/7E Hai Ba Trung St., Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 11:00 am - 10:30 pm
- Price Range: VND 46,000 - VND 427,000
- Website: Hoa Tuc Saigon
Hoa Tuc, meaning "Poppy," was founded by individuals passionate about innovative Vietnamese cuisine. At Hoa Tuc, you'll savor the blend of tradition and innovation - where familiar flavors take on new life through the passion and creativity of the founder. Opening its doors in August 2008, Hoa Tuc became Saigon's first restaurant in District 1 to offer contemporary Vietnamese cuisine, appealing to adventurous diners.
Located in Saigon's former opium refinery, Hoa Tuc's interior is a testament to local craftsmanship, featuring specially crafted wrought iron furniture and historic columns. The restaurant offers a charming indoor seating area with historic columns, a front terrace inspired by the Paris Metro, and a private outdoor dining area surrounded by lush foliage. Amidst the city's chaos, guests find solace in Hoa Tuc's historical setting and serene ambiance.
22. Moo Beef Steak Prime Restaurant
- Address: 37 Ngo Duc Ke St, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Opening Hours: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm
- Price Range: VND 108,000 - VND 1,644,000
Ranked as the 19th best restaurant in Ho Chi Minh, Moo Beef Steak Prime specializes in tasty Western-style beef steak with exquisite decoration and impressive flavors. Choose from a variety of steaks with different sauces, all easy to enjoy and delicious. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are always available.
The spacious and cozy dining space makes it ideal for family meals, serving both lunch and dinner. With friendly staff and professional service, Moo Beef Steak Prime offers a delightful dining experience for all.
What food to eat in Saigon?
If you're a food enthusiast, Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise waiting to be explored. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, the culinary scene offers a plethora of tantalizing dishes. Join us on a gastronomic adventure as we uncover the top must-try delicacies in this vibrant city!
Pho Saigon - A Classic Delight
Pho Saigon stands as an emblematic traditional dish in Ho Chi Minh City, a must-try for those eager to delve into Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. Considered one of the city's most beloved dishes, Pho Saigon graces menus across Ho Chi Minh City, with prices typically ranging from 35,000 to 80,000 VND per serving.
This Vietnamese noodle soup is a symphony of flavors perfected over centuries. It features a fragrant broth crafted from beef or chicken, delicate rice noodles, and a medley of fresh herbs and toppings including bean sprouts, basil leaves, cilantro, lime, and chili pepper. While Pho Hanoi boasts a broth that is less sweet and an enticing aroma of beef, Pho Saigon shines with its delectable array of flavors.
Some recommended places to enjoy best pho in Ho Chi Minh:
- Pho bo Phu Gia: 146E Ly Chinh Thang, Ward 7, District 3
- Pho Thin: 170 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ward 6, District 3
Saigon Sandwich (Banh Mi) - The Ultimate Street Food Experience
Banh Mi stands as an iconic street food in Ho Chi Minh City, adored by locals and visitors alike for its unmatched fusion of flavors. This beloved sandwich is a testament to Vietnam's culinary creativity, blending French influence with local ingredients and techniques.
Originating in the 19th century as a variation of the traditional French baguette, Saigon's Banh Mi features a crispy golden-brown crust filled with an array of tantalizing ingredients. Typically, it includes pork or chicken, pâté, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber slices, cilantro, mayonnaise, and chili sauce.
Priced around 20,000 VND per sandwich, this classic street food is a budget-friendly delight.
For an authentic Banh Mi experience, consider visiting these recommended spots:
- Banh Mi Huynh Hoa: 26 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Banh Mi Phuong Lien: 12 Nguyen Huy Tu, Da Kao Ward, District 1
Broken Rice (Com Tam) - A Culinary Gem of Ho Chi Minh City
Broken Rice, known as Com Tam, holds a special place in the culinary landscape of Ho Chi Minh City. This quintessential Vietnamese dish features broken grains of rice served with grilled pork, fried eggs, pickled vegetables, and a zesty fish sauce.
Originating in the 1930s, Com Tam was born out of necessity as an affordable and quick meal option for the working class. Its popularity grew rapidly due to its delicious flavors and economical nature.
Prices for this delectable dish typically range from 25,000 to 70,000 VND per serving.
For an authentic taste of Com Tam, consider visiting these recommended eateries:
- Com Tam Phuc Loc Tho: 236 Dinh Tien Hoang, Da Kao Ward, District 1
- Com Tam Ba Ghien: 84 Dang Van Ngu, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District
Beef Noodle Soup (Bun Bo) - A Culinary Gem of Ho Chi Minh City
Bun Bo, a cherished dish in Ho Chi Minh City, tantalizes the taste buds with its rich flavors and aromatic spices. This Vietnamese delicacy features thin rice noodles, succulent beef, fragrant herbs, and a savory broth made from beef stock and fish sauce.
The texture of the noodles varies, from soft to al dente, enhancing the dining experience. Aromatic herbs like sawtooth coriander, lemongrass, and perilla leaf infuse the dish with depth and complexity.
Topped with bean sprouts, cilantro, scallions, and thinly sliced onions, a bowl of Bun Bo offers a symphony of flavors and textures. Lettuce leaves are served alongside, allowing diners to wrap them around the noodles for easy enjoyment.
For an authentic Bun Bo experience, consider visiting these recommended eateries:
- Bun Bo Ganh: 135 Nguyen Du, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Bun Bo Hue 3A3: 17 Dang Tran Con, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
Clear Rice Noodle Soup (Hu Tieu) - A Nighttime Delight in Ho Chi Minh City
Hu Tieu, a beloved staple of Ho Chi Minh City's street food scene, offers a comforting bowl of clear noodle soup, perfect for chilly evenings. Street vendors often provide an array of toppings like fresh herbs and chopped spring onions, allowing customers to customize their Hu Tieu to their liking.
Originally crafted by Chinese immigrants in the 19th century, Hu Tieu has since become a cherished specialty across Vietnam. Setting it apart from other Vietnamese soups is its mild flavor, derived from the use of tapioca flour to thicken the broth without overpowering the taste.
For a memorable Hu Tieu experience, consider visiting these recommended establishments:
- Hu Tieu Hong Phat: 389 - 391 Vo Van Tan, Ward 5, District 3
- Hu Tieu Nam Vang: A65 Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
Savor the diverse culinary delights of Ho Chi Minh City with Frontier Travel Vietnam. Experience the perfect blend of tradition and innovation as you explore street-side delicacies and upscale dining. Whether it's a comforting bowl of pho or the finest restaurant cuisines, let us be your guide through Saigon's vibrant food scene for an unforgettable journey.