Nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Thuong Hien Street transformed into a bustling food haven on December 20, 2022. This vibrant 1 km stretch in District 3 isn’t just about food; it’s about the experience. Recognized by Time Out Magazine in 2019 as one of the world’s top 20 most livable streets, Nguyen Thuong Hien Street invites you to embark on a culinary adventure like no other.
Starting your journey from the city centre, you’ll find Nguyen Thuong Hien Street just 2.5 km from the iconic Ben Thanh Market. Whether you’re on foot, by bike, or hopping on a quick ride, the street is easily accessible. As the sun sets, the street comes alive from 6 PM to 10 PM, with the aroma of Vietnamese street food filling the air and the vibrant energy of locals and tourists mingling together.
Top 5 Must-Try Street Foods on Nguyen Thuong Hien Street
01. Tre Tron (Mixed Fermented Pork by Ms. Nguyet)
- Address: 284 Nguyen Thuong Hien Street, Ward 5, District 3
- Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 9:45 PM (Mon-Sun)
Begin your culinary exploration at 284 Nguyen Thuong Hien Street, where Ms. Nguyet’s Mixed Fermented Pork has been a local favorite for over four decades. This dish combines pork ears and spices wrapped in guava and banana leaves. What sets Ms. Nguyet’s version apart is the addition of fresh cucumber, creating a delightful crunch and a unique blend of tangy and slightly sweet flavors. Open from 10:30 AM to 9:45 PM, this corner stall is always buzzing with patrons eager to taste her special creation.
Imagine arriving at Ms. Nguyet’s stall, the sounds of the busy street blending with the chatter of excited customers. You watch as she deftly mixes the ingredients, her practiced hands moving with the confidence of someone who has perfected her craft over many years. The first bite is a revelation, the textures and flavors melding into something truly special. It’s not just food; it’s a story of tradition and passion in every mouthful.
02. Hot Vit Lon Chien (Crispy Fried Balut by Ms. Map)
- Address: 39 Nguyen Thuong Hien street, Ward 5, District 3
- Opening hours: 3 PM – 9:30 PM (Mon-Sun)
A short stroll down to 39 Nguyen Thuong Hien will lead you to Ms. Map’s famous crispy fried balut. Each balut is perfectly coated in a golden, crispy batter, topped with fragrant scallions and peanuts. But the magic lies in the dipping sauce – a sweet and salty mix with fresh kumquat juice and chopped chili.
As you approach Ms. Map’s stall, the enticing aroma of fried delicacies wafts through the air. You see locals and tourists alike gathered around, eagerly awaiting their turn. The first crunch as you bite into the balut is incredibly satisfying, the crispy exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful interior. The dipping sauce adds a burst of tangy heat that perfectly complements the dish. It’s a sensory experience that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Vietnamese street food.
Imagine the crunch as you bite into the perfectly fried balut, the exterior giving way to a tender, flavorful interior. The combination of textures and the tangy, spicy dipping sauce create an unforgettable taste sensation. It’s a culinary experience that challenges your perceptions and delights your senses.
03. Ga Nuong Muoi Ot (Grilled Chicken with Salt and Chili)
- Address: 31 Nguyen Thuong Hien street, Ward 5, District 3
- Opening hours: 8 AM – 10 PM (Mon-Sun)
Continue your food adventure at 31 Nguyen Thuong Hien, where the irresistible aroma of Grilled Chicken with Salt and Chili will draw you in. This grilled chicken, marinated with salt and chili, boasts a crispy, golden skin and a juicy interior. Served with a zesty green chili salt dip, each bite is a burst of flavor. The cozy restaurant, open from 8 AM to 10 PM, provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for savoring this delicious dish.
Walking into this small eatery, you’re greeted with the mouthwatering scent of grilled meat. The sizzle of chicken on the grill and the warm, inviting ambiance make you feel instantly at home. As you take your first bite, the perfectly seasoned skin crackles under your teeth, revealing succulent, juicy meat inside. The chili salt dip adds a zing that makes each bite more exciting than the last. It’s a dish that speaks of care, tradition, and a love for bold flavors.
04. Banh Trang Tron Chu Vien (Mixed Rice Paper by Mr. Vien)
- Address: 38 Nguyen Thuong Hien street, Ward 5, District 3
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM – 7 PM (Mon – Sat)
At 38 Nguyen Thuong Hien, discover the delight of Mixed Rice Paper at Mr. Vien’s stall. This beloved Vietnamese snack features rice paper, dried beef, herbs, crispy shallots, and a special sauce. Mr. Vien’s unique recipe and high-quality ingredients make his version a standout. With options ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 VND, and available from 9:30 AM to 7 PM, this is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the essence of Vietnamese street food.
Stopping by Mr. Vien’s stall, you’re struck by the vibrant colors of the ingredients laid out before you. The combination of fresh herbs, savory dried beef, and crispy shallots is visually appealing and tantalizing to the senses. As you dig in, the flavors explode in your mouth, each component complementing the other. The special sauce ties everything together, making it impossible to stop at just one bite. It’s a perfect snapshot of the complexity and simplicity that defines Vietnamese cuisine.
05. Banh Beo Hue (Hue Steam Rice Cakes)
- Address: 132 Nguyen Thuong Hien street, Ward 5, District 3
- Opening hours: 3 PM – 10 PM (Mon-Sun)
Finish your culinary journey at 132 Nguyen Thuong Hien, where Hue Steamed Rice Cakes offer a taste of central Vietnam. These steamed rice cakes, topped with savory shrimp paste, crispy fried shallots, and a drizzle of scallion oil, are served with a sweet and sour fish sauce and pickled vegetables. For a comprehensive taste, try the “full plate” which includes a variety of central Vietnam’s specialties. Priced from just 4,000 VND and available from 3 PM to 10 PM, this spot promises an authentic and affordable dining experience.
At this quaint spot, you’re greeted with the warm hospitality that makes Vietnamese cuisine so special. The delicate steamed rice cakes are carefully prepared, each bite offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet. The accompanying fish sauce and pickled vegetables add a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall experience. As you savor each bite, you’re transported to the heart of central Vietnam, experiencing its culinary traditions firsthand.
Let’s Wrap It Up!
Nguyen Thuong Hien Street is more than just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of flavors and community. Each visit is a new adventure, a chance to discover a new favorite dish, and to fall in love with the vibrant street food culture of Ho Chi Minh City. So, grab your friends, bring your appetite, and dive into the delicious world of Nguyen Thuong Hien Street.
For those who want to experience even more of what Ho Chi Minh City has to offer, consider joining a Ho Chi Minh City Cycling Tour with Jackfruit Adventure. We organize both cycling tours and team-building activities, providing an engaging way to explore the city. With our deep knowledge of Saigon and strong local connections, we ensure an unforgettable bonding experience. Contact us today to plan your adventure and create lasting memories with your team in the vibrant city of Saigon.
