If there’s one thing you can’t miss in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s the food! And the best way to truly taste it all is to embark on a Ho Chi Minh City culinary tour. With its endless maze of street stalls, bustling night markets, and hidden local eateries, Saigon is a paradise for food lovers, but it can also be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Instead of guessing which street stall is worth trying, the Ho Chi Minh City food tour will give you some valuable insider tips, and a chance to taste the city’s most iconic dishes or some hidden gems you’d never find on your own.
More than just a meal, the Saigon food tour offers a glimpse into daily life in Vietnam’s most vibrant city. So if you’re ready to skip the tourist traps and eat like a true Saigoneer, bring your appetite, grab your bag and join us, as you’re going to need it!
Reasons why You Should Experience Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour
When you set foot in Saigon, you quickly realise that food isn’t just something you eat daily, it’s about celebrating local life, culture and meaningful bonds. That’s why the Ho Chi Minh City food tour is the perfect way to experience the city’s soul truly. Beyond the incredible flavours, the Ho Chi Minh City food tour also gives you a front-row seat to Saigon’s vibrant street life, as you’ll meet warm, welcoming vendors, learn the stories behind each flavourful dish, and see how good food brings the community together.
For solo travellers, it’s an easy way to meet new people and get insider tips on how to make delicious dishes; for families or groups, it’s a precious bonding experience; and for any curious foodie, it’s a chance to go beyond the guidebook and taste the real Saigon through its hearty, authentic cuisine — all while exploring some of the great streets for street food in Ho Chi Minh City.
Plus, food tours take the guesswork out, as there won’t be any worrying about language barriers, where to find safe and hygienic places, or accidentally missing out on local gems hidden in narrow alleyways. Whether you choose to explore by foot, hop on a Vespa, or pedal your way through bustling districts, the Ho Chi Minh City food tour definitely guarantees you’ll leave with a full belly, a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culinary traditions, and a slew of fascinating stories to share with your friends.
Types of Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour
Market food tours
If you want to see where Saigon’s freshest flavours come to life, a market-focused Ho Chi Minh City food tour is an absolute must. Markets are the beating heart of the city’s food scene, with a colourful and energetic allure. You’ll be amazed to see that Saigon’s bustling markets are more than just places to shop — they’re living, breathing kitchens where you’ll find the freshest produce and the chance to watch local cooks in action.
Ben Thanh Market is the most famous, located in the centre of District 1. At this iconic market, you can taste everything from tasty bowls of Bun Thit Nuong, Bun Bo Hue, Banh Xeo, Com Tam to freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, boba tea, herbal tea or fruit smoothie while soaking up the lively atmosphere of one of the city’s oldest markets.
If you’d like to venture beyond the tourist crowds and discover a truly local market food experience, check out Jackfruit Adventure’s Trails of Quach Dam cycling tour. This unique ride offers a fresh take on the Ho Chi Minh City food tour experience, taking you deep into Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown , where you’ll explore hidden alleys, sample authentic dishes, and visit the legendary Binh Tay Market, a living symbol of the city’s Chinese-Vietnamese culinary heritage.
If you want something more authentic and less touristy, Tan Dinh Market is a local favourite, known for its eye-catching pink church nearby and stalls overflowing with fresh herbs, noodles, and snacks. Or if you want to eat like a true Saigonese, don’t pass the underrated Ban Co Market in District 3, where you’ll find a maze of narrow alleyways loaded with under-the-radar spots like Bun Rieu Cua, Xoi Thap Cam (sticky rice with various toppings), Banh Bot Loc or Nem Nuong (grilled skewers).
Night street food tours
For the locals, joining a Ho Chi Minh City food tour at night not only lets them taste delicious local dishes but also immerses them in the rhythm of daily life, where friends gather on plastic stools, share meals and stories throughout the night. At night, you’ll see a diverse selection of Saigon’s most iconic dishes, from Banh Xeo, Banh Can, Banh Khot, Banh Mi Chao, and Hu Tieu Tron, which are the crowd’s favourites.
For seafood lovers, Vinh Khanh Street in District 4 is your place to go! Though often overlooked since it’s not in the city center, this vibrant food street is a hidden gem on any Ho Chi Minh City food tour, offering countless eateries with dishes from Vietnam’s three regions, along with hot pots, grilled seafood, and even Korean, Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisine. If you’re craving something sugary in the evening, make your way to Ho Thi Ky Market (District 10) or Ben Thanh Market to try Che Thap Cam (a colourful, icy sweet soup) or sip on fresh tropical fruit smoothies — sweet additions to round out your Ho Chi Minh City food tour experience.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to explore the city after dark, the Saigon Foodie Night Ride by Jackfruit Adventure is the perfect pick. This unique Ho Chi Minh City food tour combines the thrill of cycling through the city’s glowing streets with the joy of discovering local street eats that most tourists miss. With friendly local guides leading the way, this tour offers not just excellent food but also real stories and insider knowledge about Saigon’s street food culture – making it one of the most unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh City for adventurous food lovers.
Vegetarian food tours
For visitors who prefer plant-based dishes or simply want to explore the lighter, greener side of Vietnamese cuisine, a vegetarian Ho Chi Minh City food tour is a rewarding experience. While Vietnam is often known for savoury dishes, Saigon’s culinary scene is surprisingly rich in vegetarian options, as it’s rooted in Buddhist traditions and local, seasonal produce.
On a curated Ho Chi Minh City food tour focused on vegetarian cuisine, you’ll sample everything from Pho Chay (vegetarian Pho) with aromatic mushroom broth, to crispy Banh Xeo Chay filled with tofu and mung beans, to vibrant stir-fried Hu Tieu Chay with garlic and soy sauce. You may also taste savoury vegan rice cakes, fresh spring rolls with peanut dipping sauce, and sweet treats like sesame balls or banana tapioca pudding. Many of these dishes are found in humble eateries tucked into quiet alleys or served at long-standing temple kitchens. All in all, it’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or curious foodies looking to try something refreshingly different on the Ho Chi Minh City food tour.
Iconic Dishes for Your Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour
More than just a meal, an authentic Ho Chi Minh City food tour lets you experience the city’s heritage, traditions, and community spirit with every bite. From iconic noodle soups to adventurous street-side seafood, here’s what to eat and the best spots to try them.
Pho – Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup
Best time: Breakfast or late night (many locals eat it early to start the day)
Local tip: Add bean sprouts, basil, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing addition.
Recommended places to try:
- Pho Hoa Pasteur – 260C Pasteur, Ward 8, District 3
- Pho Thin – 138 Yersin Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1
- Pho Tau Bay – 435 Ly Thai To, Ward 9, District 10
- Stone Bowl Pho Viet Nam – 66 Tran Quoc Toan, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3
Banh Mi– The Bold Fusion of East and West
Best time: Morning, afternoon snack, or late night
Local tip: You can buy the “special order” (phần đặc biệt) to get the whole combo of meats and toppings.
Recommended places to try:
- Banh Mi Huynh Hoa – 26 Le Thi Rieng, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
- Banh Mi Chim Chay – 116 Le Van Sy, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District
- Banh Mi Hoang Lam – 168 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Ward 5, Phu Nhuan District
- Banh Mi Nguyen Van Luong (famous for Baguette with grilled cartilage pork ribs and pickled mustard greens) – 236 Nguyen Van Luong, District 6
Com Tam– Saigon-Style BBQ Pork with Fluffy Broken Rice
Best time: Brunch to lunch
Local tip: Mix the fish sauce evenly over the rice. Don’t forget the pickles and fried egg on top for extra flavour.
Recommended places to try:
- Com Tam Ba Ghien – 84 Dang Van Ngu, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District
- Com Tam Nguyen Van Cu – 74 Nguyen Van Cu, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1
- Com Tam Thuan Kieu – 52 Dang Duc Thuat, Tan Phong Ward, District 7
- Com Tam Ba Ha – 389 Hung Phuoc, Ward 9, District 8
Hu Tieu – Sweet-savoury noodle soup from the Mekong
Best time: Morning to early lunch
Local tip: Many locals order the Hu Tieu Kho — the dish served with a bowl of broth on the side. Add a dash of vinegar and chilli for extra punch.
Recommended places to try:
- Hu Tieu Nam Vang Nhan Eatery – 122D Cach Mang Thang 8, Xuan Hoa Ward, District 3
- Crab Hu Tieu Thanh Xuan – 62 Ton That Hiep, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
- Hu Tieu Hong Phat – 389 Vo Van Tan, Ward 5, District 3
- Hu Tieu Ha Ky – 69 Ky Con, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1
Bun Thit Nuong – Vermicelli with grilled pork
Best time: Lunch or early dinner
Local tip: Pour the fish sauce dressing (nước chấm) over the entire bowl and mix well.
Recommended places to try:
- Bun Thit Nuong Kieu Bao – 139 De Tham, Co Giang Ward, District 1
- Bun Thit Nuong Mac Dinh Chi – 88 Mac Dinh Chi, Da Kao Ward, District 1
- Bun Thit Nuong Anh Ba – 1 Nguyen Trung Truc, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
- Bun Thit Nuong 339 – Alley 339/7-9 To Hien Thanh, Ward 12, District 10
Banh Cuon – Vietnam’s delicate steamed rice rolls
Best time: Breakfast, light lunch or even late-night snack
Local tip: Always add the fresh herbs and crispy fried shallots that come on the side
Recommended places to try:
- Banh Cuon Tay Ho – 127 Dinh Tien Hoang, Da Kao Ward, District 1
- Banh Cuon Hai Nam – 11A Cao Thang, Ward 2, District 3
- Banh Cuon Thanh Tri – 148A Ly Chinh Thang, Ward 14, District 3
- Banh Cuon Yen Fried Squid Patties – 117 Huynh Man Dat, Ward 7, District 5
Bun Cha – Smoky grilled pork with fresh noodles
Best time: Lunchtime
Local tip: Order Nem Cua Be (crispy crab spring rolls) on the side if available — it’s the perfect pairing!
Recommended places to try:
- Bun Cha Ho Guom – 29 Truong Dinh, Ward 6, District 3
- Bun Cha 29 Ha Noi – 225/3 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ward 5, District 3
- Bun Cha Ô – 45 Phan Khiem Ich, Tan Phong Ward, District 7
- Bun Cha Ba Binh – 4 Nguyen Trung Ngan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Banh Xeo – Crispy Vietnamese sizzling pancake
Best time: Lunch, dinner
Local tip: Tear off a piece of the crispy pancake, wrap it in fresh lettuce and herbs, then dip generously into the sweet-savory fish sauce.
Recommended places to try:
- Banh Xeo 46A – 46A Dinh Cong Trang, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1
- Banh Xeo Co Nguyet – 774 Quang Trung, Ward 8, Go Vap District
- Banh Xeo Ngoc Son – 103 Ngo Quyen, Ward 11, District 5
- Banh Xeo Anh Tien– 356 Phan Van Tri, Ward 11, Binh Thanh District
Must-try drinks and desserts on your Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour
Che (Sweet Vietnamese soups): In Saigon, there are countless varieties of Che you can try, such as corn pudding (chè bắp), bean sweet soup (chè đậu), black sesame pudding (chè mè đen), glutinous rice dumplings in ginger syrup (chè trôi nước), and many more. Local favourites include Che Khanh Vy (District 10) for sample trays, Che Thai Y Phuong, or the nostalgic Che Hien Khanh in District 3.
Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese coffee): A Saigon classic that locals sip at any time. Strong drip coffee over ice with sweetened condensed milk is a must for any tourists. Soak up the local vibe at cloth-filter coffee Phan Dinh Phung, Café Ba Lu, or any street-side coffee cart in District 1.
Banh Flan (Vietnamese Caramel Custard): Smooth, silky caramel flan sometimes served with crushed ice and black coffee for an extra kick. You can try this refreshing dessert at 223 Phan Xich Long, Phu Nhuan District or 20 Vinh Khanh in District 4.
Chuoi Nep Nuong (Grilled Sticky Rice Banana): Ripe banana wrapped in sticky rice, grilled over charcoal, topped with creamy coconut sauce and crushed peanuts. This warm, sweet street snack can be found on sidewalk stalls near local markets.
Kem Dua (Coconut Ice Cream): Fresh coconut ice cream served in a coconut shell with toppings like roasted peanuts, sticky rice, and shredded coconut meat. You can try amazing ice cream at Kem Dua 66 Van Kiep, Ward 1, Binh Thanh District.
And if you have a sweet tooth, don’t stop at these classics — be sure to try a traditional Vietnamese cake or two. From soft, chewy Banh Da Lon (layered steamed cake) to the colorful Banh Bo (honeycomb cake), these delightful bites highlight the Vietnamese’s creative use of basic ingredients like palm sugar, rice flour, coconut, and pandan. Many street food stalls and local bakeries in Saigon offer these classics freshly made every day, so they’re a fun addition to your Saigon food adventure.
To round out your culinary journey, pair these desserts and cakes with iconic Vietnamese drinks like refreshing sugarcane juice, sweet-salty kumquat iced tea (Tra Tac), or a cool glass of pennywort juice with mung beans (Rau Ma Dau Xanh). Tasting local drinks is one of the easiest ways to beat the heat and discover the vibrant street beverage culture that’s just as beloved as Saigon’s street food scene.
Cultural Etiquette & Dining Tips
A Ho Chi Minh City food tour offers more than mouthwatering street bites; it invites you to experience the city’s daily rhythm. To make the most of your experience and show respect to local customs, here are a few helpful etiquette tips for a hassle-free journey:
1. Mastering Chopstick Etiquette & Sharing Style
In Vietnam, locals primarily use chopsticks to pick up dishes and place the food in their own bowls or those of the person next to them. If you’re on a Ho Chi Minh City food tour, it’s good to know that sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice is considered bad luck, as it resembles incense offerings at funerals. When you’re not using them, lay your chopsticks neatly across your bowl or rest them on the table. Trust me, small gestures like this can show locals that you’re making an effort to respect their culture.
2. Settle into Street-Side Seating
Those colourful, low-to-the-ground plastic stools might look uncomfortable at first, but they’re a signature part of Saigon’s street food culture. Don’t be shy! Pull up a stool, share a table with strangers, and soak in the lively atmosphere. It’s all part of the authentic experience on a Ho Chi Minh City food tour, where some of the best conversations happen
3. Bring Small Cash
Most street food vendors don’t accept credit cards or large bills, so carrying small amounts of Vietnamese dong (VND) is essential. If you’re joining a Ho Chi Minh City food tour, it’s also a good idea to bring a small pack of tissues or hand sanitiser, as some stalls—while generally clean and well-maintained—may not provide them. These simple preparations can make your culinary adventure more comfortable and hygienic.
4. Ask Before Taking Photos
Saigon’s street food scene is photogenic, bursting with colour and motion — a dream for anyone on a Ho Chi Minh City food tour. While it’s tempting to capture every moment, always ask before photographing vendors, especially older individuals. Avoid blocking walkways or disrupting the flow of customers, particularly during peak hours. If someone declines, respect their privacy and be considerate with your camera.
Sample One-Day Itinerary: Eat Your Way Through Saigon
If you’re short on time but big on appetite, this one-day Ho Chi Minh City food tour will take you through a flavorful journey that captures the true spirit of Saigon.
Morning — A Hearty Local Breakfast
Kick off your day with a steaming bowl of pho at Pho Hoa Pasteur — a local eatery beloved by generations. Their fragrant beef broth and tender noodles are the real deal, making it a top choice for the best breakfast in Saigon if you’re craving something both comforting and iconic.
Price range: 70,000–90,000 VND per bowl ($3–4)
After breakfast, you may want to wander down Pasteur Street to grab a Vietnamese iced coffee at Cộng Cà Phê, a nearby street cart — or better yet, do as locals do and enjoy a laid-back Ca Phe Bet experience: grab your coffee, find a shady spot near a park or church, and sit right on the pavement for some classic Saigon-style people-watching.
Price range: 20,000–50,000 VND (~$1–2)
Late Morning — Stroll & Snack Like a Local
After breakfast, head to one of Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic markets for a late-morning snack adventure. Whether you choose Ben Thanh Market in District 1 or Binh Tay Market in Chinatown (District 6), you’re in for a feast of sights, smells, and street-style eats.
Wander through rows of colourful food stalls and sample some classic Saigon market bites like:
- Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls) with shrimp, herbs, and peanut sauce
- Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls) topped with fried shallots
- Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles)
Price: 15,000–50,000 VND per item (~$0.60–$2)
Note: Bring small bills and try ordering one item at a time so you can taste your way through the stalls.
Lunch — Vietnam’s Iconic Lunch Dishes
For a true taste of Saigon’s everyday meals, skip the sandwiches and go for a full plate or bowl of comfort. Here are two delicious Vietnamese lunch options that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss:
1. Com Tam Ba Ghien (84 Dang Van Ngu, Ward 10, Phu Nhuan District)
Ask any local where to get Com Tam (broken rice with grilled pork and sunny-side-up egg), and this eatery will pop up. Their grilled pork chops are smoky, tender, and often paired with a fried egg, shredded pork skin, pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
Price: 45,000–70,000 VND (~$2–$3)
2. Bun Cha Anh Hong (117 Ly Chinh Thang, Ward 14, District 3)
If you’re craving something Northern-style, this spot serves up authentic Bun Cha — grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly in a savoury broth, served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and garlic-chilli dipping sauce.
Price: 50,000–65,000 VND (~$2–$2.50)
Want something truly local and casual? Step into a small Com Van Phong (office lunch) eatery or Quan Com Gia Dinh (homestyle rice place). You’ll find multiple trays of daily Vietnamese dishes like caramelised pork belly, Vietnamese-style omelette, stir-fried vegetables, ginger-braised chicken, sweet-and-sour fish, claypot caramelised fish and Vietnamese soup (canh).
Note: From here, you’re still in the heart of District 1 — close to Ben Thanh Market if you want to wander a bit or pick up some fresh fruit.
Afternoon — Sweet Treats & Vietnamese Cakes
When the heat hits, cool down with a bowl of Che at Che Hien Khanh (718 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, District 3) — an old-school dessert shop beloved for its vintage vibe. Try mung bean sweet soup, black sesame pudding, or che troi nuoc (glutinous rice balls).
Price range: 20,000–35,000 VND per bowl (~$1–$1.50)
Note: This dessert spot is only about 5–10 minutes by Grab from your lunch stop.
Evening — Saigon’s Street Food by Night
At sunset, dive into the flavours of Saigon on a guided food tour that weaves through some of the great streets for street food in Ho Chi Minh City. For around 700,000–1,000,000 VND/person (~$28–$40), you’ll get a local guide and a whole tasting adventure through hidden alleys and lively food hubs.
Enjoy sizzling barbecue skewers, warm bowls of Com Tam, and sweet surprises like Chuoi Nep Nuong (grilled sticky rice banana) or freshly grilled seafood prepared right on the pavement. A Ho Chi Minh City food tour is the best way to uncover these flavors, especially along top street food spots like Nguyen Hue and Bui Vien Walking Street, Ho Thi Ky Night Market, Xom Chieu Street, and Nguyen Canh Chan Street — all local favourites that you’d likely miss exploring on your own.
Wrap Up — Late-Night Bite & People-Watching
End your one-day Saigon feast perched on a plastic stool with new friends, a cold Saigon beer or one last coffee in hand. Whether you’re travelling solo or with a group, a Ho Chi Minh City food tour will show you how street food connects people.
Taste & Explore Saigon: Ho Chi Minh City Food Tour with Jackfruit Adventure
From early-morning market strolls to late-night street food stops, Ho Chi Minh City food tour is more than just eating, it’s about experiencing how food shapes the city’s everyday rhythm. If you’re curious to see more than just the main roads, a cycling tour is a refreshing way to slow down and really take in the local atmosphere. With Jackfruit Adventure’s cycling tours in Ho Chi Minh City, you can pedal through side streets, local markets, and quiet neighbourhoods where the daily life of Saigon really unfolds, as well as taste new dishes and share incredible moments through food.
And when the sun goes down, the Saigon Foodie Night Ride is a fun way to dive into Saigon’s night scene, as you’ll be hopping on the bike, weaving between districts, and tasting hot plates straight from the grill. It’s an experience that stays with you long after the last bite. Take your time, stay curious and let your Ho Chi Minh City food tour remind you that every local dish has a story waiting to be told.
