Saigon is a bustling city where street food culture thrives, offering an incredible array of flavors that showcase Vietnam’s culinary diversity. From sizzling hot dishes served on street corners to iconic Vietnamese staples, Saigon’s vibrant food scene is a paradise for street food lovers. Here’s a guide to the 10 best street foods in Saigon that you absolutely must try on your next visit.
1. Bánh Mì
Bánh mì is perhaps the most iconic of all street foods in Vietnam. This baguette sandwich, inspired by French colonialism, is filled with meats like pork, pate, and cold cuts, along with fresh vegetables and herbs, making it a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
2. Phở
No visit to Vietnam is complete without a bowl of phở. The warm broth, tender noodles, and aromatic herbs combine to create a dish that comforts and satisfies at any time of the day. Saigon’s version of phở tends to have a slightly sweeter broth compared to northern variations.
3. Gỏi Cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Gỏi cuốn, or fresh spring rolls, are a lighter street food option, perfect for hot Saigon days. These rolls are made from rice paper and filled with fresh herbs, shrimp, or pork, and are typically served with a tangy dipping sauce.
4. Cơm Tấm (Broken Rice)
Cơm tấm, or broken rice, is a beloved street food in Saigon, typically served with grilled pork, fried eggs, and a side of fish sauce. This dish originated from the working-class families of southern Vietnam but has become a favorite for all.
5. Bột Chiên (Fried Rice Flour Cakes)
Bột chiên is a popular street snack, particularly among Saigon’s younger crowd. Small rice flour cakes are fried until crispy and topped with eggs, scallions, and served with a tangy soy sauce mixture.
6. Bánh Xèo (Vietnamese Pancake)
Bánh xèo is a savory Vietnamese pancake filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, then folded and served with lettuce and herbs for wrapping. Dip it into the sweet-sour fish sauce for an explosion of flavors.
7. Bánh Tráng Nướng (Vietnamese Pizza)
Bánh tráng nướng is often referred to as “Vietnamese pizza.” It’s a grilled rice paper topped with a mixture of eggs, dried shrimp, pork floss, and scallions. Crunchy, savory, and incredibly satisfying, this dish has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
8. Hu Tieu (Southern-style Noodles)
Hu Tieu is a noodle soup that is lighter than phở and can be served with either a clear broth or as a dry dish with the sauce on the side. Popular in southern Vietnam, Hu Tieu typically includes a mix of pork, seafood, and fresh herbs, offering a balanced, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.
9. Bánh Bao (Steamed Bun)
Bánh bao is a fluffy steamed bun filled with pork, mushrooms, and quail eggs. It’s a popular snack that you can find throughout Saigon’s streets, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the city.
10. Chè (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)
Chè is a sweet dessert soup that comes in various flavors and textures, from coconut milk and mung beans to jelly and fruits. It’s a delightful way to end a day of exploring Saigon’s vibrant streets.
Explore Saigon’s Street Food Scene with Vespa Adventures
To experience the best street food in Vietnam, join our Saigon Foodie Experience with Vespa Adventures. Ride through the bustling streets of Saigon on a vintage Vespa and stop at the most authentic food stalls, enjoying each bite along the way. From the classic bánh mì to the lesser-known but equally delicious dishes, this tour offers a comprehensive taste of Saigon’s street food culture.
