Ho Chi Minh City, also lovingly called Saigon, is like a treasure chest for anyone who loves street food. Imagine walking down busy streets filled with the smells of delicious dishes—like a warm hug from a bowl of pho or the crunch of a banh mi. Every bite tells a story of Vietnam’s rich food culture.

The Famous Pho

If you visit Saigon, missing pho would be like skipping the best part of a movie. This noodle soup is like a cozy blanket on a cold morning, with its rich broth, soft meat, and fresh herbs. It’s not just a meal—it’s a taste of Vietnamese life.

“Pho is not just food; it’s a cultural experience,”

says local chef Nguyen Van.

Banh Mi: A Tasty Mix of Two Worlds

The banh mi is like a delicious handshake between France and Vietnam. Stuffed with pate, meats, and pickled veggies, it’s a party of flavors in every bite—crunchy, savory, and a little tangy.

Bun Thit Nuong: Noodles with Grilled Pork

This dish is like a summer picnic in a bowl. Thin noodles, juicy grilled pork, and fresh herbs swim in a tangy fish sauce—light but filling, like a perfect sunny day.

Goi Cuon: Fresh Spring Rolls

These rolls are like edible stained glass, packed with shrimp, pork, and herbs. Dip them in peanut sauce, and you’ve got a healthy snack that feels like a cool breeze.

Com Tam: Broken Rice

This dish is proof that even “broken” things can be amazing. The rice, grilled pork, fried egg, and pickled veggies come together like a cozy family dinner.

Che: Sweet Soups for Dessert

End your meal with che—sweet soups made with beans, fruit, and jelly, topped with coconut milk. It’s like dessert and a drink in one, a sweet goodbye to your food adventure.

Exploring Saigon’s street food is like flipping through a delicious storybook of Vietnam. For more tasty tales, visit Journey Vietnam or check out our YouTube channel @JourneyVietnam.