If you want to experience waking up early and having breakfast like a true Saigonese, it’s a refreshing change from the usual breakfast in bed, right? With its long-standing culinary traditions, this bustling city offers a fusion of regional cultures that might leave you overwhelmed by its vast diversity. Alright, let’s get going—here are some of my favorite breakfast dishes I’d like to introduce to you.

1. Chao Long Saigon Railway Station

Chao Long is made from pork intestines, so it may not be as popular among international visitors. However, it remains a beloved dish among locals due to its rich flavor and lack of unpleasant odors. The restaurant is a simple roadside eatery with limited seating and basic cleanliness standards, so if you’re not fine, you can either enjoy the dish on-site or take it to go.

If you’re open to experiencing authentic local cuisine, this humble place offers a flavorful dining experience!

• Address: Near Saigon Railway Station, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM.
• Price: Approximately 20,000 for a bowl of porridge.

2. Huynh Hoa Bread

Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich) is considered a cheap and popular street food in Vietnam. But there are many exceptional banh mi brands that are much more expensive than others. People who love Huynh Hoa banh mi say it is worth the price. The filling is very delicious and fully packed, with up to 13 different components such as pate, salted shredded meat, pork pie, ham, xa xiu (a kind of processed pork with special flavor), sausages, herbs and others. One banh mi is enough for two diners. Many veteran customers say the special part that makes Huynh Hoa banh mi famous is the delicious pate.

However, due to its popularity, this spot tends to get quite crowded. Be sure to bring a hat or umbrella to make your wait a bit more comfortable as you get ready to enjoy this famous sandwich!

• Address: No 26 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: Daily from 14:00 – 23:00.
• Price: from 58.000 VND/per – 300.000 VNĐ.

3. Banh Mi Chao Sot Tieu Den (Black pepper sauce skillet bread)

The dish captures the essence of Chinese flavors while incorporating the Vietnamese dining style, creating a harmonious blend that has won the hearts of Saigon locals. Besides the signature sizzling bánh mì chảo, the restaurant also offers other popular dishes like stir-fried macaroni with beef and stir-fried noodles. The space can accommodate 20-30 guests at a time. One notable highlight is the kitchen area, which is well-organized and prioritizes cleanliness to ensure the best possible dining experience.

However, the low seating arrangements, inspired by traditional Chinese culture, might be slightly inconvenient for international guests. The restaurant’s ambiance is simple and modest, reflecting the authentic cultural roots of its Chinese influences. While it may lack modern sophistication, the charm lies in its authenticity and the opportunity to experience a unique and flavorful culinary adventure.

If you’re looking to explore new tastes and immerse yourself in a fusion of culinary traditions, this spot is a must-visit!

• Address: 598/4 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 8, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM.
• Closed on: The 1st and 15th of the lunar calendar.
• Price: Around 30,000 VND for a serving of bánh mì chảo with pork ribs, sunny-side-up eggs, and black pepper sauce.

4. Pho

Pho is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural symbol of Vietnam. This beloved noodle soup has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide with its fragrant broth, tender meat, and soft rice noodles. The heart of phở lies in its broth, traditionally simmered for hours with beef or chicken bones, combined with aromatic spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. Served with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, each bowl is a perfect harmony of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors.

Pho Le

• Address: No. 303-305 Vo Van Tan Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 3:00 AM.
• Price Range: 60,000 – 110,000 VND.

Pho Hung (There are many branches in Ho Chi Minh City)

• Address: 243 Nguyễn Trãi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
• Price Range: 60,000 – 100,000 VND.

Pho Hoa

• Address: 260C Pasteur Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM.
• Price Range: 75,000 – 90,000 VND.

5. Xoi Lang Nghe

Xoi Lang Nghe is a culinary gem in Ho Chi Minh City, offering authentic northern Vietnamese sticky rice dishes. Originating from Phu Thuong, a village renowned for its traditional sticky rice, the restaurant brings the rich flavors of the north to the southern metropolis. The restaurant’s ambiance is cozy, with ample parking space, making it convenient for diners. Patrons have the freedom to customize their sticky rice bowls according to personal preferences, enhancing the dining experience.

For those seeking an authentic taste of northern Vietnamese cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City, Xoi Lang Nghe is a must-visit destination. Its commitment to traditional flavors and customer satisfaction makes it a standout choice for both locals and visitors.

 

• Address: No. 116 Ngo Tat To Street, 2 Ward, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.
• 11E Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Nghe Ward, 1 District, Ho Chi Minh City.
• 84 Nguyen Cong Tru, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, 1 District, Ho Chi Minh City.
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
• Pricing: 23,000 VND to 75,000 VND.