A Culinary Journey in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a culinary paradise where the flavors of Vietnam come alive in vibrant street markets, charming local eateries, and world-class restaurants. The city’s food scene reflects its rich cultural heritage, blending traditional Vietnamese flavors with French, Chinese, and international influences. During your visit for the Vietnam International Pepper and Spice Outlook 2025, embark on a culinary journey that will awaken your senses.

1. Pho – The Iconic Vietnamese Noodle Soup
No visit to Vietnam is complete without trying 'pho', the country’s most famous dish. This savory broth, simmered for hours with fragrant spices (cassia, star anise, pepper, ginger, onion,...), tender beef or chicken, and fresh herbs, is served over rice noodles. Each bowl is a comforting and flavorful experience, and you'll find it in street stalls and restaurants throughout the city.

2. Banh Mi – The Vietnamese Baguette
A delicious result of French-Vietnamese fusion, 'banh mi' is a crispy baguette filled with a variety of ingredients, including pate, grilled meats, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and chili. This sandwich offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors and can be found on almost every corner in Ho Chi Minh City, often served by street vendors.

3. Goi Cuon – Fresh Spring Rolls
Also known as Vietnamese summer rolls, 'goi cuon' are light, healthy, and bursting with fresh ingredients. Wrapped in delicate rice paper, these rolls are filled with shrimp, pork, vermicelli noodles, herbs, and lettuce, and served with a tangy peanut dipping sauce. They offer a refreshing contrast to the spicier dishes found in the city.

4. Com Tam – Broken Rice
A beloved Saigon specialty, 'com tam' is made from fractured rice grains traditionally considered less valuable, but it has become a signature dish. It’s usually served with grilled pork chops, fried eggs, and pickled vegetables, accompanied by fish sauce. This hearty, flavorful meal captures the essence of southern Vietnamese cuisine.

5. Bun Thit Nuong – Grilled Pork with Vermicelli
'Bun thit nuong' is a dish that highlights the bold flavors of Vietnamese grilling. Tender slices of marinated pork are charred to perfection and served over a bed of rice vermicelli, with fresh herbs, chopped peanuts, and a light fish sauce dressing. The pepper and spices used in the marinade give the dish a distinctive, mouthwatering flavor.

6. Bo La Lot – Grilled Beef Wrapped in Betel Leaves
For spice lovers, 'bo la lot' is a must-try. Ground beef seasoned with pepper, garlic, and lemongrass is wrapped in wild betel leaves, then grilled to create a smoky, aromatic dish that’s both savory and spicy. Often served with rice paper and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for those seeking a true taste of Vietnam’s bold spices.

7. Hu Tieu – Southern-Style Noodle Soup
A southern Vietnamese favorite, 'hu tieu' is a noodle soup with a clearer broth compared to pho and often includes a mix of seafood, pork, or beef. The noodles can be served dry or in soup, and the dish is typically enhanced with a variety of fresh vegetables and herbs. The simplicity of the dish allows the freshness of the ingredients to shine through.

8. Ca Phe Sua Da – Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Vietnam is one of the world’s largest coffee producers, and 'ca phe sua da' is the perfect way to enjoy the local brew. Strong Vietnamese coffee is mixed with sweetened condensed milk and served over ice, creating a creamy and refreshing pick-me-up that’s enjoyed throughout the day.

9. Pepper and Spice-Infused Dishes
As the host of the Vietnam International Pepper and Spice Outlook 2025, Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty of opportunities to experience dishes that showcase Vietnam’s famous pepper and spices. Look out for pepper-crusted meats, spicy seafood dishes, and even desserts that incorporate these bold flavors. Don’t miss trying 'muoi tieu chanh' – a simple but zesty dipping sauce made from pepper, salt, and lime, served alongside many local dishes.

10. Street Food Experience
The best way to experience Ho Chi Minh City's food culture is by exploring its street food scene. Wander through night markets like Ben Thanh or street food alleys such as Van Kiep Street, Ho Thi Ky Street where you can taste a variety of grilled meats, seafood, and fresh fruit, all spiced to perfection.

Whether you’re indulging in a fragrant bowl of pho, snacking on a banh mi from a street vendor, or savoring a pepper-infused dish, Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression. Every meal is a chance to discover new flavors and experience Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage.