From late-night bánh mì to steaming bowls of hủ tiếu, Saigon’s street food scene is a sensory overload—in the best way. These 8 vendors and hole-in-the-wall joints are local secrets that deserve global fame (and won’t break your budget).
1. Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa – District 1
What Makes It Special?
Known as the “Queen of Bánh Mì,” this iconic shop layers meats, pate, and pickled veggies like no other.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
The classic bánh mì đặc biệt costs around 50,000 VND (~$2)—huge, filling, and wildly flavorful.
2. Cô Ba Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang – District 10
What Makes It Special?
This tiny sidewalk stall draws loyal locals for its rich pork broth and fresh toppings.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
Get a bowl of hủ tiếu Nam Vang for just 40,000 VND (~$1.60). Add a soft-boiled egg for a few cents more.
3. Bún Thịt Nướng Chị Tuyền – District 3
What Makes It Special?
Smoky grilled pork, fresh herbs, and crispy spring rolls make this bún thịt nướng unbeatable.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A full bowl with all the toppings runs 50,000 VND (~$2). Great for lunch or a light dinner.
4. Hẻm Spaghetti – District 4
What Makes It Special?
A local twist on pasta—Vietnamese-style spaghetti served alleyway-style. Youthful, inventive, and delicious.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
Beef spaghetti with chili sauce goes for 45,000 VND (~$1.80). Grab a Vietnamese iced tea on the side.
5. Xôi Gà Number One – Bình Thạnh District
What Makes It Special?
Sticky rice done right—savory, fragrant, and topped with crispy fried shallots and chicken.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A generous portion of xôi gà (chicken sticky rice) costs just 35,000 VND (~$1.40).
6. Bánh Xèo 46A – District 3
What Makes It Special?
This decades-old joint serves one of the crispiest, most satisfying bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes) in town.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A large bánh xèo with shrimp and pork is about 70,000 VND (~$2.80)—perfect to split with a friend.
7. Cháo Lòng 144 – Phu Nhuan District
What Makes It Special?
Hearty rice porridge with pork offal and herbs—comfort food the Vietnamese way.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A warm bowl of cháo lòng runs 40,000 VND (~$1.60). Locals swear by it after a long night out.
8. Bánh Tráng Nướng Dì Đinh – District 3
What Makes It Special?
Known as “Vietnamese pizza,” this crispy rice paper snack is a street food favorite with tons of flavor.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
One bánh tráng nướng with quail egg and sausage: 25,000 VND (~$1). Cheap, crunchy, addictive.
Tips for Eating Like a Local
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Eat early—many stalls sell out by late evening.
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Don’t be afraid of tiny plastic stools—they often signal great food.
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Bring small cash (VND)—most vendors don’t take cards.
Final Thoughts
If you want to experience Vietnam’s heart, skip the restaurant and hit the street. These hidden gems deliver big flavor on a tiny budget.
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