The top 15 Saigon noodles that you should enjoy once

During your Ho Chi Minh City trip, in addition to visiting famous tourist attractions, enjoying Saigon noodles should be one of the top activities on your bucket list. These iconic dishes reflect the rich tapestry of Ho Chi Minh City food. After exploring the variety of noodles available, make sure to indulge in them and enjoy their flavors during your Vietnam vacation!

1. Saigon rice noodle soup (hu tieu)

Hu tieu is the most popular breakfast dish among Vietnamese noodles. With various types such as hu tieu Nam Vang, beef hu tieu, fishcake hu tieu, and squid hu tieu, tourists can choose a suitable variation according to their preference. This dish features deliciously chewy noodles and flavorful broth, accompanied by a variety of meats, seafood, fresh vegetables, and bean sprouts.

Recommended places:

• Hu tieu with beef meatballs 1122: Alley 1046, Truong Sa Street, District 3
• Hu tieu mi Du Ky: No. 91, Luy Ban Bich Street, Tan Phu District
• Hu tieu sate To Ky: No. 138, Nguyen Thai Binh Street, District 1
• Phu Quy Nam Vang noodle soup: No. 84, Ho Thi Ky Street., Ward 1, District 10

2. Pork ball noodle soup (bun moc)

Among various Saigon noodles, bun moc stands out with its aromatic and invigorating flavors. Upon tasting, diners will relish the sweetness of the minced meat, the depth of the flavorful broth, and the satisfying chewiness of the noodles. A complete serving of bun moc comprises minced meat, tender ribs, crispy fried meatballs, fragrant cinnamon-infused meatballs, savory sausage, succulent pork sausage, tender pork skin, and aromatic herbs, along with fresh spring onions.

Recommended places:

• Bun moc Thanh Mai Saigon: No. 14 Truong Dinh, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Bun moc Ba Chieu: No. 280, Bac Hai Street, Ward 15, Tan Binh District
• Bun moc 202: No. 202/71, Pham Van Hai Street, Ward 5, Tan Binh District
• Bun moc Hung Map: No. A68 Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1

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3. Vermicelli with grilled pork (bun thit nuong)

Bun thit nuong, a delightful spin on Saigon noodles, captivates tourists with its fragrant marinated pork. This dish presents tender grilled pork, bursting with delightful flavors, served alongside rice noodles and fresh greens. Diners can enhance the flavor by combining all ingredients in a bowl of fish sauce, complemented with lemon juice, water, and sugar.

Recommended places:

• Bun thit nuong Ba Them: Alley 88, Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
• Bun thit nuong Chi Tuyen: No. 175 Co Giang Street, Co Giang Ward, District 1
• Bun thit nuong Co Ba: No. 287/68 Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Ward 5, District 3
• Bun thit nuong Vi Sai Gon: No. 87 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Ward 8, District 10

4. Pho Saigon

Pho stands out as the most popular and cherished variant of Saigon noodles. The two most common types are pho bo (pho with beef) and pho ga (pho with chicken). The broth for pho is meticulously prepared, with beef or chicken bones simmered for hours with star anise, cloves, cinnamon, and coriander. Before serving, rice noodles are soaked in the hot broth to absorb all the flavors. Pho Saigon is often accompanied by herbs, lime, and bean sprouts to counterbalance the heat of the weather.

Recommended places:

• Pho Thin – Pho Nho: No. 108–110, Le Thi Hong Gam Street, District 1
• Pho Hoa: No. 260C, Pasteur Street, Ward 8, District 3
• Pho Phu Vuong: No. 399, Le Van Si Street, Tan Binh District
• Pho Hung: No. 243, Nguyen Trai Street, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1

5. Beef noodle soup (bun bo)

Bun bo stands out among the distinctive Saigon noodle dishes, boasting bold and intricate flavors. Ho Chi Minh City is revered as the heaven of bun bo, offering everything from the authentic taste of bun bo Hue noodles to inventive twists. The tender rice noodles, coupled with the rich and savory broth, succulent simmered pork knuckles, thinly sliced beef, and flavorful crab sausage, create a sensory explosion that delights every traveler.

Recommended places:

• Bun bo Hue 3A3: No. 17 Dang Tran Con Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Bun bo Hue Ut Hung: No. 6C Tu Xuong Street, Ward 7, District 3
• Bun bo Hue Quan Ganh: No. 110 Ly Chinh Thang Street, Ward 8, District 3
• Bun bo Hue Hanh: No. 135 Banh Van Tran Street, Ward 7, Tan Binh District

6. Fermented fish noodle soup (bun mam)

Bun Mam offers a unique twist on Saigon noodles, bringing the flavors of the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City. The name derives from its most distinctive ingredient, which is also a signature specialty of the region: fish sauce. A touch of fish sauce enriches the broth with a bold aroma and delightful sweetness. It provides both nourishment for energy restoration and a nostalgic journey back to the river. Simple yet unforgettable.

Recommended places:

• Bun mam Le: No. 77/19, Ho Thi Ky Street, Ward 1, District 10
• Bun mam Co Bong, Tan Dinh Market: No. 124, Tran Khac Chan Street, Tan Dinh ward, District 1
• Bun mam 444: No. 369, Le Quang Dinh Street, Ward 5, Binh Thanh District

7. Crab noodle soup (bun rieu)

Being one of the irresistible Saigon noodles, bun rieu is a culinary explosion for the senses. Crafted from crab meat and crab roe, its broth delivers a refreshing and tangy essence, reminiscent of summer. This Vietnamese crab noodle soup harmonizes soft and chewy rice noodles with a delectably sweet and savory broth, complemented by an array of enticing toppings, all meticulously seasoned for the perfect balance of flavors.

Recommended places:

• Bun rieu street eatery near Ben Thanh Market: No. 163 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
• Bun rieu Nguyen Canh Chan: No. TK18/5, Nguyen Canh Chan Street, Cau Kho Ward, District 1
• Bun rieu with crab and snail: No. 66, Nguyen Thai Binh Street, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1
• Bun rieu Co Thuy: No. 287/66, Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3

8. Kebab rice noodles (bun cha)

Amidst the Northern Vietnamese culinary trend, bun cha emerges as one of the most famous Saigon noodles, evoking fond memories. Its essence lies in the aromatic grilled meat, flavorful pork patties, and the harmony of the fish sauce. To savor the true essence of bun cha, the grilled meat and patties must exude rich aromas, while the fish sauce strikes a balance of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors. This Vietnamese vermicelli noodle dish is often served with fresh herbs like lettuce, coriander, and basil, which add a crisp texture to the dish.

Recommended places:

• Bun cha Hoa Dong: No. 121, Ly Tu Trong Street, District 1
• Bun cha Ly Chinh Thang: No. 140, Ly Chinh Thang Street, District 3
• Bun cha Ha Noi Vo Van Tan: No. 135, Vo Van Tan Street, District 3
• Bun cha Dong Xuan: No. 92, Bach Dang Street, Tan Binh District

9. Noodles with fermented shrimp paste (bun dau mam tom)

Bun dau mam tom is among the favorite Saigon noodles. A complete serving of bun dau mam tom includes vermicelli, fried tofu, crispy rice cakes, steamed pork leg, fried spring rolls, fried intestines, assorted vegetables, and shrimp paste. Shrimp paste is the heart and soul of this dish. With a touch of sugar, a splash of kumquat juice, a few slices of chili, and a layer of golden fat on top, the shrimp paste offers a delightful blend of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors that captivate the taste buds irresistibly.

Recommended places: 

• Bun dau Co Khan: No. 102/26, Cong Quynh Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
• Bun dau A Chanh: No. 359, Nguyen Thuong Hien Street, Ward 11, District 3
• Bun dau Homemade: No. 01, Nguyen Van Trang Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Bun dau Lam Bo: No.146, Nguyen Dinh Chinh Street, Ward 8, Phu Nhuan District

Read more: Banh mi Saigon: Top 15 spots to savor the authentic taste

10. Crab tapioca noodle soup (banh canh cua)

Banh canh cua is considered one of the simplest Saigon noodles, as it primarily consists of broth, noodles, meat, and a few herbs. Despite its simplicity, the flavor of this Saigon noodle soup is impeccable. The broth is light and moderately spiced, deriving its rich flavor entirely from the pork bones and crab, resulting in a dish that requires minimal additional seasoning.

Recommended places:

• Banh canh cua Tran Khac Chan: No. 87, Tran Khac Chan Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1
• Banh canh cua Hoang Lan: No. 484, Vinh Vien Street, Ward 8, District 10
• Banh canh cua Ut Le: No. 204-206-208-210, To Hien Thanh Street, Ward 15, District 10
• Banh canh cua Ba Ba: No. 84/6, Nguyen Bieu Street, Ward 1, District 5

11. Thick noodle soup with fishcake (banh canh cha ca)

As a famous dish originating from the coastal regions of Central Vietnam, banh canh cha ca has found its way into the hearts of Saigonese diners with its delightful simplicity and exquisite taste. The crispy, golden-brown fish cakes offer a burst of flavor, while the soft and chewy steamed fish cakes add a comforting texture. Available for as little as 20,000 VND per bowl, you can find this savory delight at bustling markets, street corners, and even upscale restaurants throughout the city.

Recommended places

• Banh canh cha ca Phan Thiet: No. 740/18, Su Van Hanh Street, District 10
• Banh canh cha ca Quy Nhon: No. 133/7, Le Van Tho Street, Ward 11, Go Vap District
• Banh canh cha ca Pham Van Dong: No. 374, Pham Van Dong Street, Ward 13, Binh Thanh District

12. Braised duck noodle soup (mi vit tiem)

Despite originating in China, mi vit tiem, a unique version of Vietnamese duck noodle soup, has become a beloved Saigon noodle soup. Known for its spiced dark broth, which is more flavorful than other Saigon noodles, this specialty features chewy noodles accompanied by fried duck, tender bok choy, and shiitake mushrooms. What truly distinguishes mi vit tiem is the unique side offerings of vinegar, chili sauce, and papaya, renowned for their digestive benefits.

Recommended places:

• Mi vit tiem Huu Ky: No. 84, Nguyen Van Lac Street, Ward 19, Binh Thanh District
• Mi vit tiem Thiem Huy: No. 455, Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 7, District 5
• Luong Ky Mi Gia: No. 1, Huynh Man Dat Street, Ward 19, Binh Thanh District
• Mi vit tiem No Trang Long: No. 110, No Trang Long Street, Ward 14, Binh Thanh District

13. Tilapia noodle soup (bun ca ro)

Bun ca ro is a culinary gem not to be missed when visiting Saigon. With crispy fried fish pieces and a fragrant, sweet broth blending sour and sweet flavors, it offers a unique and memorable dining experience. Despite its humble name, this Saigon noodle soup offers a culinary experience that is both comforting and unforgettable. Each spoonful evokes a sense of nostalgia and leaves a lasting impression on those who indulge in its deliciousness.

Recommended places:

• Bun ca ro Phong Lan: No. 54, Cuu Long Street, Ward 15, District 10
• Bun ca ro Nguyen Cuu Dam: No. 172, Nguyen Cuu Dam Street, Tan Son Nhi, Tan Phu District

14. Mi Quang

Mi Quang, a culinary gem from Quang Nam and Da Nang, has found its way to Ho Chi Minh City, leaving a delightful mark on countless diners. Each steaming bowl boasts a harmonious blend of hearty noodles, a savory broth brewed from bones, and an array of fillings like chicken, snakehead fish, eel, beef, shrimp, and frog. With its diverse ingredients, accompanied by crispy rice crackers, aromatic roasted peanuts, and an assortment of fresh herbs, this dish promises a unique and unforgettable flavor experience for all who partake.

Recommended places:

• Mi Quang Sam: No. 8, Ca Van Thinh Street, Ward 11, Tan Binh District
• Mi Quang 8: No. 85, Tran Quang Dieu Street, Ward 13, District 13
• Xom Cho Cu Restaurant: No. 35, Ly Tu Trong Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

More on: 21 bucket list things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

15. Water spinach noodle soup (canh bun)

The iconic water spinach noodle soup is a popular street food dish known for its affordability and distinctive flavors. It features a sweet and savory broth, vibrant red crab roe, plump crab meat, soft rice noodles, blood pudding, and crispy tofu. Canh bun is served with boiled water spinach, while most other Saigon noodles are accompanied by fresh greens. Each bowl offers a harmonious mix of ingredients, creating a visually appealing and delicious dish.

Recommended places:

• Canh bun Lan: No. 124, Nguyen Bac Street, Ward 3, Tan Binh District
• Canh bun Me Toi: No. 115/63, Le Van Sy Street, Ward 13, Phu Nhuan District
• Bun rieu – Canh bun 66: No. 287/66, Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Ward 5, District

Discovering Saigon noodles is not just a culinary adventure; it’s a journey through the vibrant flavors and diverse ingredients that make up the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. From the iconic Pho to the lesser-known specialties like Bun Mam and Bun Moc, each dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the rich tapestry of Vietnamese cuisine.

Besides Ho Chi Minh City, you can delve into the finest Vietnamese cuisine and entertainment, crafting unforgettable experiences at other tourist destinations such as Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.

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*The information provided in the article is for reference only and may vary depending on the actual situation. Please contact the restaurants for more details.

 

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