Ho Chi Minh City is a mecca for street food lovers. Instead of sticking to the usual tourist spots, why not kick off your day with some hidden culinary treasures favored by locals?
In this blog post, I’ll spill the beans on the most mouthwatering breakfast options that will have you coming back for more in this foodie paradise.
Rest assured, I’ve personally taste-tested all the dishes mentioned below to ensure you have an amazing time in Ho Chi Minh City without falling for any tourist traps.
Hey foodies from all corners of the world, get ready for these awesome insider tips on where to get the best breakfast in Ho Chi Minh!
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Start your day in Ho Chi Minh with these delicious breakfasts.
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Cơm tấm: Broken Rice with Grilled Pork Ribs
Cơm tấm is a delicious and beloved breakfast choice in Saigon.
It features broken rice paired with grilled meat, shredded pork skin, a fried egg, steamed pork cake, and pickled veggies like cucumber and tomatoes. To take it up a notch, a flavorful fish sauce blend is poured over the rice.
You can easily spot cơm tấm spots scattered around the charming alleys of Saigon, offering this tasty dish at budget-friendly prices.
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Banh Mi
Vietnamese banh mi has taken the world by storm, showcasing the delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine on a global scale.
This tasty sandwich is crafted from crispy wheat flour and stuffed with a mouthwatering mix of grilled meats, eggs, pork sausage, pate, fresh herbs, chili, onions, and sauce.
It’s a flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
Related read: Not to Miss Traditional Food in Ho Chi Minh City
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Banh mi comes in a variety of delicious styles, with each spot having its own special fillings and sauces. This diversity is what makes Saigon banh mi so flavorful.
Start your day with options like pork meatball banh mi, pan-fried banh mi, dipped banh mi, or grilled meat banh mi for breakfast.
Hu Tieu: Glass Noodle Soup
Hu Tieu is a popular dish that you can find all over the streets of Saigon. The locals in Saigon love to have Hu Tieu for any meal of the day – breakfast, lunch, or dinner – and they never seem to get tired of it.
This flavorful dish features a delicious broth with pork, chicken, fresh herbs, and your choice of either Hu Tieu noodles or Banh Canh noodles. Diners can customize their Hu Tieu with chili, lime, herbs, and spices to suit their taste preferences, making each bowl a unique and satisfying experience.
Despite its simplicity, Hu Tieu has captured the hearts of many who have had the pleasure of trying it.
Related read: Top 10 Best Street Food In Ho Chi Minh City
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Bún bò: Hue Beef Noodle Soup
Bun Bo hails from Hue but has found a special place in Saigon’s food scene. Thanks to folks from Hue setting up Bun Bo spots in Saigon, this dish has become a favorite among many.
The flavorful broth, hearty noodles, and assortment of beef cuts like rare beef, brisket, tendon, and flank never fail to impress diners.
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Xôi: Sticky Rice
Xôi, a delicious sticky rice dish, is a beloved breakfast option in Vietnam. It’s also a popular late-night or early-morning snack sold by vendors at morning markets and served in upscale restaurants specializing in traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
Made with glutinous rice that’s steamed or cooked, Xôi is enjoyed by many Vietnamese people for breakfast or as a snack any time of day or night.
It’s a must-try dish that locals indulge in at least once a month.
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Bò Kho: Stewed Beef
Bò kho is a super tasty and beloved dish in Saigon! It’s all about beef cooked with a mix of awesome spices that give it a sweet and aromatic taste.
To whip up this deliciousness, you’ll need beef, potatoes, onions, garlic, sugar, fish sauce, cooking oil, and a bunch of spices like chili, MSG, pepper, cinnamon leaves, and dried onions.
When you dig into bò kho, it’s usually paired with bread, rice noodles, and fresh veggies for a well-rounded meal.
So yummy!
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Dive into Deliciousness: Ho Chi Minh’s Best Street Food Tours
Exploring Ho Chi Minh City through street food tours is a must-do for many travelers. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture and savor a delicious array of dishes.
The food you’ll taste is a delightful reflection of the city’s unique flavors. Plus, the guides are super friendly, speak great English, and genuinely care about ensuring their guests have a safe and enjoyable experience.
With their deep knowledge of the city and its culinary traditions, the guides offer an enlightening journey that showcases the diverse food scene and vibrant neighborhoods of Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you join during the festive Tet Festival or any other time, you’re guaranteed a positive and enriching experience.
While these tours involve walking or riding on a motorbike, safety and comfort are always a top priority, along with the opportunity to connect with your guides and fellow food enthusiasts.
If you’re thinking about joining a street food tour, come hungry to fully relish the gastronomic delights on offer.
These tours are a fun and hassle-free way to delve into the vibrant street food culture of Ho Chi Minh City.
Check out these awesome tour options
- Walking Street Food Tour: Dive into the local food scene with our walking tour. Sample ten mouthwatering street dishes, sip on refreshing drinks, and savor Saigon beer. Explore historic locations like apartments from the 1968 Tet Offensive. We can cater to dietary restrictions too – Reserve your spot now!
- Street Food Motorbike Tour: Embark on a thrilling motorbike adventure through four lively neighborhoods, including Chinatown. Let our friendly student guide show you the best street foods, a cold Saigon beer, and a sweet treat. Discover hidden alleys and local spots for an unforgettable experience – Book your tour today!
- Vegan Food Motorcycle Tour: Indulge in a variety of delicious vegan dishes crafted by talented chefs. Cruise through the bustling streets on a motorcycle at night for a unique adventure. Get ready for an unforgettable vegan food experience in Vietnam – Secure your spot now!
