Ho Chi Minh City, in Vietnam, is one of the most culturally rich, lively centers in the world with rich culture and an enormous variety of great food. The dining options here are simply endless, ranging from street food stalls that offer quick food to fine dining restaurants that offer a more refined dining experience. It was during my recent trips to this lively city that I've had the great fortune of dining at a great variety of dining places, and I am absolutely thrilled to share with you my top picks for the best restaurants in the region. These specific restaurants are those that I firmly believe not only offer exceptional food but offer experiences you will never forget, which will linger with you long after the meal is done.

 

1. Pho Hoa

If you're in Ho Chi Minh, you can't go without getting pho, and Pho Hoa is probably the best in the city. In District 3, this restaurant has been around for decades, feeding tourists and locals alike. The broth is deep and rich, and the beef is extremely tender. The atmosphere of the meal here is enhanced by the ever-present hum of the restaurant and the never-ending stream of regulars. It's basic, but completely delicious, and every time I'm here, I get a second bowl.
 

2. The Deck Saigon

For an evening out, I would strongly suggest The Deck Saigon. The restaurant is by the Saigon River and has beautiful views, especially during sunset. The restaurant has excellent food, with an abundance of fresh seafood, Asian cuisine, and fusion cuisine. I had their grilled lobster and was impressed by the quality of the cooking. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening or a dinner to cherish with friends. The service is excellent, and the cocktails are worth ordering as well.
 

3. Quan An Ngon

For a less upscale dining experience that still has a great selection of dishes, Quan An Ngon is one of the top options in Ho Chi Minh. This is a street-food-style restaurant that incorporates local flavors from throughout Vietnam. I enjoyed sampling the banh xeo, a fried Vietnamese pancake that contains pork and shrimp, and the nem nuong (grilled pork skewers) were a great appetizer. The multiple options make it great for a person who wants to have a little bit of everything. The atmosphere is relaxed, and it's a great place to share a meal with family or friends.
 

4. Bún Chả 145 Bùi Viện

Bún chả is one of the foods I was hooked on when I was in Hanoi, and it's just as delicious in Ho Chi Minh at this no-frills restaurant. Bún Chả 145 Bùi Viện offers the city's finest grilled pork with noodles. The pork is perfectly charred and juicy, and the sweet-and-sour dipping sauce is the perfect pairing. It's plain but tasty, and the restaurant's street-level location gives it the ambiance of a local, authentic restaurant. It's the type of restaurant that's ideal for a quick, filling meal after a long day of touring.
 

5. Cục Gạch Quán

For a real taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, check out Cục Gạch Quán. The restaurant is cozy, with its country-themed furniture and local dishes served family-style. The fish dishes are excellent, and the spring rolls were the best I've ever had. It's a nice place to unwind and have a leisurely meal with friends, and the service staff is accommodating and helpful in guiding you on ordering from the menu in case you don't understand the dishes. The dishes served here taste home-cooked, and it's one of my top recommendations for comfort food in Ho Chi Minh.
 

Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh is really a paradise for anyone who has a great love for food, as it offers a sublime combination of traditional Vietnamese gastronomic treasures and modern interpretations that testify to the development of the culinary arts. Whether you are on your first trip ever to this lively city or if you are a seasoned traveler with many experiences to your credit, the specially selected list of best restaurants below will give you the chance to fully indulge in the best that this great city has to offer. Remember not to be afraid of venturing beyond the comfortable limits of your palate and to be willing to sample new and interesting dishes. This adventurous spirit is a necessary part of the gastronomic experience that awaits you. Enjoy your dining experience!

By Chris, Spot selector