Top 5 restaurants you should check while traveling in Saigon

Top 5 Restaurants You Should Visit When in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, is a food lover’s paradise, offering a rich culinary scene that blends traditional Vietnamese flavors with modern twists. Whether you’re craving street food or looking for an upscale dining experience, the city’s diverse restaurant scene has something for everyone. Here are the Top 5 Restaurants you should definitely visit when in Saigon:

1. Quán Ăn Ngon

Location: 160 Pasteur, District 1

If you’re looking for an authentic Vietnamese dining experience with a wide variety of traditional dishes, Quán Ăn Ngon is the place to go. Located in the heart of District 1, this restaurant offers a comfortable and spacious setting where you can sample some of the best street food in Saigon in a more refined, sit-down atmosphere.

Quán Ăn Ngon’s menu is extensive, featuring popular dishes from all over Vietnam, such as pho (noodle soup), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), goi cuon (spring rolls), and bun bo Huế (spicy noodle soup from Hue). The open-air kitchen adds to the ambiance, letting diners watch the preparation of fresh, delicious dishes. The vibrant flavors and variety of options make it an ideal choice for both locals and tourists.

2. The Deck Saigon

Location: 38 Nguyen U Di, Thao Dien, District 2

For a more sophisticated dining experience, The Deck Saigon offers a stunning setting along the Saigon River. Located in the upscale Thao Dien neighborhood in District 2, this restaurant is known for its gorgeous riverside views, contemporary design, and exceptional international cuisine. It’s perfect for a romantic evening, special occasion, or relaxing lunch.

The menu is a mix of Western and Asian fusion dishes, with highlights such as fresh seafood, grilled lobster, steak, and Vietnamese-inspired salads. The ambiance is chic and stylish, with both indoor and outdoor seating options. The Deck Saigon is also a great spot to enjoy a refreshing cocktail while watching the sunset over the river.

3. Cục Gạch Quán

Location: 10 Đặng Tất, District 1

Cục Gạch Quán is a beloved restaurant that combines traditional Vietnamese flavors with a homely, nostalgic atmosphere. Located in District 1, this charming spot is designed to resemble a traditional Vietnamese house, with vintage furniture, antiques, and a cozy, rustic ambiance.

The restaurant serves a range of classic Vietnamese dishes like com tam (broken rice with grilled pork), goi cuon (Vietnamese spring rolls), and bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes). The dishes are cooked with fresh ingredients, often following traditional family recipes passed down through generations. It’s the perfect place for those seeking comfort food with a touch of authenticity and warmth.

4. La Villa French Restaurant

Location: 14 Mai Thi Luu, District 1

For lovers of fine French cuisine, La Villa French Restaurant is an exceptional choice in Ho Chi Minh City. Situated in an elegant villa in District 1, this restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience with an extensive menu of gourmet French dishes. The intimate, sophisticated atmosphere makes it a perfect venue for special occasions or a romantic evening.

The menu features exquisite French classics such as foie gras, escargots, duck confit, and tender beef tenderloin, all prepared with meticulous care by experienced chefs. The wine list is also impressive, offering a fine selection of French wines to complement the rich flavors of the dishes. With top-notch service and impeccable presentation, La Villa French Restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience.

5. Bún Chả 145 Bùi Viện

Location: 145 Bùi Viện, District 1

If you’re looking to sample Bún Chả, a famous Vietnamese dish that originated in Hanoi, Bún Chả 145 Bùi Viện is one of the best places to try it in Ho Chi Minh City. Located on the lively Bùi Viện Street (backpacker street), this humble but highly popular restaurant is known for its authentic take on this northern Vietnamese specialty.

Bún Chả consists of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. The dish is light, savory, and fragrant, with a balance of sweet, salty, and smoky flavors. While the restaurant’s ambiance is casual, the high-quality ingredients and delicious flavors make it a must-try spot for both locals and visitors looking to explore authentic Vietnamese street food.

Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh City is home to a diverse range of dining experiences, from casual street food to high-end gourmet restaurants. Whether you’re craving authentic Vietnamese dishes, French cuisine, or something in between, the city’s top restaurants provide an array of flavors and atmospheres to suit every taste and occasion. Be sure to check out these top 5 dining spots for an unforgettable culinary journey through the heart of Saigon!