Ho Chi Minh City is a mecca for street food lovers. Instead of sticking to the usual tourist spots, why not start your day with some of the hidden culinary gems favored by locals?
In this blog post, I’ll talk about the most delicious breakfast options that will keep you coming back for more in this foodie paradise.
Rest assured, I have personally tried all the dishes mentioned below to ensure that you have an amazing time in Ho Chi Minh City without falling into any tourist traps.
Hello food lovers from all corners of the world, get ready for these great tips on where to have 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 option in Saigon.
It includes broken rice combined with grilled meat, shredded pork skin, fried egg, steamed pork pie, and pickled vegetables such as cucumber and tomato. To enhance it, a tasty fish sauce mixture is poured over the rice.
You can easily spot cơm tấm places dotted around the charming alleys of Saigon, offering this tasty dish at affordable 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 made with crispy wheat flour and filled with a delicious mix of roast meats, eggs, pork sausage, pâté, fresh herbs, chili, onion and sauce.
It’s an explosion of flavor you won’t want to miss!
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Banh mi comes in a variety of delicious styles, and each location has its own special fillings and sauces. This diversity is what makes Saigon banh mi so tasty.
Start your day with options like pork meatball banh mi, fried banh mi, dipped banh mi, or grilled beef 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. Saigonians love to have Hu Tieu at any meal of the day (breakfast, lunch or dinner) and can’t seem to get enough of it.
This tasty dish includes a delicious broth with pork, chicken, fresh herbs and your choice of 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 dish 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 reading: Top 10 Street Foods 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 the people of Hue who set up Bun Bo stores in SaigonThis dish has become a favorite of many.
The flavorful broth, hearty noodles, and variety of meat cuts such as rare steak, brisket, tendon, and brisket never fail to impress diners.
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Xôi: sticky rice
Xôi, a delicious sticky rice dish, is a popular breakfast option in Vietnam. It is 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 steamed or boiled glutinous rice, many Vietnamese enjoy Xôi for breakfast or as a snack at any time of the day or night.
It is a dish that locals must try at least once a month.
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Bò Kho: stewed beef
Bò kho is a super tasty and loved dish in Saigon! It is beef cooked with a mixture of incredible spices that give it a sweet and aromatic flavor.
To prepare this delicacy, you will need beef, potatoes, onions, garlic, sugar, fish sauce, cooking oil, and plenty of spices like chili, monosodium glutamate, pepper, cinnamon leaves, and dried onions.
When you try bò kho, you usually pair it with bread, rice noodles, and fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Very delicious!
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Immerse yourself in the 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 variety of dishes.
The food you will try is a delicious reflection of the city’s unique flavors. Plus, the guides are super friendly, speak English very well, and really 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 are guaranteed a positive and enriching experience.
While these tours involve walking or riding a motorcycle, safety and comfort are always a top priority, along with the opportunity to connect with your guides and other food enthusiasts.
If you are thinking of joining a street food tour, come hungry to fully savor the gastronomic delights on offer.
These tours are a fun, hassle-free way to delve into Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant street food culture.
Check out these amazing tour options
- Street Walking Food Tour: Immerse yourself in the local food scene with our walking tour. Taste ten delicious street dishes, drink refreshing drinks, and savor Saigon beer. Explore historic sites such as apartments from the 1968 Tet Offensive. We can also accommodate dietary restrictions. Reserve your spot now!
- Motorcycle Street Food Tour: Embark on an exciting motorcycle 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. 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 prepared 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!
