1. Com ga xoi mo (waterfall fried chicken rice)
This is a classic dish featuring crispy fried chicken served over aromatic rice that absorbs all the savory flavors. A side of fresh herbs and pickled vegetables adds a refreshing balance. The dish is filling, flavorful, and widely available at local eateries across Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Com Ga Xoi Mo Su Su: 117 Cong Quynh, Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 10:30 AM - 8:30 PM
- Com Ga Xoi Mo 142: 26/16A Le Van Duyet, Gia Dinh Ward | 9 AM - 10 PM
- Com Ga Xoi Mo 678: 30 Son Ky, Tay Thanh Ward | 7 AM - 9 PM
2. Com tam (broken rice)
Com tam, or Vietnamese broken rice, is a popular Ho Chi Minh City lunch dish made from fractured rice grains that have a slightly chewy texture. It is typically served with grilled pork, a fried egg, pickled vegetables, and a drizzle of savory fish sauce. You can find Com Tam at local markets and street stalls across Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Com Tam Ba Ghien: 84 Dang Van Ngu, Phu Nhuan Ward | 7:30 AM - 8:30 PM
- Com Tam Nguyen Van Cu: 74 Nguyen Van Cu, Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 7 AM - 3 PM
- Com Tam Xa Bi Chuong: 179 Tran Binh Trong, Cho Quan Ward | 7 AM - 9 PM
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3. Hu tieu (thin rice noodle soup)
Hu tieu is a delicate Vietnamese rice noodle soup that is perfect for a midday meal in Ho Chi Minh City. The soup features thin rice noodles served in a clear broth, often accompanied by pork, seafood, or chicken, along with fresh herbs and crunchy bean sprouts. Its aromatic taste makes it a comforting choice for locals and visitors alike.
Recommended places to eat:
- Hu Tieu Hong Phat: 389 Vo Van Tan, Ban Co Ward | 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM
- Hu Tieu nam Vang Thanh Dat: 34 Co Bac, Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 24/7
- Hu Tieu Nam Vang Trung Coi: 80 Cao Thanh, Ban Co Ward | 7 AM - 10:30 PM
4. Bun rieu cua (crab noodle soup)
Bun rieu cua is a flavorful Vietnamese crab noodle soup that brings together a tangy broth with tender rice noodles and fresh crab meat. The soup is often garnished with tomatoes, herbs, and a touch of fermented shrimp paste, giving it a slightly sour and savory taste.
Recommended places to eat:
- Bun Rieu Nha: 63B Tran Quoc Thao, Xuan Hoa Ward | 7 AM - 10 PM
- Bun Rieu Ganh: 163 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Thanh Ward | 7 AM - 7 PM
- Tam Rieu: 235 Phan Xich Long, Cau Kieu Ward | 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM
>>> Discover: Saigon noodles guide: Where to get the best of the best?
5. Banh canh cua (crab tapioca noodle soup)
Banh canh cua is a thick, hearty Vietnamese noodle soup made with chewy tapioca noodles and fresh crab meat. The broth is simmered with crab shells to enhance its natural sweetness, and served with herbs, fried shallots, and sometimes a dash of chili for a gentle kick. This satisfying dish is perfect for seafood lovers looking for the best lunch in Saigon.
Recommended places to eat:
- Banh Canh Cua 14: 221 Tran Binh Trong, Cho Quan Ward | 6:30 AM - 10 PM
- Banh Canh Cua Tran Khac Chan: 87 Tran Khac Chan, Tan Dinh Ward | 11 AM - 9 PM (until 7 PM only on Fridays)
- Banh canh cua Hoang Lan: 486/3 Vinh Vien, Dien Phong Ward | 10 AM - 9 PM
6. Mi Quang (Quang noodles)
Mi Quang is a colorful Vietnamese noodle dish from the Quang region, featuring wide rice noodles with shrimp, pork, fresh herbs, crushed peanuts, and a light broth that balances textures and flavors perfectly. This central Vietnamese specialty is available at local restaurants and street food stalls throughout Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Mi Quang Sam: 16 Ca Van Thinh, Bay Hien Ward | 6 AM - 1 PM; 3 PM - 9 PM
- Mi Quang My Son: 38B Dinh Tien Hoang, Tan Dinh Ward | 6 AM - 9 PM
- Mi Quang 3 Anh Em: 193 Cach Mang Thang Tam, Ban Co Ward | 6 AM - 9 PM
7. Bun thit nuong (grilled pork with rice vermicelli)
Bun thit nuong combines rice vermicelli, grilled pork, fresh herbs, vegetables, and peanuts, served with tangy fish sauce for a perfect sweet, sour, and savory balance. Vietnam dry noodles are a popular choice for lunch in Ho Chi Minh City, with a typical portion costing around 50,000 to 80,000 VND.
Recommended places to eat:
- Bun Thit Nuong Hoang Van: 137 Chan Hung, Tan Hoa Ward | 7 AM - 8:30 PM
- Bun Thit Nuong Cha Gio - Nguyen Trung Truc: 1 Nguyen Trung Truc, Ben Thanh Ward | 6 AM - 8:30 PM
- Bun Thit Nuong Quan 339: 339/7-9 To Hien Thanh, Hoa Hung Ward | 9 AM - 9 PM
8. Banh mi (Vietnamese bread)
Banh mi Saigon combines a crisp baguette with savory fillings such as grilled pork, pate, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and chili for a touch of heat. Priced at 25,000-50,000 VND depending on fillings, this staple is available at street vendors and cafes throughout the city, making it a must-try Vietnamese lunch.
Recommended places to eat:
- Banh Mi Bay Ho: 19 Huynh Khuong Ninh, Tan Dinh Ward | 5 AM - 7 PM
- Banh Mi Hoa Ma: 53 Cao Thang, Ban Co Ward | 6 AM - 11 AM
- Banh Mi Ba Huynh: 197A Nguyen Trai, Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 5:30 AM - 11 PM
9. Pho for lunch in Saigon
Pho is Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup, usually with thin slices of beef or chicken, fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime. This well-balanced dish costs 40,000-70,000 VND per bowl and is beloved by locals and visitors. You can find pho Saigon at street-side stalls, local eateries, and restaurants throughout Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Pho Hung: 241-243 Nguyen Trai, Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 6 AM - 3 AM
- Pho Le: 415 Nguyen Trai, An Dong Ward | 6 AM - 12 AM
- Pho Mien ga Ky Dong: 14/5 Bis Ky Dong, Nhieu Loc Ward | 5:30 AM - 10:30 PM
>>> Explore: Michelin-starred restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City
10. Bo kho (beef stew)
Bo kho is a hearty Vietnamese beef stew with tender chunks of beef simmered in a fragrant broth seasoned with lemongrass, star anise, and other spices. Often served with crusty baguette or over rice noodles, it makes a filling and flavorful lunch option in Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Bo Kho Ganh Saigon: 29 Block H Ngo Gia Tu Apartment, Su Van Hanh, Vuon Lai Ward | 7 AM - 10 PM
- Bo Kho Co Mai: 17C Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Sai Gon Ward | 6:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Bo Kho - Bun Thai Doc Ho: 13 Street 5, Go Vap Ward | 7 AM - 9 PM
11. Bun bo Hue (Hue-style beef noodle)
Bun bo Hue is a spicy Vietnamese noodle soup featuring thick rice noodles, tender slices of beef, and sometimes pork, all in a rich, lemongrass-infused broth. Its bold flavor is balanced with fresh herbs, lime, and chili, making it a must-try for anyone looking for the best lunch in Ho Chi Minh City. A typical bowl costs around 50,000 to 80,000 VND.
Recommended places to eat:
- Bun Bo Hue Mo Noi Co Nhu: 274/29 Vo Van Tan, Ban Co Ward | 11 AM - 8 PM
- Bun Bo Hue Hanh: 135 Banh Van Tran, Tan Son Nhat Ward | 6 AM - 1:30 PM; 4 PM - 9 PM
- Bun Bo Hue Dong Ba: 207B Nguyen Van Thu, Sai Gon Ward | 7 AM - 9 PM
12. Banh xeo (Vietnamese pancake)
This crispy Vietnamese pancake is made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. Pieces are used with lettuce before dipping them in a tangy and slightly sweet fish sauce. A portion usually costs around 50,000 to 80,000 VND.
Recommended places to eat:
- Banh Xeo 46A: 46A Dinh Cong Trang, Tan Dinh Ward | 10 AM - 2 PM; 4 PM - 9 PM
- Banh Xeo mien Tay Thanh Phuong: 31/6 Hoang Hoa Tham, Tan Binh Ward | 7:30 AM - 10:30 PM
- Banh Xeo Binh Dinh Nau Oi: 214 Ung Van Khiem, Thanh My Tay Ward | 11 AM - 12 AM
13. Bo ne (Vietnamese beef steak)
Bo ne is a Vietnamese-style beef steak served sizzling on a hot plate with eggs, pâté, and fresh vegetables. The juicy beef, cooked with garlic and black pepper, pairs perfectly with toasted bread. This hearty dish is a popular option for lunch in Saigon, with prices typically from 40,000 to 60,000 VND per serving.
Recommended places to eat:
- Bo Ne Le Hong: 489/29/20 Huynh Van Banh, Phu Nhuan Ward | 10 AM - 1:30 PM; 4:30 PM - 10 PM
- Bo Ne Ba Nui: 94 Nguyen Thai Binh, Sai Gon Ward | 7 AM - 2 PM; 3 PM - 10 PM
- Bo Ne Co Ut: Nguyen Thien Thuat Apartment, Block K, Ban Co Ward | 6:30 AM - 1 PM
14. Bun dau mam tom (rice vermicelli with fried tofu and shrimp paste)
Bun dau mam tom includes rice vermicelli, crispy fried tofu, fresh herbs, and a side of fermented shrimp paste for dipping. The shrimp paste has a pungent flavor that is balanced by the mildness of the tofu and the freshness of the herbs. A portion usually costs around 50,000 to 80,000 VND.
Recommended places to eat:
- Hoai Niem Quan - Bun Dau Mam Tom: 316 Phan Xich Long, Cau Kieu Ward | 10:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Bun Dau Mam Tom Chi Pheo: 149 Nguyen Gia Tri, Thanh My Tay Ward | 9 AM - 11:30 PM
- Bun Dau Mam Tom Mac Van Khoa: 76 National Highway 13, Binh Thanh Ward | 9:30 AM - 10 PM
>>> Read more: Top 12 Vietnamese restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City for culinary delights
15. Dim sum for lunch in Saigon
Dim sum in Saigon usually includes bite-sized steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork, shrimp, or vegetables. Served with soy sauce, chili, and pickled sides, these shareable dishes offer varied textures and flavors, making them a popular choice for a quick lunch in Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Baoz Dimsum: 82-88 Nguyen Tri Phuong, An Dong Ward | 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM
- Dim Tu Tac: 55 Dong Du, Sai Gon Ward | 10 AM - 10 PM
- Shan Dimsum: 57-59 Phu Dong Thien Vuong, Cho Lon Ward | 7 AM - 2 PM; 5 PM - 9 PM
16. Pizza and pasta
Pizza and pasta are popular international lunch options in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a satisfying break from traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Pizza is served with a crispy crust, fresh toppings, and melted cheese, while pasta dishes come in a variety of sauces, from creamy Alfredo to rich tomato-based ragu.
Recommended places to eat:
- Italiani’s Pizza Han Thuyen: 17 Han Thuyen, Sai Gon Ward | 11 AM - 9:45 PM
- The Pizza Company: Nguyen Thai Hoc, Cau Ong Lanh Ward | 10 AM - 10 PM
- Pendolasco: 30 Tong Huu Dinh, An Khanh Ward | 11 AM - 10 PM
17. Udon and ramen
Udon and ramen are popular Japanese-inspired lunch options in Ho Chi Minh City, offering comforting bowls of noodles in savory broths. Udon features chewy wheat noodles in mild broth with vegetables or meat, while ramen includes tender noodles with toppings like pork, eggs, and seaweed. Both dishes are filling, satisfying, and perfect for a hearty lunch in Ho Chi Minh City.
Recommended places to eat:
- Kohaku Udon & Ramen: 246 Phan Xich Long, Cau Kieu Ward | 10 AM - 10 PM
- Udon Donnosuke: 968 Nguyen Van Linh, Tan Hung Ward | 11:30 AM - 2 PM; 5 PM - 10 PM
- Marukame Udon: 342-344 Hai Ba Trung, Tan Dinh Ward | 8 AM - 9:30 PM
>>> See more: The 13 best restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City for gourmet delights
FAQs related to lunch in Ho Chi Minh City
Are there Michelin-recommended places for lunch in HCMC?
Yes, several eateries are Michelin-listed, including Com Tam Ba Ghien, Bun Thit Nuong Hoang Van, Bo Kho Ganh, Banh Xeo 46A, and Pho – Mien Ga Ky Dong.
Where can I find affordable lunch spots in Saigon?
For budget-friendly meals, try Com Tam Ba Ghien, Banh Mi Bay Ho, Bun Rieu Nha, or Com Ga Xoi Mo Su Su.
Can I find vegetarian lunch options in Ho Chi Minh City?
Definitely. Many eateries and Buddhist vegetarian restaurants offer delicious meat-free dishes. Notable options include Am Thuc Chay Tue (76 Mai Thi Luu Street, Sai Gon Ward), Zenhouse Cafe & Vegetarian Restaurant (60/2 Van Coi Street, Tan Son Nhat Ward), Chay Garden (52 Vo Van Tan Street, Ban Co Ward), and Dharma Garden Vegetarian Restaurant (17/4 Nguyen Huy Tuong Street, Gia Dinh Ward).
Can I find international lunch options in Saigon?
Yes, Ho Chi Minh City has a wide variety of international cuisine. Enjoy Japanese sushi and ramen, Korean BBQ and bibimbap, Italian pizza and pasta, or Western favourites like burgers, steaks, and salads.
>>> Explore more: Lunch in Vietnam: Top 10 popular foods and lunch prices in Vietnam
*Note: The information in this article is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.
If you want a truly satisfying midday break, lunch in Saigon will not disappoint. From crispy Banh Xeo and flavorful Pho to international dishes, the city serves up a variety of tastes, textures, and experiences that make every lunch in Ho Chi Minh City memorable.
After enjoying lunch in Saigon, you can head to Grand Park for a fun-filled experience. Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, explore activities in Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long. For a relaxing stay, consider the Vinpearl hotels and resorts, which offer modern amenities and convenient access to nearby attractions. While there, you can also catch a glimpse of the exciting entertainment at VinWonders. VinWonders features thrilling rides, themed zones, and family-friendly attractions, making it a must-visit destination for fun.
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