What Food To Try in Ho Chi Minh City and Food Prices

A vibrant morning in Ho Chi Minh City often showcases local families crowded around small plastic tables at street food stalls, inhaling the delicate aromas of phở for breakfast. It’s an everyday scene, where locals indulge in their culinary routine around 7 AM. Many believe that breakfast is the most significant meal, setting the tone for the day.

Typically, locals enjoy three main meals: breakfast around 6-9 AM, lunch from 11 AM to 2 PM, and dinner between 6-9 PM. Lunch prices at street vendors in District 1 can range from 30,000 VND to 60,000 VND, while a similar meal in District 10 may only cost 20,000 VND due to a lower tourist presence. This stark difference reflects how areas less frequented by visitors often have friendlier prices—perfect for budget-conscious eaters.

Payment customs are unique; cash is king in most local spots, and vendors often might not have a card machine. For instance, I usually pay the small stall owner for my banh mi without even attempting to use a card. It’s not uncommon to see locals using mobile payment apps, which are gaining popularity, but the reliance on cash remains strong. Tipping is generally not expected, although rounding up the bill as a thank-you for good service is becoming a common courtesy among regulars.

A prominent dining area is the Ben Thanh Market, bustling all day with visitors and locals alike. The sheer array of food options is dizzying, but it's worth navigating the maze—just keep in mind lunchtime can turn the market into a crowded affair, often around noon. If you want to avoid the rush, hitting the market at around 3 PM allows for a more relaxed experience.

A local habit that's worth mentioning is the practice of enjoying coffee, especially among the younger crowd. They often chat away, sipping on ice-cold cà phê sữa đá, sometimes even at breakfast. This leisurely coffee culture contrasts sharply with the hurried manner often observed in other urban areas.

While exploring the diverse food scene, a common mistake visitors make is underestimating the portion sizes at local eateries. Many assume that a meal will just be a quick bite, but they often end up with more food than they expected, especially with dishes like cơm tấm, which can easily fill you up.

As seasons change, so do dining habits; during the hotter months, lighter options become staples. Street vendors often adjust their menus based on what ingredients are fresh and available. So, as the heat picks up, look for more refreshing dishes like gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) displayed prominently on storefronts.

In this city that never sleeps, the culinary options are ever-evolving, driven by local preferences and seasonal ingredients. A casual stroll through the bustling streets often reveals a new favorite dish, just waiting to be discovered.