Saigon Street Food Walking Tour

A taste-led walk through the soul of Saigon

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Tour type: Walking

Area: District 1 – Saigon’s historic and culinary core

Language: English

Best for: International travelers looking for authentic flavors, local culture, and everyday life

Itinerary Details

Meeting Point – 6:00 PM

23/9 Park or near Ben Thanh Market

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ot6RhY6nbZsYgWA87

Meet your local guide and begin with a short introduction to Saigon’s food culture and why it stands apart from other cities in the region.

1️⃣ Fresh Spring Rolls & Bò Bía – A light and refreshing start

Location: A family-owned stall hidden in a local alley (Nguyen Trung Truc area)

What you’ll try: Fresh spring rolls with shrimp, pork, and herbs, plus sweet-and-savory bò bía

Why it matters: A perfect expression of Southern Vietnamese cuisine—fresh, balanced, and herb-forward—often affectionately called “Vietnamese sushi” by visitors

2️⃣ Southern-Style Bánh Xèo – Crispy, golden, and interactive

Location: A small neighborhood restaurant near Co Giang Street

Experience: Learn how locals wrap bánh xèo—crispy rice pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts—using fresh herbs and house-made dipping sauce

Why it matters: A Mekong Delta classic influenced by Khmer cuisine, known for its crunch, bold flavors, and hands-on eating style

3️⃣ Bún Thịt Nướng – A bowl of perfect balance

Location: A well-loved backstreet eatery near Ben Thanh or the Nguyen Thai Binh area

What’s in the bowl: Vermicelli noodles topped with grilled pork, crispy spring rolls, fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, peanuts, and sweet fish sauce

Why it matters: Smoky, crunchy, tangy, and refreshing—this dish captures the harmony Saigonese food is famous for

4️⃣ Bánh Mì – Saigon’s global street food icon

Location: A traditional bánh mì stall near Le Thi Rieng or Nguyen Thai Hoc

What you’ll try: Crispy baguette filled with pâté, cold cuts, pickled carrots, cucumber, herbs, and homemade chili sauce

Why it matters: Celebrated by CNN and TasteAtlas as one of the world’s best street foods, bánh mì reflects the fusion of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions

5️⃣ Dessert – A sweet and cooling finish

Location: A long-standing dessert shop near Nguyen Trai Street or inside Ben Thanh Market

Choices: Classic chè (three-color dessert with beans, jelly, and coconut milk) or grilled coconut ice cream with toppings

Why it matters: A refreshing ending that balances the bold, savory flavors enjoyed throughout the walk

Why This Tour Is Special

• Sample five iconic dishes that define Saigon’s street food culture

• Visit local, non-touristy eateries chosen for quality and authenticity

• Learn directly from locals how dishes are prepared and enjoyed

• Engaging storytelling from guides passionate about food and culture

Additional Information

• Vegetarian options available with advance notice

• Small group format (maximum 10 guests)

• Food stops may change slightly based on season and availability

• Tour ends near Ben Thanh Market, ideal for nightlife or returning to your hotel