If you’re exploring Saigon after dark, you’ll quickly discover why the street food in Saigon scene is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. From crispy bánh mì to fragrant bowls of phở, the streets are packed with exciting flavors that come alive at night.
Whether you’re wandering through a buzzing night market or stopping by a trendy vendor, there’s no shortage of budget-friendly options that showcase Saigon’s culinary soul. We’ve handpicked some of the best spots to help you dive into the local food culture—perfect for night owls looking for a late-night food adventure!
Table of Contents
1. Com tam – Vietnamese Broken Rice
If pho is a popular dish in Hanoi, then cơm tấm (broken rice) is a well-loved dish in Saigon, favored by everyone from students and workers to the more affluent. It’s the perfect choice for night owls when hunger strikes late at night. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of sitting down to enjoy a fragrant plate of cơm tấm with a rich, grilled pork chop, fatty egg meatloaf (chả trứng), and a bowl of sweet-salty fish sauce, right?
Main Ingredients of Com Tam:
- Broken Rice: The dish uses fractured rice grains, giving it a distinctive texture that is softer and more absorbent than whole rice.
- Grilled Pork Chop (Sườn Nướng): Marinated with fish sauce, sugar, garlic, and lemongrass, then grilled to perfection, giving off a smoky aroma.
- Egg Meatloaf (Chả Trứng): A mixture of eggs, minced pork, and vermicelli noodles, usually topped with salted duck egg yolk.
- Shredded Pork Skin (Bì): Thin slices of pork skin mixed with roasted rice powder for extra texture.
- Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm): Sweet and salty dipping sauce with garlic and chili, adding balance to the dish.
Eating cơm tấm late at night in Saigon is more than just satisfying your hunger—it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s culinary soul. The combination of aromatic grilled pork, soft rice, and sweet fish sauce creates a comforting, hearty meal. Many local eateries serve this dish well past midnight, making it a perfect stop for night owls.
For both locals and visitors, cơm tấm represents the essence of Saigon: flavorful, accessible, and deeply connected to the vibrant street food culture. Whether you’re grabbing a plate after a night of work or enjoying it with friends under the glow of streetlights, cơm tấm never fails to leave a lasting impression.
See some of the best places for Com Tam in Ho Chi Minh City, recommended by Vietnam Is Awesome Community!
Tiffany Hoang
My all time favorite is Com Tam De Tham- 269 Đ. Đề Thám, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1. Com Tam Grilled Pork Belly there is also what they are famous for.
My Huynh
My lunch always at Cơm Tấm Tâm - 147 Trương Văn Bang, Phường Thạnh Mỹ Lợi, Thủ Đức, Hồ Chí Minh
Mark Dickens
My favourite spot (so far) is Quán Cơm Tấm Hồng Calmette in D4!
It’s always bumpin over there! 😋
DK Long
For me the best is com tam Tai - 1 Đường Nguyễn An Ninh, Phường 14, Bình Thạnh, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
2. Sui cao – Dumplings
Sui cao (dumplings) is a dish rich in Chinese culinary flavors, with a clear yet flavorful broth that captivates anyone who tries it. Especially on late nights, when you’re looking for something to satisfy your hunger, a steaming bowl of dumplings with its clear and savory broth will warm your belly right in the heart of sleepless Saigon.
Main Ingredients of Sui Cao:
- Dumpling Wrapper: Thin, soft, and smooth, holding the fillings together perfectly.
- Shrimp & Pork Filling: Fresh shrimp and fragrant pork, combined with herbs and spices to create a delicious filling.
- Broth: Clear, savory, and deeply flavorful, making the dish satisfying and comforting.
- Baby Bok Choy & Greens: Common side elements that add freshness to the dish.
- Variations: Dumplings in Saigon can come with unique ingredients like eggs, seafood, and even charcoal-dried squid or fish maw.
Beyond the traditional fillings, dumplings in Saigon come with interesting variations, such as baby bok choy, eggs, or seafood fillings, offering a diverse range of choices for diners. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, stopping by for some late-night dumplings is sure to provide an unforgettable culinary experience.
3. Hu tieu go – Knocking Rice Noodles
While strolling around Saigon’s streets at night, visitors will easily come across street vendors or small, humble eateries selling hủ tiếu gõ – a familiar street food dish for the city’s residents. With its simple yet delicious flavor and quality, hủ tiếu gõ caters to everyone, from students to laborers, and has gradually become an indispensable part of Saigon’s culinary culture. The simple yet cozy pushcarts, fully equipped with stoves, a pot of steaming broth, bowls, and various condiments, are always ready to serve those craving a late-night meal.
Main Ingredients of Hu Tieu Go:
- Rice Noodles (Hủ Tiếu): Soft, chewy rice noodles that form the base of the dish.
- Broth: A light, clear broth made from pork bones, often simmered for hours to extract a sweet and savory flavor.
- Minced Pork: Seasoned minced pork adds a hearty element to the dish, providing a savory contrast to the light broth.
- Quail Eggs: Small boiled quail eggs, adding richness and texture to the meal.
- Fried Shallots: Crispy fried shallots give the dish a fragrant, crunchy topping.
- Bean Sprouts: Fresh bean sprouts add a crisp, refreshing element to balance the warm noodles.
- Scallions and Cilantro: Chopped herbs that provide a fresh, aromatic finish to the dish.
- Condiments: Typical condiments include chili sauce, soy sauce, and lime wedges, allowing diners to customize the flavors to their taste.
What makes hủ tiếu gõ unique is the signature “gõ” sound – the clacking of two bamboo sticks that vendors use to announce their arrival. The rhythmic tapping echoes through the night, immediately catching the attention of those seeking a warm, simple meal amid Saigon’s bustling streets. This sound gave the dish its name, “hủ tiếu gõ,” making it a symbolic part of Saigon’s nighttime food scene.
If you have the chance to visit Ho Chi Minh city at night, don’t miss the opportunity to sit by a small hủ tiếu gõ cart, enjoy a steaming bowl of noodles, listen to the familiar tapping sound, and fully immerse yourself in the unique and distinctive flavors of this vibrant city.
4. Banh trang nuong – Grilled rice paper or Pizza Vietnam
If you’re looking for a snack to enjoy while strolling through the bustling streets of Saigon at night, bánh tráng nướng is definitely a must-try. Known as the “Vietnamese pizza,” this dish offers a distinctive and irresistible flavor that appeals to both locals and tourists alike. With a thin, crispy rice paper base grilled over charcoal, topped with a variety of ingredients:
- Rice Paper (Bánh Tráng): Thin, crispy rice paper grilled over charcoal, creating a crunchy base.
- Quail Eggs: Beaten and spread on top of the rice paper, adding richness and moisture.
- Sausage (Xúc Xích): Sliced sausage, often added for a savory bite.
- Dried Shredded Pork (Chà Bông): Fluffy, salty pork that adds texture and flavor.
- Cheese: Melted cheese gives the dish a creamy, indulgent layer that pairs well with the crispy rice paper.
- Scallions: Chopped scallions add a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Chili Sauce and Mayonnaise: These sauces are drizzled over the top for added flavor, with chili providing heat and mayo balancing with creaminess.
In the evening, especially after 8 PM, bánh tráng nướng stalls start to get crowded, attracting not only young people but also workers and tourists who are looking for a delicious, easy-to-eat snack after a long day. What’s interesting is that bánh tráng nướng is not just a snack but also a part of Saigon’s street food culture. As you walk down the streets at night, it’s easy to spot vendors skillfully flipping the rice paper over the grill, with the mouthwatering aroma of melted cheese blending with the spicy chili sauce, captivating anyone passing by.
5. Pha Lau – Vietnamese Stew with Organ Meats
Phá lấu bò is one of Saigon’s unique and iconic street food dishes, particularly appealing to those who love exploring the city’s nighttime culinary scene. It’s a familiar dish for locals, but it also captivates many visitors with its rich, savory, and fatty flavors. Enjoying phá lấu late in the evening or at night not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a great way to soak in the lively atmosphere of this sleepless city. One standout feature of phá lấu is its broth, which isn’t too thick, offering a perfect balance of flavors that pair well with other dishes.
Main Ingredients of Pha Lau:
- Beef Offal: A mix of organs such as intestines, liver, and stomach, which are carefully cleaned and stewed to achieve a tender, slightly chewy texture.
- Coconut Milk: The rich base of the broth, providing a creamy and subtly sweet flavor.
- Spices: A blend of cinnamon, star anise, five-spice powder, and lemongrass, creating a warm, aromatic profile.
- Tamarind Dipping Sauce: A tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy sauce, perfect for dipping the stewed offal or bread.
- Bread or Instant Noodles: Served on the side, allowing diners to soak up the flavorful broth.
At night, areas like Bà Chiểu Market, Thủ Đức University Village Market, or Bùi Viện Walking Street buzz with stalls selling phá lấu. Customers can sit on simple plastic stools, savoring a hot bowl of phá lấu served with bread or instant noodles. The enticing aroma of coconut milk and spices wafts through the night breeze, creating an irresistible allure. If you’re a night owl, don’t miss the chance to experience late-night phá lấu stalls, where the lively chatter and laughter of groups of friends will make your visit even more memorable.
6. Banh mi – Vietnamese baguette
Bánh mì in Saigon isn’t just a quick daytime meal but also a favorite choice for young people at night, especially for those who enjoy exploring street food. Many bánh mì stalls stay open late, serving hot, flavorful sandwiches that attract diners after late-night outings.
Popular Variations of Banh Mi at Night
- Bánh Mì Nướng Muối Ớt (Grilled Chili-Salt Bánh Mì):
This variation involves grilling the bread over charcoal until crispy, then brushing it with butter and sprinkling spicy chili salt. It is usually topped with quail eggs, cheese, or dried pork floss, providing a salty, crispy treat that’s hard to resist. - Classic Bánh Mì with Cold Cuts:
This well-loved version includes a mix of Vietnamese cold cuts, such as pork rolls and ham, along with fresh vegetables, herbs, and pickled carrots. The standout element is the rich, aromatic pâté and special house sauces that elevate the sandwich’s flavor. - Bánh Mì Bơ Campuchia (Cambodian Butter Bánh Mì):
A sweet take on the classic, this version is brushed with butter and sugar before being toasted to a golden brown. It’s a simple yet delicious treat that young people enjoy during nighttime strolls. - Bánh Mì Phá Lấu:
For adventurous foodies, this variation is a must-try. The bread is stuffed with phá lấu (braised beef offal), creating a flavorful dish with a distinctive aroma and texture, accompanied by a rich, savory sauce. - Bánh Mì Chảo (Pan Bánh Mì):
This hearty meal is served with a small pan (chảo) containing sunny-side-up eggs, sausage, pâté, and hot sauce, making it perfect for satisfying late-night hunger. It offers a cozy, filling option compared to regular bánh mì sandwiches.
Enjoying bánh mì at night offers more than just a tasty snack—it immerses you in Saigon’s vibrant street food culture. Whether you pick up a sandwich after a night out with friends or explore new variations at roadside stalls, bánh mì promises to deliver both comfort and excitement. With prices typically ranging from 15,000 to 30,000 VND, it remains an affordable, iconic food for locals and visitors alike.
7. Banh Trang Tron – Mixed Rice Paper Snack
Bánh tráng trộn is a quintessential late-night street snack in Ho Chi Minh City, especially beloved by young people. This dish showcases the creative use of simple ingredients, combining strips of sun-dried rice paper with a variety of toppings for a flavorful and texturally interesting experience.
Key Ingredients and Flavors
The charm of bánh tráng trộn lies in its balance of flavors—savory, tangy, sweet, and spicy—along with a chewy and crunchy texture. Common ingredients include:
- Strips of rice paper (bánh tráng)
- Shredded green mango for a tart kick
- Laksa leaves (rau răm) for a hint of herbal aroma
- Tamarind sauce and shrimp salt to add depth
- Chili for spiciness
The dish is typically garnished with fried shallots, peanuts, dried shrimp, and quail eggs, and some vendors even include dried beef strips to enhance the flavor. Each vendor adds their own twist to the recipe, allowing for a unique version every time. On full moon days or during vegetarian festivals, bánh tráng trộn vendors also offer a special vegetarian version for those who follow a vegetarian diet.
What makes bánh tráng trộn particularly popular at night is its affordability, quick preparation, and vibrant communal atmosphere. Street vendors often gather around places where young people socialize, such as:
- Parks
- University areas
- Public squares
Many locals and tourists enjoy munching on this snack under the cool night air, as it captures the spirit of Saigon’s dynamic nightlife. Its customizable nature—allowing for varying levels of spice or different toppings—makes it even more attractive to food lovers.
8. Che, Tao pho – Sweet Dessert Soup/ Tofu pudding
Chè and tào phớ (sweet tofu pudding) are two quintessential street snacks in Saigon, especially ideal for enjoying in the evening. With the bustling night atmosphere, strolling through Saigon’s streets and stopping by a chè stall offers a delightful experience for tourists. The refreshing, mildly sweet taste of chè and the soft, creamy texture of tào phớ always captivate diners, helping to beat the day’s heat and soothe the soul in this sleepless city.
Che – A Diverse Sweet Soup Experience
Chè is a beloved traditional dessert throughout Vietnam, offering a variety of flavors, textures, and ingredients. In Saigon, you can find many types of chè, each with its own unique twist:
- Chè đậu xanh (Mung bean)
- Chè đậu đỏ (Red bean)
- Chè thái (Thai-style with jackfruit and coconut milk)
- Chè bưởi (Pomelo)
- Chè trôi nước (Sticky rice balls in syrup)
- Chè thập cẩm (Mixed chè)
Tao Pho – A Delicate, Cooling Tofu Pudding
Tào phớ, or sweet tofu pudding, is another popular choice in Saigon, known for its silky texture and gentle sweetness. This dish is made from soybeans and usually served with a fragrant ginger syrup. Some modern variations include toppings like coconut milk, fruit, or jelly, adding new layers of flavor to the classic dish.
Both chè and tào phớ offer light, refreshing options for vegetarians, making them a beloved part of Saigon’s street food culture. They’re all a simple yet satisfying dessert often enjoyed after dinner or as a light snack while strolling through the city at night.
With prices ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 VND per serving, these late-night chè and tào phớ options are not only affordable but also provide a rich culinary experience. What could be better than enjoying a cool bowl of chè while soaking in the vibrant nightlife of the city?
9. Goi cuon – Vietnamese fresh spring rolls
Gỏi cuốn (Vietnamese fresh spring rolls) is one of the most popular and iconic street foods in Saigon cuisine, often sought out by diners at any time of the day, especially in the evening. This dish is simple, refreshing, and light, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy a nutritious yet light meal. At night, gỏi cuốn stalls typically open in the afternoon and stay open until late, making this a perfect snack for anyone exploring Saigon’s street food scene after dark. For those who love discovering Saigon’s street food at night, gỏi cuốn is certainly a dish not to be missed.
Ingredients and Flavors
The typical Saigon-style gỏi cuốn includes:
- Shrimp and pork slices: Provide a mix of sweet and savory flavors.
- Rice vermicelli noodles: Light and slightly chewy, adding texture.
- Fresh herbs: Lettuce, mint, and coriander offer refreshing notes.
- Rice paper wraps: Thin, chewy, and slightly translucent, holding the ingredients together.
This combination results in a vibrant dish that balances flavors from seafood, meats, and greens, offering both a healthy and satisfying experience.
Dipping Sauce – The Key to Flavor
Gỏi cuốn is commonly served with:
- Sweet-sour fish sauce: Adds a tangy, umami-rich taste.
- Peanut dipping sauce: A thicker, richer option with crushed peanuts on top, which elevates the spring roll with nutty, savory undertones.
The dipping sauce plays a significant role, making each bite feel unique and flavorful. The sweetness of the shrimp and pork, the chewiness of the rice paper, and the fragrant richness of the peanut sauce all come together to offer a distinct and delightful culinary experience with every bite.
10. Chao – Rice Porridge
If hunger strikes late at night in Saigon, cháo (rice porridge) is an ideal solution. This dish is light, warm, and comforting, making it perfect for anyone looking to unwind after a long night out or late work hours. Cháo’s simplicity and versatility make it a beloved choice, especially during the cooler evening hours.
Main Ingredients of Chao (Rice Porridge)
- Rice (Gạo): The base of the dish, cooked until soft and creamy, sometimes flavored with pandan leaves for fragrance.
- Water or Broth (Nước hoặc nước dùng): Used to cook the rice, giving the porridge a smooth, soupy texture. The broth can be made from pork, chicken, or bones for added richness.
- Salt (Muối): A basic seasoning to enhance the flavor of the porridge.
- Pandan Leaves (Lá dứa – optional): Adds a subtle, fragrant aroma to the porridge.
Common Side Dishes:
- Salted Duck Eggs (Trứng vịt muối): Salty and rich, often served as a side with plain porridge.
- Braised Fish (Cá kho): Savory fish braised in a rich caramelized sauce.
- Caramelized Pork (Thịt kho): Tender pork simmered in a sweet and salty caramel sauce.
- Frog (Ếch – for frog porridge): Marinated and cooked with spices, served alongside or mixed into the porridge.
Why Chao is Perfect for Late Nights?
The beauty of cháo lies in its balance of simplicity and flavor. Its gentle taste makes it easy to digest, yet the side dishes elevate it into a satisfying meal. The diversity of toppings—from light pickled vegetables to rich meats—allows diners to customize their bowls to suit their cravings. For many, a bowl of cháo at night provides both comfort and energy, helping to recharge after a long day. Saigon at night is a paradise of diverse street foods, and porridge stalls are the perfect destination when you need a warm, comforting meal. Prices are also affordable, usually ranging between 15,000 to 50,000 VND, making them accessible to everyone.
11. Banh Xeo – Vietnamese Savory Crepe
Bánh xèo, one of the highlights of Saigon’s street food scene, is a crispy, savory pancake that makes for a perfect snack, especially in the evening. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also offers an authentic taste of southern Vietnamese culture.
What Makes Banh Xeo Special?
Ingredients:
- Batter: Made from rice flour, coconut milk, and turmeric, giving it a distinctive golden-yellow color.
- Filling: Usually includes shrimp, slices of pork belly, and bean sprouts. Some vendors also add mushrooms or squid for variety.
- Fresh herbs: Served with mustard greens, mint, lettuce, and other local herbs to wrap around pieces of the pancake.
Flavor and Texture:
The contrast between the crispy outer layer and the soft filling inside makes bánh xèo incredibly satisfying. It’s typically eaten by wrapping a piece in lettuce and herbs, then dipping it into nước chấm—a sweet-tangy fish sauce mixed with garlic, chili, and lime.
The Saigon Style
While bánh xèo originates from Central Vietnam, the Saigon version is thinner, crispier, and smaller, making it easier to eat multiple portions. This lighter style ensures that diners can enjoy the dish without feeling too full, perfect for late-night snacking.
Eating bánh xèo at night offers a unique cultural experience in Saigon. There’s nothing quite like sitting outside under the city lights, enjoying the cool night air, and savoring the taste of hot, crispy bánh xèo fresh off the pan. It’s not just a meal, but a true cultural experience, giving visitors a taste of Saigon’s culinary heritage.
12. Oc – Snail
For those who enjoy street food at night, “ốc” (snails) is an unmissable part of Vietnamese cuisine, particularly in Saigon. The ốc dishes found in Vietnam come in a wide variety, with different species and cooking methods, offering a diverse culinary experience. Popular types of ốc include:
- Ốc hương: A fragrant and tender snail often stir-fried with garlic butter or steamed with lemongrass. The buttery and aromatic flavors make this a favorite for many.
- Ốc móng tay (razor clams): Typically sautéed with garlic and chili, these razor clams are soft and slightly chewy, creating a mouthwatering dish.
- Nghêu (clams): Usually steamed with lemongrass, chili, and lime, clams are served with a savory broth that many enjoy sipping after the meal.
- Hàu (oysters): Grilled oysters with toppings like cheese, onion, or peanuts add a rich and satisfying flavor to the soft, salty oyster meat.
- Ốc len xào dừa: This is a distinct dish featuring small mud snails sautéed in a creamy coconut sauce, combining the sweetness of coconut with the earthiness of snails.
Saigon’s snail eateries, or quán ốc, often open in the late afternoon and stay open past midnight, making them perfect for night owls. The vibrant atmosphere at these street food spots is just as enjoyable as the food itself. For an authentic experience, many locals recommend sitting on small plastic stools by the roadside and enjoying ốc with a cold drink.
Must-try for seafood lovers exploring the vibrant night markets
13. Bot Chien – Fried Rice Flour Cake
Bột chiên is a well-loved street food in Saigon, especially popular among young people for an evening snack. Made from rice flour cakes, this dish is pan-fried until it achieves a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. It’s often topped with eggs and scallions, adding an extra layer of richness and fragrance.
Key Elements of Bot Chien
- Crispy and Chewy Texture: The rice flour cakes are cut into bite-sized pieces and fried, creating a delightful contrast between the crunchy edges and soft interior.
- Eggs and Scallions: These are typically added during the frying process, making the dish more flavorful and aromatic.
- Pickled Papaya: A side of shredded, tangy papaya complements the dish, providing a refreshing contrast to the fried elements.
- Sweet and Tangy Soy Sauce (Nước tương pha chua ngọt): A sauce made from soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chili, giving the dish a balanced flavor.
- Chili Sauce (Tương ớt): Often added on the side for those who enjoy a bit of spice with their meal.
At night, bột chiên stalls in Saigon become more bustling, drawing in locals and tourists alike. More than just a simple snack, bột chiên carries the cultural flavors of the Chinese community, which has contributed to Saigon’s diverse culinary identity. Try a plate of bột chiên late at night amidst the lively street atmosphere to fully appreciate the uniqueness of this dish.
14. Trung vit lon, trung ga nuong – Balut Egg and grilled chicken eggs: Iconic Street Snacks in Saigon
Trứng vịt lộn (balut) and trứng gà nướng (grilled chicken eggs) are two popular street foods that hold a special place in Saigon’s evening food culture. These dishes are beloved by locals and offer visitors a unique taste of Vietnam’s culinary traditions, often enjoyed in the lively atmosphere of the city’s night markets and street-side stalls. Though simple and rustic, they have become an essential part of Saigon’s culinary life, attracting not only locals but also tourists.
Trung vit lon (Balut Egg)
Balut is a fertilized duck egg, typically boiled and eaten with rau răm (Vietnamese coriander), salt, and lime. The egg is renowned for its rich, slightly gamey flavor, which is balanced by the fresh aroma of the coriander and the tangy, salty dipping sauce. It’s considered a hearty and nourishing dish, often eaten for its perceived health benefits.
Trung ga nuong (Grilled Chicken Egg)
This dish offers a completely different texture and flavor. The eggs are cracked open slightly to season the yolk with fish sauce, pepper, and sugar before being carefully grilled over hot coals. The grilling process imbues the eggs with a light smoky flavor, and the seasoned yolk becomes rich and flavorful.
At around 8,000 to 15,000 VND per egg, these snacks are not only delicious but also very affordable, making them a popular choice for students, night owls, and tourists looking for a quick and satisfying bite.
For a bold bite, hột gà nướng delivers – smoky grilled eggs packed with rich, savory flavor. A Saigon street food favorite! Photo by Phunuonline
15. Skewers and Fried Fish Balls: Essential Night Snacks in Saigon
Skewers and fried fish balls are street snacks that are essential to the nighttime food scene in Saigon. These simple, budget-friendly dishes are extremely popular, especially among young people. Street vendors selling skewers and fried fish balls become bustling from early evening until late at night, attracting many diners with their enticing aroma and the lively atmosphere of colorful street carts.
Ingredients in Skewers and Fried Fish Balls
- Meat options: Pork, beef, and chicken, marinated with soy sauce, fish sauce, or chili paste.
- Seafood options: Shrimp, squid, and octopus, seasoned with garlic, pepper, and lime.
- Vegetable skewers: Mushrooms, okra, and bell peppers, often brushed with satay or soy sauce.
- Fish balls and shrimp balls: Made from ground fish or shrimp, mixed with seasonings.
- Fried sausages and beef balls: Quick, deep-fried snacks that are crunchy on the outside.
These beloved street snacks are a must-try for anyone exploring Saigon’s nightlife. Simple yet flavorful, skewers and fried fish balls are affordable street foods that capture the spirit of Saigon’s vibrant food scene, particularly popular among young people looking for a casual bite late into the night. A serving of skewers or fried fish balls typically costs between 5,000 and 15,000 VND, making it an affordable and enjoyable snack.
16. Banh Flan – A Beloved Dessert in Saigon’s Night Scene
If you’re wandering Saigon at night and craving a light yet satisfying dessert, bánh flan is a must-try. This silky, custard-based dish is a local favorite, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. Originating from European crème caramel, bánh flan in Saigon takes on a uniquely Vietnamese twist with creative toppings and serving styles that appeal to everyone from school kids to adults.
The Classic Flan with a Twist
- Core Ingredients: The flan is made with eggs, milk, and sugar, creating a smooth custard with a golden hue. It is topped with a rich caramel sauce that delivers a deep sweetness, perfectly complementing the creamy texture.
- Served over Crushed Ice: Unlike the traditional European version, bánh flan in Saigon is often served chilled over ice. The ice provides a refreshing contrast to the flan’s richness, making it a perfect dessert for the city’s tropical nights.
Popular Variations
- Bánh Flan with Iced Coffee: Many stalls offer a version served with iced black coffee. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully balances the sweetness of the caramel and custard, making it a favorite among coffee lovers.
- Creative Toppings: Some vendors add toppings like tapioca pearls or fresh fruits, providing playful textures and added flavors. This makes each serving unique, with vendors putting their own spin on the dish.
Bánh flan is widely available at street stalls, small cafés, and markets, especially in the evening. Its affordability (usually between 10,000 and 20,000 VND per portion) makes it a favorite snack for students and night owls. Locals love to enjoy it during evening strolls, adding a moment of sweetness and calm amidst the vibrant city streets. Whether you’re visiting a bustling food market or relaxing at a quiet café, savoring a chilled plate of bánh flan is a delightful way to enjoy Saigon’s dynamic food scene at night.
Top Street Food Markets for Nighttime Culinary Adventures
1. Best street food Ho Chi Minh District 1
- Ben Thanh Night Market: Famous for bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), phở (noodle soup), bún thịt nướng (grilled pork with noodles), bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancakes).
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A hub for both street food vendors and restaurants, offering bánh tráng nướng (Vietnamese pizza), fruit smoothies, and grilled skewers.
- Pham Ngu Lao & Bui Vien Street: Known for its lively nightlife, offering bánh mì, phở, and fresh seafood quick bites.
2. Best street food Ho Chi Minh District 3
- Nguyen Thuong Hien Street: Popular for bánh tráng trộn (mixed rice paper salad), khoai tây lắc (shaken flavored fries), and fresh juices.
- Le Thi Rieng Night Market: Offers bánh tráng nướng (Vietnamese pizza), grilled corn, and other Saigon-style snacks.
3. Best street food Ho Chi Minh District 4
- Vinh Khanh Street: Known for seafood, especially ốc (snails), hàu nướng (grilled oysters), and grilled scallops.
- Xom Chieu Food Alley (Alley 200 Xom Chieu): Offers dishes like grilled chicken, chè (sweet dessert soup), and bánh tráng nướng.
4. Best street food Ho Chi Minh District 5 (Cholon – Chinatown)
- Hoa Binh Market: A historic market offering Southern Vietnamese dishes like phá lấu (stewed offal), bún riêu (crab paste vermicelli soup), and fresh seafood.
- Tran Hung Dao Street: Known for Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine, especially dim sum, chè, and roast duck.
5. Best street food Ho Chi Minh District 10
- Su Van Hanh Street: Famous for bánh xèo (Vietnamese crepes), chè mâm (a variety of sweet soups), and fried dough snacks.
- Ky Hoa Night Market: A large night market with over 200 stalls offering bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup) and bánh mì.
- Hồ Thị Kỷ Night Market: one of the most famous flower markets in the city but has also become a vibrant street food area, especially popular in the evenings.This is probably the market with the most diverse street food in Asia, not just Vietnam.
6. Best street food Ho Chi Minh Phu Nhuan District
- Phan Xich Long Street: Known as a mini Chinatown with a wide selection of Chinese-Vietnamese dishes, along with other international cuisines.
- Van Kiep Street: Offers over 50 traditional dishes, from phở (noodle soup) to cơm tấm (broken rice with grilled pork), and various desserts like chè.
7. Best street food Ho Chi Minh Go Vap District
- Hanh Thong Tay Night Market: Known for affordable clothing and a wide selection of local street food, including grilled meats and fried snacks.
Exploring other Saigon’s Nightlife experiences
For night owls seeking more than a late bite, Saigon’s nightlife offers a world of experiences. Beyond the bustling street food scenes, sophisticated cocktail bars and hidden speakeasies add an air of intrigue, blending local charm with mixology mastery. Saigon’s LGBTQ+ venues contribute a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere, celebrating diversity with lively crowds and eclectic beats. With everything from upscale lounges to cozy, tucked-away spots, Saigon’s after-hours ambiance captivates locals and travelers alike, offering countless ways to experience the city’s electric energy under the night sky.
If you’re a night owl with a passion for street food, Saigon is a paradise of flavors waiting for you. From crispy bánh xèo to sizzling seafood on Vinh Khanh Street, and the irresistible bánh tráng trộn on Nguyen Thuong Hien Street, the city comes alive with tantalizing dishes long after the sun sets.
Want to explore these hidden gems and enjoy a truly authentic Vietnamese experience? Let Vietnam is Awesome be your guide! We’ll take you to the heart of Saigon’s street food culture, where every corner holds a new taste adventure. Ready for your next culinary journey?
Jessica Luong
Highly recommend Cơm Tấm Hồng Calmette in District 4, my top of choices 🤌