Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Binh Thanh, one of the most vibrant districts in Ho Chi Minh City? With a rich variety of local delicacies and budget-friendly options, the dining scene here promises to tantalize your taste buds. From street food stalls to cozy restaurants, Binh Thanh is home to some hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we’ll unveil the top 12 eateries you simply cannot miss, each offering unique flavors and delightful experiences that will leave you craving for more.
A variety of dishes in Binh Thanh district
1. Cha Lui Lagi – A Youth Favorite
Address: 43/1 Tang Bat Ho, Ward 11, Binh Thanh
Cha Lui Lagi has effortlessly captured the hearts of many young foodies in Saigon. This cozy eatery may be small in size, but it packs a punch with its deliciousness. The cha lui here features a beautifully golden, crispy exterior and pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables. For a truly delightful experience, enjoy the cha lui wrapped with mango, cucumber, and fresh herbs in rice paper, complemented by a zesty dipping sauce and Chinsu chili sauce available on site.
Cha Lui at Cha Lui Lagi
2. Huỳnh Ký Noodle Shop – Specializing in Mixed Noodles
Address: 84 Nguyen Van Lac, Ward 19, Binh Thanh
Step into Huỳnh Ký and be greeted by the alluring aroma of their mixed noodle bowl, the shop’s standout dish. This hearty bowl is loaded with a variety of toppings including shrimp, char siu, beef balls, liver, and minced pork. What sets this dish apart is the meticulously prepared sauce that elevates the flavors, making it unforgettable for anyone who tries it.
3. Vũ Tùng Fried Offal – Indulgently Seasoned
Address: 90 Vu Tung, Ward 2, Binh Thanh
Known for its unique preparation methods, Vũ Tùng Fried Offal serves exquisite bites of fried offal that are crisply fried and expertly seasoned. Accompanied by stir-fried water spinach and a sweet dipping sauce, it has garnered a loyal following for its clean flavors and satisfying textures, all while retaining the rich taste from the coconut broth.
Fried offal at Vũ Tùng
4. Hot Rolling Pancakes 677 – Budget-Friendly!
Address: 677 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Ward 26, Binh Thanh
At Pancakes 677, patrons can watch the team prepare fresh pancakes right at the entrance. These thin, perfectly cooked pancakes are filled with minced meat and wood ear mushrooms, served with a variety of toppings such as cakes, rolls, beansprouts, and aromatic fried shallots. The dipping sauce is deliciously rich, catering to different palates, making it a popular breakfast spot for many students and food lovers.
Pancakes at 677
5. Quyên’s Good Noodles – A Must-Try Dish
Address: 68 Tran Ke Xuong, Ward 3, Binh Thanh
When visiting Saigon, don’t forget to try Quyên’s good noodles. This restaurant’s specialties are their water noodles and spicy fried noodles with shrimp and beef. The water noodles come with a soft-boiled egg and tender beef, dripping with a subtly sweet, by-nature broth. For those who enjoy a kick, the spicy fried noodles offer an enjoyable heat that can be adjusted to personal taste.
Enjoying Quyên's good noodles
6. Nơ Trang Long Beef Balls Noodles – Simple Yet Delicious
Address: 57 Nơ Trang Long, Ward 13, Binh Thanh
Nơ Trang Long’s beef balls noodles are a staple in Saigon, catering to all ages. Near the intersection of Le Quang Dinh and Nơ Trang Long, this noodles stall is often buzzing with patrons. Enjoy a delicious bowl filled with crispy pork fat, hearty peanuts, and a broth that’s both sweet and savory, featuring items like beef balls, liver, and soft tendon.
7. Cô Ba’s Stuffed Rice Paper – Unique Delight
Address: A1/1 Vu Huy Tan, Ward 3, Binh Thanh
Cô Ba’s stuffed rice paper is renowned for its distinctive form, showcasing a blend of ground pork, lard, liver, and spices, all wrapped tightly in a thin layer of rice paper. This dish comes with a side of rice paper that’s soft and satisfying, ensuring a fulfilling meal that’s both nutrient-rich and delicious.
Enjoying Quyên's good noodles
8. Affordable Sushi – Quality at Budget Prices
Address: 64 Van Kiep, Ward 3, Binh Thanh
If you’re craving sushi that won’t break the bank, look no further than Sushi Friends. With a spacious and welcoming atmosphere, this sushi restaurant has gained popularity among students and young professionals. Their extensive menu boasts various Japanese and Korean dishes, including takoyaki and kimchi hot pot, all complemented by house-made sauces.
9. Vegan Cuisine by Phạm Hồng Phước – Healthy Delights
Address: 140 Truong Sa, Ward 15, Binh Thanh
For those leaning towards a healthier diet, Phạm Hồng Phước’s vegetarian kitchen offers a range of mouth-watering vegan dishes amidst a serene setting along the Thi Nghe canal. The menu features a variety of noodles, vegetarian rice dishes, and other specialties that promise to satisfy your cravings for both taste and nutrition.
A variety of dishes in Binh Thanh district
10. Snack Alley 801 – A Hidden Gem for Snack Lovers
Address: 801/85 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Ward 26, Binh Thanh
Looking for a lively spot to hang out with friends while indulging in delicious street food? Snack Alley 801 is perfect for you. This vibrant alley is popular among the youth for its diverse range of snacks like Thai salad, spring rolls, and flan, all offered at pocket-friendly prices, allowing you to feast without burning a hole in your wallet.
Cha Lui at Cha Lui Lagi
11. Coco Ichibanya – Authentic Japanese Curry Experience
Address: 2nd Floor, Coco Ichibanya Vincom Center Landmark 81, 772 Dien Bien Phu, Ward 22, Binh Thanh
Coco Ichibanya is a well-loved chain recognized for its authentic Japanese curry. The restaurant combines classic and modern aesthetics with beautifully decorated corners. Enjoy a plate of fragrant rice draped in rich curry sauce that delights the senses and presents a unique culinary experience that transports you straight to Japan.
Fried offal at Vũ Tùng
12. Hoa Lâm Beef Noodles – A Traditional Delight
Address: 69/54 Nguyen Gia Tri (D2 Street), Ward 25, Binh Thanh
Last but not least, indulge in the authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine at Hoa Lâm Beef Noodles. This restaurant offers a superb traditional bowl overflowing with rich broth, lovingly prepared with tender cuts of beef. The extensive menu includes various options like beef with rolls, knuckles, and tenderloin, all bursting with exquisite flavors that define true Vietnamese cooking.
Pancakes at 677
As you explore the gastronomic landscape of Binh Thanh, these eateries offer delightful experiences that showcase the heart and soul of Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this list will guide you to some of the most cherished dining spots in the heart of Saigon. So gather your friends, stroll through the bustling streets, and enjoy the incredible flavors that await you in Binh Thanh!
