The Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City is not just a historical site, but it is also a cultural hub that has seen the evolution of Vietnamese cuisine over the years. Built during the French colonial period, the area surrounding the Central Post Office has been influenced by a blend of French and Vietnamese culinary traditions. While the post office itself is not a place where food is typically served, the streets around this iconic building brim with local eateries and street food vendors that reflect the rich food history of Saigon.
Over time, as the city grew into the bustling metropolis it is today, the culinary offerings expanded to include a variety of international cuisines. However, the heart of Saigon’s food culture remains its street food, with recipes that have been passed down through generations.
1. Pho (Non-Veg) - Vietnam's quintessential noodle soup with a flavorful broth, often with chicken (Pho Ga) or seafood as an alternative to beef.
2. Banh Mi (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - A French-inspired Vietnamese sandwich that can be found with various fillings, such as vegetables, tofu, or chicken.
3. Goi Cuon (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - Fresh spring rolls packed with greens, often with shrimp or tofu, and served with a peanut or hoisin sauce.
4. Banh Xeo (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - Crispy and savory Vietnamese pancakes filled with ingredients such as bean sprouts, shrimp, and onions.
5. Hu Tieu (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - A versatile noodle soup that comes in many variations with different broths and toppings, including options for vegetarians.
6. Mi Quang (Non-Veg) - A noodle dish from central Vietnam with a rich broth and topped with various items like shrimp, quail eggs, and herbs.
7. Com Tam (Non-Veg) - Broken rice served with a range of accompaniments such as grilled pork or ribs, but vegetarians can find tofu variants too.
8. Che (Veg) - A sweet dessert soup or pudding that comes in numerous flavors and textures, including coconut milk, beans, and tapioca.
9. Banh Khot (Can be Veg/Non-Veg) - Miniature, crispy rice pancakes typically packed with seafood such as shrimp but can also be offered with vegetarian toppings.
10. Ca Kho To (Non-Veg) - Caramelized fish in a clay pot, a signature Southern Vietnamese dish. Vegetarians can look for versions that use tofu instead of fish.
Nha Hang Ngon
Address: 160 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Famous Food: Offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes with both veg and non-veg options.
Propaganda Bistro
Address: 21 Han Thuyen, Ben Nghe, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Famous Food: Known for their modern take on classic Vietnamese cuisine, including an assortment of vegetarian-friendly options.
Secret Garden
Address: Alley 158 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Famous Food: Serves home-style Vietnamese food with both veg and non-veg dishes amongst a rooftop garden setting.
The Deck Saigon
Address: 38 Nguyen U Di, Thao Dien, Quận 2, Ho Chi Minh City
Famous Food: Offers a variety of international dishes along with Vietnamese cuisine with options for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Cuc Gach Quan
Address: 10 Dang Tat, Tan Dinh, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Famous Food: Known for their traditional, authentic Vietnamese meals and use of organic ingredients with both veg and non-veg dishes available.
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