TOP 5 FAMOUS LONG-STANDING RESTAURANTS IN SAIGON YOU SHOULD TRY

Saigon is a bustling metropolis where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Among its many treasures are long-standing restaurants that have stood the test of time, offering not just meals but a slice of history on every plate. In this blog, I will introduce you to top 5 restaurants that have long-standing and attract locals and tourists.

1. Bún Riêu Gánh (Vietnamese crab noodle soup)

Bun Rieu Ganh, renowned for its exceptional quality and unforgettable flavors, this beloved eatery has earned a stellar reputation among Saigon’s food lovers. With a clean, airy space that invites you to relax and savor every bite, Bun Rieu Ganh promises not just a meal, but a delightful dining experience. 

Bun Rieu Ganh

Bun Rieu Ganh attracts many locals and tourists.

Every bowl at Bun Rieu Ganh is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship and fresh, high-quality ingredients. The vibrant broth, simmered to perfection, boasts a rich and savory depth that instantly warms your soul. The toppings are a feast for the senses—succulent chunks of crab soup, golden fried tofu, and juicy tomatoes come together in perfect harmony. The flavors are bold, yet balanced, offering a taste that’s both traditional and unique. 

You should try Bun Rieu Ganh when visit Saigon.

What truly sets Bun Rieu Ganh apart is its signature crab soup. It pairs beautifully with the tangy broth, creating a flavor profile that’s nothing short of extraordinary. Add a hint of shrimp paste, and you’re treated to a savory complexity that lingers on your palate, leaving you craving another spoonful. 

Address: No. 163, Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1.

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily.

Prices: 55.000 VND to 70.000 VND (2.2 to 2.8 USD)

2. Bánh Mì Hòa Mã (Vietnamese sandwich)

Banh Mi Hoa Ma, which is a timeless breakfast tradition in Saigon. For over 50 years, this restaurant has been a haven for those seeking to start their day with a leisurely, hearty meal. Unlike the grab-and-go banh mi often associated with modern life, Banh Mi Hoa Ma invites you to sit back on its vintage chairs, soak in the nostalgic ambiance, and savor a dish that feels like a warm embrace from the past.

Banh Mi Hoa Ma

The owner, now in her eighties, still prepares the ingredients with care and precision, just as she has for decades. This dedication is palpable in every bite of their signature banh mi—a symphony of crispy baguettes paired with side dishes fried to perfection in a sizzling hot pan. 

What sets this banh mi apart is the delightful fusion of Vietnamese flavors and a subtle Western touch. The fillings are simple yet unforgettable: fried eggs with golden edges, savory cold cuts, tender ham, and velvety pate. Served piping hot alongside a vibrant mix of pickles, tomato sauce, and chili sauce, each element contributes to a uniquely satisfying experience. The bread, freshly baked and perfectly crisp, wraps it all together, offering a bite that’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

Let’s taste a great breakfast at Banh Mi Hoa Ma

What sets this banh mi apart is the delightful fusion of Vietnamese flavors and a subtle Western touch. The fillings are simple yet unforgettable: fried eggs with golden edges, savory cold cuts, tender ham, and velvety pate. Served piping hot alongside a vibrant mix of pickles, tomato sauce, and chili sauce, each element contributes to a uniquely satisfying experience. The bread, freshly baked and perfectly crisp, wraps it all together, offering a bite that’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. 

Address: No. 53, Cao Thang Street, District 3.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM daily.

Prices: 35.000 VND to 55.000 VND (1.4 to 2.2 USD)

3. Cơm Thố Chuyên Ký (Rice)        

Com Tho Chuyen Ky, which is a hidden gem of Cantonese dishes in Saigon. Tucked away behind the bustling kiosks of the Old Market on Ton That Dam Street, this is a culinary treasure that has been delighting Saigon’s food lovers for over six decades.

Steeped in history and tradition, this unassuming eatery offers a dining experience that feels like stepping into another era. It’s no wonder this spot has become a favorite gathering place for those who appreciate authentic flavors and time-honored cooking techniques. 

Com Tho Chuyen Ky

The heart of Chuyen Ky lies in its signature pot rice, or “chung phan,” a dish that pays homage to its Cantonese origins. The preparation is a labor of love: pure white rice is carefully portioned into charming clay pots, filled with water, and placed in a large, multi-layered steamer. The result? Rice that’s perfectly sticky, flavorful, and infused with the subtle smokiness of clay. This method elevates the humble grain to new heights, making it a standout even before the main dishes arrive. 

Chuyen Ky’s menu is a feast of flavors, offering a variety of mouthwatering dishes to accompany the rice. From sweet and sour ribs and stir-fried beef to savory blood sausage and perfectly cooked pork kidney, every dish reflects a commitment to quality and tradition. The braised duck eggs are a particular highlight, their richness perfectly balanced by the tangy sweetness of vinegar and sugar.

Address: No. 65-67, Ton That Dam Street, District 1.

Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.

Prices: 50.000 to 100.000 VND (2 to 4 USD).

4. Xôi Gà Bà Chiểu (Chicken sticky rice)

Xoi Ga Ba Chieu, known for its longevity and consistently mouthwatering offerings, this humble spot has become a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly satisfying sticky rice experience. From its long-standing reputation to its bustling crowds, this restaurant is a culinary icon that lives up to the hype. 

Xoi Ga Ba Chieu

The restaurant keeps it simple with just three options: Xôi xá xíu (char siu sticky rice), Xôi gà (chicken sticky rice), and Xôi mặn thập cẩm (mixed savory sticky rice). Yet, simplicity here is a strength, as each dish is packed with flavor and crafted with care. The sticky rice is perfectly cooked—soft, fragrant, and slightly chewy, providing the ideal base for the hearty toppings that make these dishes so memorable. 

Xoi Ga Ba Chieu

I recommend you “Xôi xá xíu” and “Xôi gà”, the char siu pork is thinly sliced and tender, bursting with a sweet-savory glaze that complements the rice beautifully. Meanwhile, the chicken is fried to golden perfection, with a crispy exterior that gives way to juicy, well-marinated meat. Topped with vibrant red pork floss, aromatic scallion oil, and a sprinkling of crispy shallots, every bite is a delightful combination of textures and flavors. 

Despite its unassuming setup, Xoi Ga Ba Chieu draws a loyal crowd from opening to closing time. The lines are proof of its enduring appeal, and one taste will show you why it has become such a beloved staple in Saigon’s street food scene.

Address: No. 318/1, Bui Huu Nghia Street, Binh Thanh District.

Opening Hours: 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily.

Prices: 20.000 to 30.000 VND (0.8 to 1.2 USD)

5. Phở Dậu (Noodle soup)

Pho Dau, which is a taste of timeless tradition in every bowl, it’s a culinary institution with over 60 years of heritage. This restaurant passed down through three generations, this legendary eatery has witnessed the transformation of the city while steadfastly preserving its place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. In the fast-paced rhythm of Saigon, Pho Dau stands as a symbol of culinary immortality, offering a unique experience steeped in tradition. 

Pho Dau

What sets Pho Dau apart is its unapologetically ‘pure Northern’ style. Unlike many pho spots in the South, you won’t find fresh herbs or coriander here—a bold choice that defines its character. The star of the show is the broth: a clear, golden elixir simmered to perfection with marrow bones, delivering a natural sweetness that’s both comforting and unforgettable. The moment you take that first sip, you’ll understand why Pho Dau’s flavor is simply unmatched. 

Pho Dau has a strong Northern style of pho.

While the menu offers a variety of choices such as rice noodles, Vietnamese-Chinese rice, and more, it’s the traditional Nam Vang noodles that steal the spotlight. Each bowl is a meticulously crafted masterpiece. Every ingredient plays its role in creating a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. 

A suggestion for those who want to try Pho Dau is to order a bowl of well-done flank or rare flank for the first time. The flank is located in the belly behind the cow, has both fat and tendons, so it is crispy, rich and delicious. Only about 5 minutes after ordering, a bowl of steaming, fragrant pho is gently placed in front of you. Pho Dau is a must-visit destination where tradition is served with every bite.

Address: No. 288 M1, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM daily.

Prices: 90.000 to 100.000 VND (3.6 to 4 USD).