The food you eat can make or break your holiday.
From trying the local delicacies to avoiding places that aren’t up to standard, it’s important to research any potential restaurants before you head to a location. This not only guarantees you gorgeous food all vacation long, but it also means you won’t miss any of those hidden treasures that are often found tucked down side streets or behind a less-than-appealing exterior.
So, with that in mind, if you’re heading to Ho Chi Minh City anytime soon, here’s where you should be dining:
Shri Restaurant & Lounge
You’ll find this right at the top of the Center Tower and it offers unprecedented views of the city below thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows. It’s also the perfect place to relax and unwind after the hustle and bustle of the city thanks to its tranquil water features, Frangipani trees and spacious, open feel.
What food can you expect?
Home-cooked European food (perfect if you’re hankering after a taste of home).
Five Oysters
If you love seafood, Five Oysters is the ideal place for you. It boasts an extensive menu that’s jam-packed full of tasty seafood recipes from across south, central and northern Vietnam.
You might also want to take some time out in the rooftop bar where you can enjoy beer for as little as 30p a bottle. And on Friday nights, fresh oysters are this price, too!
Cuc Gach Quan
You’ll find this restaurant in many of the top 10 guides – hence why you can expect to pay a little more here.
However, if it’s good enough for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie (who have been spotted here), it’s good enough for us.
The restaurant has been restored using recycled materials and is located within a beautiful French colonial house. This gives it a quirky design with mismatched antiques, low doors and even a pond in the middle! All of this really adds to its inviting, fun atmosphere.
Bun Cha 145
Bun Cha is a Hanoian dish that you simply must try during your travels to Vietnam. It’s made up of grilled pork patties, noodles and a broth of sugar, fish sauce, vinegar, carrot and pickled papaya. It’s also served with a basket of greens and is something you can try out at Bun Cha 145.
This restaurant is an affordable place to dine and you’ll find it in the backpacker area of District 1.
Secret Garden
If you want to continue trying traditional Vietnamese food, you’ll want to head to Secret Garden which is a rooftop oasis. It’s beautifully authentic in its design and is nestled amongst the skyline of the city.
Be sure to pay homage to its home-cooked vibe by ordering family style just like the locals would.
Obviously, this is just 5 of the superb places on offer in Ho Chi Minh City. Where will your favourite be?
