Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon) isn’t just Vietnam’s cultural and economic hub – it’s also a true food paradise packed with mouthwatering dishes that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re a student, office worker, or simply a foodie on a budget, these cheap and delicious food spots in Saigon will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet.
Alley 284 Le Van Sy – Street Food Heaven in District 3
Looking for a go-to spot to hang out with friends after work or grab a tasty afternoon snack? Alley 284 Le Van Sy is the ultimate street food haven you can’t miss. Hidden behind the bustling Le Van Sy Street, this alley is a beloved gem among locals – especially the youth – thanks to its cozy atmosphere and incredibly affordable eats.
With just 50,000 – 70,000 VND (around $2 – $3 USD), you can indulge in a variety of tempting snacks here.
Must-try dishes include:
- Bánh bèo chén (Mini steamed rice cakes): Soft and silky, topped with dried shrimp, crispy pork skin, and fried shallots. Served with sweet-sour fish sauce. Only 3,000 – 4,000 VND per dish.
- Tofu pudding with black sugar boba: Refreshingly cool and lightly sweet – the perfect dessert after something savory.
- Mixed rice paper salad (Bánh tráng trộn): A flavorful, texture-rich snack packed with toppings – a crowd favorite!
- Dim sum delights: Steamed dumplings, siu mai, and hot bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls) – ideal for a mid-afternoon bite.
- Sugarcane juice with kumquat or passion fruit: Super refreshing and super cheap – a classic Vietnamese street drink!
Alley 284 Le Van Sy – Street Food Heaven in District 3
What makes this alley unique is the “food court style” service – just sit at one table and order freely from various vendors around. Friendly vendors will bring the food to you, so you can relax and enjoy your personal street food buffet!
Ho Thi Ky Market – A Street Food Paradise You Can’t Miss
When it comes to affordable eats in Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Thi Ky Market is a must-visit. Dubbed “Little Cambodia” in the heart of District 10, this vibrant food hub fuses Vietnamese and Cambodian flavors in hundreds of delicious, budget-friendly dishes.
Top picks include:
- Bún num bò chóc: A Cambodian noodle soup with fermented fish broth, fresh herbs, and fish cakes – around 35,000 VND/bowl.
- Cambodian sweet soup (Chè Campuchia): Rich, creamy, and unique with toppings like pandan jelly, palm fruit, and durian – only 10,000 – 15,000 VND/glass.
- Beef offal stew, crab soup, stir-fried quail eggs in tamarind: Classic Saigon-style street snacks starting at just 10,000 – 20,000 VND.
- Grilled rice paper & tamarind rice paper rolls: A nostalgic favorite of students – crispy, tangy, and only 15,000 – 25,000 VND.
Besides the amazing eats, Ho Thi Ky Market is also a popular spot for Instagram-worthy shots thanks to its colorful flower stalls and lively vibe – blending food, culture, and local charm all in one place.
Alley 200 Xom Chieu – Grilled & Fried Food Heaven in District 4
Located in District 4, Alley 200 Xom Chieu is a famous culinary hotspot, especially in the evenings. This alley is the stuff of childhood memories for many Saigonese – packed with nostalgic street snacks like offal stew, fish balls, snails, and crab soup.
Recommended bites:
- Pork/beef offal stew (Phá lấu): Richly flavored with a sweet-sour tamarind dipping sauce – 20,000 – 30,000 VND per portion.
- Skewers (fish balls, sausage, grilled beef in lolot leaves): Hot, tasty skewers with signature tamarind sauce – only 5,000 – 10,000 VND/stick.
- Crab soup with century egg: Creamy, flavorful, and loaded with crab meat, mushrooms, quail eggs, and century egg – 15,000 – 20,000 VND/bowl.
- Vietnamese-style skillet bread (Bánh mì chảo): Sunny-side-up eggs, pâté, sausage, and savory tomato sauce – student-friendly price at 25,000 – 35,000 VND.
Alley 200 Xom Chieu – Grilled & Fried Food Heaven in District 4
Though not long in distance, this alley is always packed with food lovers. It’s the perfect destination for budget-conscious foodies, especially on weekend nights.
20 Thuoc Alley – A Culinary Gem in the Heart of Saigon
Tucked away on Doan Van Bo Street, District 4, 20 Thuoc Alley may be just 200 meters long, but it’s bursting with flavors and energy. This compact alley is home to dozens of food stalls, offering everything from snacks to hearty meals.
Don’t miss:
- Ngoc Nga Flan: A favorite among local youths, this flan is topped with jelly layers in different flavors and colors. Try their herbal jelly, tofu pudding, and frozen yogurt – all for around 15,000 VND each.
- Hai Van fried rice flour cake (Bột chiên): A flavorful, crispy treat where every piece is evenly fried to golden perfection.
- Hue-style beef noodle soup (Bún bò Huế): A popular stop for fans of this spicy, aromatic central Vietnamese dish.
- Street staples: Snails, crab soup, fish balls – all done Saigon-style!
With its lively atmosphere and rich food selection, 20 Thuoc Alley is an ideal place for anyone eager to explore the soul of Saigon’s street food scene.
Final Thoughts
Saigon never fails to delight food lovers with its colorful alleys and vibrant street food culture. From traditional Vietnamese dishes to unique regional specialties, every corner tells a different story. Save this list and let your taste buds explore the magic of Saigon – one bite at a time!
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