Saigon is indeed the perfect city to savor Vietnamese cuisine, ranging from traditional to modern styles. While street food stalls are an integral part of the dining experience, sometimes you crave a fabulous restaurant that offers expertly prepared dishes in a pleasant atmosphere, complemented by stunning views and attentive service.
Below is our curated list of 8 authentic Vietnamese restaurants in Saigon, offering everything from traditional home kitchen-style cooking to modern twists and fusion dishes.
1. Quan Bui
Quan Bui is a special spot in Saigon that takes Vietnamese home cooking to the next level. Tucked in a quiet alley, this stylish building has four floors and even a rooftop garden. They serve up tasty dishes that remind locals of home-cooked meals but with a twist of freshness and creativity. Their stir-fried beef with coconut shoots and stir-fried pumpkin flowers with garlic are must-tries. Everything is made to order, so you know it’s fresh and delicious.
Address: 17A Ngo Van Nam St, Distrit1
2. Cuc Gach Quan
Cuc Gach Quan is both a celebrity hotspot and a cozy family restaurant nestled in an old-style villa adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. With its rustic wooden furniture, koi fish pond, and greenery, it exudes charm and comfort. The restaurant offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes from different regions, all prepared with a commitment to “eat green, eat healthy.”
Location: 9-10 Dang Tat Street, District 1
3. Nha Hang Ngon
Nha Hang Ngon is perfect for first-time travelers to Vietnam craving an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine. Their menu offers a wide range of dishes from different regions, including sizzling pancakes, Hue-style noodles, grilled pork broken rice, and more. The restaurant’s ambiance is delightful, featuring a courtyard area with lush greenery and a dining room designed to resemble a traditional Southern village food market. Be sure to save room for dessert and indulge in Vietnamese classics like sweet corn pudding (che bap) or rainbow dessert (che suong sa hot luu), both served with creamy coconut milk.
Address: 160 Pasteur Street, Ben Nghe, District 1
4. Hoa Tuc
Hoa Tuc, located in an old courtyard once used as an opium refinery, has been serving up delicious Vietnamese cuisine since 2008. It’s popular among locals, expats, and travelers alike. With its charming courtyard and vintage-inspired interior, it’s a great place to experience authentic Vietnamese food in a nostalgic setting away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Address: 74 Hai Ba Trung Street, District 1
5. Ănăn Saigon
Anan Saigon, situated near a well-established wet market in District 1, offers a contemporary twist on traditional Vietnamese dishes. Inspired by the vibrant street food scene, it enhances its cuisine with high-quality ingredients and creative presentations.
Address: 89 Ton That Dam, District 1
6. Tram’s Cookery Restaurant & Ba
Tram’s Cookery Restaurant & Bar offers upscale dining by the Saigon River, serving both traditional Vietnamese and Western cuisine in a serene setting. It’s also a perfect place for enjoying drinks in a peaceful atmosphere.
Situated within the An Lam Riverside Resort, it’s a popular choice among Saigon’s elite and expats. Whether you arrive by speedboat or taxi, expect a journey of around 20 to 35 minutes from the city center.
Address: 21/4 Khu Pho Trung, Vinh Phu Ward, Thuan An District
7. Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro
Propaganda is conveniently located near the Independence Palace and the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. You can choose to dine outside or sit near one of the colorful murals featuring playful propaganda designs, which also adorn the restaurant’s merchandise. These yellow and red murals offer a unique glimpse into the lives of people during the conflict, showcasing historical documentation alongside artistic expression.
Address: 21 Han Thuyen, District 1
8. Ru Pho Bar
Ru restaurant offers a mix of traditional Vietnamese flavors with a modern touch, all set in a beautifully restored 1960s Saigon-style house. They serve up a contemporary twist on classic Vietnamese dishes, using recipes passed down through generations.
For a special experience, grab a table on the upstairs balcony and start your meal with the flavorful salt and garlic prawns while you wait for your main course.
Address: 27E Tran Nhat Duat, Tan Dinh District 1