1. What are the most popular restaurants near Ben Thanh Market?
There are many popular restaurants near Ben Thanh Market, but some of the top picks include:1. Propaganda Bistro
2. Secret Garden Restaurant
3. The Temple Club
4. Pho 2000
5. Bun Cha Huong Lien
6. Quan An Ngon
7. Cuc Gach Quan
8. Saigon’s Book Café & Restaurant
9. Com Tam Moc Nghia
10. Nhà Hàng Nón Lá.
2. What type of food is typically served at these restaurants?
The type of food served at these restaurants varies, but some common types include Vietnamese cuisine such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), com tam (broken rice dishes), and bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles). Many also offer a mix of Western and Asian influences with dishes like burgers, salads, and stir-fried noodles.
2. Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available at the restaurants around Ben Thanh Market?
Yes, there are several vegetarian and vegan options available at the restaurants around Ben Thanh Market. Some popular options include:
1. Hum Vegetarian (96 Le Lai Street): This restaurant offers a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including noodle soups, stir-fries, and rice dishes. They also have a salad bar and serve fresh fruit juices.
2. May Veggie Home (226 Le Thanh Ton Street): This restaurant specializes in Vietnamese vegetarian cuisine with dishes like fried tofu with lemongrass, vegetable pho, and mock meat stir-fries.
3. Pham Ngu Lao Vegan Restaurant (355 Vo Van Tan Street): This restaurant serves exclusively vegan versions of traditional Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi sandwiches, spring rolls, and vermicelli bowls.
4. Padma de Fleur Cafe & Vegan Restaurant (63 Tran Dinh Xu Street): This cozy cafe offers a range of vegan options including pastas, salads, sandwiches, and smoothie bowls.
5. Chay Xuan Thu (74A to 74B Duong Nguyen Thai Binh Street): This is a popular spot for vegetarian hotpot where you can choose your own vegetables, tofu, and other plant-based ingredients to cook in a flavorful broth at your table.
6. Saigon Vegan Kitchen (254 De Tham Street): Another great spot for Vietnamese-style vegan banh mi sandwiches along with other dishes such as rice paper rolls and grilled mushroom skewers.
These are just a few options among many others that can be found in the bustling streets around Ben Thanh Market. Don’t be afraid to explore and try new things!
3. Can you recommend any must-try local dishes in the vicinity of Ben Thanh Market?
– Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich)– Pho (noodle soup)
– Banh xeo (savory pancake)
– Com tam (broken rice with grilled meat or fish)
– Cha gio (fried spring rolls)
4. Are there any special dining events or promotions happening in the area around Ben Thanh Market?
Yes, there are several special dining events and promotions happening in the area around Ben Thanh Market:
1. Vietnamese Street Food Festival: Held annually at the end of April, this event showcases various street food vendors offering popular dishes from different regions of Vietnam.
2. Ben Thanh Night Market: Every evening, a bustling night market takes over the streets around Ben Thanh Market, offering a variety of local dishes and snacks.
3. Food Tours: Many companies offer food tours in the area, taking visitors to different restaurants, street food stalls, and markets to sample a variety of Vietnamese cuisine.
4. Ben Thanh Market Food Court: Located inside Ben Thanh Market itself, this food court offers a wide selection of affordable Vietnamese dishes.
5. Lunar New Year Dining Promotions: During the Lunar New Year period (usually in January or February), many restaurants around Ben Thanh Market offer special dining promotions and menus to celebrate the holiday.
6. Holiday Events and Festivals: Throughout the year, there are various holiday events and festivals around the market that feature traditional food markets and street food vendors selling special holiday treats.
5. How far are these restaurants from the actual market and is it easy to walk to them?
The distance between these restaurants and the actual market varies. Zinner & Company is located inside the market, while The Green Table and Chelsea Market Baskets are both within a few minutes walking distance. In terms of difficulty, it is relatively easy to walk to all of these restaurants as they are located in close proximity to each other within the market. However, depending on where you are coming from, the walk may be longer or more challenging for some visitors. It is recommended to check a map or use a navigation app to determine the best walking path from your starting point.
6. Are there any rooftop dining options with a view of Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, there are several rooftop dining options with a view of Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City. Some popular choices include:
1. Chill Skybar – Located on the 25th floor of AB Tower, this upscale bar and lounge offers stunning views of the city skyline and Ben Thanh Market. It serves a variety of cocktails, wine, and international cuisine.
2. Rex Rooftop Garden – This iconic hotel’s rooftop garden features a cozy outdoor terrace with a panoramic view of the city. It also has live music performances on certain nights.
3. The View Rooftop Bar – Situated on the top floor of the Duc Vuong Hotel, this bar offers an unobstructed view of Ben Thanh Market and serves a mix of Vietnamese and Western dishes.
4. Saigon Skydeck – Located on the 49th floor of Bitexco Financial Tower, this observation deck offers 360-degree views of the city and is home to a restaurant and café serving Vietnamese cuisine.
5. Social Club Rooftop Bar & Restaurant – Situated on the 23rd floor of Hotel des Arts Saigon, this restaurant offers elegant French cuisine and fantastic views of the city skyline, including Ben Thanh Market.
6. 52 Square Rooftop BBQ – This casual rooftop restaurant not only offers great views but also allows you to grill your own food while enjoying drinks from their bar menu.
7. Is street food available around Ben Thanh Market? If so, what are some recommended stalls to try?
Yes, there are numerous street food stalls and vendors around Ben Thanh Market. Some popular stalls to try include:1. Banh mi Huynh Hoa – known for their mouth-watering banh mi sandwiches
2. Pho Le – a famous pho (noodle soup) stall
3. Oc Oanh – a seafood stall serving various dishes such as grilled clams and snails
4. Banh Xeo 46A – specializing in crispy Vietnamese pancakes (banh xeo)
5. Com Tam Cali – offers a variety of broken rice dishes with different toppings
6. Banh trang nuong Kiet – famous for their grilled rice paper snack with different fillings.
7. Che Cali – a dessert stall serving many types of che (Vietnamese sweet soup) made from different ingredients such as beans, fruits, and coconut milk.
Please note that these recommendations are just a few out of the many street food options available near Ben Thanh Market. Make sure to also explore and try out different stalls to fully experience the diverse flavors of Vietnamese street food!
8. Do these restaurants accept credit cards or is it better to have cash on hand?
It is recommended to always have cash on hand regardless of whether a restaurant accepts credit cards. However, most restaurants in modern times do accept credit cards for payment. It’s always best to check with the restaurant beforehand to confirm their payment methods.
9. Can you suggest any good seafood restaurants near Ben Thanh Market?
1. Quan Ut Ut – known for its smoked BBQ ribs and grilled seafood dishes
Address: 168 Vo Van Kiet, Co Giang Ward, District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market: 5 minute walk
2. Hoa Tuc – serves contemporary Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood dishes
Address: 74/7 Hai Ba Trung, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market: 10 minute walk
3. Com Nieu Sai Gon – offers a variety of traditional Vietnamese seafood dishes in a lively atmosphere
Address: 59 Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, District 10
Distance from Ben Thanh Market:15 minute drive
4. Anh Ba Seafood – known for its delicious grilled and steamed seafood options
Address: 148 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market: 5 minute walk
5. Phuong Long Seafood Restaurant – specializes in southern-style seafood dishes with unique flavors
Address: 159D-161 Nguyen Cong Tru, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market:10 minute walk
6. Duong’s Restaurant & Beer Garden – offers a wide selection of fresh seafood and has a cozy outdoor seating area
Address:8 Do Quang Dau Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market:10 minute walk
7. The Chopsticks Saigon – serves fusion seafood dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients
Address:237 Dien Bien Phu Street , Dakao Ward , Distritct
Distance from Ben Thanh Market:
15 minute drive
8. Halika Boat Restaurant – enjoy delicious seafood while cruising along the Saigon River on this unique dining experience
Address:Ton Duc Thang Street , Ben Nghe Ward , District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market:5 minute drive
9. Oyster Bar – specializes in freshly shucked oysters and other seafood dishes, with a cozy and intimate atmosphere
Address:Lonely Planet Office Building, 62 Ly Tu Trong Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
Distance from Ben Thanh Market:10 minute walk
10. Are there any unique dining experiences available such as cooking classes or food tours centered around Ben Thanh Market?
Yes, there are a variety of unique dining experiences available at Ben Thanh Market. The following are some options:
1. Ben Thanh Street Food Market – This outdoor market offers a variety of local dishes such as banh mi, banh xeo, and pho all in one place. Visitors can wander around and taste different Vietnamese street food while sitting at one of the many communal tables.
2. Cooking Classes – There are several cooking classes available at Ben Thanh Market that teach visitors how to cook traditional Vietnamese dishes. These classes often include a visit to the market to pick out fresh ingredients for the meal.
3. Secret Food Tours – This tour takes visitors on a guided walking tour through Ben Thanh Market to try out local delicacies and learn about the history and culture behind each dish.
4. Night Food Tour – This tour offers visitors the chance to explore Ben Thanh Market at night when it comes alive with food stalls and street vendors selling everything from grilled meats to tropical fruits.
5. Private Dining Experiences – Some restaurants around Ben Thanh Market offer private dining experiences where visitors can enjoy a customized menu and intimate setting in the heart of the market.
6. Fruit Tasting Tour – For those looking for something beyond traditional Vietnamese cuisine, this tour takes visitors through the different fruit stalls at Ben Thanh Market, providing them with an opportunity to taste exotic fruits such as durian and rambutan.
7.Street Food Photo Walk Experience- For photography enthusiasts who also love food, this experience combines a guided photo walk through the market with stops at various food stalls to taste and photograph authentic street food dishes.
8. Hidden Gems Walking Tour – This tour takes visitors off-the-beaten-path in search of hidden gems within Ben Thanh Market, including lesser-known stalls serving up delicious local dishes.
9.Thai/Vietnamese Fusion Dinner Experience- This experience offers visitors a unique fusion dinner that combines the flavors of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine, providing a truly unique culinary experience in the heart of Ben Thanh Market.
10. Vegetarian Food Tour – This tour is perfect for vegetarians looking to explore the local cuisine at Ben Thanh Market. The tour takes visitors on a journey to taste various vegetarian dishes from different food stalls and restaurants around the market.
11. Are there any halal options for Muslim travelers in the vicinity of Ben Thanh Market?
Yes, there are several halal options near Ben Thanh Market. Some popular options include:1) Halal Saigon: Located in the Ben Thanh Street Food Market, this restaurant serves Malaysian and Indonesian dishes.
2) Halal@Saigon: A few minutes’ walk from Ben Thanh Market, this restaurant offers a variety of halal Vietnamese dishes.
3) Jai Thai: This restaurant is located inside the Ben Thanh Market and offers a range of Southeast Asian dishes including halal options.
4) Amir Halal Restaurant: About a 10-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market, this restaurant specializes in Indian and Pakistani cuisine with many halal options.
5) Café Saigon Halal: Located about a 15-minute walk from Ben Thanh Market, this café offers a selection of halal Vietnamese food and drinks.
12. What are the best places to try Vietnamese coffee near Ben Thanh Market?
1. Cafe De Thuong
2. Ins Coffee & Roastery
3. Trung Nguyen Legend Cafe
4. The Workshop Cafe
5. Cong Ca Phe Ben Thanh
6. Sweet Beat Cafe
7. Phuc Long Coffee & Tea House
8. Lu Bu Saigon House of Taste
9. The Purple Jade Bar & Artisan Kitchen
10. Chinh Phu My Space – TDC Office Building
13. Is it possible to find western cuisine near Ben Thanh Market or is it mostly Vietnamese food options?
Yes, it is possible to find Western cuisine near Ben Thanh Market. There are many restaurants and cafes in the area that serve a variety of international cuisines, including Western dishes. However, Vietnamese food is more common around the market as it is a popular tourist destination and many visitors come to experience traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
14. Are there any budget-friendly eating options around Ben Thanh Market for backpackers or travelers on a tight budget?
Yes, there are plenty of budget-friendly eating options around Ben Thanh Market. You can find street food vendors selling traditional Vietnamese dishes such as banh mi sandwiches, pho noodles, and rice dishes for affordable prices. There are also cheap local restaurants and food stalls within the market itself, offering a variety of dishes at low prices. Additionally, the nearby backpacker district of Pham Ngu Lao has a wide range of cheap eateries and street food options to suit every budget.
15. How crowded do the restaurants get during peak hours at night around Ben thanh market?
The restaurants around Ben Thanh Market can get very crowded during peak hours at night. This is especially true for popular and well-known restaurants, as well as those that serve traditional Vietnamese dishes. It’s common to see long lines outside these restaurants and it may be difficult to get a table without a reservation. It’s best to plan ahead and make a reservation or arrive early to avoid the crowd.
16. Is it safe to eat street food in this area, or should I stick to more established restaurants?
It’s always a good idea to exercise caution when eating street food, as the quality and safety can vary. It’s best to stick to establishments that have a good reputation and where the food is prepared in front of you, so that you can see how it is being handled and cooked. If you are unsure about the hygiene standards of a particular food stand or vendor, it may be better to err on the side of caution and opt for a restaurant instead.
17. Can you suggest any good spots for dessert or sweets near Ben Thanh Market?
1. The Little Store – This cozy dessert shop offers a variety of sweet treats, including homemade cookies, cakes, and pastries. Located just a short walk from Ben Thanh Market.
2. Trang Tien Ice Cream – This iconic ice cream shop has been around for decades and is known for its creamy and delicious flavors. Try their traditional Vietnamese flavors like pandan or jackfruit.
3. L’usine – A popular cafe with a great selection of homemade desserts such as French pastries, cakes, and tarts. They also have a rooftop terrace with views of the city.
4. Phuc Long Tea & Coffee House – This chain cafe serves up tasty coffee drinks as well as a range of dessert options, including banh flan, cakes, and macarons.
5. Banh Mi Hong Hoa – Don’t miss out on trying this famous banh mi cart near Ben Thanh Market that offers a unique take on the traditional Vietnamese sandwich with toppings like iced coffee sauce or Nutella.
6. Biscuiterie La Villa Francaise – This charming pastry shop specializes in French-style baked goods like croissants, macarons, and tartlets. They also have freshly brewed coffee to pair with your dessert.
7. Saigon Retro Sweets & Cafe – Step back in time at this nostalgic cafe that serves up vintage vibe along with traditional Vietnamese desserts like che (sweet soup) and chao trang (sticky rice balls).
8. Fanny Ice Cream – Another popular ice cream spot in Ho Chi Minh City with numerous delicious flavors to choose from including durian and avocado.
9.Banh Xeo 46A Dinh Cong Trang Banh Xeo 46A Dinh Cong Trang is famous for their crispy banh xeo (Vietnamese savory crepes) but they also serve up deliciously sweet banh khot (miniature rice pancakes) and banh beo (steamed rice cakes).
10. L’Angelus – A French restaurant with a charming courtyard that offers decadent desserts like creme brulee, chocolate fondant, and apple tatin.
18.Which restaurant offers the best view of the bustling market while still maintaining a quiet atmosphere?
It is difficult to determine which restaurant offers the best view without knowing the specific location of the bustling market. However, some popular restaurants with a view of markets include The Grand Marketview Restaurant in Hong Kong (with a view of the Temple Street Night Market) and The Boqueria Bar in Barcelona (with a view of Mercat de la Boqueria).
19.Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known eateries that locals frequent near Ben Thanh Market?
There are several hidden gems and lesser-known eateries near Ben Thanh Market that locals frequent, such as:1. Trung Nguyen Cafe (Tran Hung Dao Street): This local cafe is known for its delicious Vietnamese coffee and fresh fruit smoothies.
2. Anh Tuk (Ly Phuong Khanh Alley): This small street food stall serves up traditional dishes like banh mi and pho at affordable prices.
3. Bun Bo Ganh Hai (Bui Vien Street): This humble eatery serves up delicious bowls of beef noodle soup with tender meat and flavorful broth.
4. Banh Khot Co Ba Vung Tau (Ho Thi Ky Street): This hidden spot specializes in crispy mini pancakes filled with shrimp and pork, a popular dish in southern Vietnam.
5. Mi Quang Ngoc Hieu (An Duong Vuong Street): This no-frills restaurant is known for its signature dish, Mi Quang, a type of noodle soup made with thick rice noodles and topped with meat, herbs, peanuts, and lime juice.
6. Com Tam Ba Ghien (Pham Ngu Lao Street): This local eatery is famous for its com tam, or broken rice dishes served with grilled meats and vegetables.
7. Banh Cuon Tay Ho 14 Bis (Nguyen Cong Tru Street): This family-run joint is popular among locals for their delicate banh cuon, a steamed rice flour pancake filled with pork and mushroom.
8. Ong Hai Hotpot Buffet (Ngo Thoi Nhiem Street): If you’re craving hotpot, this is the place to go. Locals rave about the huge selection of meats, seafood, veggies, and dipping sauces available at this all-you-can-eat spot.
20.What should I keep in mind when dining out near Ben Thanh Market in terms of cultural customs or etiquette?
1. Dress Appropriately: When dining out near Ben Thanh Market, it is important to dress modestly and respect the local culture. Avoid revealing or inappropriate clothing.
2. Table Manners: In Vietnam, it is considered rude to eat with your hands, so make sure to use utensils when dining out. Also, wait for everyone to be served before starting your meal.
3. Don’t Waste Food: It is considered a sign of disrespect to leave food on your plate in Vietnam. Only take what you can eat and if you cannot finish your meal, offer it to someone else at the table.
4. Communication: The staff at restaurants near Ben Thanh Market may not always speak fluent English, so try to communicate politely and clearly using simple words and gestures.
5. Tipping: Unlike some Western countries, tipping is not expected in Vietnam. If you are satisfied with the service, leaving a small tip is appreciated but not necessary.
6. Wait for Your Host: If you are dining with a Vietnamese host, wait for them to give the signal before starting to eat or drink.
7. Tea Ceremony: In some traditional restaurants or cafes near Ben Thanh Market, you may be offered tea as a sign of hospitality. Accepting this gesture shows appreciation for their culture.
8.Bargaining: While bargaining for goods and services are common at the market nearby, it is not customarily done in restaurants near Ben Thanh Market.
9.Smoking: Smoking indoors at restaurants is usually prohibited in Vietnam unless designated smoking areas are available.
10.Be Respectful of Local Customs: Be aware of local customs and traditions while dining out near Ben Thanh Market and avoid any behavior that may be deemed disrespectful or offensive.