Market
Ben Nghe Street Food
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Ben Nghe Street Food is a bustling market located at 134-136 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street in Ho Chi Minh City's District 1. It's a top destination for food lovers, featuring a wide array of stalls serving classic Vietnamese street food like pho, banh mi, spring rolls, and fresh seafood. The market is clean and well-organized, with seating areas where you can enjoy your meal. The atmosphere is energetic, with the sizzle of grills and chatter of diners. It's a great place to sample multiple dishes in one visit, from savory to sweet. The market is particularly popular among tourists for its convenience and variety, offering a safe and hygienic introduction to Vietnamese street food culture. Located in the city center, it's easily accessible and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local flavors.
Don't miss
- Pho bo (beef noodle soup) and pho ga (chicken noodle soup)
- Banh mi sandwiches with various fillings
- Fresh spring rolls (goi cuon) with peanut sauce
- Grilled seafood like squid and shrimp
- Vietnamese coffee and che (sweet dessert soups)
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Ben Nghe Street Food
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Ben Nghe Street Food with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inHo Chi Minh City Local Street Food Tour With Local Students4.9★ · 42 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$2 per personSee dates →
Most bookedHo Chi Minh City Food Tour By Motorbike | Saigon Adventure5★ · 10,272 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleHo Chi Minh City: Motorbike Street Food Tour with 12 Tastings5★ · 140 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$30 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Getting there
Know before you go
- Bring cash as many stalls don't accept cards. Small denominations are helpful.
- Vietnamese food can be spicy; ask for 'it cay' (less spicy) if needed.
- Hand sanitizer is useful; some stalls may not have sinks.
- Use translation apps for menus; English is not always spoken.
A bit of history
Ben Nghe Street Food emerged as part of Ho Chi Minh City's efforts to organize street food vendors into a centralized, clean market. It reflects the city's vibrant culinary scene, which blends influences from Chinese, French, and native Vietnamese cuisines.
Common questions
What are the opening hours?
Typically open from late afternoon until late evening, around 4 PM to 11 PM. Check current hours online.
Is the food safe to eat?
Yes, the market is known for good hygiene standards, but always choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Can I find vegetarian options?
Yes, there are vegetarian dishes like pho chay (vegetarian pho) and fresh spring rolls.
How much does a meal cost?
Prices are reasonable; a bowl of pho costs around 40,000-60,000 VND ($2-3 USD).
Is the market crowded?
Yes, especially in the evening. Go early (around 5 PM) for a more relaxed experience.
Are there seating areas?
Yes, there are communal tables and chairs where you can sit and eat.
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