Cover Uyen Dang, the creator behind @bubufoodshow, shares her tips to explore Ho Chi Minh City like a local (Photo: Bubufoodshow)
Uyen Dang, the creator behind @bubufoodshow, shares her tips to explore Ho Chi Minh City like a local (Photo: Bubufoodshow)
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From slurping crab noodles on plastic stools to dining at one of Vietnam’s most exciting Michelin-starred restaurants, Ho Chi Minh City offers a captivating blend of old and new. Whether you’re visiting for the food, culture or the city’s vibrant energy, Uyen Dang (@bubufoodshow) shares a curated pocket list of experiences that deserve a spot on your itinerary
Ho Chi Minh City is one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting culinary destinations right now. On one hand, you’ll find street-side stalls serving recipes that have been passed down through generations; on the other, a new wave of chefs is redefining Vietnamese cuisine through contemporary tasting menus and innovative cocktail programmes.
Few people know the city’s dining landscape better than Uyen Dang, the creator behind Bubufoodshow (@bubufoodshow) on Instagram, whose content has built a loyal following for its insider recommendations on local eats, hotels and travel experiences across Vietnam. From iconic noodle stalls to cutting-edge fine dining destinations, here is her pocket list for experiencing Ho Chi Minh City beyond the usual tourist trail.
Read more: From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: 6 must-try types of pho
Stay at Park Hyatt Saigon
Above Park Hyatt Saigon in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City
Park Hyatt Saigon in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City
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“Whenever I'm in Ho Chi Minh City, Park Hyatt Saigon remains my hotel of choice. Located in the heart of District 1, it’s within walking distance of landmarks such as the Saigon Opera House, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon and the Central Post Office.
What keeps me coming back, however, is its timeless elegance and intimate atmosphere. While many luxury hotels in the city are contemporary, Park Hyatt Saigon offers a sense of old-world charm paired with warm, personalised hospitality that makes returning feel like coming home.”
Don’t miss: Frédéric Boulin: “What Park Hyatt Saigon created in a short time in Vietnam could take 15 years in Europe”
Explore the streets and markets
Above Bánh canh cua at Lunch Lady
Bánh canh cua at Lunch Lady
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“The best way to discover Ho Chi Minh City is by simply wandering. Join a food tour if you like, but my favourite moments are often the simplest: sitting on a tiny plastic stool at a bustling roadside eatery, sipping Vietnamese coffee or slurping noodles while watching the city's endless stream of motorbikes pass by.
One dish I always recommend is bánh canh cua at Lunch Lady. The rich crab noodle soup comes loaded with prawns, crab meat, shrimp cake and sliced pork. Beyond the flavours, it's the story that makes it special. The legendary street-food vendor became internationally known after being featured by Anthony Bourdain, turning her once-humble stall into a pilgrimage site for food lovers.”
Book a table at Ciel Dining
Above At Ciel Dining, chef Viet Hong Le balances French technique with Vietnamese ingredients to create a delectable fine-dining experience
At Ciel Dining, chef Viet Hong Le balances French technique with Vietnamese ingredients to create a delectable fine-dining experience
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“For a glimpse into Vietnam’s exciting new generation of chefs, make a reservation at Ciel Dining. Located in Thao Dien, the intimate restaurant earned a Michelin star within months of opening and is helmed by chef Viet Hong Le, whose experience includes stints at renowned restaurants such as Noma, Sézanne and Disfrutar.
What I love most is how the restaurant balances French technique with Vietnamese ingredients and sensibilities. During my visit, standout dishes included amaebi with tomato consommé, zucchini blossom with cuttlefish, chives with Joselito broth and sweet potato paired with sea urchin. Every course felt purposeful, showcasing a thoughtful approach to seasonality while making full use of each ingredient. The result is a dining experience that feels refined without losing its connection to the place.”
Discover the city’s emerging cocktail scene at Raw + Atelier
Above Cocktail bar Raw + Atelier draws inspiration from Vietnamese culture and ingredients
Cocktail bar Raw + Atelier draws inspiration from Vietnamese culture and ingredients
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“Ho Chi Minh City's drinks scene is evolving just as quickly as its restaurants, and Raw + Atelier is one of the bars leading the charge. Creativity and storytelling are woven into every cocktail, with drinks drawing inspiration from local ingredients and Vietnamese culture.
If it's your first visit, order the signature Never Ant-nough—a cocktail that perfectly captures the bar's playful and boundary-pushing approach.”
See the city from the back of a Vespa
Above The best way to see the sights in Ho Chi Minh City is on a back of a Vespa
The best way to see the sights in Ho Chi Minh City is on a back of a Vespa
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“A Vespa tour remains one of the most exhilarating ways to experience Ho Chi Minh City. Riding through busy intersections, hidden alleyways, local food spots and vibrant nightlife districts offers a completely different perspective of the city. It’s immersive, chaotic and undeniably fun—much like Ho Chi Minh City itself.”
Credits
Images: Bubufoodshow
