“Vibrant, bold, and bursting with flavor – that’s how I’d describe the culinary delights of Vietnam, and Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect place to sample this unique cuisine,” says the renowned global magazine, shining a spotlight on the diverse food scene of this Southeast Asian country and the city that never sleeps.
Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it’s fondly known, offers a mouthwatering array of street food options. From the iconic banh mi, a harmonious blend of crispy baguette, cold cuts, pâté, and fresh vegetables, to the hearty com tam – broken rice topped with grilled ribs, egg pudding, and shredded boiled pig skin – it’s a culinary adventure at every turn. And let’s not forget the ubiquitous pho, Vietnam’s national dish of rice noodles in a savory broth, which has rightfully earned its place as a local favorite, according to Time Out.
But it’s not just street food that steals the show. Ho Chi Minh City is also home to an impressive array of Bib Gourmand and Michelin-starred restaurants, where creative twists on classic dishes take center stage. It’s a foodie’s paradise, offering something to tantalize every taste bud.
As you explore the city, you’ll discover that Time Out‘s surveys hit the mark, with pho being a staple mentioned by many. This comforting noodle soup, often adorned with generous amounts of basil, coriander, chili, and hoisin sauce, is a must-try. And when in Saigon, do as the Saigonese do – indulge in a bowl of ‘Pho Saigon,’ their signature take on this beloved dish.
While Ho Chi Minh City ranks highly among food lovers, it’s worth noting that the magazine’s top spot goes to Naples, Italy, where pizza margherita is the star of the show. Johannesburg, South Africa, and Lima, Peru, take second and third places, respectively, with their unique offerings of the Kota sandwich and ceviche.
Asia, however, dominates the list, with six out of the top ten cities being located in this diverse and delicious continent. Beijing, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, Dubai, and Portland all earn their spots, showcasing the incredible variety of flavors that Asia has to offer.
Rounding out the list are Liverpool, Medellin, Seville, Porto, Marrakech, Lyon, Sydney, Montreal, Osaka, and Copenhagen – each bringing their own culinary magic to the table. To create this mouthwatering compilation, Time Out relied on the expertise of its global network, tapping into the local knowledge of editors and writers who revealed what makes their city a dining destination to remember in 2024.