Food in Ho Chi Minh City blends traditional street eats with modern dining innovations. Street food tours offer the best bang for your buck – they’re well-organized and let you try local favorites like squid porridge (chao muc) and Vietnamese donuts (banh bo). I love how you’re paired with local guides who know exactly where to find the tastiest bites.
Evening dinner cruises combine good food with great views of the city lights. While the Flamenco shows feel a bit touristy, the live Vietnamese music adds authentic charm. For a real cultural treat, catch a water puppet performance before your cruise – it’s a perfect combo.
My favorite food experience here is heading to the Mekong Delta. You’ll bike through villages, learn to cook Vietnamese classics, and end with a memorable riverside BBQ. The small groups make it feel more personal.
Check out our specially selected food tours below:
Key Points
- Experience authentic Vietnamese street food with a guided walking tour through Ho Chi Minh City, featuring local specialties and insights from English-speaking locals.
- Set out on a Mekong Delta tour for a two-day, one-night small group experience that includes boat rides, biking, cooking demos, and a BBQ dinner.
- Enjoy a scenic dinner cruise along the Saigon River, with options ranging from a Vietnamese buffet with live music to a luxury yacht experience.
- Enjoy Vietnamese culture with a combination of a water puppet show and dinner cruise, or a private Jeep evening tour followed by a dinner cruise.
- Savor the stunning views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline during a dinner cruise along the Saigon River, featuring a buffet selection of Vietnamese and international cuisine.
Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops
Tourists seeking an authentic taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant street food culture can embark on a thrilling night tour that takes them on a 2.5-kilometer walking journey through the city’s bustling alleys and lively markets.
The 2.5-hour experience includes 5 food stops and 2 drink stops, where participants can savor local specialties like chao muc, xa xui, banh bo banh tieu, and more.
Guided by an English-speaking local, the tour offers insights into the city’s independent, family-owned food stalls and a customized experience based on the group’s preferences.
With an overall rating of 5.0 and 96% of travelers recommending the tour, this is an exceptional way to take in Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant culinary landscape.
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Evening Delights: Saigon Dinner on Cruise With Hotel Pickup
Travelers seeking a more refined and immersive culinary experience in Ho Chi Minh City can embark on an enchanting evening dinner cruise along the Saigon River.
The 4-hour “Evening Delights” tour offers a scenic journey, witnessing the city’s skyline and historical landmarks. Guests will enjoy a Vietnamese buffet dinner with live music and Flamenco dancing.
Priced at $54.28 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an English-speaking guide.
With a small group of up to 12 participants, this cruise provides an intimate and personalized experience.
Dietary restrictions and special requests can be accommodated with advance notice, ensuring a tailored dining adventure.
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Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Tiny Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
For those seeking an immersive Mekong Delta experience, this 2-day, 1-night small group tour provides an opportunity to stay with a local family in a tiny homestay.
Departing from Ho Chi Minh City, the tour explores the Mekong River and its villages, where travelers can learn about local traditions and culture.
Activities include visiting riverside communities, witnessing a sunset, and navigating narrow canals by sampan.
The package includes accommodations, three meals, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, with the exception of those with certain medical conditions.
At $89 per person, the tour offers excellent value and has received glowing reviews from past guests.
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Discover HCM Nightlife: Dinner on Cruise With Hotel Pickup
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. This 4-hour experience includes hotel pickup and a leisurely boat ride along the bustling waterway.
Enjoy a delectable set menu featuring Vietnamese and international cuisine as you take in the stunning city skyline. The cruise also offers live music and traditional dance performances, providing an immersive cultural experience.
Priced at $43.01 per person, this tour is a convenient and memorable way to discover Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife. With small group sizes and high ratings, it’s a top-rated activity for visitors looking to savor the flavors and atmosphere of this dynamic city.
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Mekong 2D1N SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
This 2-day, 1-night small group tour offers an immersive experience in the Mekong Delta region.
Travelers can enjoy a boat ride, biking, a Vietnamese cooking demo, and sampling local fruits, tea, and honey. Accommodations are at a family homestay, and the tour includes a BBQ dinner, breakfast, and a traditional Vietnamese lunch.
The small group size, limited to 10-12 participants, provides a more personalized experience. However, the tour isn’t suitable for certain travelers, such as those with back problems or pregnant women.
With a 5.0 rating and 95% recommendation, this tour provides a glimpse into the local culture and cuisine of the Mekong Delta.
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Ho Chi Minh: Saigon River Cruise With Buffet Dinner
Savor the tranquil ambiance of the Saigon River on this leisurely cruise experience, complete with a delectable buffet dinner.
The 2-hour cruise offers a delightful way to sightsee Ho Chi Minh City’s landmarks from the water, including the Saigon Opera House and the iconic Bitexco Financial Tower.
The buffet dinner features a variety of Vietnamese and international dishes, providing a flavorful culinary journey.
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,541 reviews, this cruise is a popular choice, with prices starting from $27 per person.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a unique cultural experience, this Saigon River cruise promises an unforgettable dining adventure.
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Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Buffet, Set Menu, Fine Dining (3hrs)
Embarking on a 3-hour cruise along the Saigon River, guests can savor a delightful dining experience with a choice of buffet, family-style set menu, or individual plated set menu.
The cruise boasts 304 positive reviews, a Badge of Excellence, and prices starting from $50 per person. Travelers are picked up and dropped off in select districts, accompanied by an English-speaking guide.
Onboard, guests enjoy a private table, all drinks, and accommodations for special dietary requests.
While reviews praise the skyline, entertainment, and service, some note the food quality is average compared to local dining.
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Saigon by Night on Cruise With Buffet Dinner
Guests can enjoy a 3-hour Saigon by Night Cruise along the Saigon River, which offers a cozy dinner experience complemented by live music performances and Flamenco dances.
Priced from $49.16 per person, the cruise includes a free hotel pickup, English-speaking guide, and a buffet dinner (or set menu if the buffet is fully booked).
Reviewers have praised the buffet and entertainment, though some have mentioned that the upper deck can get quite hot.
With a small group size limited to 10 participants, this cruise provides a convenient and memorable way to experience Saigon’s vibrant city lights from the comfort of a boat.
Wheelchair accessibility is also available.
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Saigon Evening Tour With Water Puppet Show And Dinner Cruise
For those seeking to enjoy the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Evening Tour with Water Puppet Show and Dinner Cruise offers a captivating experience.
Priced at $67.55 per person, this highly-rated tour includes transportation, a local guide, and a delicious dinner cruise. Travelers can enjoy the enchanting water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese art form.
Although the experience may feel rushed at times, the positive feedback highlights the overall entertainment value and cultural significance of the tour.
With free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee, this evening excursion is a convenient and affordable way to explore Saigon’s nightlife.
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Ho Chi Minh: Saigon River Dinner Cruise With Hotel Transfer
Travelers can enjoy the captivating ambiance of Ho Chi Minh City’s Saigon River during the Ho Chi Minh: Saigon River Dinner Cruise with Hotel Transfer.
Priced from $49.16 per person, this 3.5-hour experience includes a scenic cruise, a buffet dinner featuring Vietnamese and international cuisine, and live music entertainment.
With roundtrip hotel pickup and drop-off, the tour offers convenient transportation. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide, safe return to the hotel, and exceptional value.
Customers can enjoy photography opportunities and the romantic atmosphere as they savor the local traditions and flavors.
This dinner cruise provides a well-rounded cultural experience for travelers visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
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LUXURY Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Tiny Homestay With BBQ Dinner
Immerse oneself in the tranquil beauty of the Mekong Delta on this 2-day, 1-night small group tour.
Departing from Ho Chi Minh City, travelers will enjoy private transportation, a professional licensed guide, and a delightful BBQ dinner at a Tiny Homestay.
The tour includes all fees, taxes, lunch, and a boat ride, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, this luxury Mekong adventure offers an intimate and personalized glimpse into the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
Priced from $89 per person, the tour provides excellent value and a Lowest Price Guarantee.
Flexible booking options and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior make planning a breeze.
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From Ho Chi Minh: Dinner on Cruise Saigon River
This 4-hour dinner cruise along the Saigon River offers a delightful way to experience the city’s vibrant skyline and rich cultural heritage.
Priced from $49.16 per person, the cruise provides scenic views, a delectable Vietnamese and international buffet, and attentive service.
With a maximum of 11 participants, it’s a small group experience that allows you to immerse in the local atmosphere.
Highlights include seeing towering skyscrapers and historical landmarks, learning about Vietnam’s culture, and enjoying the gentle breeze and soothing ambiance of the river.
Complimentary transfers, an English-speaking guide, and tips are included, making this a convenient and all-inclusive dining experience.
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Ho Chi Minh City by Night Including Water Puppet Show and Dinner on Cruise
Experiencing Ho Chi Minh City at night offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and heritage.
This guided tour includes a water puppet show, a dinner cruise on the Saigon River, and round-trip transportation.
Travelers can expect an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, and bottled water.
While the dinner quality received mixed reviews, the water puppet show was consistently praised for its uniqueness.
The tour is recommended by 96% of past participants, with an overall rating of 5.0.
Priced from €78.93 per person, the experience can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Saigon: Dinner Cruise With Vietnamese Cuisine and Live Music
Though Ho Chi Minh City offers a diverse array of dining options, one particular experience stands out for its unique blend of scenic views, authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and lively entertainment.
The Saigon Dinner Cruise is a 3-hour journey that allows guests to indulge in a sumptuous buffet of Vietnamese delicacies while cruising along the city’s waterways. Priced at $51.21 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 11 participants) promises an intimate and immersive experience, with round-trip hotel transfers and live music entertainment included.
Whether you’re admiring the city’s skyline under the evening lights or savoring the flavors of Vietnam, this dinner cruise is a must-try for those seeking a memorable dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City.
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Water Puppet Show-Cyclo & Dinner On Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
For those seeking an immersive cultural experience in Ho Chi Minh City, the Water Puppet Show-Cyclo & Dinner On Cruise tour offers a captivating three-in-one adventure.
Travelers can witness the traditional Vietnamese art of water puppetry, explore the city by cyclo, and enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. The tour is limited to 10 guests, ensuring an intimate experience.
Inclusions cover round-trip transfers, water puppet show tickets, dinner, and an English-speaking guide.
While the cyclo ride and puppet show receive positive reviews, the dinner cruise has received mixed feedback regarding noise and food quality.
The tour provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Vietnamese culture and cuisine.
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Ho Chi Minh: Dinner on Cruise Along Saigon River
A dinner cruise along the Saigon River offers a captivating way to experience Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant waterfront.
Cruises range from 2-3 hours and provide a scenic backdrop for enjoying a traditional Vietnamese meal. Guests can expect a multi-course dinner featuring local specialties, with options for vegetarian and dietary requirements.
Many cruises also include entertainment, such as traditional music and dance performances. Prices start from $27 per person for a group tour, while private cruises cost around $100 per person.
This unique dining experience allows visitors to admire the city’s skyline and riverside landmarks while savoring Vietnamese cuisine in a serene setting.
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Water Puppet Show/ Foot Massage – Dinner Cruise Saigon Night Private Tour
This private tour in Ho Chi Minh City combines the enchanting water puppet show with a serene dinner cruise along the Saigon River.
Lasting approximately 5-6 hours, the tour offers two options: either a ticket to the water puppet show and dinner cruise, or a foot and hand massage followed by the dinner cruise.
The set menu Vietnamese dinner is complemented by live traditional entertainment on board.
With a 100% traveler recommendation, the tour provides excellent value at $80 per person.
Pickup is available from select locations, and the tour is accessible to most travelers, though not wheelchair-friendly.
Positive reviews highlight the staff’s responsiveness and the overall enjoyable experience.
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Dinner on Cruise Saigon River – Group Tour
One of the most popular group tours in Ho Chi Minh City is the Dinner on Cruise Saigon River experience. Priced at $52.44 per person, this 3-hour tour includes a buffet dinner, live music, and a traditional dance show.
Pickup and drop-off are available in select districts, and the cruise offers scenic views along the Saigon River. Guests can enjoy leisurely strolls on the deck and take in the city’s landmarks.
The tour is subject to a surcharge during Tet and holidays. With a 5/5 rating based on one review, this dining experience is a great way to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant riverfront.
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Water Puppet Show & Dinner on Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage by attending a captivating Water Puppet Show followed by a serene Dinner Cruise along the Saigon River.
The 90-minute experience begins with a traditional water puppet performance, complete with a live orchestra and singers. Guests then board a classic junk boat for a dinner cruise, enjoying vegetarian options as they admire the city’s illuminated skyline.
The small-group tour includes round-trip transfers, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
While the dinner quality may not stand out compared to other dining experiences, the overall package offers a unique cultural and sightseeing opportunity in Vietnam’s bustling commercial center.
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Hcm: Saigon River Buffet Dinner Cruise With Private Table
For a serene evening on the Saigon River, travelers can embark on a Buffet Dinner Cruise with a private table. At $55.30 per person, the 3.5-hour experience includes round-trip transfers, a live English-speaking guide, and a delicious Vietnamese buffet dinner.
The small group is limited to 11 participants, ensuring an intimate atmosphere as they admire Ho Chi Minh City’s illuminated landmarks along the river. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this dinner cruise provides a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the city’s beauty at night.
The optional scooter sightseeing add-on allows participants to explore nearby landmarks before or after the cruise.
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Private Ho Chi Minh by Jeep Evening Tour and Dinner Cruise
Travelers can embark on a Private Ho Chi Minh by Jeep Evening Tour and Dinner Cruise, a highly-rated 5-star experience in Ho Chi Minh City.
This private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, Jeep transportation, a tour guide, and a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. The 13 reviews recommend this tour, which covers Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions.
Priced at €101.07 per person, the tour is accessible, with stroller and service animal accommodations. Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours before the start time.
This all-inclusive experience offers a memorable evening in Vietnam’s vibrant capital, providing a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the city.
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Dinner On Cruise Along Saigon River
One can embark on a memorable dinner cruise along the Saigon River, offering a unique perspective of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant skyline.
These 2-3 hour cruises provide a serene setting to enjoy a multi-course Vietnamese feast, while taking in the sights of the city from the water. Guests can expect an intimate, small group experience, with pickups available.
Cruise packages start from $56 per person for the full-day Mekong Delta tour, or $84 per person for the Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta VIP limousine bus tour.
Travelers seeking a private dining experience can opt for the $43.01 per person street food tour with a female guide.
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Water Puppet Show & Dinner on Cruise
Guests can enjoy a captivating water puppet show followed by a delightful dinner cruise along the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City.
This activity includes round-trip transportation from District 1 and features a variety of dining options to accommodate different dietary needs.
The cruise offers amenities like restrooms and WiFi, and the water puppet show provides a unique cultural experience.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the activity is suitable for most participants.
Reviews praise the excellent service and organization, though some have reported issues with timing and food availability.
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Ho Chi Minh City: Saigon River Cruise With Buffet Dinner
Enjoy a relaxing evening on the Saigon River with a buffet dinner cruise in Ho Chi Minh City.
This 2-hour cruise allows you to witness the city’s riverside landmarks while indulging in a delectable buffet dinner. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars from 691 reviews, the cruise is available at a price of $69.72 per person.
The tour includes pickup service and skips the line, providing a convenient and enjoyable experience. Guests can savor a variety of Vietnamese and international cuisines as they take in the stunning views of the riverfront.
This is an excellent way to combine sightseeing and dining for a memorable evening in Ho Chi Minh City.
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3 Hours Dinner With Luxury Princess Yacht On Sai Gon River
The 3-hour dinner cruise aboard a luxury princess yacht on the Saigon River offers a unique dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City.
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 5 reviews, the tour provides air-conditioned transportation, on-board WiFi, and a restroom.
Dinner is included, and the yacht is wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and allows service animals.
Prices start at $75 per person, with a maximum of 50 travelers.
While reviews praise the crew’s friendliness and scenic views, some criticize the food quality.
The host acknowledges the feedback and aims to improve the dining experience.
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Recap
Ho Chi Minh City offers a variety of exceptional dining experiences, from lively street food tours to serene river cruises with delectable cuisine. Visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife, savor local delicacies, and enjoy stunning views of the Saigon River. Whether seeking an intimate homestay experience or a luxurious yacht dinner, Ho Chi Minh City has something to suit every traveler’s taste and preference.