Food Archives - A Teacher Traveling

Enjoy the Best Food of Vietnam

by Wes Thompson | Feb 6, 2023 | All, Food, Southeast Asia, Vietnam

Vietnam is a culture deservedly proud of its rich selections of delicious and healthy cuisine. Let’s take a look at the best food of Vietnam not to be missed, whether traveling in Vietnam or stepping out for dinner at home.

The food in Vietnam is incredibly delicious, varied, and quite healthy. I am always fascinated by the seemingly endless variety of Vietnamese food that is available for the hungry traveler to enjoy.

Every time I think that I have tried everything this culinary loving country has to offer, I am so pleasantly surprised to find something new and exciting.

Though similar, the cuisine of northern, central, and southern Vietnam often differs in appearance and taste. Even locals from any one region are often surprised by the variety of food they may experience for the first time when they visit other regions of the country.

Likewise, travelers to Vietnam will be delighted with what they can find to eat, and all at unbelievably reasonable prices.

What is the Best Food of Vietnam Not to Miss?

The food of Vietnam is rich and varied, and there is something the tantalize the taste buds of even those with the most discerning palates. Let’s start with the soups, as they are a common meal in Vietnam.

All of the following can be enjoyed for as little as 50,000 Vietnamese dong (Vietnam’s unit of currency), the equivalent of about two US dollars.

Let’s start with the soups. Soups in Vietnam are viewed differently than the way they are in the West. Whereas in the West, they are often complements to a meal, in Vietnam, they ARE the meal.

Just treat yourself to a bowl of any of the following and you will quickly see why.

Phở: Quite Possibly the National Dish of Vietnam

Pho ga (rice noodle soup with chicken)

Often considered the national dish of modern-day Vietnam, phở (pronounced like the English word “sun” without the “n”) is a delicious soup made with a tasty broth, rice noodles somewhat similar in shape and size to linguine (but with a different taste, made with rice, rather than wheat), onion, basil, and a few other herbs. You can order it with either beef or chicken.

Phở as a Street Food

Phở is among the best of the street food of Vietnam, and you will be able to find it everywhere all over the country. Also, it is almost universally available in Vietnamese restaurants all over the world.

It is served with fresh vegetables such as basil, scallions, and steamed bean sprouts on a separate plate and there will always be two sauces served with this dish. One sauce is called “hoisin,” which is Chinese in origin. This sauce is made with sweet potato, soybeans, wheat flour, sugar, garlic, water, salt, sesame seeds, cornstarch, and chili.

The other is called “sriracha,” named after the Thai village in which is was first used. Though Thai in origin, it’s become quite popular not only in Vietnam, but all over the world. Sriracha sauce is made with ground chili peppers, distilled vinegar, garlic, sugar, and salt.

After being served, break up the veggies into your bowl and also add the two sauces.

One sauce is a red chili sauce. It’s a little spicy, but not as much so as you would think. The other sauce is called hoi-san. It’s a sweet-potato-based sauce made with vinegar and an assortment of delicious herbs and spices. Start off with a small amount and then add more until you get the taste you like. But don’t omit the sauces, as they are what give phở its characteristic flavor!

If you are travelling through Vietnam, you will notice a difference between northern and southern varieties of this dish. The broth tends to be sweeter in the north compared to the south. Also, the choice of herbs and vegetables differs. In fact, northern style is served with few vegetable, whereas southern style comes with quite a lot of veggies served on the side.

Hủ Tiếu: Simple Yet Elegant Meal on the Go

A bowl of hu tieu Nam Vang

During a visit to Vietnam, nothing beats sitting in little plastic chairs on a sidewalk near a chaotic Saigon street and digging into a fresh, hot bowl of hủ tiếu.

Like phở, and in fact like most soups in Vietnam, hủ tiếu is noodle-based, but the noodles in hủ tiếu are made from tapioca. They are a little chewy and more firm than other noodles.

Varieties of Hủ Tiếu

There are many varieties of hủ tiếu, but for many, the definitive bowl of hủ tiếu is hủ tiếu Nam Vang Nam Vang is the the Vietnamese word for Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, from which the soup actually originated. Hủ tiếu is found primarily in southern Vietnam.

Hủ tiếu Nam Vang’s broth is pork-based, and a serving comes with a chunk of pork meat, a few shrimp, a boiled quail egg, lettuce and a few herbs, and boiled bean sprouts. You can add about a tea-spoon of fish sauce to really bring out the delicious flavor of the soup.

Hủ tiếu is a soup, but you can get a dry (broth-less) version, which I also really like. Of course, everything is cooked; there’s just no broth.

Bún Bò Huế: Delicious Beef and Vegetable Soup

A bowl of bún bò Huế, considered to be among the best food in Vietnam

Bún bò Huế is a specialty from central Vietnam, more specifically the city of Huế, the old imperial capital of the country.

The name is derived from the fact that the noodle is bún, a common rice noodle in Vietnam, and that the primary meat is beef, or bò in Vietnamese. Like most Vietnamese dishes, bún bò Huế is very healthy, as it is mostly noodles and vegetables, and not a lot of beef. In fact, I don’t typically eat beef, but I make an exception for bún bò Huế!

Bún bò Huế is cooked with a hint of lemongrass, which is one of the most amazing tastes in the Vietnamese food canon, giving it a bit of a kick of exotic flavoring. If you are feeling truly adventurous, try adding a small amount of shrimp paste, a purple sauce that gives bún bò Huế its incredibly unique flavor.

A word of caution, though. Start with a very small amount and then add more if you like it. Even many locals can’t handle shrimp paste. But if you can eat it, the locals will be quite impressed.

Bún Riêu: Tangy and Tomato-y Delight

A bowl of bún riêu is a real treat and will satisfy your cravings for tangy dishes.

Bún riêu is a real treat. For many Vietnamese, this is one of their favorite soups. It’s made with a light tomato-based broth and a thinner rice noodle, called “bún.” (similar in size to hủ tiếu’s noodles). Then, freshly ground crab meat, sliced tomatoes, stir-fried tofu, mint leaves, and bean sprouts are added and cooked into the soup.

After being served, you can add an assortment of other ingredients to suit your taste, such as shredded banana flowers, vinegar, sweet fish sauce, and tamarind sauce.

An Adventurous Sauce

For the adventurous, shrimp paste can be added to really bring out the flavor. As mentioned above, start with a small quantity and work your way up, as this sauce is quite intensely flavored. But do add even a drop to bring out the authentic flavor of this exquisite soup.

Bo Kho: Savory Slow-Cooked Beef Stew

Bo Kho is a rich and delicious beef stew served with noodles and bread.

Bo Kho is a rich and tasty lean beef stew that is served with thin rice noodles, often the same as you’ll find in bun rieu (see above). Bread or rice is sometimes served with bo kho as an alternative to the rice noodles.

The beef is prepared using the “kho method” of cooking popular in southern Vietnam and Cambodia. The beef is braised on low heat in a marinade of fish sauce, sugar, and water or the juice of young coconut.

Sometimes, this dish is quite spicy, but usually it’s not so much spicy as it is savory. Bo kho is a unique taste in Vietnamese cuisine and is of mixed origin, possibly originating from the influence of French stew recipes brought into Vietnam during colonial times. Some chefs feel the dish is closer to that of Malaysian or Indian cuisine.

In addition to the lean beef, bo kho includes carrots, garlic, lemongrass, tomato sauce, ginger, chili, and fish sauce.

Bun Mam: The Queen of Soups

Bun mam is quite possibly the queen of the Vietnamese soups.

Bun mam is one Vietnamese soup that rises above the rest in terms of being flavorful and savory. It’s my personal favorite, but it’s so strong that I only let myself enjoy a bowl every few weeks, so as to not become burned out by its strong taste.

I even know local Vietnamese who have told me they cannot deal with the strong flavor.

This soup is known for its robust broth, which is made from fermented fish. Bun mam is similar in look to a seafood gumbo, but the soup is much thinner. Cooked Inside the broth is a delicious blend of fish, prawns, pork (known as “cracking pork”), squid, and eggplant, and Chinese celery.

A tasty sweet fish sauce is added just before eating.

Bun mam will deliver a sharp smack to the nose, but its fresh herbs give it a aromatic smell.

Now, let’s look at some rice and noodle dishes that are not soups.

Cơm Tấm: Broken Rice Served Hot and Fresh

Com tam (broken rice) is a Vietnamese favorite; you can find it everywhere in the south of Vietnam.

One of the most prevalent dishes that you will see everywhere in Vietnam is cơm tấm. It’s a true specialty within Vietnam, as broken rice is not usually exported.

The rice consists of the grains that were broken during the milling and drying process, so that’s where the name comes from. These grains cannot be sold on the market, as they are considered to be flawed. Formerly, the rice was usually ground up to use as flour in other dishes or just thrown out or fed to animals, but farmers near Saigon began cooking and eating it themselves. Today, it’s a specialty of the city.

Broken rice looks very similar to any other rice; it’s just smaller. The taste is is not at all diminished by the fact that they are “broken.” It’s quite good, actually. Cơm tấm is served with other items placed on top, for example, grilled pork chops (sườn nướng), pork stuffed tofu, chicken legs, fish, or a fried egg. Sliced cucumber and tomatoes are served on the side, along with a fish sauce with lime and chili added.

The best place to eat cơm tấm is at a small eatery in front of someone’s home or from a cooked-food stall. You will be able to spot a place serving this dish by the sign on the front of the cart, which will say “Cơm Tấm.” This dish is served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Bún Thịt Nướng: Thin Rice Noodles and Grilled Pork

Bún thịt nướng is a favorite street food in Vietnam.

Bún thịt nướng is thin rice noodles boiled and cooled, then served in a large bowl with grilled pork, mint and basil leaves, bean sprouts, sliced cucumber, and (sometimes) fried spring rolls (chả giò). Peanuts and a fish sauce lightened with lemon juice, sugar, and chili are mixed in after serving.

The pork is prepared by slicing it thinly, then flavoring it overnight in a marinade of minced shallots (a small mild onion) and garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and soy sauce. It is then grilled over red-hot charcoal just before the noodles and vegetables are prepared.

Bún thịt nướng is a favorite in the south. In the north, a dish very similar to bún thịt nướng, called bún chả Hanoi, is very popular. It’s usually served on a plate, rather than in a bowl, and the sauce served with it is a very light fish sauce but with vinegar added, along with sugar. Also, the vegetables served with this dish differ from those in the south.

Both of these dishes are very traditional Vietnamese fare, so give them a try if you see them being served.

Bánh Xèo: Vietnamese Pancake, Not an Omelette

Bánh xèo is a unique Vietnamese food.

If you are looking for a unique traditional Vietnamese food, bánh xèo would be a worthy addition to your list of “must-eat foods.”

Bánh xèo translates as “sizzling cake” in Vietnamese, but they are often called “pancakes” in English, though they are nothing like what you may think of as a pancake. The shell is made with rice flour, coconut milk, salt, turmeric, egg, and green onion lightly fried in a wok over a traditional charcoal stove. The edges have a tasty crusty exterior, but the cakes are soft and moist in the center.

While still in the wok, other ingredients such as shrimp, pork, various mushrooms, bean sprouts, and other vegetables are added, and then the crust is folded over to form what looks like a huge yellow crepe or omelet. Despite what you may think from looking at it, there are no eggs in this dish.

To eat bánh xèo, just use your chopsticks or fingers to break off a piece a little smaller than your palm and then wrap it, along with some mint and basil leaves, in a large piece of lettuce. All the necessary vegetables are served on a separate plate.

Dip your roll generously into the thin sauce that is served in a small bowl on the side. The sauce, called nước chấm, is made with fish sauce, garlic, chili, lemon juice, and water.

I hope you have enjoyed reading my recommendations for the best food of Vietnam. Whether you visiting this charming country or looking for a great meal in your own hometown, you will be in for a real culinary treat. Bon appétit!

8 of the Best Restaurants in Saigon for International Cuisine

by Wes Thompson | Jan 9, 2023 | Food, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Southeast Asia, Vietnam

Looking for the best restaurants in Saigon for international cuisine?

There’s no doubt that Vietnamese cuisine is among the finest in the world. It’s hard to beat sitting down to a nice healthy, delicious, fresh-cooked traditional meal from Vietnam.

But Vietnam in general and Saigon in particular boast exquisite cuisine from many parts of the word, including French, Indian, Middle Eastern, Greek, and even Ethiopian! Foodies of every make and model will be wowed by five of the best restaurants in Saigon offering a more international fare.

A huge difference between the excellent international restaurants in Saigon and those in the West is the prices. A meal that could easily cost over US$100 back home can be enjoyed in Saigon for less than US$20.

Let’s take a look at some of Saigon’s most iconic restaurants.

Baba’s Kitchen Indian Restaurant

Vegetarian thali at Baba’s Kitchen makes a delicious and healthy lunch.

Indian restaurants have arisen prominently in the foodie cityscape of Saigon. At any given time, there may be 10 – 12 establishments on Bui Vien Street serving the best that Indian cuisine has to offer to hungry travelers.

I have tried a few, but none quite reach the level of excellence of Baba’s Kitchen. Baba’s offers all the usual favorites — samosas, curries, masalas, and kebabs — with chicken, mutton, fish, prawn, and vegetable-only options.

Come hungry, as Baba’s meals are quite fulfilling, but will also fill you up.

Vegetarian options are plentiful at Baba’s, including a delicious mix of curries and masalas made with fresh vegetables. One of my favorites is daal palak, a flavorful dish made with yellow lentils and spinach.

Another dish I order almost every time I eat here is aloo gobi mattar, a healthy mix of cauliflower, potato, and peas cooked in a dry onion gravy.

Don’t forget to top off your meal with one of India’s signature breads, either naan, made with white flour, or roti, made with wheat flower. Baba’s naan comes in flavors to include plain, cheese, garlic, onion, paneer, or kashmiri. The naan is a nice treat, but I prefer roti, which is softer and easier to work with than naan.

If you are in the mood for a lighter meal, try Baba’s special salad, made with peas, beans, carrots, and lettuce and served with a pleasant yogurt sauce. You can follow your salad with tandoor chicken, which is roasted in the traditional clay oven found everywhere in India.

The chicken is first marinated with a mix of chili, cashews, yogurt, and marsala spices, and then cooked in the tandoor, resulting in a crispy outside but with the savory flavors sealed inside.

Another good lighter option is the kariyali kebab with chicken, which is boneless chicken marinated in a mix of cilantro, mint, and green chilies, and then baked on a skewer in the tandoor oven.

Baba’s also offers delivery and catering. If you have been craving a truly savory Indian meal, or want to try a new cuisine, you really cannot do any better in Saigon than Baba’s Kitchen.

Address: 274 Bui Vien Street, District 1
Telephone: 028 3838 6661

Al-Sham Middle Eastern Restaurant

Al-Sham serves some of the best hummus you’ll find in Saigon.

Al-Sham is another not-to-be-missed offering for international cuisine in Saigon.

Situated in a small but beautifully decorated venue on Vo Van Kiet Highway in District 1, this restaurant offers all the traditional Middle Eastern favorites, such as Arabic salad, chickpea soup, hummus, falafel and kebabs.

I love the interior decor of this place. You feel like you could be in a restaurant in Lebanon. And there is usually Middle Eastern tunes playing over a speaker in the background, so the scene is very inviting.

Staff tend to stay for a long time at Al-Sham, a good sign in itself but, also leads to very good service. All servers speak English, and the owners are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Most meals come with home-made pita, cooked in the oven just outside the entrance by the owner himself and you can order more for only 10,000 VND (about US$0.45).

I had so many good things to say about Al-Sham that I wrote a separate review for this restaurant.

For excellent Middle Eastern cuisine in Saigon, Al-Sham is the place to go.

Address: 300 Vo Van Kiet, District 1
Telephone: 0984 597 160

86 French Bistro

This is my favorite French restaurant in town. It’s conveniently located just outside of the main tourist area in the city, and serves up a delectable selection of French cuisine that you’ll truly enjoy.

The first thing you’ll notice when you enter 86 French Restaurant is the quaint authentic feel of a traditional French restaurant atmosphere. The interior is decorated with plush velvet chairs, crystal chandeliers, and white linen tablecloths. It’s clear that every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a refined dining experience.

The menu at 86 French Restaurant is extensive and features classic French dishes with a modern twist. From escargot to foie gras, each dish is prepared with the highest quality ingredients and presented beautifully.

The flavors are rich and complex, with options like duck confit, bouillabaisse, and coq au vin. The wine list is also impressive, with a selection of fine wines from around the world to complement your meal.

The service at 86 French Restaurant is impeccable. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, and they take pride in providing a personalized dining experience. The chefs are also skilled and take pride in their craft, which is evident in the quality of the food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a luxurious French dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, 86 French Restaurant is a must-visit. From the elegant atmosphere to the delicious food and excellent service, you won’t be disappointed.

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Cuu Non Hy Lap Greek and Vietnamese Restaurant

The Moussaka at Cuu Non Hy Lap Greek Restaurant

Cuu Non Hy Lap is a mixed-menu restaurant, but is known primarily for its Greek selections, located in Saigon’s District 3. The food here is nothing less than exquisite.

To be honest, I have only tried three items on their entire menu, because it’s THAT good. I like to start with the Greek salad, always fresh, crisp, and delicious. They always include a generous helping of feta, which to me makes a Greek salad so good. The dressing is a simple one of oil and vinegar and the portion size is quite adequate for two people.

The second thing I always order is the garlic bread, toasted fresh on a grill just outside the door of the restaurant. It’s a nice complement to the Greek salad and also to the third most favored dish, traditional Greek moussaka.

This tasty entrée is prepared with a layer of sliced eggplant sautéed in olive oil, a layer of mutton lightly cooked with chopped or puréed onion, garlic, and spices and topped off with a layer of Béchamel sauce. The creation is then baked in a pan until the top layer turns slightly crispy.

Cuu Non Hy Lap is open air and sits just off a pleasant canal. Try to get there just before sunset and you will be treated to a very nice view during your meal.

The staff and the owners, a friendly Vietnamese couple who are almost always seated just on the side of the door, speak English well and are happy to answer any questions about the menu.

Address: 395 Hoang Sa, District 3
Telephone: 0988 087 590

Ciao Bella Italian Restaurant

If you’re craving authentic Italian cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City, Ciao Bella is the place to be. Located in the heart of District 1, this cozy restaurant serves up some of the best Italian dishes in the city.

The menu at Ciao Bella features a variety of classic Italian dishes, including homemade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and fresh seafood. The ingredients are sourced locally and imported from Italy, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.

One of the standout dishes at Ciao Bella is the seafood linguine. This dish features a generous helping of fresh seafood, including prawns, mussels, and squid, tossed with linguine pasta in a flavorful tomato sauce.

Another must-try dish is the margherita pizza, which is made with a thin and crispy crust, fresh tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella cheese.

The atmosphere at Ciao Bella is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, cozy lighting, and elegant decor. The attentive service and friendly staff make you feel right at home, whether you’re dining solo or with a group.

Overall, Ciao Bella is a must-visit restaurant for anyone looking for authentic Italian cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City. The food, atmosphere, and service are all top-notch, making for a memorable dining experience that you won’t soon forget. So, head to Ciao Bella and indulge in some delicious Italian dishes – you won’t be disappointed!

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La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant

If you’re craving some delicious Mexican food in Ho Chi Minh City, La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant is the place to go! This vibrant and colorful restaurant serves up a range of classic Mexican dishes that will transport you to the heart of Mexico.

When you enter La Fiesta, you’ll immediately feel the lively and festive atmosphere. The decor is bright and colorful, with colorful Mexican tiles, sombreros, and piñatas adorning the walls. The restaurant has a friendly and welcoming ambiance that is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.

The menu at La Fiesta features classic Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, fajitas, and enchiladas. Each dish is made with authentic ingredients and bursting with flavor.

The salsas and guacamole are freshly made and add the perfect touch of heat and freshness to your meal. The margaritas are also a must-try, with a range of fruity and refreshing flavors to choose from.

The service at La Fiesta is excellent. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they are always willing to help you navigate the menu or make recommendations. The chefs are also skilled and take pride in their craft, which is evident in the quality of the food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and delicious Mexican dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, La Fiesta is the perfect choice. From the colorful decor to the delicious food and excellent service, you won’t be disappointed. So why not grab some friends, order some tacos and margaritas, and have a fiesta at La Fiesta!

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Tokyo Deli

Are you craving for some authentic Japanese cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City? Look no further than Tokyo Deli!

With several locations the city, this restaurant serves up a delectable selection of sushi, sashimi, ramen, and other Japanese favorites that will leave your taste buds satisfied.

The first thing you’ll notice when you enter Tokyo Deli is the stylish and modern interior. The minimalist decor creates a tranquil and calming atmosphere that is perfect for a relaxing meal.

Whether you’re dining alone, with friends, or on a date, Tokyo Deli has a seating option for you. You can choose to sit at the sushi bar and watch the chefs expertly prepare your meal, or opt for a cozy booth or table for a more intimate dining experience.

The menu at Tokyo Deli is extensive, and there is something for everyone. The sushi and sashimi are made with the freshest ingredients and are presented beautifully. The rolls are creative and delicious, with options like the Spider Roll, Rainbow Roll, and Dragon Roll.

If you’re not in the mood for sushi, the ramen is a must-try. The broth is flavorful and rich, and the noodles are perfectly cooked. You can also try the udon or soba noodles, which are equally delicious.

The service at Tokyo Deli is top-notch. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they are always willing to help you navigate the menu or make recommendations. The chefs are also skilled and take pride in their craft, which is evident in the quality of the food.

Overall, if you’re looking for a great Japanese dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, Tokyo Deli is a must-visit. From the beautiful interior to the delicious food and excellent service, you won’t be disappointed. So, why not make a reservation today and treat yourself to a fantastic meal?

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Maisen Bistro German / European Restaurant

Poached eggs on toast and vegetables and fresh-baked bread

If you’re feeling adventurous, and want to get out of the city center and try something new, Maisen Bistro in Benh Thanh district is a worthy venue! It’s one of my favorite dining spots for both breakfast and dinner.

Maisen is unique in that the entire staff are disadvantaged youths, victims affected by Agent Orange, or have a mild disability. The students benefit from the training and are able to develop career-related skills that pay off for a lifetime.

The food is international, and the environment of the restaurant would make you think you were in a café in Berlin or Hamburg. The staff speak English and are always very friendly and welcoming.

If you prefer outdoor seating, you will love Maisen’s small courtyard.

It’s lovely on a relaxing Sunday morning, where you can enjoy freshly made breads and pastries, traditional Western breakfast favorites such as poached eggs on toast, and a decent cup of Vietnamese coffee.
If you’re at Maisen’s for lunch or dinner, you will find an extensive and varied menu offering European favorites. I really enjoy their frankfurter with potatoes au gratin, sauerkraut, and spicy mustard. It’s a real treat!

Another dish I personally enjoy is the salmon streak with orange and ginger sauce, spinach, and herb rice. Don’t overlook the salads, as they are delicious and well prepared with fresh vegetables and tangy dressings and spices.

Address: 56 Nguyen Van Lac Street, Binh Thanh District
Telephone: 28 3840 5043

Saigon’s Lac Thai Restaurant Serves a Delicious Meal Every Time

by Wes Thompson | Dec 11, 2022 | All, Food, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Southeast Asia, Vietnam

If you have a yearning for Thai food while traveling in Vietnam, you cannot go wrong with Lac Thai Restaurant in Saigon’s District 1, one of the best Thai restaurants in Saigon.

It’s a bit of a challenge to find, as the restaurant resides in a cool old French-style house down an intriguing alleyway on Mac Thi Buoi Street, not far from Nguyen Hue Street in the heart of Saigon. But it’s definitely worth the search, as it’s a mighty fine restaurant indeed.

To start, the interior of the restaurant is as charming and relaxing as is the exterior. It’s an eclectic mix of Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese. The exposed-brick dining room on the ground floor welcomes you into the atmosphere.

You may think you walked into an art gallery, rather than a restaurant, with the paintings and sculptures that adorn the place.

I prefer a table on the second floor, where it’s a little more relaxing.

The exterior of Lac Thai. Look for a small alleyway off Mac Thi Buoi Street.

Try Lac Thai’s Exquisite Specialties

Lac Thai serves all the favored Thai specialties. I always like to start with a nice hot bowl of tom yam gung, the traditional soup made with lemongrass, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili paste. It’s absolutely delectable and there’s nothing like the taste of just about anything cooked with lemongrass.

If you feel like a salad try either the som tam or yam woon sen (hot & spicy glass noodle salad with seafood). Som tam is served with either crab or dried shrimp. The one with crab is probably more traditional, but I prefer the one with dried shrimp. I have also had this dish in Bangkok in restaurants where I was the only non-Thai in the place, so it’s authentic.

The yam woon sen is excellent and one of my usuals at Lac Thai. It’s quite tasty and satisfying. The dish’s base is warm glass noodles topped with generous portions of large shrimp and squid, ground pork, cilantro, sliced carrot, and peanuts. It’s served with a tangy sauce that’s a perfect complement to the salad.

Hot and spicy glass noodle salad with seafood

Vegetarian Delights Are Delicious

For vegetarians, there are meatless salads available. In fact, this restaurant serves about seven dishes that are totally vegetarian.

Another delicious favorite is the stir-fried seafood with red or green curry. It’s a real treat but a bit filling, so make sure you’re hungry if you order this dish.

Speaking or curry, be sure to try it when you can. There is just no taste quite like it. I have had it many times in Thailand and in other Thai restaurants both in Saigon and elsewhere. Usually, it’s served a little too thin for my liking. What I love about Lac Thai’s green curry dishes is that they’re a bit thicker and richer.

Lac Thai’s Green Curry with Chicken – yummy!

Please note that white rice is not served as part of the meals; you have to order (and pay) extra. This is a little irritating, especially for the prices they charge, but I always order it because what’s a Thai meal without white rice?

Lac Thai’s pad Thai is also a good choice. If you’re new to Thai food, this is a good dish to start with. It’s a very traditional dish with rice noodles stir-fried in a tamarind-based sauce, egg, scallions, firm tofu, bean sprouts, and peanut. You have your choice of chicken or shrimp when you order this. Ask for lime wedges and the special hot sauce made of sliced chili soaked in vinegar. It’s what makes pad Thai so good.

The chef’s monthly recommendations are always worth a try, and tend to alternate between seafood, beef, and chicken delights.

Lac Thai has an adequate wine list, with about 12 selections each of red and white. To me, white wine seems to go better with the spicy food. If you’re more of a beer drinker, you’ll find a decent selection of that here also, including Singha, the Thai national beer. Non-alcoholic beverages include soft drinks, tea, coffee, and fresh juices. The Thai iced tea, which I love, is done very well here. If you’ve never tried it, go for it! It’s a real treat.

Service is always decent and professional, but I would not rate it as great. This is one area this venue could improve on. The staff are not overly friendly or welcoming. But it’s certainly not anything to keep you from enjoying the delicious food served at this restaurant, as it really is one of the best Thai restaurants in Saigon.

Lac Thai’s menu shows all their offerings and prices.

Getting to Lac Thai Restaurant

Address: 71/2 Mạc Thị Bưởi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Bến Nghé, Ho Chi Minh City, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Web: lacthairestaurant.com
Tel: +84 28 3823 7506

Al-Sham Ranks Among the Best Restaurants in Saigon

by Wes Thompson | Nov 30, 2022 | All, Food, Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), Southeast Asia, Vietnam

Do you enjoy dining at some of the best restaurants in Saigon? Vietnamese food is without a doubt one of the treasures of world cuisine. In Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, there are thousands of excellent places to dine and the city is a true foodie haven.

But some of the best food in Saigon can be found in non-Vietnamese restaurants.

One of the best restaurants in Saigon is Al-Sham Middle Eastern Food at 300 Vo Van Kiet, the highway that runs along the canal in District 1.

It has become one of my favorite establishments in the city and is owned by a nice Syrian family. The space is cozy but welcoming and the staff are friendly and professional.

The staff speak English and Vietnamese, and the owners speak English and Arabic, so language is certainly no barrier to visiting this excellent dining establishment.

It’s not a particularly large place, and business seems to be good, but it never feels overcrowded and there’s always a nice table available. The dining room wall has a mural of the Al-Hamidiyah Souk Market, setting the scene for the venue.

The food is nothing short of spectacular! Every visit to this restaurant is a true treat. I have dined here at least 15 times since it’s opening in June 2017, so by now I have my favorites. I keep trying to convince myself to try something new, something I have not enjoyed already, but I just can’t seem to get myself to do it, as I love my favorites so much.

Enjoy Some Delicious Starters to a Great Meal

Al-Shami’s delicious shorbit adas soup

I recommend starting with a bowl of shorbit adas, an exquisite soup made with lentils and flavored with chopped onion, cumin, olive oil, and lemon juice. The taste is creamy and very satisfying and it’s always nice and hot, which is exactly the way I like this soup. Crunchy home-made croutons are served on the side.

To get a little green into the mix, don’t miss the Arabic salad, a simple but savory mix of cucumber, tomatoes, chopped parsley, and onions, with romaine lettuce on the side. The tangy dressing consists of salt, lemon juice, and olive oil. The flavors combine perfectly to form a delicious and healthy treat.

In addition, the falafel is superb, full of great flavor, and not too oily. It’s encrusted with sesame seed and makes a perfect complement to the soup and salad.

Try the Excellent Main Courses at Al-Sham

Al-Sham serves some of the best falafel you can get in Saigon.

For a truly delicious main course, I recommend the mixed grill, which, though the choices on the menu are for one or two persons, can really satisfy two or three. It’s a lot of meat!

This platter comes with equal parts chicken, lamb, and beef. It really is delectable and worth the wait for the time it takes the chef to prepare this dish to perfection.

Another favorite is the chicken shawarma. This is a classic and is done very well at Al-Sham. This dish is a pita sandwich made with thinly sliced marinated chicken, lettuce, tomato, onion, and a tasty sauce. This is perfect for lunch or dinner alike.

Stay Healthy with Al-Sham’s Vegetarian Delights

Are you a vegetarian? Not to worry. Al-Sham has meat-free selections, such as the adas soup, hummus, salads, vegetarian pizza, and BBQ vegetables. Vegetables are an important part of Middle Eastern cuisine, so the chef is no stranger to cooking vegetarian-friendly meals.

Meals are served with a plate of tangy pickled cucumber and radish (no charge), the perfect addition to the food.

To top off your meal, try an authentic Middle Eastern beverage, such as lassi, a blend of yogurt, water, and spices or a hot pot of Arabic tea. Enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee as the perfect ending to your experience. Be aware, though, that the coffee is very strong.

When you finish your main meal, your server will bring you a complimentary piece of namoura, a delicious, sweet cake made of semolina, the same grain used to make couscous, soaked in a simple sweet syrup. This will top off your meal and leave you quite satisfied.

Be sure not to miss viewing the authentic baking of the pitas by the chef, which is done outside at the entrance of the restaurant. Chef Badeh is fine with guests taking photos and asking questions about the baking process.

If you are looking for a memorable experience in one of the best restaurants in Saigon, Al-Sham should be high on your list.

Enjoying Life Through Vietnamese Coffee

by Wes Thompson | Nov 22, 2022 | All, Food, Southeast Asia, Vietnam

I love coffee. I also enjoy living in Vietnam.

So I really enjoy a nice cup of Vietnamese coffee.

Living in Saigon for the past seven years has provided an opportunity to enjoy some of the best coffee anywhere. Having coffee is a favorite past-time of the Vietnamese and Vietnam has some of the best coffee shops on the planet, and a lot of them.

There is never any difficulty in finding a great tasting cup of coffee, the closest cup often being no more than a block or two away from where you are currently standing. Vietnam is the second largest coffee producer in the world. Only Brazil surpasses Vietnam in coffee production. Having a coffee for the locals is not just a quick break, taken lightly.

Rather, it is an integral part of the culture, and you will see locals come into a coffee shop and spend the next hour (or more) there, socializing with friends and family, catching up on the news and gossip of the day, or just relaxing after a long day at work.

Traditional Vietnamese Coffee

Things to do in Saigon: Vietnamese coffee

Some of the best coffee in the world can be found in quiet alleyways in Ho Chi Minh City.

Traditional Vietnamese coffee is served four ways: hot black, iced black, hot with milk, and iced with milk. The milk used is condensed milk, which is very sweet. Ground coffee is placed into a metal filter, then boiling water is poured over the top.

The hot water passes through the coffee, then drips into your cup, in which a generous helping of condensed milk is poured beforehand. When the water quits dripping, you remove the filter from your cup, stir, and mmmmm, mmmmm, enjoy! If ice is to be added, the coffee is made using a larger glass, and then ice is poured into the glass.

Types of Traditional Vietnamese Cafés

Cafés in Saigon are an institution. There are many “mom and pop” (or often just mom) coffee shops to be found all over Vietnam. You can get an excellent cup of coffee in these places for 5,000 – 10,000 dong (the Vietnamese currency, equivalent to about 25 – 50 US cents).

There are, however, more upscale Vietnamese coffee shops, which serve excellent coffee, but also offer more in the way of other drinks, including alcoholic beverages, and even food. Some will offer live entertainment, including four-string quartets accompanied by an accomplished vocalist singing traditional Vietnamese favorites.

Tony Hung Tran, who was born in Saigon but emigrated to the US, came back to live and work in Saigon in 2008. He instantly found Saigon’s many café’s charming places to spend time relaxing after work and on weekends. He often sings in Saigon’s cafes.

“Cafés are one of the most popular meeting locations in the city,” Hung said. “They’re a common outlet for entertainment. People come to Cafés to gather with friends, have fun, relax, enjoy a drink, and to listen to music.” Cafes appeal to patrons of all ages, but they have become especially popular with the younger generations.

“Many patrons are young people, but really people of all ages enjoy coming to cafés,” Hung explained. “A lot of business people will actually make a cafe a meeting spot to discuss business and even sign contracts, etc.”

Cafés also provide the younger crowd with a safe and fun place to meet friends, and you’ll often see groups of young people chatting and focusing on their mobile devices while listening to the music at the same time.

Almost all cafes provide free wi-fi service.

Preserving Vietnamese Traditions

In a way, cafés have become a way to preserve a part of Vietnam’s heritage and culture. When asked what he loved most about singing in Saigon’s cafés, Hung said, “Firstly, I love the music; I like to sing for people. I like to revive the old, classic songs for the young people around the city. I think it’s great because a lot of the old songs may have been forgotten if they weren’t sung in the coffee shops so often.”

Cafés in Saigon generally serve not only coffee but also tea of every variety, fresh fruit juices, sodas, and even ice-cream-based treats. With all the things to do in Saigon, sometimes it’s hard choose what to do. If you want to get down with the locals and experience a true Saigon tradition, chill out for a while at one of the many cafés that have become a fixture in the city.

Modern Vietnamese Cafés

In addition to the traditional coffee shops, many cities and larger towns in Vietnam have more trendy venues, offering hipper drinks such as blended coffees, fruit smoothies, hot chocolate, etc.

Coffee is taken very seriously by traditional baristas.

One thing that I love about living in Vietnam is that there is so often a pleasant surprise right around the next corner. Recently, I was invited by a friend to come to a newer coffee shop in Saigon known as Passio Coffee.

They serve a full menu of more modern offerings, including cappuccino, lattes, and a wide variety of teas and fruit drinks. But they also have a show room, where all sorts of coffee making items can be bought. I was amazed at the wide variety of equipment that can be used to make coffee.

There was one apparatus that looked like it belonged more in a chemistry lab than in a coffee shop. The water is boiled using halogen lights, then the boiling water is drawn up into a large beaker, where ground coffee is placed. We got a private demonstration from Mr. Huan, a barista at Passio Coffee, and it was interesting to see coffee made in this way.

The coffee is of a high quality and had an excellent flavor. If you are, or have friends who are, true coffee lovers, be sure to come by their showroom at 15F Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street in Saigon. They have some unique gifts that would be a hit at any coffee serving.

Vietnamese Coffee with a…uh…Twist?

If you want to try something really unique, you can’t pass up the opportunity to sample weasel coffee (also known as civet coffee). No, the coffee is not made from weasels, and no animals are harmed in the process. Weasels (civets) naturally love to eat coffee beans that fall to the ground from the plants. As it passes through their digestive system, part of the bean is digested.

However, part of it passes completely through, and this part is collected, then roasted and ground just like any other coffee bean.

Harvested coffee beans ready to be roasted

But having passed through the digestive system of the weasel gives it an exceptionally smooth and unique chocolaty flavor. I know it sounds quite strange, and I thought it was at first, too. But I have tried it a few times and it’s actually quite delicious.

It’s called ca phe chon in Vietnamese and coffee shops offering the genuine weasel coffee fetch about US$30 for one cup or US$500 per kilogram for the roasted beans. You do have to be careful, though, as a lot of what claims to be weasel coffee is fake. Apparently, producers have a way of using chemical enzyme substitutes to create a similar flavor, but the beans were never eaten by a weasel.

If weasel coffee doesn’t appeal to you, certainly a traditional cup of Vietnamese coffee will. Do your palate a favor and be sure to treat yourself to a cup of coffee, or rather several cups, during your stay in Vietnam.