Hidden gem restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City
Published Apr 10, 2026 • 1 month ago
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If you’re looking for hidden gem restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City beyond the usual tourist spots, here are a few places I really enjoyed or kept seeing recommended by locals and travelers.
1/ Secret Garden Restaurant — Hidden on a rooftop in District 1 with a really cozy atmosphere and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Feels much calmer than the busy streets below.
2/ Vo Roof — A nice rooftop spot tucked away in an old apartment area. Great vibe for dinner and drinks at night.
3/ Nam Mê Saigon — One of the more underrated Vietnamese restaurants in Thao Dien. Beautiful presentation and modern Vietnamese food.
4/ Blanc. Restaurant Saigon — Very unique dining experience with a quiet atmosphere and creative fusion dishes.
5/ Bếp Mẹ Ỉn - Vietnamese Restaurant — Not exactly “secret” anymore, but still feels local compared to many tourist restaurants. Great Vietnamese comfort food.
A lot of people also recommend exploring small alleyway restaurants and cafés instead of only eating around Ben Thanh Market or Bui Vien area. Some hidden places are honestly better than the famous viral spots.
1/ Secret Garden Restaurant — Hidden on a rooftop in District 1 with a really cozy atmosphere and traditional Vietnamese dishes. Feels much calmer than the busy streets below.
2/ Vo Roof — A nice rooftop spot tucked away in an old apartment area. Great vibe for dinner and drinks at night.
3/ Nam Mê Saigon — One of the more underrated Vietnamese restaurants in Thao Dien. Beautiful presentation and modern Vietnamese food.
4/ Blanc. Restaurant Saigon — Very unique dining experience with a quiet atmosphere and creative fusion dishes.
5/ Bếp Mẹ Ỉn - Vietnamese Restaurant — Not exactly “secret” anymore, but still feels local compared to many tourist restaurants. Great Vietnamese comfort food.
A lot of people also recommend exploring small alleyway restaurants and cafés instead of only eating around Ben Thanh Market or Bui Vien area. Some hidden places are honestly better than the famous viral spots.
