Amidst the bustling street food stalls and high-end restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, a distinctive culinary experience awaits exploration. Step away from the usual and delve into the world of “Cơm nhà” - the very essence of Vietnamese home-style dining.
This culinary journey is more than just a delight for your taste buds; it beckons you to gather around the table, partake in dishes infused with love and tradition, and truly embrace the genuine spirit of Vietnamese family dining. Join us as we navigate the top 5 “Cơm nhà” spots in Ho Chi Minh City, where every bite assures a nostalgic taste of home.
Nhà Tú
Craving a cozy and authentic Vietnamese experience? Look no further than Nhà Tú. Step inside and be transported to a charming, intimate space brimming with traditional Vietnamese charm. From the familiar street vendor scenes to the lush greenery of banana and bamboo trees, the décor evokes a sense of your hometown, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable meal.
Nhà Tú offers a diverse menu of dishes to accompany rice, catering to various preferences from across the country. This allows diners to explore a vast array of flavors from north to south. Besides the traditional dishes, they also offer party bites with local beer. The restaurant boasts a comfortable atmosphere with distinct seating areas, each providing a unique and personal dining experience. Nestled in District 3, Nhà Tú effortlessly captures the charm and spirit of Vietnam’s vibrant family rice tray culture, transporting you to the heart of the countryside.
Opening hours: 12:00 - 15:00 | 16:45 - 22:00
Address: 129/4 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3
Cục Gạch Quán
Hailed in the latest Michelin Bib Gourmand 2023, Cục Gạch Quán is the place where sincere, peaceful, and quiet souvenirs can be created in a warm and cozy setting, where the true values of a “countryman” reign under the motto “eat green, live healthy,” with every action designed to demonstrate respect for our environment. Mixing the old and the new to comply with today’s convenient lifestyle.
Diners are particularly impressed by Cục Gạch’s commitment to environmental protection. Before plastic alternatives became mainstream, the restaurant embraced Morning Glory stems as straws. This unique approach adds a touch of local flair and sparks curiosity among international guests. Here, skilled chefs meticulously prepare “home-style” dishes at this restaurant. The presentation, using terracotta bowls, banana leaf wrappers, clay pots, and rice cooker racks, evokes a sense of rustic familiarity for Vietnamese diners. This meticulous attention to detail fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy family meal.
Opening hours: 9:00 - 23:30
Address: 10 Dang Tat, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1
Mặn Mòi
Mặn Mòi (Spice Bistro) captures the essence of transforming everyday food into delightful experiences reminiscent of home-cooked meals prepared by mothers and grandmothers. Inspired by this sentiment, they meticulously source local ingredients to create comforting dishes, whether a refreshing salad, a hearty stew, a warming soup, or a sweet ending. Their dedicated team infuses each dish with care, aiming to showcase the true elegance of Vietnamese cuisine and ensure a memorable dining experience for diners.
Stepping into this restaurant is like entering a haven of tranquility. While their District 2 location surrounds an open courtyard filled with green trees, perfect for meetings, business meals, and romantic date nights, the one in District 3, situated in the city center with spacious, airy surroundings and many trees, is more suitable for domestic and international tourists to enjoy pure Vietnamese cuisine. The simple yet elegant décor creates a welcoming contrast to the bustling city outside. The enticing aromas, vibrant colors, and beautifully presented dishes wafting from the kitchen further enhance this calming atmosphere. Every element is designed to leave you wanting more for all the right reasons.
Opening hours: 10:00 - 22:00
Address: 34 Vo Van Tan, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3
32 Street 11, Thao Dien Ward, District 2
Sống - Saigon Home Cuisine
Sống - Saigon Home Cuisine was born from a desire to keep the spirit of traditional Vietnamese family meals alive in the fast-paced world of today. They aim to provide diners with a nostalgic experience, evoking memories of timeworn flavors and healthy, ancestral eating habits. Sống meticulously preserves and presents the essence of Vietnamese home cooking, crafting each dish with simple yet heartfelt care. Rustic, fresh ingredients and a genuine approach to cooking and dining create a unique culinary journey.
Stepping into Sống Restaurant in Thảo Điền is like entering a warm embrace. The nostalgic and cozy space welcomes guests to indulge in a delightful array of “Homemade” Southern-style dishes such as Cơm cháy kho quẹt (Crispy rice with condensed fish sauce and dried shrimp), Cá Hú kho tộ (Braised catfish in a clay pot with caramelized sauce), or Lẩu mắm (Vietnamese fermented fish hotpot). Prepare to be transported by the authentic flavors and heartfelt essence of the Vietnamese family dining tradition.
Opening hours: 7:00 - 22:00
Address: 212 Nguyen Van Huong, Thao Dien ward, District 2
Thanh Niên
Steeped in Saigon’s culinary history, Thanh Niên Restaurant, established in 1989, holds the distinction of being the city’s oldest Vietnamese restaurant. For over three decades, it has consistently captured the hearts of local families, becoming a cherished destination for generations to share delicious meals.
Stepping into Thanh Niên Restaurant, you’ll be transported to a warm and inviting Vietnamese space. The aroma of traditional dishes, evoking cherished memories, instantly fills the air. Here, you’ll find a culinary journey woven from the distinct flavors of all three Vietnamese regions, encompassing rustic, home-style comfort food and dishes crafted with meticulous care and delicate technique. The restaurant’s dishes blend modern and traditional elements, preserving their unique character while offering a refreshing twist. This skillful combination caters to diverse palates, ensuring a satisfying experience for every diner.
Opening hours: 6:30 - 21:00
Address: 11 Nguyen Van Chiem, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1