Ho Chi Minh City is a fantastic destination for food lovers. The city’s energetic streets are filled with stalls offering authentic Vietnamese dishes, while its riverfront and historic sites provide perfect backdrops for memorable dining experiences. We love the Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience because it combines immersive local flavors with lively markets and rustic eateries — a true taste of Saigon’s culinary soul. Whether you’re craving bánh mì, rice dishes, or aromatic Saigonese coffee, the city’s diverse options promise something for every palate.
Beyond just food, Ho Chi Minh City excels in offering dining with a view—be it a river cruise, a water puppet show combined with dinner, or intimate street food strolls at sunset. This list showcases the best ways to enjoy the city’s vibrant food scene, blending culture, scenery, and flavor into unforgettable experiences.
Quick Overview
Our list features street food tours, river dinner cruises, cultural shows combined with dining, small-group adventures, and luxurious yacht-based dinners. Each experience highlights something unique: the authenticity of local street stalls, the elegance of a river cruise, or a cultural performance with a meal. For example, the Saigon River Dinner Cruise offers relaxed sightseeing with a Vietnamese buffet, while Water Puppet Shows combined with dinner provide a key cultural insight paired with excellent food. Keep reading for detailed overviews of each top-rated experience.
1. Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience
At number 1, this small-group street food tour takes you through the heart of Saigon’s bustling markets and alleyways. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll sample staples like bahn mi baguettes, rice dishes, and local snacks while sipping aromatic Saigon coffee and cold beers. The tour’s highlight is visiting local markets and rustic eateries recommended by your guide, giving you an authentic taste of Southern Vietnam. With just 3 hours, it’s a perfect way to learn about Saigon’s lively nightlife and culinary scene. Reviewers love the intimate atmosphere, and the tour’s commitment to being carbon neutral makes it a responsible choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies wanting a genuine, lively experience in a short time, with insider tips and local flavors.
2. Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Buffet, Set Menu, Fine Dining
For around $50, the Saigon River dinner cruise offers a relaxed and scenic dining experience. Board a traditional or modern riverboat and glide past illuminated landmarks like Bitexco Tower and the city skyline. The cruise lasts about 3 hours, during which you can enjoy a Vietnamese buffet and traditional live music. Hotel transfers are included, making it a hassle-free way to see the city from the water at night. Reviewers highlight the breathtaking views and the calm atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or special celebration.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a leisurely, scenic dinner with a cultural twist—an easy way to enjoy Saigon’s nightlife without the bustle.
3. Saigon at Sunset: Ultimate Street Food Experience
This sunset street food tour combines local flavor with beautiful evening scenery. Starting at the Museum of Fine Arts, the tour winds through District 1, visiting temples, busy streets, and local markets. You’ll sample iconic dishes like banh bo banh tieu, and learn about Saigon’s food culture from a guide who shares stories behind each dish. The tour’s personalized attention and small group size (just 12 people) make it ideal for travelers who want to taste authentic dishes while enjoying Saigon’s transition from day to night.
Review quote: “Thao was an amazing tour guide, she picked really nice yummy food to share with us and showed us the best places to eat local foods.”
Bottom line: Perfect for curious food lovers keen on cultural stories and local flavors at sunset.
4. Ho Chi Minh City by Night including Water Puppet Show and Dinner on cruise
This combination experience offers a full evening of culture and scenery. It begins with a traditional water puppet show at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, showcasing Vietnam’s folkloric arts. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner on a cruise along the Saigon River, passing by glittering city sights. The tour is approximately 4 hours, and hotel transfers are included, making it a seamless way to combine entertainment and dining.
Review snippet: “The water puppets are something unique to Vietnam and fun to see. The dinner was mediocre and the…”
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting cultural insight combined with spectacular city views.
5. Mekong 2D1N SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
For an immersive experience, this 2-day Mekong Delta tour takes you from Ho Chi Minh City into the lush countryside. It includes visits to honey farms, coconut villages, and floating markets, with a traditional BBQ dinner during your homestay. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures a personal touch. During the trip, you’ll explore orchards, rice paddies, and local crafts, all while enjoying unique tastes like honey tea and fresh fruits. Reviewers praise the flexibility and cultural richness of this tour.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a deep dive into rural life, with comfortable accommodations and authentic food.
6. Saigon Evening: Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruise Experience
This evening package combines a captivating water puppet show with a scenic dinner cruise on the Saigon River. It lasts about 4 hours and includes hotel pickup. The puppet show, performed at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater, offers a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese folklore. After the show, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner while drifting past illuminated landmarks. Reviewers mention the good food and the stunning city views as highlights.
Bottom line: Ideal for those short on time but wanting a full cultural and scenic experience in one evening.
7. Ho Chi Minh: Private City Tour and Dinner Cruise with Buffet
This private combined tour offers a short city sightseeing by Cyclo or scooter, followed by a romantic dinner cruise. The 3.5-hour experience blends urban exploration with scenic river views. You’ll see highlights like the Notre Dame Cathedral and City Hall, then relax on a boat with a buffet dinner and live entertainment. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking intimacy and a personalized experience.
Review quote: “Brilliant and value for money. No improvements required.”
Bottom line: Excellent choice for those wanting a blend of city highlights and a peaceful river dinner.
8. Water Puppet Show And Dinner Cruise On Saigon River Private Tour
This private tour combines the traditional water puppet show with a dinner cruise. The puppet show, performed in water with live music, offers an authentic cultural experience. Post-show, you will enjoy a buffet dinner on a beautiful river cruise, passing under lit bridges and past skyscrapers. With glowing reviews praising the entertainment and food, this tour provides a great way to combine Vietnam’s artistic traditions with scenic dining.
Bottom line: Good for travelers wanting an intimate, culturally rich evening along the river.
9. Ho Chi Minh City: Water Puppet Show and Dinner Cruise
A more straightforward option, this water puppet and dinner cruise experience is perfect for those seeking an overview of Vietnamese traditions paired with river scenery. It lasts roughly 3 hours and offers a chance to witness the puppet show followed by a buffet dinner on the Saigon River. Realize that while the reviews mention good entertainment, some found the food “average,” so it’s best for culture rather than culinary excellence.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers looking for a simple, cultural evening with scenic views.
10. Water Puppet Show/ Foot Massage – Dinner Cruise Saigon Night Private Tour
This flexible private night tour combines a traditional puppet show, a relaxing foot massage, and a dinner cruise. Designed for maximum relaxation, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a mix of culture and wellness. The tour lasts 5-6 hours, with optional spa treatments included. Reviewers appreciate the ease and personal touches, making it a great way to wind down after a busy day.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking relaxation alongside cultural entertainment and scenic dining.
11. LUXURY Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Tiny Homestay with BBQ Dinner
This luxury Mekong Delta trip offers a closer connection to rural life. It includes a cable car ride to Sun World, a visit to the Golden Bridge, and a BBQ dinner at a homestay. Although primarily a sightseeing trip, the included authentic local food and the chance to experience coconut candy craftsmanship make it stand out. Reviewers love the personalized experience and the opportunity to explore lesser-visited areas.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a blend of scenic attractions and authentic rural dining in a small group setting.
12. Private Ho Chi Minh by Jeep Evening Tour and Dinner Cruise
This luxury private jeep tour offers an offbeat way to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s illuminated landmarks, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Opera House, then combines it with a river cruise and dinner. The tour lasts around 4 hours, making it perfect for travelers who want a personalized, stylish evening experience. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the memorable river views.
Bottom line: Suitable for couples or small groups wanting a stylish, customizable night around Saigon.
13. A Glimpse Of Saigon Jeep Night Tour with Dinner
This 3.5-hour jeep night tour takes you along illuminated streets, past landmarks like the Central Post Office and Thich Quang Duc Monument. It includes a stop at Nguyen Hue Street and the Reunification Palace, then concludes with a dinner overlooking the city. The open-air jeep provides a comfortable way to see Saigon’s architecture and lively streets at night.
Review snippet: “The city lights from the jeep were amazing and worthwhile.”
Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a lively, dynamic overview of Saigon at night.
14. Ben Thanh Princess Luxurious Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
This elegant dining cruise offers a 2-hour scenic ride along Saigon River. With the option to enjoy a delectable meal and live music, it’s perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions. Reviewers mention the beautiful atmosphere and high-quality food, making it a luxurious treat.
Bottom line: Best suited for those seeking a romantic, upscale dining experience with scenic river views.
15. A O Show Lune Production & Dinner Cruise Tour In Ho Chi Minh City
Closing the list is this performance and dinner package, combining the A O Show—a vibrant bamboo circus—and a dinner cruise along the Saigon River. Witness acrobatics, traditional music, and contemporary dance as you cruise past illuminated landmarks. The tour is about 4 hours, and reviews highlight the lively entertainment and memorable scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for those looking for an energetic cultural show paired with scenic dining.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dining Experience in Ho Chi Minh City
When selecting the right experience, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you’re more interested in cultural shows, scenic views, or authentic street food. For a quick, lively taste of Saigon, the Ultimate Street Food Tour offers excellent value. If you’re after a relaxing evening with beautiful sights, the Saigon River Dinner Cruise or luxury cruises are ideal. Culture enthusiasts will enjoy water puppet shows combined with dinner.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the A O Show and river cruises during peak season. Consider your fitness level and preference for group size—small-group tours tend to offer more personalized attention. Whether you favor street food, scenic cruises, or cultural performances, Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty of options to satisfy your appetite for memorable dining.
From bustling street stalls to elegant river dinners, Ho Chi Minh City serves up a variety of dining experiences that showcase its vibrant culture and flavors. Our top picks give you a taste of traditional Vietnamese food, scenic river vistas, and cultural artistry—each offering a unique way to enjoy your time in Saigon. No matter your style or budget, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable moments.