Walking through the streets of HCMC, you’ll smell all sorts of wondrous things (and, to be fair, some not so wondrous things) and it’s my hope that by reading through this food guide, you’ll be inspired to seek out those great smells and experience some of the real HCMC’s food scene.
Many people are afraid to try street food when travelling overseas. “How do I know it’s safe?”, “What if I get sick?”, “Is it hygienic?” are a few of the most common concerns that I hear when I discuss street food with people. I certainly understand why people unaccustomed to street food have these concerns, as the visual image presented to them is very different from what they perceive as being suitable dining conditions. Additionally, everyone knows someone who has had a bad experience.