Vietnamese Halal Food (Ep.2 Ho Chi Minh City): Savoring Saigon the Halal Way

When it comes to Vietnam’s culinary soul, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) is a whirlwind of flavor, aroma, and energy. From sizzling street-side grills to cozy family-run eateries, this southern city is a melting pot of regional and international cuisines. For Muslim travelers, however, the abundance of pork and alcohol in traditional Vietnamese recipes can be a roadblock to fully experiencing Saigon’s vibrant food scene.

The good news? Ho Chi Minh City is leading the halal revolution in Vietnam. With a growing Muslim community and an influx of international visitors, more and more restaurants are now offering halal-certified menus, while maintaining authentic local taste. Whether you’re strolling through Ben Thanh Market or exploring the city’s diverse districts, you’ll find plenty of options to indulge without worry.

In this episode, MyRehat takes you on a journey through halal-friendly Vietnamese dishes and trusted eateries that make Ho Chi Minh City a true culinary haven for Muslim travelers.

 

1. Cơm Tấm Gà (Halal Broken Rice with Grilled Chicken)

Cơm tấm  or broken rice  is a Saigon staple, traditionally served with grilled pork. But halal variations swap in juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection, paired with pickled vegetables, cucumber slices, and a fried egg. When served with halal nước mắm chay (vegetarian fish sauce substitute), it’s a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

(Source: https://www.vietnamonline.com/az/com-tam-broken-rice.html)

 

2. Hủ Tiếu Gà (Clear Chicken Noodle Soup)

Lighter than pho but just as flavorful, hủ tiếu is a southern Vietnamese favorite. The halal version features clear chicken broth, soft rice noodles, bean sprouts, garlic oil, and herbs. Muslim-owned eateries often customize this dish with halal-certified chicken or beef and a clear, alcohol-free preparation.

(Source: https://www.wokandkin.com/mien-ga/)

 

3. Bánh Xèo Chay (Vegan Vietnamese Crispy Pancake)

Bánh xèo is a crispy rice flour pancake filled with bean sprouts, herbs, and protein. For a halal-friendly version, opt for vegan or seafood fillings (shrimp, tofu), cooked without alcohol. Wrapped in lettuce and dipped in halal sauce, it’s a fun and hands-on meal that’s popular among locals and tourists alike.

(Source: https://veggieanh.com/vegan-banh-xeo/)

 

4. Gỏi Đu Đủ (Papaya Salad – Halal Style)

This refreshing dish made with shredded green papaya, herbs, and peanuts is a common starter or side dish in southern Vietnam. Halal-friendly versions skip the fish sauce and dried shrimp, using soy-based or lime-chili dressings instead. It’s a crunchy, tangy delight that awakens your palate.

(Source: https://feedthepudge.com/vietnamese-green-papaya-salad-goi-du-du/)

 

Top Halal Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City for Muslim Travelers

Ho Chi Minh City is home to a wide selection of halal-certified and Muslim-owned restaurants, offering everything from traditional Vietnamese meals to Malaysian, Middle Eastern, and Indian fusion cuisine.

Halal@Saigon Restaurant

One of the pioneers of halal dining in Saigon, Halal@Saigon is located just steps from Ben Thanh Market. It offers a clean, modern setting and a menu that features Vietnamese favorites like pho, bánh mì, and stir-fried noodles and all certified halal.

Address: 31 Đông Du, Bến Nghé, District 1

Operating hours: Mon–Sun (10:30 am – 10:00 pm)

(Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Restaurant_Review-g293925-d1596125-Reviews-Halal_Saigon-Ho_Chi_Minh_City.html)

The Daun Restaurant

A Malaysian-run halal restaurant located in District 1, The Daun is a hotspot for Muslim tourists. With a wide selection of Vietnamese, Malaysian, and Thai dishes, it’s ideal for those craving a mix of comfort food and local flavors.

Address: 48 Lê Lai, Bến Thành, District 1

Operating hours: Mon–Sun (10:00 am – 10:00 pm)

(Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com.sg/Restaurant_Review-g293925-d4232534-Reviews-The_Daun_Restaurant-Ho_Chi_Minh_City.html)

 

Pho Muslim

As its name suggests, Pho Muslim offers halal pho in a humble, street-style setting near Jamiul Islamiyah Mosque. It’s a go-to spot for budget-conscious travelers looking for real Vietnamese flavor with halal assurance.

Address: 25 Nguyễn An Ninh, District 1

Operating hours: Mon–Sat (6:30 am – 11:30 am)

Sun (6:30 am – 12:00 am)

 

From the bustling markets to hidden alleyway gems, Ho Chi Minh City offers a colorful and inclusive culinary experience for Muslim travelers. With more halal options than ever before, you don’t have to miss out on the flavors that make Vietnam so unforgettable.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning foodie, Saigon is ready to welcome you with spice, soul, and halal hospitality.

Plan your next foodie adventure with MyRehat! Visit www.myrehat.com to discover halal dining guides, Muslim-friendly accommodations, and customized travel experiences across Southeast Asia.