Cheap Seafood in Ho Chi Minh: Your Guide to Affordable Dining

If you're looking for a city that can satisfy your seafood cravings without breaking the bank, Ho Chi Minh City is the place to be. With its coastal location and abundance of fresh seafood, the city boasts a plethora of affordable seafood options that are sure to delight your taste buds.

From street food stalls to local seafood restaurants, Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of options for seafood lovers on a budget. You can try local favourites like grilled squid, steamed clams, and stir-fried prawns, all at reasonable prices. The city also offers a variety of seafood dishes that cater to different tastes, from spicy to sweet and sour.

If you're planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City and want to indulge in some delicious seafood without breaking the bank, keep reading. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the top spots for affordable seafood, the best seafood dishes to try, and tips for seafood lovers on a budget.

Key Takeaways

• Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to find affordable seafood due to its coastal location and abundance of fresh seafood.
• Local favourites like grilled squid, steamed clams, and stir-fried prawns are must-try dishes for seafood lovers on a budget.
• With a little planning and some insider tips, you can enjoy delicious seafood in Ho Chi Minh City without breaking the bank.

Top Spots for Affordable Seafood

If you're looking for delicious and affordable seafood, Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some top spots to try:

Street Food Delights

Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its street food, and seafood is no exception. You can find a variety of seafood dishes being sold by street vendors all over the city. Some popular options include grilled squid, shrimp cakes, and fish ball soup.

One of the best places to try street food is in District 4, where you can find a whole street dedicated to seafood. Nguyen Thuong Hien Street is lined with food stalls selling everything from crab to clams. Be sure to try the grilled scallops, which are a local favourite.

Local Markets

If you're on a budget but still want to enjoy delicious seafood, there are plenty of affordable options in Ho Chi Minh City's local markets. One of the best places to find affordable seafood is at the Ben Thanh Market. Here you can find a variety of fresh seafood, including prawns, crabs, and fish.

Another great market to visit is the Binh Tay Market in District 6. This market is known for its seafood, and you can find a variety of different types of fish and shellfish here. Be sure to try the steamed clams, which are a local favourite.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants

If you prefer to sit down and enjoy your seafood in a restaurant setting, there are plenty of budget-friendly options in Ho Chi Minh City. One popular restaurant is Oc Oanh, which is known for its affordable prices and fresh seafood. The restaurant does not have an English menu, but you can just point to photos of dishes on the internet for help.

Another great option is Ốc Bắc, which is known for its delicious grilled seafood. The prices here are very reasonable, and the portions are generous. Be sure to try the grilled squid, which is a local favourite.

Overall, there are plenty of options for affordable seafood in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you prefer street food or a sit-down restaurant, you're sure to find something delicious and budget-friendly.

Best Seafood Dishes to Try

When it comes to seafood in Ho Chi Minh City, there are many delicious dishes to choose from. Here are some of the best seafood dishes that you should try during your visit.

Pho with Seafood

Pho is a traditional Vietnamese dish that is typically made with beef or chicken. However, in Ho Chi Minh City, you can find pho with seafood as well. This dish is a combination of rice noodles, seafood, and a flavorful broth. Some of the seafood that you might find in pho include shrimp, squid, and fish. The dish is often served with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili sauce on the side. If you're looking for a lighter seafood dish, pho with seafood is a great option.

Grilled Seafood Varieties

Grilled seafood is a popular street food in Ho Chi Minh City. You can find a variety of grilled seafood options, including prawns, squid, and fish. The seafood is often marinated in a mixture of garlic, chili, and lemongrass before being grilled over an open flame. The result is a smoky, flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick and affordable meal. Grilled seafood is often served with rice or noodles and a side of fresh vegetables.

Seafood Hotpot

Seafood hotpot is a popular dish in Vietnam, and it's especially delicious in Ho Chi Minh City. This dish is a combination of seafood, vegetables, and noodles that are cooked in a flavorful broth right at your table. Some of the seafood that you might find in a hotpot include clams, mussels, and prawns. The dish is often served with fresh herbs, lime wedges, and chili sauce on the side. If you're looking for a hearty and comforting seafood dish, seafood hotpot is a great option.

Overall, there are many delicious seafood dishes to try in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you're looking for something light and refreshing or hearty and comforting, you're sure to find a seafood dish that you'll love.

Tips for Seafood Lovers on a Budget

If you're a seafood lover on a budget, Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect place for you. With its abundance of fresh seafood and affordable prices, you can indulge in your favourite seafood dishes without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your seafood experience in Ho Chi Minh City.

Best Times to Buy

To get the best deals on seafood, it's important to know when to buy. In Ho Chi Minh City, the best time to buy seafood is early in the morning when the fishermen come back from their overnight trips. You can find fresh seafood at the local markets such as Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market.

Bargaining Techniques

Bargaining is a common practice in Vietnamese markets, and it's important to negotiate to get the best prices. When bargaining, start by offering half the asking price and work your way up. Be friendly and respectful, and don't be afraid to walk away if the price is too high.

Understanding Local Seafood Seasons

Understanding local seafood seasons can help you get the best deals on fresh seafood. In Ho Chi Minh City, the best time to buy prawns is from May to September, and the best time to buy crabs is from October to January.

By following these tips, you can enjoy delicious seafood dishes in Ho Chi Minh City without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any local seafood markets in Ho Chi Minh where you can find fresh catches?

Yes, there are plenty of local seafood markets in Ho Chi Minh City where you can find fresh catches. Some of the popular markets include Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market. These markets offer a wide variety of seafood at affordable prices. You can find everything from fish and prawns to crabs and lobsters. The seafood is usually sold live, so you can choose the freshest catch and have it cooked on the spot at one of the nearby restaurants.

How does the price of seafood in Ho Chi Minh compare to other cities in Vietnam?

Ho Chi Minh City is known for its affordable seafood prices. Compared to other cities in Vietnam, the seafood in Ho Chi Minh City is relatively cheap. You can enjoy a delicious seafood meal without breaking the bank. However, the price of seafood can vary depending on the location and the type of seafood you choose.

What are some hidden gems for seafood lovers in Ho Chi Minh City?

If you're a seafood lover, you're in luck because Ho Chi Minh City has plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Some of the best places to try include Oc Oanh Seafood Restaurant, Quan Ut Ut, and Nha Hang Ngon. These restaurants offer a wide variety of seafood dishes at affordable prices. Oc Oanh Seafood Restaurant is particularly popular among locals and tourists alike for its fresh and tasty seafood. Don't be afraid to explore the city's streets and alleys as you may stumble upon a hidden gem that's not listed in any guidebook.