Ho Chi Minh City, often still affectionately referred to as Saigon, is a metropolis where history is etched into the very streets and skylines. The French colonial era left an indelible mark not only on the architecture but on the culinary soul of the city. To truly understand the food scene here, one must first appreciate the setting in which it thrives. Walking through District 3, for instance, offers a glimpse into a quieter, more serene side of the city, where numerous French-style villas and buildings remain, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly European amidst the tropical heat.

For travelers seeking to immerse themselves in this historical ambiance, the Hotel Continental Saigon is a landmark that cannot be missed. It famously appears in Graham Greene's novel The Quiet American. Staying here, or even just visiting, evokes a sense of the past; the "Graham Greene Suite" retains historical traces, and the open balcony doors allow the scents of the street—jasmine and fish sauce—to mingle with the memories of a bygone era. Across from the hotel stands the Saigon Opera House, built in 1900, a Gothic masterpiece with a beige stone facade that glows with a golden hue under the night lights.

Another prime example of this architectural heritage is the Mai House Saigon Hotel. Travelers have noted its distinct French style, describing it as clean, elegant, and possessing a "soft and hard" service quality that rivals top European establishments. The breakfast here is a highlight, encouraging guests to linger over their morning meal for days on end. Similarly, the M Village properties in District 3 often feature Asian-French fusion designs, with wooden interiors and green surroundings that transport guests to a "French street" vibe, complete with balconies overlooking the bustling city life.

The most ubiquitous symbol of French culinary influence in Vietnam is undoubtedly the baguette. However, the Vietnamese have transformed it into Bánh Mì, a sandwich that rivals any in the world. The bread itself is key—it must be crispy enough to shatter and "drop crumbs" upon biting, yet soft and airy on the inside so as not to be choking. In Ho Chi Minh City, the competition for the best Bánh Mì is fierce, with several standout vendors elevating this street food to an art form.

• Bánh Mì Hồng Hoa: This spot is widely celebrated for its freshly baked baguettes. The sandwich is packed with layers of flavor, including Vietnamese fried meat, ham, and a incredibly rich pate (pig liver paste) that provides a savory "bomb" of flavor. To balance the richness, it is stuffed with pickles, cucumber, and cilantro. The liver paste flavor is strong here, a nod to traditional French charcuterie, but adapted for local palates.
• Bánh Mì Huỳnh Hoa: Often cited as the "number one" Bánh Mì in the city, this shop is known for its massive portions. The bread is toasted to a perfect crisp before serving. The filling is a "solid" stack of various cold cuts and hams, so generous that it can serve as a full brunch. Be prepared for a queue, as it is incredibly popular.
• Bánh Mì Hòa Mã: For a different experience, visit this spot for breakfast. Here, the baguette is often served with eggs fried on a sizzling iron skillet, accompanied by ham, bacon, and fish cakes—a heavy, hearty start to the day that locals love.
• Bánh Mì Mẹ Ỉn: If you are looking for a modern twist, this shop offers a BBQ beef baguette and even a luxurious lobster version. It is considered by some visitors to be superior to the more famous "internet celebrity" shops.

Beyond street food, Ho Chi Minh City boasts a sophisticated dining scene where French techniques meet local ingredients. The city has become a playground for chefs who blend European culinary discipline with Vietnamese vibrancy.

One of the standout names is Quince, a Michelin-recommended establishment that has left travelers raving. The restaurant is famous for its wood-fired cooking, with the duck breast being a particular highlight, described as "shockingly delicious." The menu offers a high-end bistro experience that feels both cosmopolitan and rooted in quality ingredients.

For a more classic French experience, Kobe Bistro By Chef David Thai is a Michelin 1-star gem. The chef, who is French, curates a menu that is perfect for romantic dates, offering a refined atmosphere. Dishes here are executed with precision, providing a taste of Paris in the heart of Saigon. Another hidden gem is a vintage-style French restaurant featuring a small garden, perfect for photos. Visitors have praised its creamy mushroom chicken soup and cheese-baked shrimp, noting that the Angus steak portions are generous and surprisingly affordable compared to Western standards.

Even in fusion cuisine, the French touch is visible. At Mùa Craft Sake, a Japanese-Vietnamese fusion izakaya, you can find dishes like roasted beef bone marrow served with herb focaccia, showcasing how European bakery traditions are integrated into modern Asian dining.

The French love for cheese and wine has found a permanent home in Saigon, often appearing in unexpected but delightful ways. A prime example is the immensely popular Pizza 4P's. While technically a pizza restaurant, its fame rests on its house-made cheeses. Their "4 Cheese Pizza" served with honey is a decadent treat, and their Burrata is legendary, often described as creamy and rich without being greasy. The restaurant also serves crab pasta and lasagna, maintaining a high standard of Western comfort food that draws long queues.

For those craving red meat and wine, El Gaucho on Hai Ba Trung street is a top-tier steakhouse that echoes the European steakhouse tradition. They serve high-quality USDA Prime steaks seasoned simply with salt and pepper to highlight the meat's natural flavor, accompanied by sides like creamy mashed potatoes and spinach. The wine list is extensive, making it a favorite for celebratory dinners.

Even in casual snacks, cheese plays a role. Travelers have discovered savory sandwiches featuring mango and cheese layers on freshly baked bread, proving that the fusion of tropical fruit and dairy is a winning combination here. Additionally, seafood buffets in the city often feature Western-influenced dishes like cheese-baked lobster, catering to local love for rich, dairy-heavy flavors.

Vietnam's coffee culture is world-famous, but its roots are intertwined with French colonialism, which introduced coffee cultivation to the region. Today, Ho Chi Minh City offers a dizzying array of coffee experiences that blend these origins with local innovation.

• Cafe Linh: This spot is beloved for its "salted cream" coffee. The flavor profile is described as a nostalgic, rich, "childhood" taste, somewhat like a liquid coffee candy with a savory creamy twist, reminiscent of salted caramel notes found in French desserts.
• Little HaNoi Egg Coffee: While egg coffee originated in Hanoi, it is perfected here. The drink involves whipping egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk into a custard-like foam that sits atop strong coffee—a rich, dessert-like beverage that feels like a caffeinated tiramisu. It is often paired with sourdough bread, maintaining the European bread tradition.
• The Workshop Coffee: For serious coffee aficionados, this cafe ranks high on Asian lists. It offers a more industrial, modern vibe but focuses heavily on bean quality and brewing techniques.
• iO Specialty Coffee: Another innovative spot serving excellent Coconut Coffee, where espresso is poured over coconut ice slush, blending bitterness with tropical sweetness.

Whether sipping a cold brew with berry notes at Rang Rang Coffee or enjoying a traditional drip coffee, the act of sitting in a cafe, watching the street life—a pastime very much alive in Paris—is an essential part of the Saigon experience.