Initial Two Weeks in HCMC – Gastronomy Adventures, Caffeine Quests

First-Timer Nomad in Vietnam – Food Scene, Coffee Spots, & a Preferred Local Pub in HCMC

Hello, everyone!

I recently embarked on my journey as a digital nomad, choosing Vietnam as the launchpad. I’m collaborating with a startup incubator that maintains offices in Ho Chi Minh City, which is why I set up my base here for the inaugural phase of my travels.

My Living Situation

I secured a cozy Airbnb rental in Tân Định, right near the well-known Pink Church. It feels central enough for easy navigation, yet avoids being overly chaotic. An added benefit: a fantastic craft beer establishment is located on the ground floor. It has a great atmosphere, approachable local patrons, and a quality selection of Vietnamese brews, should that interest you 🍻

Activities Completed to Date

✅ Street Food Excursion (with female scooter guides)

Definitely one of the highlights! Plentiful dishes, engaging guides, and an excellent way to sample a wide array of local cuisine without excessive planning. Highly recommended.

☕ The Search for Coffee

A major motivation for my visit was to delve into the café culture.

• I checked out The Café Apartments and tried an egg coffee at “Good Day” on the highest level. I ordered it iced, but to be frank… it tasted more like a sweetened latte. Local residents suggest Hanoi is the ultimate spot for “authentic” cà phê trứng, so I’m reserving my high expectations for that part of the trip.

• My current favorites in HCMC are Robusta Honey and Highlands Coffee — both solid choices depending on the atmosphere you prefer.

• I’ve also registered for a Vietnamese coffee preparation workshop soon; more details on that will follow!

Culinary Highlights

So far, I’ve immersed myself in the local gastronomy — covering both casual street stalls and formal sit-down venues:

• Balut (fertilized duck embryo): Surprisingly delicious! It’s reminiscent of a rich chicken broth with notes of egg yolk.

• Phở, Bánh Mì, and a wonderful seafood noodle soup.

• Crispy sticky rice – a must-try!

• Fermented fish soup, savory rice porridge, and snails (yes, snails – far better than anticipated!)

If anyone is looking for dining tips – whether you’re budget-conscious or seeking something upscale – I have an evolving list and am happy to share it.

Care to Connect?

If you happen to be in HCMC and would like to chat, exchange pointers, or simply relax with a beverage, please feel free to send me a message. I often spend my evenings downstairs at the bar near my place in Tân Định. They offer craft beers and a pleasantly relaxed setting – ideal for exchanging travel tales. 😉

Help Us Keep It Real 🥰

Shoji G (Author)

Did you find this guide helpful for your trip? 🤔

Yes, absolutely love it! 😍

Good, but I wish it had more details. 🙂

Not really what I was looking for. 😕

Other reason... 🧐

Send

Everything is still accurate! 😊

Prices or opening hours have changed. 😕

I found a better spot nearby! 🤩

Other updates... 🧐

Submit Field Report 😄

Thank you so much! 🥰

Your contribution helps keep our community informed. If you love our authentic guides, please support us on Google! (It only takes 5 seconds) 😊

Add as preferred source on Google 😍

0 Like 1 Comments Send Share