Taeki Chan Touching down in Ho Chi Minh City, one thing was already on my mind — food. Vietnam is known for its rich culinary culture, and I wanted my very first meal to truly reflect that. That’s how I ended up at Ngon Restaurant, a spot that’s often talked about for serving authentic Vietnamese dishes in a setting that feels just as local as the food itself.
From the moment I stepped in, the restaurant gave off a strong Vietnamese identity. The entire space was beautifully decorated with traditional elements — warm tones, rustic textures, and subtle cultural touches that immediately set the mood. Despite the tables being placed quite close to each other, the restaurant still felt spacious with its ample dining area, creating a lively yet comfortable atmosphere.
One thing that stood out instantly was the seating. The chairs were made from rattan, giving off that classic Southeast Asian vibe, but surprisingly, they were really comfortable even after sitting for a while. Above us, delicate flowers hung from the ceiling, adding a soft, calming touch to the overall environment. The whole place felt very relaxed and chill — not overly fancy, but thoughtfully designed to make you slow down and enjoy the moment.
For our first Vietnamese meal, we decided to go with something simple yet traditional — claypot dishes paired with steamed rice.
I ordered the Com Ca Loc Kho To Cach Chua, which is steamed rice served with sautéed mudfish cooked in a claypot. The fish was rich in flavor, slightly caramelised from the sauce, and had that perfect balance of savoury and subtle sweetness. The texture was tender, and every bite paired perfectly with the fluffy white rice. It’s one of those dishes that feels comforting, almost like a home-cooked meal.
We also tried the Com Heo Quay Kho To Cach Chua, which features roast pork cooked in a claypot. This dish leaned more towards a bold, savoury profile. The pork was juicy with a slightly crispy edge, coated in a flavourful sauce that soaked beautifully into the rice. It had a deeper, more indulgent taste compared to the fish, making it a great option if you’re craving something richer.
Both dishes were ordered as part of a set, which came with a bowl of sour soup on the side. This soup was light yet incredibly refreshing, filled with assorted vegetables that added both texture and natural sweetness. The slight tanginess helped cut through the richness of the claypot dishes, balancing out the entire meal perfectly. It’s a simple addition, but it really completes the dining experience.
Overall, Ngon Restaurant was the perfect introduction to Vietnamese cuisine for me. It combines authentic flavours with a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing environment that feels both local and welcoming. The dishes were hearty, flavourful, and easy to enjoy — exactly what you’d want for your first meal in Vietnam.
If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and looking for a place to start your food journey, this is definitely one spot worth checking out.
