Why has it taken me all this time to try Banh Xeo 46A?! That, I do not know – but what I do know is that this place is a must-try for those wanting an authentic, cheap and delicious local dining experience in Saigon. Its namesake banh xeo is the house specialty – a thin, light yet fluffy pancake reminiscent of a South Indian dosa folded over shrimp, pork and bean sprouts, all wrapped up in a selection of leafy greens (including mustard leaves and mint) and dipped in nuoc mam, Vietnam’s famous fish sauce based condiment.
Despite Banh Xeo 46A’s widespread popularity and listing in many guidebooks, it was jam-packed with Saigonites during our visit (as in the real kind, not expats!). The outdoor restaurant features long metal tables, little plastic stools and a boisterous atmosphere, with swift, efficient service better than that often encountered in far higher end places in the city. They even managed to whip up a non-meat option for my vego friend (yes, just bean sprouts in pancake – but with the accompanying greens and a special non-fishy dipping sauce, she swore she loved it!).
The cha gio (fried spring rolls) were also amazingly tasty – some of the best I’ve had. Am thinking of making a weekly pilgrimage!
Banh Xeo, 46A Dinh Cong Trang, D1, Saigon
The spring rolls look awesome.
Yes why has it taken so long, the dish looks yummy!
Didn’t take it seriously when I saw this in Lonely Planet. But now that it’s coming from you, for sure i’ll go check it out 🙂
wow..that looks really yummy..
wow that food looks really delish!!
I was going to ask if they had it without the meat but your friend beat me to it! It sounds scrumptious.
Looks great! I clearly haven’t tried enough Vietnamese food:)
This is somethng I really miss and have tried quite a few times to make myself. But it doesn’t taste the same when you’re not surrounded by the heat and sounds of Saigon.
The food pictures are making my mouth water! Also, I can’t wait to read up on your experiences in PP.
Mmm, I love banh xeo! We were lucky enough to get a great one recently, at the Slanted Door in San Francisco. And I rather enjoy making them myself– though I never get the texture anywhere close to right (it’s just fun to make them). -X
Hi, I really enjoy your blog. We were recently in Saigon for Tet and found the Banh Xeo shops in this area closed so we made a new discovery you may enjoy! http://buddhabelliesblog.blogspot.com/2010/04/memorable-meals-saigon.html