In addition to its abundant supply of fresh flowers, this market is renowned for its street food section, offering a plethora of delectable dishes such as hu tieu (rice noodles), xoi Xiêm (sticky rice), khoai bong bong (puffed potato chips), chao hen (clam porridge), banh lot xao (stir-fried tapioca dumplings), and hot vit lon nuoc dua (fertilized duck eggs in coconut water), to name a few. Moreover, the prices of these culinary delights are incredibly reasonable, allowing you to indulge in a gastronomic feast.
Ho Thi Ky Street, located in Ward 1, District 10 (now known as Vuon Lai Ward), connects two major thoroughfares: Ly Thai To and Hung Vuong. This street has a rich and tumultuous history. Established in 1987, Ho Thi Ky Market specializes in an extensive selection of fresh flowers sourced from Da Lat and the provinces of the Mekong Delta region. It is a haven for flower enthusiasts, offering affordable prices, with a single stem starting at just 3,000 VND. You can find a variety of flowers, including roses, mimosa, lavender, lotus, and lilies.
Beyond its floral offerings, Ho Thi Ky Night Market is a hidden food paradise for avid foodies. Within its winding lanes, you’ll discover a diverse range of specialties, including Vietnamese, Thai, European, and Asian cuisines, among others.
What sets Ho Thi Ky Food Market apart is its round-the-clock operation, providing a glimpse into the nocturnal working life of Saigon. This unique and diverse marketplace has earned its reputation as a culinary “mecca” in Saigon, attracting throngs of visitors eager to immerse themselves in the local cuisine and culture.
In 2018, facing the challenges of unregulated street vendors and concerns over security, food safety, and sanitation, the People’s Committee of District 10 took initiative. They implemented a project to establish the Ho Thi Ky Flower and Food Street. On January 18, 2019, the street was officially inaugurated, aiming to create a safe and wholesome destination for locals and tourists alike.
To enhance its identity, the local government installed a welcoming sign, “Ho Thi Ky Flower Street,” at the entrance from Ly Thai To Street. As visitors venture further, they will find a map guiding them through the flower street and a sign for the night food market on the right, just inside the market’s gate. While the intricate network of alleys remains open to vehicular traffic, guests are encouraged to park at the designated lots at the street’s entrance and explore the area on foot.
The well-planned redesign has transformed the street’s appearance. Food vendors have received support in the form of new awnings and specialized glass display cases, creating a uniform and hygienic image. One of the most notable features of the Ho Thi Ky Food Street, setting it apart from similar models such as Nguyen Thuong Hien Street, is the dedicated seating area. Many vendors have collaborated to arrange shared tables and chairs, fostering a unique communal dining experience where patrons can comfortably enjoy their meals on-site.
Since its inception, the food street has grown from 94 vendors to over 100 food stalls, operating daily from 3 pm to 11 pm. It has become a prominent culinary destination, attracting a large number of diners who appreciate its pedestrian-friendly environment and diverse culinary offerings. As one satisfied customer remarks, “It’s easy to walk here, and the variety of shops lined up together makes it convenient to browse and choose where to eat.”
Ensuring food safety and sanitation is a top priority for the local authorities. The Health Department regularly collaborates with the People’s Committee of Ward 1 and relevant units to conduct surprise inspections. These inspections help maintain order and quality throughout the street by addressing violations related to hygiene and encroachment on sidewalks and roads.
Ho Thi Ky Food Street is more than just a culinary destination; it is a living testament to history. It reflects the cultural migration, integration, and resilience of a community. Through effective planning and management, this street continues to solidify its position as a cultural and culinary landmark in the heart of Saigon, attracting thousands of visitors daily who come to explore and indulge in its unique offerings.
