Tan Dinh Market, with its longevity, is one of the oldest markets in Ho Chi Minh City and has become a familiar destination for locals. Affectionately nicknamed the “Gourmet Paradise” or the “Rich People’s Market,” this market has a rich history and a special place in the hearts of Saigonese.
Where is Tan Dinh Market located?
Tan Dinh Market is located at 336 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. This nearly century-old market boasts four entrances and is adjacent to four different roads. In addition to the main entrance on Hai Ba Trung Street, there are three auxiliary gates on Nguyen Huu Cau, Nguyen Van Nghia, and Ma Lo Streets. This convenient layout facilitates easy access to the market from multiple directions.
In addition to being known as Tan Dinh Market, this place also has a unique appellation: the “Rich People’s Market.” According to Mr. Ly Minh, a 59-year-old who used to be the head of the market’s security team, this nickname originates from the fact that Tan Dinh Market used to sell goods at higher prices than other markets. Despite the premium pricing, the products here were always guaranteed to be fresh and of excellent quality.
Moreover, in the old days, the market had a parking lot for cars and horse carriages, which was considered a luxurious amenity at the time. These two factors led people to assume that only wealthy families shopped here regularly.
The History of Tan Dinh Market
Tan Dinh Market was originally called Phu Hoa Market, located in the old Phu Hoa village. In 1926, the Saigon City Council reconstructed the market, and it was completed in 1927. Even then, it was known as a “rich people’s market” due to its higher prices compared to other markets.
The market became famous for its fresh meat and vegetables and also served as a significant center for trading scrap fabric in Saigon. Architecturally, Tan Dinh Market showcases French influences with three distinctive bell towers: a central tower flanked by two smaller ones. In the 1950s and 1960s, the area around the market buzzed with activity, featuring a car park and a horse carriage station at the back.
What Does Tan Dinh Market Sell? Are There Any Specialty Dishes?
When you step into Tan Dinh Market, you’ll find a diverse range of products on offer, including fresh produce, dried goods, fruits, clothing, shoes, and accessories. Notably, the market is renowned for its extensive selection of fabrics at reasonable prices, catering to various customer segments. The fabric trade has been a longstanding tradition here since the market’s inception.
Moreover, the market is a favorite among locals for its delectable and affordable street food options, attracting a large number of young people. Some must-try dishes when visiting Tan Dinh Market include:
– Frog Porridge: This is the most popular dish in the market. Frog porridge stalls line the sidewalks, offering aromatic porridge with a hearty serving of sweet and tender braised frog.
– Crab Soup: If you prefer light and nutritious meals, the crab soup here will not disappoint. A bowl is packed with crab meat, shrimp, and vegetables at a very reasonable price.
– Pork Rib Porridge: A hot bowl of pork rib porridge, where fragrant rice is cooked with tender pork ribs, garnished with scallions and black pepper, and served with deep-fried dough sticks, is a perfect choice.
– Che (Vietnamese Sweet Dessert Soup): Various types of che, such as che thap cam (mixed che), che khuc bach (a dessert made with mung bean, jelly, and coconut milk), Thai che, and suong sa hat luu (tapioca and sago in coconut milk), are excellent options to cool off during hot days.
– Broken Rice: The broken rice restaurants in the market are always bustling, testifying to the dish’s popularity. You can choose to have your broken rice with pork chops, shredded pork skin, pork patties, or eggs, depending on your preference.
– Chicken Sticky Rice: The chicken sticky rice stall usually opens in the afternoon, serving hot and sticky rice with chicken, Chinese sausage, quail eggs, and a distinctive sauce.
Tan Dinh Market is not just a historic market but also a repository of cultural and historical values and Saigon’s culinary traditions. With its diverse range of goods and unique architecture and cuisine, the market remains an appealing destination for both locals and tourists. If you ever find yourself in Ho Chi Minh City, make sure to pay a visit to Tan Dinh Market to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant lifestyle and indulge in its distinctive culinary delights.
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