Rau Ơi Vegetarian - Le Thi Hong Gam — Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City

The best vegetarian food in HCMC and District 1!

Rau Oi is the kind of place you never forget. Hidden in a small alley in District 1, it is one of those rare restaurants that feels like a discovery each time you walk in. I have been coming here on multiple trips to Ho Chi Minh City, and every time I end up eating here almost daily. That says everything about how good this food is.

The freshness, the creativity, and the balance of flavors are unmatched. Every dish is cooked with so much care that you taste it instantly. The Pho here is one of the best noodle soups I have ever eaten anywhere in the world. The Duck Duck Rolls are fun, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The Saute Oink Oink is packed with richness, the Bun Hue is deeply comforting, and the Mixed Mushroom Stew with Tofu is pure soul food. It is impossible to pick a favorite because every single dish is a winner.

What makes it even more special is how welcoming and warm the whole place feels. The ambiance is rustic, artistic, and homely, with an old world charm that makes you want to sit back and enjoy every bite. You can tell it is a family-run restaurant because there is so much love in everything they do. Alfred, one of the founding team, speaks perfect English and goes out of his way to make sure everyone feels at home. His recommendations have never failed me. Whether you are trying vegetarian food for the first time or have been vegan your whole life, they will guide you to dishes that fit your taste perfectly.

There is also an incredible variety here. The menu is full of dishes that stay true to Vietnamese tradition while adding creative modern touches. They even have mock meats that are so well done that meat eaters will be shocked to find out it is not actually meat. They also serve traditional Vietnamese breakfasts, great coffee, and unique sauces and drinks that are unlike anything I have found elsewhere. On top of that, there are daily specials, so you can keep discovering new favorites even after many visits.

What really stands out is the attention to detail and the passion that goes into every part of this restaurant. The food quality is consistently excellent, the flavors are bold, and the presentation is thoughtful. The staff are genuinely kind, not just polite. They care about your experience and it shows.

The prices are always fair, and you leave feeling not just satisfied but uplifted. It is rare to find a restaurant that ticks every box: amazing food, warm hospitality, great atmosphere, and a sense of purpose. Rau Oi manages to do all of that. It is a place where vegetarians, vegans, and even committed meat eaters can come together and enjoy truly great food without compromise.

I love Rau Oi and I am certain anyone who visits will too. If you are in Ho Chi Minh City, especially District 1, you should not miss this. For me, it is more than just a restaurant. It is one of my favorite places in the city and honestly one of my favorite restaurants in the world.

Pros: Fresh, flavorful, artistic, healthy, and served with genuine warmth.

Cons: None

Summary: Doesn't matter if you're vegetarian or not, you are sure to enjoy the flavours and the ambiance and all that Rau Oi...

Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, Rau ơi restaurant offers a delightful culinary experience that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. From the moment you step through the doors, you're greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the enticing aromas wafting from the kitchen.

The menu at Rau ơi is a testament to the richness and diversity of Vietnamese culinary traditions. Featuring an array of dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each bite is a journey through the rich tapestry of flavors that define Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you're a fan of traditional favorites like pho or adventurous enough to try lesser-known delicacies, there's something to tantalize every palate.

One of the standout features of Rau ơi is its commitment to using high-quality, seasonal produce. Each dish bursts with the vibrant colors and bold flavors of fresh herbs, spices, and vegetables, showcasing the natural beauty of Vietnamese ingredients. Whether it's the crisp freshness of the salads or the depth of flavor in the soups and stir-fries, every dish is a testament to the chef's dedication to excellence.

In addition to its exceptional food, Rau ơi also prides itself on its attentive service and welcoming ambiance. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and always on hand to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. Whether you're dining solo, with a loved one, or hosting a larger gathering, you can expect nothing but the highest standards of hospitality at Rau ơi.

Overall, Rau ơi restaurant offers a dining experience that is as memorable as it is delicious. With its delectable cuisine, warm hospitality, and inviting atmosphere, it's no wonder that this charming eatery has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking to explore the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam, a visit to Rau ơi is sure to delight the senses and leave you...

Conclusion: prob a more suitable place for foreigners than locals, if you’re looking for a mediocre food experience. We’re not coming back.

Food: Nicely presented. Cozy setting with unique design Taste: the creamy paste noodle was good. Others are so-so Not too pricey as it’s in Dist 1, but quality-wise I’ll say not worth the investment The things we particularly did not enjoy about dining here: The upbeat music: didn’t really match the “vegan” concept, prob just me but I expected a more relaxing ambience One of the waitresses (the one who seemed fluent in Eng): rather boorish. Unless the restaurant wants only foreigners, I suggest you train the staffs to have better manners. I don’t think this only happened to us; the manager seems really polite and always was in the counter so you can easily observe & give feedback to her. The strawberry tea was an absolute failure, tasted almost like sour water. I’m not sure why but after dining there the unpleasant strong oily smell lingered on all our clothes.

Strangely after the “nomeatnoproblem” dinner we felt like we just had a meatful meal. It didn’t bring about the usual light & fresh feeing like we had after...