MANDARIN CAFE

In a busy storefront a short walk from the riverside (near the Saigon Morin), Mandarin is always full of young backpackers, and for a reason: good, affordable Vietnamese fare, predominantly one-dish items like fried rice or noodles on top of a roster of comfort foods. Try this place for a casual meal and likely conversation with fellow travelers. Have a banana pancake. The owner, Mr. Cu (pronounced Coo), is a practiced photographer and his works -- classic images of rural Vietnam -- line the walls and are for sale as postcards or prints. For the amateur shutterbug, the images are inspiring, and the best part is that Mr. Cu is more than happy to share secrets and talk shop.
Address: 3 Hung Vuong St