In a small alley in Ho Chi Minh City, a unique food market emerges each year, offering a wide variety of affordable dishes. The market, which only takes place once a year, lasts for an entire month.

Located in the narrow alley at 157 Duong Ba Trac Street, District 8, the food market belongs to the Muslim community and operates exclusively during the holy month of Ramadan.

Abdohalim, Deputy Imam of Jamiul Anwar Mosque, explained that Ramadan, known as the month of fasting, is one of the most significant periods for Muslims.

During this time, believers abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and even swallowing saliva during daylight hours. Traditionally, they have two main meals: Suhoor (before sunrise) and Iftar (after sunset).

Throughout the year, the winding alley is quiet, with women selling on sidewalks and men gathering to chat. However, during Ramadan, it becomes vibrant and bustling as vendors set up stalls along both sides, attracting numerous visitors eager to experience the diverse food offerings.

An annual tradition

Gohimi, 22, has been selling traditional Cham Muslim dishes with her aunt at the alley market for 15 years. She shared that the market only opens once a year during Ramadan, catering mainly to the Muslim community as they prepare meals to break their fast. The market opens at around 1 PM and becomes increasingly crowded as evening approaches.

The market features about 20 stalls offering a variety of dishes, including traditional Cham Muslim cakes such as Saykaya, grilled banana, pumpkin cake, and steamed custard cake, priced between 20 and 40 cents (5,000–10,000 VND) per piece.

Other signature dishes include goat curry, beef stir-fry, coconut rice (com ni), and beef curry (ca pua), along with various grilled chicken dishes, all priced between 80 cents and 4 USD (20,000–100,000 VND) per portion.

In addition to food, the market sells refreshing beverages like milk tea, grass jelly drink, sarsaparilla, palm juice, and herbal sweet soup, priced between 30 and 40 cents (7,000–10,000 VND).

A unique cultural experience

Many visitors come to the market not only to enjoy the food but also to immerse themselves in the vibrant cultural atmosphere.

Na, 40, who sells grilled chicken wings and drumsticks, noted that in recent years, the market has attracted not only Muslims but also locals and tourists who appreciate the unique culinary experience.

One customer expressed surprise at the wide range of dishes, remarking that the food was not as greasy as expected and praising the natural sweetness and richness of beef and coconut dishes. Visitors often stand or sit along the sidewalk to enjoy their meals, embracing the cozy and bustling ambiance.