Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.20867/thm.32.2.11
Evaluating the role of street food experience, destination image, and satisfaction in shaping tourist behavior
Thi Diem Kieu Nguyen
orcid.org/0009-0001-2608-5845
Trong Tien Bao Bui
*
Minh Pham
orcid.org/0000-0003-4200-0810
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Purpose – This study examines how street food experiences influence domestic tourist behavior
and destination image in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers insights for policymakers, tourism authorities,
businesses, and street food vendors to enhance tourist engagement and position the city as a premier
culinary destination.
Methodology/Design/Approach – A quantitative approach was used, surveying 450 domestic tourists
who experienced street food in Ho Chi Minh City between January 2024 and March 2024. Partial
Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling was employed to examine the relationships among street
food experiences, destination image, satisfaction, and tourist behavior, with a focus on the mediating
role of satisfaction.
Findings – Street food experiences significantly enhance the destination image and have a positive
impact on tourist behavior, with satisfaction acting as a mediator. Key factors include food safety
regulations, improved quality control, and the integration of digital innovations to strengthen
destination branding and foster tourist loyalty.
Originality of the research – This study addresses a significant research gap by empirically linking
street food experiences to destination image and tourist satisfaction in a Southeast Asian megacity.
Unlike earlier research on gastronomy tourism, this study highlights the role of street food in urban
tourism, integrating historical and contextual insights to enhance the understanding of tourist behavior.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
346468
URI
Publication date:
4.3.2026.
Visits: 32 *