When we were kids, my mom told us to watch the bike in front of the market so she could go inside to buy meat and vegetables. It was always very boring and dirty so I assigned all my memories about local markets with a desperate feeling. Never went to one when I lived in HCM city.
But I like to shop around markets lately. There is Vinh Hai market nearby. Certainly doesn't have the best smell and nice music in the background, but you can buy chicken and fish at cheaper prices and much better quality than in supermarkets. Lots of fruits too. But I only eat fruits in the shape of an ice cream cone.