International
Khoi Thom
Tucked away on the quiet café street of Ngo Thoi Nhiem in District 3, Khoi Thom has evolved into an authentic Mexican-style cantina serving home-style dishes, many from the Mexican chef’s family. With bright colors, a large breezy outdoor deck with an open bar and a long street frontage, Khoi Thom has earned respect for its adventurous hues and style since opening.
XichLoBBQ
XichLoBBQ is located on Bui Vien - the heart of the backpacking area. The restaurant serves Vietnamese staples alongside Western dishes with a specialty in barbecued pork, beef, chicken and seafood. XichLoBBQ restaurant is themed on the classic Vietnamese transport, with an actual life size of the three-wheeled vehicle hanging on the wall. Food here is reasonably priced. 37 Bui Vien, D1
Au Parc
One of the city’s more charming international bistros in a perfect tree-lined inner-city location. Au Parc serves Mediterranean cuisine with local flourishes in a venue lightly set off by plush seating and heady exotic styling. A beautiful dining area and extraordinary menu will see this becoming one of the mainstays in your restaurant cycle. 23 Han Thuyen, D1 3829 2772
29 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, D3 www.khoithom.com
Bahdja
Algerian restaurant serving North African delights such as couscous, tajines and desserts. The unique Mechoui set dinner is a popular choice and perfect for groups (available with prior notice). 87-89-91 Ho Tung Mau, D1 093 787 2010 (French, Arabic, English, Finnish)
Boathouse
Berru
Berru is a family-run Turkish restaurant offering a variety of Turkish specialties including kebabs, koftas, mezzes and soups. This is one of the few halal restaurants that imports all of their halal meat. SC 3-1 Nguyen Luong Bang, Nam Khang, D7
With a great view of the Saigon River, this restobar serves imported steak, healthy salads and much more in an alfresco environment. 40 Lily Road, An Phu Superior Compound, D2 3744 6790 www.boathouse.com.vn
Also Try... Boomarang Bistro
Located in The Crescent by the lake, the spacious Boomarang Bistro Saigon serves Australian and other Western food in the most pedestrian friendly, relaxed part of town. 107 Ton Dat Tien, D7 3841 3883 www.boomarang.com.vn
The Deck
Located on the banks of the Saigon River, this restaurant offers great international and Vietnamese fare along with some fine cocktails. Best way to arrive is by private speed boat managed by the venue. 38 Nguyen U Di, D2 www.thedecksaigon.com
Elbow Room
At The Elbow Room, a rustic homage to retro Americana with its exposed brick, black and white vintage photographs, and Nora Jones soundtrack,
diners can order classic American breakfasts all day. Live music upstairs on Friday nights is the city’s best kept secret. 52 Pasteur, D1 www.elbowroom.com.vn
Hog’s Breath
An Australian family diner and bar concept. Renowned for steaks, seafood and other Western fare served in an informal environment. Smokefree indoors. Ground Floor, Bitexco Financial Tower 2 Hai Trieu, D1 www.hogsbreathcafe.com.vn
La Fenetre Soleil
Literally ‘window to the sun’, LFS showcases a fusion of old-world fittings (exposed bricks, antique furniture and chandeliers) with new-world elements (fur cushions, mosaic tiles and glass tables). Serves
a range of cocktails, imported beer, coffee and smoothies together with a JapaneseVietnamese fusion menu. 4 Ly Tu Trong, D1
La Fiesta
A new restaurant of Scott Marquis, of Scott & Binh’s fame, La Fiesta offers mainly Mexican food like tacos and enchiladas. Also features liqueur coffees and cocktails. 33 Dang Thi Nhu, D1 lafiestavn@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ lafiestavietnam
Refinery
A charming venue with a chequered history, the Refinery brings the best of European cuisine to the opium headquarters of the old colonial empire. Loving restoration work has brought out much of the building’s architectural charm, and with a menu that delivers
the finest in French dining as well as culinary flourishes from around the continent, you’ll never be short of options. Stands up to multiple repeat visits. 74 Hai Ba Trung, D1 3825 7667 www.therefinerysaigon.com
Skewers
Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean fling. This long-running family restaurant serving Greek favorites feels like fine dining but is as casual as you care to be. Always prepared with the freshest ingredients, the quality of the fare is consistent and authentic. Cuban cigars and a serious wine list are some of the venue’s finer drawcards. 9A Thai Van Lung, D1 www.skewers-restaurant.com
you when you enter Saffron is the terracotta pots mounted on the ceiling. Located on Dong Du, this restaurant offers Mediterranean food, some with a distinct Asian influence added for further uniqueness. Prepare to order plates to share and don’t miss the signature Cheese Saganaki! Guests are welcomed with complimentary Prosecco, fresh baked bread served with garlic, olive tapenade and hummus. 51 Hai Ba Trung, D1 382 48358
Scott & Binh’s
All-heart Western cuisine and family friendly venue in the D7 neighborhood. Scrupulous attention to good service and a commitment to great food that makes customers happy. 15-17 Cao Trieu Phat, D7
Saffron
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