Best-of Guides Hồ Chí Minh

The Most Unique Dining Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

4 Restaurants
Ho Chi Minh City never sleeps, and neither do its hungry diners. This city is bustling with life and vibrant colours, waiting to be discovered. Whether you're seeking a casual spot to slurp on a comforting bowl of noodles while perched on a tiny plastic chair in an alleyway or in pursuit of a thrilling dining experience while dressed to the nines, venturing into the world of upscale and creative cuisine crafted by talented chefs on the hunt for the next exciting trend, we present to you our inspectors' most memorable meals in Ho Chi Minh City.
Updated on 06 November 2023
Okra FoodBar
10 Thao Dien Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
₫₫ · European

Okra, managed by a youthful and energetic team mainly composed of locals, has quickly become a new community attraction. The restaurant features generous portions and incorporates quality local ingredients into inventive creations, some of which draw inspiration from local street food. The vibrant interior is adorned with colourful oil paintings. The chef keeps the menu dynamic, regularly showcasing locally sourced ingredients prepared with a blend of modern and traditional techniques, drawing influence from chargrilled dishes and street food. These unconventional recipes result in a unique dining experience, complemented by a fine selection of wine and cocktails, making Okra a great spot to hang out.

An's Saigon
5A Tong Huu Dinh Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
₫₫₫ · Creative

The eatery is located within a recently built two-storey villa, overseen by a youthful local chef and possessed by a young female entrepreneur. The restaurant is partitioned into three unique sections: an outdoor tea space catering to breakfast and lunch, along with an indoor dining area equipped with air conditioning. Notably, the restaurant's main attraction is its open kitchen dining hall, featuring only eight seats, allowing patrons to closely observe the chef's food preparation and engage in direct interaction. The chef's menu boasts a varied selection of dishes with a Vietnamese theme, drawing inspiration from rice and flowers, all elegantly served on adaptable wooden tables that showcase the chef's inventiveness and style. The cuisine is meticulously crafted, primarily utilising fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques, resulting in exquisite presentation. On the second floor, you'll find a dedicated spa and salon.

Nén Light
122/2 Tran Dinh Xu, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
₫₫₫₫ · Innovative

This restaurant is under the helm of a young female chef. The menu presents a choice between 7 or 9 dishes, each accompanied by a distinctive narrative and significance, all in alignment with the "unbounded" concept. To maintain a sense of novelty and excitement for customers, the menu undergoes changes every four months. The chef meticulously selects local ingredients and employs her creativity to unlock their fullest potential. To complement the culinary offerings, the restaurant provides a curated array of wine pairings, worth exploring to enhance the flavours and fully savour the chef's creations. With its unwavering commitment to premium ingredients, imaginative cuisine, and a refined ambiance, it is certain to make a lasting impression on every visitor.

Nous
42 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
₫₫₫ · Innovative

Tucked away on the first floor of a building that disguises itself as a motorcycle parking lot from the street, this restaurant harbours its unique appeal. As you ascend the stairs and pass through a wine cabinet-inspired door, you'll enter the restaurant's core. With just ten counter-seats encircling the open kitchen, diners enjoy an up-close view of the chefs at work. The menu evolves every three months, each time under a distinct theme. For example, during a movie-themed cycle, the menu and wine list resemble theatre tickets and candle holders adopt a cinematic look, complemented by projected movie clips. The culinary creations, aligned with the theme, offer innovative presentations, often incorporating local spices and ingredients to emphasise their Vietnamese identity. Punctuality is a must, as dinner begins once all guests are seated, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to timing. Hidden within an older building, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining experience. If you crave a place that surprises and delights your palate, look no further; this is your destination.