One of the interesting things that makes tourists love Vietnam in general and Saigon in particular is the cuisine. The most vibrant city in Vietnam has a rich list of specialties from all regions, however, when following the footsteps of the locals "migrating" to Saigon, these dishes may have changed a bit to better suit the taste of the masses. The street food Vietnam experts of The Myst Dong Khoi would like to send you a list and addresses of 5 dishes that always come to the top of our minds every time we mention them, including dishes that may be too familiar to international visitors such as banh mi, pho, or dishes that are not yet popular but are worth trying once.

Top 5 street food in Saigon you shouldn't miss

Banh mi Huynh Hoa 

How can just a sandwich with cold cuts become so famous? But all questions can be answered when you put the baguette-shaped bread in your mouth and take a bite of the crispy, fragrant butter. Take another bite, all the flavors of the variety of cold cuts, and fresh pate every hour, along with pickles, a little green onion, a little fresh chili... all of those beautiful mixtures can conquer the most demanding diners, a salty dish enough to fill you up, without having to eat it hot, nor needing fancy restaurant tables and chairs, Banh mi Huynh Hoa is just too suitable for the tropical weather of Saigon.

The restaurant has been around for more than 35 years, from the owner's father, until now, and has expanded to a nearby branch to serve customers who order through ordering applications. If you just want to stay in the hotel and still want to try Banh mi Huynh Hoa, get one (or few) through popular apps like Grab Food, Be Food, Shopee Food…

Address: 26 Le Thi Rieng, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: 6am - 10pm daily

Pho Le

You may have eaten pho in many places in Vietnam, but Pho Le is definitely an exception. In general, pho broth in the South will be sweeter than pho in the North, and Pho Le is similar in context. However, the rich flavor and distinct aroma of the broth, combined with rare beef, flank, tendon, beef balls, lots of green onions and onions skillfully arranged on top, along with a little ground pepper. The restaurant will serve you a large plate of green vegetables, full of bean sprouts, coriander, basil, mint, and lots of vegetables to add flavor to the pho bowl, but be careful when trying the first bite because the broth is very hot.

Another thing we love is that the pho restaurant is especially clean and tidy compared to the sidewalk stalls that can be easily found on the street. Pho Le is listed in the Michelin Guide for 2 consecutive years 2024-2025.

Address: 415 Nguyen Trai, Ward 7, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: 6am - 1am daily

Nguyen Trung Truc Grilled Pork Noodles

A real sidewalk restaurant, not far from Saigon Center Shopping Mall and Ben Thanh Market. At lunchtime, you will see a lot of local diners, including office workers and nearby retailers coming to eat. It is a very bustling scene on both sides of the sidewalk, even though the weather can be very sunny and the temperature can reach over 35oC.

The restaurant only serves grilled pork noodles, with pieces of pork belly grilled on a charcoal stove, served with fresh noodles, lots of chopped vegetables, and pre-mixed fish sauce. Order additional spring rolls if you want more protein, and add some homemade chili paste for a delicious, fresh, simple & easy lunch along the go.

Address: 1 Nguyen Trung Truc Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. 

Opening hours: daily from 6am to 8pm

Nguyen Van Cu broken rice

It is not difficult to find a broken rice shop in Saigon. Just by seeing a shop with smoke billowing from afar and the fragrant smell of grilled meat, you can confirm that it is a broken rice shop. As a popular dish of Saigon people in particular and Southern people in general, broken rice is made from broken rice, with a variety of salty dishes to eat with, but certainly cannot miss the ribs marinated with spices, honey, coconut color.

As one of the oldest broken rice shops in Saigon, Nguyen Van Cu broken rice is always crowded and will have to wait quite a while. The delicious dish is only for the patient, and you will definitely be surprised by the restaurant's very large, very soft and fragrant pork chop. Also, do not miss other salty dishes such as pork skin and steamed egg rolls. Add a little scallion oil on top, broken rice is perfect for breakfast or lunch for culinary souls who love to explore.

Address: 74 Nguyen Van Cu, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: daily from 7am - 3pm

Thanh Dat Noodles

The noodle (Phnompenh-style rice noodles) originated from Cambodia, a blend of Chinese Teochew cuisine with Cambodian Khmer cuisine and entered Southern Vietnam in the 60s and 70s of the last century. There are plenty of choices for hu tieu in Saigon, we especially would like to highlight this chain with their unique broth that none can compete with. The shop, which started humble, and is now expanding to more than 14 stores around Saigon.

You can eat noodles in broth or dry. The clear broth is made from pork bones, dried squid, seasoned with fish sauce and sugar. If it is dry noodles, after being blanched in boiling water, the noodles will be mixed with a thick brown sauce combining oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar and a little chili sauce. Each bowl of noodles will have lean pork, a big fresh shrimp, quail eggs, and pork organs (heart, kidney, stomach). Of course, you can ask the waiter to remove the dishes you do not want to eat.

Address: 34 Co Bac, Cau Ong Lanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening hours: All day

Inspired by the alleys of Saigon that have become cultural symbols for many years, The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel cleverly brings the rustic soul of Saigon into every design and architectural detail. In every hallway, in the lobby, or even when sitting in a corner of The Nest restaurant or Bason cafe right in the lobby, slices of memory, where each wall, each window whispers the story of an old Saigon, cleverly displaying both intimacy and splendor.

In the countless alleys crisscrossing this sleepless city, let's explore with us a few unique alleys just a few minutes' walk from The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel, as small suggestions for you to walk along the bustling streets, then turn into an alley, seemingly without an appointment, but unexpectedly surprising.

Top recommended restaurants in district 1

Alley 74 Hai Ba Trung, Sai Gon Ward

Alley 74 Hai Ba Trung is not far behind the City Theater, the entrance is an old archway that still bears traces of time, passing through the archway is a large yard and a row of houses on the left. Here, starting in 1881, the French built an opium factory on the old Paul Blanchy Street, which was also the largest opium factory in Indochina at that time. After many historical ups and downs, today, Alley 74 Hai Ba Trung is known as a high-class culinary alley, with many luxurious bars and restaurants in District 1.

The Refinery - can be said to be one of the first restaurants to appear at this address and still maintains the position of a French-style bistro - wine bar in the heart of the city until today. The restaurant is open from 11am to 11pm every day.

Hoa Tuc - serves contemporary Vietnamese cuisine in a cozy, romantic space with a creative menu. The restaurant has been recognized by Michelin for 3 consecutive years 2023-2024-2025.

LAVA Cuisine & Lounge - LAVA's architecture simulates a lava cave and serves Asian - European fusion cuisine as well as premium cocktails mixed by a large number of bartenders who are always ready to satisfy all customer experience needs. The restaurant serves cuisine from 6pm to 9:30pm and the lounge area from 9:30pm to 2am the next morning.

Fume - Brings a culinary adventure with roots in the quintessence of Japanese cuisine, infused by the chef with his own creative cooking styles thanks to the influence and subtle combination with the processing techniques of French cuisine. Fume's Omakase menu is always renewed every 6 weeks with selected ingredients imported directly from Japan. The restaurant is open from 5:30pm to 10pm every day.

Apartment 63 Dong Du, Saigon Ward

Just the following 2 names are enough for anyone to remember the old apartment complex 63 Dong Du, located precariously at the corner of Dong Du - Dong Khoi intersection, always bustling and crowded.

Layla Eatery & Bar - Layla was founded from sleepless nights in the bustling city, where a little taste of a passionate cocktail blends with a little excitement in the stomach when the night has come. The bar serves a variety of cocktails with hot dishes with the flavors of traditional Australian dishes, absolutely loyal to the rusticity and originality of each dish's ingredients.

L'Entrecôte - Social Meating - L'entrecôte in French means a type of beef cut from the middle of the rib, commonly known as T-bone (rib-eye steak). This is a boneless piece of beef, suitable for grilling or pan-frying. A restaurant serving French-style steaks right in the heart of Saigon, combined with signature sauces, appetizers and desserts are all carefully selected.

Alley 71 Mac Thi Buoi, Saigon Ward

Lac Thai - As one of the oldest Thai restaurants in Saigon combined with the owner's passion for collecting antique furniture, Lac Thai is an indispensable name on the list of diners passionate about Thai cuisine right in the heart of Saigon. With more than 25 years at this first address and now opening many other branches throughout the city, Lac Thai in this very nostalgic alley is worth a visit.

Lost - Drink & Chill - There are many bars that are symbols of Saigon's nightlife, where the quintessence and secrets of the city are preserved, when you set foot in Lost you can easily feel that. Cozy space, soft lighting, seats not too cramped, not too far away, creating an intimate space, ideal for every meeting.

Apartment 151 Dong Khoi, Saigon Ward

Kohei's bar - Founded by Kohei, a veteran in the F&B industry from Tokyo who has opened countless famous bars in major cities in Asia. With endless curiosity about the connection between people and modern urban lifestyle, at the newest bar bearing his name and located in an old apartment building right in the heart of Saigon, Kohei promises to bring cocktail experiences where the dialogue between diners is truly the center of the space.

Korokoro - The name of the bar carries the whole meaning of fun and cuteness, which is also the feeling that the Tokyo owner wants every diner to be able to feel. The restaurant’s dishes are inspired by the owner’s family cooking and Chinese culinary experiences during his time living and working in Shanghai. Korokoro offers a cozy dining location, original sake, and izakaya dishes for diners to enjoy everyday fun times with friends and acquaintances.

The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel is the definition of luxury boutique hotel accommodation products in Saigon. The architecture and interior design of the hotel is not just a physical structure, but a journey that evokes memories, leading visitors back to an old Saigon, a place where culture, history and modern life blend.

Pride in Sustainable Architecture and Saigon Culture

Right from the beginning of the Dong Khoi - Ho Huan Nghiep intersection, it is easy to see the hotel standing out thanks to its uneven facade, creative windows and green bushes that suddenly protrude from the concrete streets, creating a contrasting image, like a "green lung" in the middle of a bustling city. The open space with cool green creates a feeling of closeness to nature, completely different from the modern glass buildings around.

In each hallway of the living room is a discovery. The corridor is not straight, intentionally messy like the small alleys of Saigon, the concrete ceiling is bare, the sprinkler pipes are exposed, the trees are interspersed, all reminding of a simple, familiar old street.

The Myst Dong Khoi is built in a minimalist Indochine style, but every detail has meaning, from the materials to the shapes, there is nothing extra, nothing missing. The common spaces such as the lobby area, The Nest restaurant, Rooty bar on the terrace, Bason cafe right outside the lobby... all exude a gentle aesthetic, reminiscent of Saigon in the early decades of the 20th century, both nostalgic and sophisticated.

A very special point at The Myst Dong Khoi hotel is the use of materials with stories: iron, wood, tiles, bricks... Many of which are reused from the Ba Son shipyard over 200 years old, now a thing of the past of a dynamic and constantly developing city. Memories of the city and the romantic soul of Saigon are delicately carved in every detail. The furniture in the room such as tables, chairs, benches, and storage boxes echo the simple beauty of a splendid Saigon from long ago.

Simple and private Saigon house in each guest room

Each room of The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel is a private living space. The balcony is filled with green leaves, dark wooden doors, antique patterned tiles and handmade furniture. Unlike normal hotel rooms, which are sometimes dry and cold, the rooms of The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel recreate the image of an old Saigon house with large windows facing the outdoor space, a small garden and an open-air bathroom, surrounded by tropical plants, creating privacy and connection with nature. This accommodation space may make international visitors feel strange, but Vietnamese people feel familiar, like returning to their childhood home.

Most rooms have outdoor jacuzzi bathtubs, providing a relaxing experience in an open space, both close and far from the noisy urban life, and extremely ideal for soaking and watching the sunset fall on the Saigon River not far away.

Saigon Lifestyle - from stories to people

The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel leaves its mark as a city of memories in the hearts of visitors, from the familiar scent of magnolia when the glass door opens, the friendly smile, the warm yellow light from the high glass door and from the precious paintings on the wall, the personal art collections easily found throughout the hotel space and the art objects imbued with local spirit.

The staff of The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel not only serve, but also tell stories about the city. They are ready to suggest cafes, restaurants or special alleys that are not on the tourist map. At The Myst Dong Khoi, the staff do not simply take care of guests in form, but also bring visitors the feeling of returning home with all the gentleness, friendliness, affection and rich emotions, bringing services full of humanity, humanity and enthusiasm.

The difference of The Myst Dong Khoi also lies in turning architecture into a journey of memories, a magical bridge between the past and the present. This is not only a place to stay, it is also a place where any visitor can leisurely live slowly, live deeply and feel most clearly the spirit of Saigon. At The Myst Dong Khoi, every small corner contains a piece of memory, an old black and white film photo, a typewriter, an old electric fan... All combine to form a living museum, where visitors can both rest and experience the culture.

Every space in the hotel from the small alley corridor, the room, the recycled materials, the surrounding green trees and the floors... all weave a story, an emotion reminiscent of this city. And in each of those moments, visitors find warmth, closeness, and pride in a Saigon that is both old and new, both unique and modern.

What will surely make visitors remember The Myst Dong Khoi is not only the beautiful and unique rooms or the sincere service, but the feeling of living in a Saigon that is both familiar and strange. When leaving, take with you the scent of old wood, the rustling sound of leaves on the balcony and a pure farewell smile. If you are looking for a luxury boutique hotel in Ho Chi Minh City that is both luxurious and cultural, then The Myst Dong Khoi is definitely an option not to be missed. This place not only provides accommodation but also gives you an emotional journey, so that every time you think of Saigon, you will remember more than just one trip.

In the heart of bustling District 1, where sleepless streets and the sound of vehicles blend into the hustle and bustle of life, The Myst Dong Khoi hotel is like a mesmerizing silence. The hotel is not only a luxurious stopover, but also a door that opens a journey to discover Saigon with all the senses - from the architecture imbued with the soul of the city to the warm, close lifestyle.

When trees and concrete breathe together

From afar, The Myst Dong Khoi makes visitors slow down. The hotel facade is not shiny glass, but asymmetrical windows interspersed with lush green areas. Like the old balconies of Saigon, where bougainvillea pots, vines and ornamental plants stretch out to catch the sun. This architecture not only creates a visual impression but also reflects the philosophy of living in harmony with nature, something that modern cities are gradually losing.

Small alley symphonizes with the urban life

Opening the heavy door, visitors do not enter an international standard hotel lobby, but enter a space that resembles a Saigon alley. The winding corridor, bare concrete ceiling, exposed water pipes, interspersed with cool green trees, yellow lights and tables and chairs are intentionally scattered. Every detail is cleverly arranged to remind us of familiar street corners, where life takes place naturally and authentically.

Guest room is like a little “Saigon house” in the city center

Each room of The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel is a story. Open space with a balcony full of trees, dark wooden doors, antique patterned tiles and sometimes even an outdoor bathtub. It feels not like staying in a hotel, but like returning to the Saigon home of a long-time relative. Each room has its own jacuzzi on the balcony, hidden in the green trees of the small garden, a bathtub big enough for 1 or 2 people to relax and watch the city change when the sun goes down.

Materials carry memories - The soul of the city in every detail

The special thing that makes The Myst hotel different is the story behind the materials. Many wooden, iron, tile items... are reused from the Ba Son shipyard - a relic associated with the history of Saigon more than 200 years ago. Each brick, each wooden panel here is not only a decoration, but also a piece of memory of a once bustling port city. The furniture and decorations are all handmade, carrying the breath of Vietnamese craft villages, from rustic tables and chairs to small ceramic vases placed at the window.

Rooftop and private space in the middle of the city

On the rooftop, The Myst Dong Khoi infinity pool opens up a panoramic view of the center of Saigon. From here, Ben Thanh Market, the City Theater, office buildings and the Saigon River appear in sight. In the evening, when the city lights up, The Myst Dong Khoi's Rooty rooftop bar becomes an ideal place to sip cocktails, listen to the wind blowing through the trees and watch the traffic like streaks of light drifting in all directions.

The intimate and sophisticated Saigon Lifestyle 

If architecture is the "body", then the lifestyle that The Myst brings is the "soul". The Myst's staff not only serve, they chat, share, and are ready to tell you the story of this street corner, that coffee shop, or a dish that only locals know. In the afternoon, guests are invited to enjoy free afternoon tea at The Nest restaurant, a small but delicate ritual, like an invitation to sit down, relax, and slowly observe the pace of life passing by at the end of the day.

Enjoy the pulse of the dynamic city

From The Myst Dong Khoi, just a few minutes' walk will take you to the City Theater, Dong Khoi Street, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Le Loi Boulevard, Bach Dang Wharf... This means you can explore Saigon all day and then return to your room to rest without complicated means of transportation. The hotel is also an ideal starting point for tours to explore the city’s French architecture, traditional markets or museums..

At The Myst, every corner of the wall, chair or window frame is worth looking at for more than a few seconds. You may come across a photo of Saigon in the 60s, an old electric fan that still works well, or a typewriter placed on the corner of the table. All combine to form a living museum, where you not only see but also touch, hear, and feel.

An living experience for those who love the difference

The Myst Dong Khoi does not try to compete with familiar luxury standards such as marble or crystal chandeliers. Instead, the hotel chooses to bring a sense of familiarity, warmth, but still sophisticated and luxurious enough to please even the most demanding guests. That is why this place is often described by international visitors as "a slice of Saigon", extremely authentic, artistic and full of emotions.

Leaving The Myst, what remains is not only beautiful photo angles or a good night's sleep, but also the scent of old wood, the rustling sound of leaves on the balcony, the friendly feeling when someone remembers your name. And perhaps, that is what makes visitors come back, because The Myst does not only sell accommodation services, they give away a part of Saigon's memories.

The Myst Dong Khoi is proof that a hotel can be more than just a place to stay – it can be a bridge between the past and the present, between tourists and the life of a city. With The Myst, you don’t just “pass through” Saigon, you “live with” Saigon.

The Vietnamese have a famous saying “First is close to the city, second is close to the bank, third is close to the major road” to talk about areas that can become convenient and prosperous residential areas. Foreigners who come to Saigon to live and work may not follow this concept, but somehow, since the time when international trade flourished in the economic locomotive city of Vietnam, foreigners have chosen Thao Dien during their time living and working in this largest urban area in Vietnam. Now, after nearly 30 years of establishment, Thao Dien has a diverse mix of foreigners and young Vietnamese, choosing Thao Dien to form a community of residents with high income and education, along with countless accompanying services such as healthcare, education, cuisine, entertainment, sports...

Where is Thao Dien located?

Only about 7km from The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel, it is easy to travel to Thao Dien by car, motorbike, taxi, hailing transportations, water bus, and even metro, this residential peninsula surrounded by the winding Saigon River offers visitors streets lined with tall trees, shops close together with a variety of cuisines from all over the world, specialty cafes or famous domestic and international coffee chains, along with countless restaurants that have been on the Michelin list in recent years. Let's choose some of the most interesting shops with us.

Top 9 restaurants in Thao Dien you shouldn't miss

Pasta Fresca

Two young Italian culinary experts came to Saigon and decided to start a business together in this land in 2016. Their first restaurant is located gracefully in alley 28 Thao Dien, surrounded by tall trees and randomly arranged tables and chairs like in a small garden in Southern Italy.

The menu is extremely simple with appetizers, pasta and desserts accompanied by similar wines. At Pasta Fresca, known as the first pure artisanal Italian restaurant in Saigon, diners will enjoy pasta in the most authentic Italian way, fresh, smooth and poetic.

CieL Dining

Less than a year after its launch, CieL has been honored with a 1-star Michelin rating and most recently, the restaurant was also included in the Top 25 Best New Restaurants in the World in 2025 by Conde Nast Traveler.

Ciel in French means sky, recalling the years when Ciel's chef first got acquainted and fell in love with the first cooking techniques. And under that brilliant sky, all ingredients are exploited from the mainland and the ocean, combined with contemporary processing techniques and sophisticated food presentation to create tasting menus that are both visually beautiful and delicious, filled with the personal mark of the talented young chef.

WKND

It will be difficult to recognize WKND from the outside, because the signboard is just a square stone placed on the sidewalk in front of the restaurant. Inside, on one side is the bakery counter and open kitchen, opposite is a children's play area, deep inside is the open kitchen and finally a fairly large sky terrace. The restaurant's layout immediately brings the feeling of "a restaurant for everyone" from the moment you step in.

Inspired by the casual but hospitable culinary culture in Australia's big cities, WKND brings to the international residential area Thao Dien a lively brunch experience with generous portions, a skillfully prepared menu inspired by contemporary bars in Oceania.

Tama River

Although countless Japanese restaurants have opened in Thao Dien, long-time residents here still choose Tama River as their top choice. Located inside a townhouse that doesn't look much like a restaurant, Tama River is proud to bring the taste of Japanese dishes as if prepared in the small kitchen of a small Japanese woman by the gentle Tama River (Tokyo).

Tama River serves more than 30 types of sushi on the menu, also known as “sushi paradise”, including extremely unique dishes such as sea urchin sushi. In ancient times, sea urchin was considered “sea ginseng” and was a rare delicacy only served to kings, creating a mysterious and seductive culinary experience.

La Fontaine French Bistrot

The famous chef Thierry of La Villa brings a bistro-style menu to diners at La Fontaine, but still absolutely loyal to the fine taste of French cuisine. Therefore, ignoring the sophistication of a high-class restaurant, La Fontaine serves classic bistro dishes such as duck breast with mushroom sauce, Burgundy-snails and pan-fried scallops...

The restaurant's space is also imbued with French style, with long wine-red leather benches, slender wooden chairs that fit just enough to accommodate people, classic wallpaper and on the end wall of the room are famous figures with influence of French culture.

Sweet & Sour

A bakery that can remind anyone of a sweet and peaceful childhood, Sweet & Sour bakery has been bright pink on a small street in Thao Dien neighborhood for more than 10 years. The bakery has an open kitchen where customers can observe each meticulous preparation step to produce fragrant trays of cakes. Glass jars filled with candies and colorful decorations for each cake have their own soul and story.

Sweet & Sour uniquely combines the sophistication of a classic confectionery shop with contemporary creativity and innovation for all sweet lovers. The highest quality baked goods come from premium ingredients such as pies, tarts, brownies... and the best seller is always cupcakes whether familiar types or batches of cakes ordered for special occasions of customers.

The Deck Saigon

One of the rare classic restaurants in Thao Dien that no foreigner has ever heard of, is The Deck. Opened in the same location since 2008 until now, although the outdoor bar space has been expanded to triple the size of The Deck compared to its original location, The Deck is still the choice for all appointments from family, friends, lovers to outdoor parties with a capacity of more than a hundred people.

At The Deck, you can have breakfast, brunch, enjoy lunch, dinner, or sip a cocktail in a space that is close to nature, sun, wind, the wide river in front of you and the gentle sound of large ships loaded with containers slowly passing by, occasionally accompanied by a long whistle.

ASMR

One of the newest bars in Thao Dien, located at a private corner at the end of Xuan Thuy Street, blending into the surrounding local residential areas. Inside ASMR is a space where delicious cocktails are served to satisfy the taste buds of travelers who come to the bar after a long working day to meet and chat with friends.

A cocktail bar serving string instruments, specifically violins, with gentle and vibrating rhythms, a slightly unconventional but equally sophisticated combination for customers to immerse themselves in the melodious music and warm wine.

Mad Wine Bar & Eatery

Mad - in Danish, the homeland of the co-founders - means "food". They chose Thao Dien as their place of business in 2020 and now, after moving to a new address, located right in the middle of Thao Dien's busiest street - Xuan Thuy Street, Mad still maintains the style of a large garden with shady trees and a more modest space indoors with air conditioning.

At Mad Wine Bar & Eatery, customers can always choose from more than 30 wines by the glass along with more than 500 bottled wines from many famous wine regions around the world. Mad is open all day, including breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a delicious menu, especially a variety of grilled sandwiches.

The number of large and small restaurants in Thao Dien is dozens of times larger than the restaurants we introduce in the framework of this article. There are restaurants that have been open and existed here for decades since the early days of Thao Dien, there are famous restaurants that have only been around for months, and there are also restaurants that open - then close following the hustle and bustle of the diverse culinary market of Saigon in general and Thao Dien in particular. But for Thao Dien to achieve the 16th position of the most wonderful residential areas in the world in 2024 voted by readers of Time Out magazine, it is certainly indispensable for the diverse contributions of the restaurants here.

After a trip to beautiful and hospitable Vietnam, you may think about buying a small gift for your family and relatives. It could be a conical hat that is very familiar on every road along the length of this country, or a T-shirt with the word Vietnam printed on it and pictures of the landscapes of the regions you have visited, or refrigerator magnets made from ceramic, or lovely items made from coconut shells... But perhaps, you will rarely, or never think of Vietnam having a souvenir that is extremely familiar to the taste of almost everyone - that is chocolate.

It would be strange to bring chocolate back to Europe or North America, and even other big cities in Asia, because chocolate was either born there, or has become too popular in the food shelves of every family. But Vietnamese chocolate, proudly crafted from cocoa beans grown in this country, has a flavor and story completely different from what you have enjoyed or experienced before.

International experts in a recent field survey objectively assessed that the cocoa source grown and developed in Vietnam has a quality in the top 5% of the world. Besides, Vietnam has a diversity of cocoa growing areas with diverse soil characteristics, intercropping with other plants such as coconut trees, cashews, fruit trees... with 3 main cocoa growing areas in the Central Highlands, the Southeast provinces and the Mekong Delta. 

Not only when cocoa beans, the main ingredient to create top chocolates, were evaluated, many people came here, bringing with them their experience and chocolate production techniques, from France, Belgium, Russia... along with the local people who are passionate about creativity and hard work, to create chocolate brands, which have now reached beyond the borders, to infiltrate every boutique chocolate shop on the busy streets of Seoul, Singapore, San Francisco, Nice, Bruges... and even the big shopping centers in Dubai, Tokyo, Paris... Below are a few famous chocolate brands that are proud to be produced in Vietnam using purely local agricultural ingredients, including cocoa beans, that The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel would like to introduce to you.

Top 5 highly recommend Vietnamese Chocolate for your special gift

Marou Faiseurs de Chocolat

Established in Vietnam in late 2011, Marou, Faiseurs de Chocolat was founded by two tourists from France who met by chance during a camping trip through the jungle in the South. A former bank manager and a senior advertising expert together sought out farmers in the provinces of the Southern Delta, convinced and accompanied them to bring out the most original and unique raw cocoa beans, along with advanced technology and relationships with leading chefs in the chocolate industry to create chocolate bars with a strong Vietnamese flavor.

As pioneers in purchasing cocoa beans directly from farmers, Marou's chocolate bars are now exported to more than 20 markets worldwide, in the spirit of "from bean to bar". Visitors can find their chocolate bars, from traditional to innovative, in stores with MAROU signs and exteriors painted in a mix of fiery red and navy blue.

ALLUVIA

The Alluvia brand is proud to carry the purest and most original essence of the Mekong Delta, where more than 40 years ago the father cut the first layers of land to build a prosperous cocoa farm, and 3 decades later, the daughter created a chocolate brand from the cocoa ingredients grown on the family's land.

Agricultural ingredients grown and produced in Vietnam such as pepper, cashew nuts, green tea, coconut nectar, ginger, chili, mango, lemon... are meticulously selected by Alluvia to combine with cocoa and create chocolate bars with vibrant Vietnamese flavors, harmonies honoring local heritage, carefully combined with packaging designs decorated with traditional cultural features, thereby telling stories about Vietnamese lands and culture to international visitors.

HALLELU

The founder of Hallelu's entrepreneurial journey did not start with cocoa. Starting out as a mechanical engineer for a large foreign car company based in Vietnam, during a business trip, the founder of Hallelu witnessed farmers destroying their own cocoa gardens just because of a good harvest and low prices. With the mechanical knowledge he learned from university, this man did not hesitate to create chocolate production machines from cocoa. But more importantly, he began to explore the market for this special agricultural product to support farmers in sticking with this fruit that was previously undervalued.

Since 2018, Hallelu has launched more than 50 types of chocolate and cocoa products combined with Vietnamese agricultural products, 100% mixed and packaged in Ho Chi Minh City and exported to Japan, Europe and distributed domestically.

The Cocoa Project

The birth of The Cocoa Project also started with 2 tourists on the bus from Da Lat back to Saigon, the difference is that one is an expert - a chocolate trader from Belgium with decades of experience, and the other is a French-Vietnamese on her journey back to her homeland. Initially, they only intended to build a chocolate museum to honor the journey of developing native cocoa trees as well as share with the majority about sustainable farming activities. That idea gradually changed into a reliable address for Vietnamese people to learn about and love domestic chocolate products, but still aiming at the initial goal of the project, which is to create a chocolate enjoyment culture for Vietnamese people from the products developed in Vietnam.

Now, The Cocoa Project is not only a destination for Vietnamese and international tourists who want to explore products made from locally grown cocoa beans, but also an interesting culinary space for everyone, of all ages. And of course, chocolate bars mixed with local agricultural products are always introduced at the shop.

BINON CACAO

Binon is a cocoa brand founded by a Japanese woman in Vietnam. She chose Chau Duc (formerly Ba Ria - Vung Tau province, now Ho Chi Minh City), with its unique climate and soil, to start a business with a modest 2ha farm. Binon has also constantly mobilized and cooperated with local farmers to cultivate cocoa trees according to the organic agricultural model. Currently, Binon's farm is nearly 10 times larger than its original area, with modern, methodical agricultural techniques, and a closed-loop factory to create more than 20 products of all kinds from cocoa beans.

In addition to the store located in a hidden alley in the city center, Binon also organizes tours and experiences of the park and factory, bringing visitors the opportunity to learn from the farm to the perfect chocolate bar. Binon's products are especially popular with Japanese tourists, and are also distributed in stores across the Land of the Rising Sun.

Stonehill

The brand itself speaks to where their cocoa beans are grown, on the barren rocky hills of Dong Nai province since 2010. Stonehill's founder is a leading agricultural PhD in Vietnam, known as one of the outstanding individuals leading the way in regenerative farming and sustainable agriculture (Permaculture).

With more than 50 types of cocoa beans being grown on the farm in a closed self-sufficient process, Stonehill is also proud to be one of the very few manufacturers in Vietnam and in the world capable of providing tree-to-bar chocolate products to domestic and foreign markets (directly from growers to consumers).

Ho Chi Minh City, or as many still lovingly call it, Saigon, is a vibrant, ever-awake city filled with contrasts and stories at every corner. With so many accommodations to choose from, where should you stay to immerse yourself in the spirit of Saigon truly? If you're looking for a place that's more than a hotel — a space that feels like a home rich with stories, art, and soul — then The Myst Dong Khoi is that hidden gem you've been searching for.

Here are 5 compelling reasons why you should choose The Myst Dong Khoi for your stay in Saigon, it is not just where you stay — it’s how you live in Saigon.

1. Prime Location Yet Surprisingly Peaceful – Steps Away from Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Located on Ho Huan Nghiep Street, one of the oldest and most prestigious streets in District 1, The Myst Dong Khoi is right at the heart of Saigon's most dynamic area. Within a few minutes' walk, you can reach iconic landmarks like Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Bach Dang Wharf, the Saigon Opera House, and Saigon Garden.

The hotel remains surprisingly serene while being in the center of it all. Like a green oasis nestled between towering concrete buildings, it offers a sense of tranquility and comfort that feels far removed from the bustling energy outside.

2. Artistic & Local-Inspired Architecture – A Living Museum of Saigon's Soul

At The Myst, every space is infused with emotion, history, and heritage. Designed as a tribute to Saigon's alley culture and its eclectic charm, the hotel feels more like a private museum than a modern hotel. Every floor, hallway, and room conveys a unique story:

In the Bason Lobby and Bason Café, you'll discover:

• Three wooden dugout canoes suspended mid-air – inspired by the Central Highlands' noble culture, hand-carved from single tree trunks
• 5.5-ton iron anchor unearthed from Ba Son shipyard, preserved as a symbol of strength and continuity
• Timber foundation poles that were used by the French in the 1800s to build the original shipyard

The lobby ceiling is adorned with over 160-year-old Marseille tiles – the same type used on the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral. These tiles were recovered and restored from the dismantled Ba Son shipyard and now connect the hotel to a broader history of French and Vietnamese craftsmanship.

While the hallways and rooms are adorned with

• Chinese abacus on toilet doors, Southern ván ngựa wooden beds, garde-manger cabinets, folk paintings, Cham-style arches, and hand-carved window panels that reflect the diversity of Saigon's cultural heritage
• Dong Gia pottery, crafted in four seasonal tones—celadon green, ocean blue, soft yellow, and cream white—brings a quiet elegance to the rooms
• Champa-style domes, hand-carved patterned windows, vintage mirrors, and potted plants by the doorway—all these details make guests feel less like they’re in a hotel and more like they’ve stepped into a traditional Saigon home tucked away in an old alley.

Each room is uniquely designed like a Saigonese home. Natural light flows through large windows. A private jacuzzi tub nestled in a lush balcony garden invites you to unwind, while modern touches like smart toilets and streaming TVs ensure full comfort.

From vintage rotary phones to beige bath towels, everything you touch is part of a curated narrative – a conversation between past and present.

3. Engage All Five Senses – A Multi-Sensory Journey

The Myst doesn't just offer a place to sleep; it awakens your senses:

• Touch: Run your fingers over warm wood, hand-crafted ceramics, or the smooth surface of an abacus
• Smell: Herbal aromas drift gently throughout the lobby and guest areas
• Hear: Gentle background music, a soft contrast to the bustling street outside
• Sight: Lush greenery, soft lighting, vintage furniture, curated local art
• Taste: Enjoy a welcome drink made from purple perilla leaves, along with traditional Vietnamese sweets from three regions – lotus, ginger, and coconut

Expect the stay to be a seamless story woven throughout all five senses.

4. Rooftop Pool & Rooty Bar – A Sunset Oasis Above Saigon

Head to the 15th floor and discover one of Saigon's best-kept secrets:

• Rooty Bar: Built entirely from weathered steel, inspired by a resilient Saigon that has overcome many storms. Its decor is highlighted by three original artworks from contemporary artist Bui Thanh Tam, evoking memories, myths, and rebirth
• Infinity pool (24 meters long): Tiled with 99,999 handcrafted mosaic pieces from the Bat Trang pottery village in Hanoi – a symbolic North-South cultural harmony

Sip the Signature Cocktails, inspired by 6 different regions of Vietnam, let your gaze follow the sun dipping behind the Saigon River skyline, and feel the past and present flow together in the breeze.

5. Heartfelt Hospitality – More Than Just Service

The Myst believes that the soul of hospitality lies in the little things:

• No front desk barrier: Check-in happens in a seated lounge area, over a friendly chat and cool tea
• Evening turn-down rituals: Thoughtfully placed handcrafted candy and a bedtime story card each night
• Farewell gifts: Locally sourced mementos like coconut oil or a hand-woven broom
• Tailored city tours: Explore Saigon via private boat or stroll through alleys that inspired the hotel’s design
• Surprise art and music: From live acoustic sets to pop-up exhibitions in the lobby

Every staff member acts like a storyteller, helping you uncover a more heartfelt and personal side of the city.

More Than a Hotel – A Piece of Saigon's Soul

If you're seeking a place that is:

• Centrally located yet peaceful
• Architecturally rich and emotionally inspiring
• Designed to give you a truly local and artistic stay

Then The Myst Dong Khoi is more than a stay — it's your gateway to experiencing Saigon.👉 Book your stay now at The Myst Dong Khoi and start your personal Saigon story.

There’s something about walking in Saigon that no car ride or motorbike tour can offer. Maybe it’s the warm breeze weaving through narrow alleys, or the way the city gently unfolds one layer at a time under your feet. Ho Chi Minh City – once Saigon – is a place of contrasts: old and new, loud and serene, sacred and spontaneous. And what is the best way to feel these contrasts? Simply walk.

If this is your first visit, or your tenth, these carefully curated walking tours in Ho Chi Minh City are crafted to help you connect with the streets, the people, and the spirit of Saigon.

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5 Walking tours in Ho Chi Minh City you shouldn't miss

1. Historical Walking Tour – “Soul of Saigon”

From French Colonies to Modern Vietnam
Style: Architecture, history, hidden gems

Begin where history whispers. The Myst Dong Khoi isn’t just a hotel – it’s a quiet ode to Saigon’s colonial past. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by remnants of the old Ba Son shipyard: timber beams, a 5-ton anchor, and century-old Marseille tiles. You can sip a slow coffee at Bason Café, housed right within the lobby, and feel like time itself has paused for a breath.

📍 Route Highlights:

• Ho Huan Nghiep Street: A boulevard of French villas that have aged with charm, now home to consulates and quiet businesses.
• Carmelite Monastery (151 Dong Khoi Alley): This hidden church, discreet behind a narrow alley, has stood since colonial times.
• Saigon Opera House: Gaze at the intricate facade and hear tales of performances past.
• General Sciences Library: Even from the outside, it carries an air of old-world intellect. If open, step inside to explore.

☕ Local Tip: End with a bowl of phở or hủ tiếu near the Opera House – a favorite local breakfast spot with no-frills, just flavor.

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2. Street Food Walking Tour – “Flavors & Alleys”

Taste Saigon Like a Local

Style: Street food, alley discovery, everyday life

This isn’t your typical food tour. It’s a wander through the city’s appetite – past open doors, sidewalk grills, and the laughter of neighbors. Saigon’s flavors live in its alleys, where time slows and taste speaks loud.

📍 Route Highlights:

• 18A Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Alley: A warren of family-run stalls, unchanged for decades.
• 200 Ly Tu Trong Alley: Childhood snacks still made the old way – try the papaya salad or street-style corn.
• Nguyen Dinh Chieu Alley: Get your hands on a fresh bánh mì with roast pork or try the legendary egg-stuffed bánh cuốn.
• Hao Si Phuong (District 5): This nostalgic alley is best explored by motorbike at dusk – an unforgettable glimpse of Chinese-Vietnamese culture.

🍻 Wrap up: The rooftop at Rooty Rooftop Bar offers views that pair perfectly with Signature Cocktails inspired by different regions of Vietnam.

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3. Cultural Walking Tour – Faiths of Saigon

Temples, Churches & Local Beliefs
Style: Spiritual, architectural, reflective

In a city defined by movement, spirituality offers moments of stillness. This walking tour opens the doors to Saigon’s sacred spaces, where diverse beliefs reflect the multicultural soul of the city.

📍 Route Highlights:

• Mariamman Temple (Chùa Bà Ấn, Trương Định Street): A vibrant and colorful Hindu temple, this sacred site is beloved by both the Indian and Vietnamese communities. It stands as a symbol of Hindu influence in the heart of Saigon.
  
• Notre-Dame Cathedral: A timeless icon of French colonial architecture, this cathedral has long served as both a spiritual center and a community gathering place.
  
• Saigon Central Post Office: More than a beautiful colonial landmark, this post office is deeply connected to the city’s development and the history of the Catholic community in Vietnam.
  

💡 Local Tip: Take a break with a cup of street-side coffee at a nearby cà phê bệt spot – a local favorite. Sip, watch the world go by, and maybe strike up a conversation with a friendly Saigoneer.

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4. Art & Architecture Walking Tour – Saigon’s Creative Soul

Duration: ~2 hours
Style: Visual, nostalgic, photogenic

This tour is for those who notice the details – fading walls, dancing shadows, hand-carved wooden doors. Saigon’s beauty lives in its textures, waiting to be discovered by those who look closely.

📍 Route Highlights:

• Independence Palace (Dinh Độc Lập): A striking blend of modernist architecture and Eastern philosophy, symbolizing both resistance and peace.
  
• Ho Chi Minh City Museum (Gia Long Palace): Once the residence of the Governor of Cochinchina, this elegant building features domed roofs and ornate French-style decorations.
  
• Ben Thanh Market: A century-old architectural gem with its iconic clock tower – more than a bustling market, it’s a cultural landmark of Saigon.
  
• Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Building: A Beaux-Arts masterpiece from the French colonial era, majestic and stately – just viewing it from Nguyen Hue Boulevard is enough to leave an impression.
  
• Mong Bridge (Cầu Mống): One of the oldest iron bridges in the city, its fading blue color stretches across the Ben Nghe canal, built by the French over a century ago.
  
• Alley 26 Lý Tự Trọng: Featuring spiral staircases and weathered windows, this cinematic alley plays with light and shadow in the most poetic ways.
  

📸 Bring your camera – or simply open your eyes to the details. In Saigon, beauty doesn’t lie in perfection, but in the feelings it leaves behind.

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5. Night Walking Tour – Saigon After Dark

Duration: ~2 hours
Style: Atmosphere, city lights, quiet wonder

When the sun sets, Saigon changes. It hums differently. There’s romance in the breeze, and the city begins to glow from the inside out.

📍 Route Highlights:

• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Where couples stroll, kids skate, and music drifts into the sky.
• Bach Dang Wharf: The river reflects skyscrapers and lanterns alike.
• Tôn Thất Thiệp Street: A cozy hideaway with local cafés and bars.
• Bitexco Tower: End the night with a skyline toast — the city looks best from above.

🌙 Mood Tip: Let the evening take its time. Wander slow. Drink in the glow.

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Travel Tips for Exploring Saigon on Foot

• Best Time: Early mornings or after 5 PM for cooler air and golden light
• Dress Light: Breathable clothes, sun protection, and comfy shoes
• Stay Hydrated: Vendors selling nước mía (sugarcane juice) are your best friends
• Safety First: Sidewalks are shared with bikes, strollers, and vendors
• Apps That Help: Google Maps, Grab, Google Translate, and your own sense of curiosity

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Where to Stay to Join the Best Walking Tours

If you're serious about walking in Saigon, start by staying at The Myst Dong Khoi.

• You’re steps from everything: history, food, nightlife
• Each room feels like a story — handcrafted wood, tiled bathtubs, soft light
• The Bason Café is a piece of history in itself
• After your walk, the rooftop pool is waiting

👉 Book your stay at The Myst Dong Khoi and let the city unfold at your pace.

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Walk, Feel & Understand Saigon

Some cities are best seen from a bus. Saigon isn’t one of them.

Here, you walk to understand — the way a grandfather tells stories at a corner café, the way old temples sit quietly behind new walls, the way your feet find rhythm in the hum of the street.

So go ahead. Let Saigon surprise you, turn after turn. The sidewalk is ready.

And your story? It begins now.

Anywhere within the premises of The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel, we also wish to bring you the feeling of welcoming you back to a familiar roof on a cool green oasis in the heart of the city. KL Spa is nestled in a small alley like many alleys in Saigon, an indispensable part of The Myst Dong Khoi. Here, you can find body care treatment packages with traditional therapies, or gently fall into a dream while enjoying the cool water and gentle caresses on your hair.

As one of the most tranquil spa in Ho Chi Minh City, KL Spa invites you to let your body immerse in peaceful relaxation and your heart beat in harmony with the deep soul of Saigon. KL Spa is like an oasis of peace and serenity, where sincere smiles welcome you home.

KL Spa's experienced specialists will bring you the secrets of traditional Vietnamese massage art, through modern and comprehensive care therapies. From the foot massage pool to the meticulously designed treatment rooms, everything here is created to bring you the most complete feeling of relaxation.

In addition, we focus on bringing completely natural domestic products to sublimate emotions and enjoy relaxation in the most peaceful and peaceful way possible. In some of KL Spa's outstanding treatments, we are proud to use products from the Cocoon brand.

Relax with Cocoon pomelo shampoo & conditioner package at KL spa

Cocoon products can be said to be the representative face of Vietnam's comprehensive skin and body care product lines with meticulous investment from the research & development stage, to product and brand shaping. Cocoon has a list of products using natural ingredients, bringing safety to the skin such as squash, coffee, lotus, rose, pennywort… Among them, the product that has won prestigious cosmetic awards for many years such as Elle Beauty Awards is the shampoo and conditioner set from pomelo essential oil.

The main ingredient of this shampoo and conditioner set is traditional Vietnamese pomelo peel essential oil, extracted from pomelo peel, containing natural ingredients that have the ability to strongly inhibit the factors that cause hair loss. At the same time, with its antibacterial and high antioxidant properties, pomelo essential oil in Cocoon's shampoo and conditioner set gives users a healthy scalp and shiny hair.

In addition to essential oil extracted from pomelo, the fruit known as the King of the citrus family, Cocoon's shampoo and conditioner set also combines moisturizing active ingredients and Vitamin B5, which play an important role in nourishing hair, providing long-lasting moisture, preventing damage, supporting hair thickening and improving hair shine. The cool pomelo scent lingers on the hair after shampooing and conditioning, as if recalling a whole sky of memories of Vietnamese women, every afternoon washing and drying their hair on the porch, pampering themselves with the scent of trees and leaves after a busy day of work.

Rejuvenate your body with Cocoon Dak Lak coffee scrub

Beautiful skin must start with clean skin. Nothing can bring clean skin like Cocoon's all-natural exfoliating formula with a professional combination and appreciation of local values through two original ingredients: Dak Lak coffee and Tien Giang cocoa butter.

At KL Spa, we will start the process of cleansing your skin with this Dak Lak coffee scrub. The scrub is made entirely from coffee beans that have been screened and ground according to a researched ratio suitable for all skin types, to remove dead skin layers on the surface without damaging the skin underneath.

Caffeine and antioxidants available in coffee beans help improve dull skin, making the skin firm and full of energy. In addition, combined with cocoa butter grown using clean methods in Tien Giang, a land famous for agriculture in the West, it brings a clear even-toned effect to the skin after cleansing, while helping the skin become smoother and more radiant. After an exfoliation treatment, the scent of coffee lingers on the skin, "rich as red soil, passionate as the Central Highlands' sunshine and wind, bringing alertness and vitality".

Come and experience the exquisite care methods of KL Spa in the uniquely designed space of The Myst Dong Khoi Hotel. Located in the heart of District 1, this hotel spa offers guests more than relaxation—it’s a journey through authentic Vietnamese wellness. We always have attractive promotions for guests staying at the hotel, including complimentary programs for guests booking directly through the website, as well as monthly promotions such as 15–20% discounts for 60–90 minute treatment packages. KL Spa staff are ready to support and answer all customer requests—just as you would expect from a dedicated spa in District 1.

Vietnam - a country known to many for its second largest coffee export volume in the world (mainly robusta beans), but not all tourists before coming to this country know about the diversity of coffee shops spread across the S-shaped country, especially cafes in Ho Chi Minh city.

Quick recap for coffee story

Going back to history when the "waves" of coffee began to take shape and reach saturation, so that the next waves were born, developed and grew, penetrating every corner of the world's life. First of all, the first wave must be mentioned, somewhere in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, coffee was known and became a popular and accessible drink to bring alertness to drinkers for a long time. Roasted coffee packages with different weights and roasts were packaged for sale to consumers for home use. With the main approach being expansion and low cost, many big international and Vietnamese brands have become known and are still easily found in supermarkets today.

The second wave of coffee appeared in the second half of the 20th century, when drinking coffee could become a reason for people to meet and chat, living spaces in coffee shops were born, large coffee chains sprung up on every corner of the United States, Canada, Australia. Drinking coffee at a shop, where there is a spacious space, melodious music, a variety of coffee-based drinks developed along with a variety of choices of accompanying cakes, has been elevated to an experience in a busy industrial life. Following the explosive growth of the second wave, coffee enthusiasts gradually introduced the concept of small coffee roasters, focusing on sourcing, growing methods, soil, geography, climate, and coffee growing habits, to produce exceptionally meticulous harvests, rare coffee packages, and of course, high prices. The third wave of coffee from the West Coast of the United States has spread to the ancient streets of Europe and the booming cities of Asia.

Not standing outside that trend, let's explore with us some addresses of the famous specialty cafe in Ho Chi Minh recently.

Top 5 famous specialty cafes in Ho Chi Minh city

Bosgaurus Opera  - Address: 12 Nguyen Sieu, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Located not far from the City Theater and nestled among the many famous coffee chains in Saigon today, Bosgaurus - The Opera House does not lose its own uniqueness. The value of Bosgaurus is based on the concept of "truly specialty coffee".

Since its establishment, Bosgaurus has focused on the criteria of using Arabica beans for the brand's drinks. The founders of Bosgaurus have even succeeded in launching the Arabica iced milk product line. While the popular iced milk coffee in Vietnam uses Robusta beans, Bosgaurus has made a bold move by using Arabica grown entirely in Vietnam for this drink. The result will help those of you who are not familiar with the strength of Vietnamese coffee beans to get acquainted with the unique Vietnamese way of brewing coffee with a filter, and make this purely Vietnamese beverage more accessible and easier to drink.

Shin Heritage - Address: 27 Le Van Lang, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Founded in 2015, Shin Coffee is one of the pioneers of specialty coffee in many regions of Vietnam, from the northern mountainous provinces such as Son La, Dien Bien, to the Central mountainous areas such as A Luoi, Khe Sanh... to familiar coffee growing areas such as Da Lat, Pleiku…

Shin Coffee is also known as a leading domestic brand in the closed coffee production model "from farm to cup", with close links with raw material areas, farmers and strict control of the process to create complete finished products. Ethnic minority households in 7 specialty coffee regions: Son La, Khe Sanh, Da Lat, A Luoi, Pleiku, Kontum, Dien Bien are guided by SHIN coffee experts to build farms, select tree varieties, and instruct on coffee cultivation techniques according to organic food standards, close to nature.

The only Shin Heritage store is located right opposite Cua Dong - Ben Thanh Market, on a super small street and seems to be lost among shoe stores.

Hummingbird - Alley 103BIS Vo Thi Sau, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

The founder of Hummingbird Coffee & Roastery is not a strange name in the specialty coffee enthusiasts of both Vietnam and the world, having studied coffee roasting techniques in Korea and Australia, and being a prestigious judge of the Vietnam National Barista Competition for many years... that information is enough to prove that a coffee shop, although hidden behind the crowded streets of Saigon, still always has a stable number of domestic and foreign customers.

Hummingbird coffee & roastery is located in an old French villa built in the middle of the last century, the garden behind the high wall invites guests to stop and enjoy excellent specialty coffees originating from Ethiopia, Kenya and Vietnam. To fully enjoy an absolute time here, besides coffee, diners can order more baked goods on the spot of the shop, which are neatly arranged and suitable for their taste.

96B Cafe & Roastery - 96B Phan Ngu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

No longer a stroll for specialty coffee experiments, 96B has transformed itself to become a famous coffee roasting name in the city by 2 female founders, along with a shop with an industrial architectural style where coffee is the focus.

The beverage menu at 96B follows a consistent pattern, from purely coffee-based drinks such as espresso, long black, cold brew, 96B's bartenders will create drinks mixed with salted cream, coconut milk, soda, fruit juice... to create new options in the spirit of improving the original coffee, bringing more diverse specialty coffee experiences to the drinkers' taste.

Sipply - Address: 73 Dinh Cong Trang, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Sipply's first location is located in an old house on a quiet street not far from the famous banh xeo restaurant that has been listed in the Michelin Guide for the past few years, and also just a few steps from Tan Dinh Church, which stands out with its pink color, symbolizing love and kindness. Based on the house frame with retro-style interior and exterior architecture, the cafe's decorations are also quiet and minimalist. The contrast lies in the interior details of the tables and chairs, the recycled plastic materials that are subtly decorated, the water counter and of course the cafe's brewing equipment, so that the overall look brings an intentional contrast.

Sipply's second location has also recently opened not far from the West Gate of Ben Thanh Market. No matter where you are, coffee lovers can easily find a quiet space in the hustle and bustle of Saigon, holding a cup of coffee from beans that the founder of Sipply, who is also a famous name in the specialty coffee industry in Saigon, has carefully selected and entrusted with passports to travel through unique coffee growing regions around the world.

Vietnam cafe landscape has been changing dramatically, from roadside coffee shops, with low plastic chairs in green or red shades, serving strong black coffee cups and a few roughly crushed ice cubes, to the spacious cafes with melodious music, suitable for meeting friends or simply a place to study or work for urban youth, and even specialty cafes that focus on the quality of beans and farming methods, also known as specialty cafes, only concentrated in large cities like Hanoi or Saigon. All of them originate from the needs of drinkers, to the passion of coffee lovers, and the vision of a growing community.