Discover the essence of Saigon's nightlife through the eyes of The 50 Best, where we uncover the city's most exceptional bars. From hidden gems to iconic establishments, these venues are celebrated for their unique atmospheres and innovative drinks. In this article, let's explore together with Nightlife Vietnam the top five spots that have earned acclaim from critics and connoisseurs alike, offering a taste of Saigon's dynamic bar culture at its finest.
The World’s 50 Best, headquartered in the UK, is a premier organization in the food and beverage industry, renowned for showcasing global culinary trends and honoring top restaurants, bars, and chefs. Similar in prestige to the World Travel Awards and the Oscars, the rankings are determined by over 1,000 critics, chefs, and culinary experts across 27 countries and territories. Restaurants can only achieve the top prize once, after which they join the esteemed “Best of the Best” list. The awards, which began in 2002, recognize excellence based on the dining experience, dishes that satisfy a wide range of palates, and the celebration of diverse culinary cultures.
Their awards are a hallmark of excellence, recognizing establishments that demonstrate innovation, creativity, and exceptional quality. For restaurants and bars, being included in this elite list significantly boosts their international reputation, attracting a discerning clientele and media attention. This recognition often leads to increased business, heightened prestige, and opportunities for collaborations and partnerships. The awards not only honor individual excellence but also set industry standards, inspiring culinary and bar professionals globally to strive for the highest levels of craftsmanship and service. Here are five bars that have been honored to be included in the prestigious list of the 50 Best.
Nestled on the second floor of a historic building dating back over 150 years to the French colonial era, Drinking & Healing is a hidden gem at the corner of Ham Nghi and Ho Tung Mau streets in Saigon. Ascending a narrow staircase, guests are greeted with a surprisingly spacious interior behind a weathered wooden door. The bar’s ambiance is steeped in history, with red-orange brick walls and original ceiling supported by sturdy pillars. Adding a contemporary twist, weathered steel bars create an industrial-chic atmosphere.
Drinking & Healing is celebrated for its commitment to regional mixology trends, boasting a diverse menu of signature cocktails. Their extensive gin collection fuels nearly 15 variations of gin and tonics, complemented by classic cocktails and unique fruit and herb infusions. If you’re unsure what to order, bartenders, fondly referred to as ‘healers’ are adept at creating custom drinks that match guests’ tastes and moods
Drinking & Healing embodies Saigon’s vibrant bar scene with its creative libations and personalized service. It stands as a testament to both tradition and innovation, offering an unforgettable experience that heals both thirst and spirit alike.
“‘Ăn ăn, nhậu nhậu’ is quintessentially Vietnamese entertainment, a sentiment chef and founder Peter Cuong Franklin embraces with the addition of Nhau Nhau, an intimate bar with 18 seats on the upper floor of An An, serving its diners. True to its name, NHAU NHAU pays homage to Vietnam’s drinking culture, exploring the flavors of central and northern Vietnam through a variety of local liquors.
In keeping with the spirit of ‘nhậu’, the drinks menu predominantly features local specialties. Discover sake from Hue, rice spirits from central and northern regions, and a selection of unique concoctions that are sure to surprise, such as wine with a quail egg or a shot of coconut weevil.
NHAU NHAU’s interior transports guests to swinging Saigon of the 1960s, inspired by the golden era of Vietnamese rock ‘n’ roll. The décor boasts handmade dark turquoise wall tiles, vintage Vietnamese album covers framed in redwood, and custom-made wooden furnishings including the bar, stools, tables, and outdoor balcony.”
Telephone Bar exudes luxury with a classic, Speakeasy-style ambiance tucked discreetly behind two phone boxes on Nguyen Van Trang street. With no signs or bright lights, the décor blends seamlessly for an understated yet harmonious atmosphere, making it a hidden gem for those in the know.
The bar embraces its Speakeasy roots, offering a quiet retreat from the bustling nightlife. Its cozy, classic color scheme appeals to those seeking solitude and tranquility. Every detail is meticulously designed, from the vintage furnishings to the subtle lighting, creating a unique and distinctive space that stands out in Saigon.
At Telephone Bar, there’s no menu; instead, bartenders craft drinks tailored to each guest’s preferences. Whether you fancy whiskey, gin, vodka, or a custom cocktail, the bar promises a personalized experience based on your taste. You just need to describe your desired drink, and the skilled bartenders will mix up a creative concoction just for you. Pair your drink with snacks for a perfect evening of relaxation and enjoyment, making every visit a memorable one.
Tucked away in a charming alley off Pasteur Street, The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen offers a seamless blend of contemporary elegance and cozy charm. This hidden gem, with its warm lighting and stylish décor, provides a serene escape from the city’s bustling pace.
The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen strikes a perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, ideal for both lively gatherings and intimate evenings. Every detail, from chic furnishings to curated artwork, creates a welcoming atmosphere. The small, split-level space attracts a youthful crowd with raw industrial walls, reclaimed metal wheels as lights, and walls adorned with musical icons. Minh Tan Pham, the visionary behind The Alley, has crafted a unique and inviting space.
Drinks at The Alley are an art form. The menu features inventive cocktails inspired by Pham’s heritage and regional ingredients, like the Mekong Delta cocktail with dried-banana-infused bourbon, banana syrup, lime, and ginger bitters. The bar’s solid spirit collection, heavy on whisky, caters to all tastes. Pair your drink with gourmet dishes from the kitchen. With tempting small plates, live music, and DJ sessions, The Alley offers a harmonious blend of exquisite flavors and memorable moments, making it a standout in Saigon’s bar scene.
Located in a charming alley in District 1, Yugen exudes a classy Japanese-inspired vibe, reminiscent of a renowned bar in Ginza, Tokyo. Stepping into Yugen evokes nostalgia, with its soothing jazz, whispered conversations, and the heartfelt murmurs of patrons.
While heavily influenced by Japanese bars, Yugen brings a unique twist to cocktail culture. The bartenders are known for innovative concoctions like Whistea, a blend of whiskey and tea on a carbonated soda base, perfect for hot summer days. The bar also offers delightful snacks, such as cream cheese with butter, plums, and raisins served with toast, enhancing the overall experience.
Yugen boasts nine bottled cocktails, featuring six strong options and three light, carbonated varieties. Designed like perfume bottles, they make ideal gifts or personal treats. Yugen is currently perfecting these line cocktails and plans to expand into a wider range of spirits. This unique blend of exquisite drinks and unforgettable ambiance makes Yugen a standout in Saigon’s bar scene.
Ready to elevate your nightlife experience in Vietnam? Dive deeper into the scene with Nightlife Vietnam. Discover exclusive deals, upcoming events, and the hottest venues across the country. Don’t miss out – start planning your next unforgettable night out now at Nightlife Vietnam!
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