ROSA QUEEN HOTEL

This attractive house with a pleasant courtyard, patio and quaint furnishings nestles on a quiet street in a residential area outside the city centre. The Vietnamese-inspired vegetarian cuisine, rich in modern twists, uses fresh, mostly organic ingredients sourced directly from local farms. The deep-fried mushroom rolls are out of this world. A bowl of longan and lotus seed sweet soup, chilled and refreshing is the perfect sweet finale.

A landmark of HCMC’s dining scene for 10+ years, Mặn Mòi is renowned for its nature inspired interior and theme – ask for a table in the lush courtyard for an al fresco experience. The extensive menu spans regional specialities from all over Vietnam, including salads, soups, mains, grilled dishes, desserts, as well as claypots and hot pots. Finish your meal with a Vietnamese coffee and browse the gift shop for keepsakes.

(The restaurant is temporarily closed.) Opened in 2025, this restaurant boasts an inviting outdoor garden terrace. Inside, shelves of house-made ferments – chilli sauces, garlic vinegars – reflect the dedication of the chef, who melds Western technique and local soul. Phở is the highlight: with a choice of three full-bodied broths, it is made with fresh bones and simmered for 24 hours. Grilled bagrid catfish with crispy rice crackers and umami shrimp paste brings balance, complexity and smoky, textured depth.

The al fresco wine bar, whose tables are set in a courtyard surrounded by lush greenery, is perfect for a drink and nibbles. There are about 100 wine references to choose from with a substantial by-the-glass selection. The wine list changes every month, but the home-brewed sake, a firm fixture, is worth trying. The menu, which features only organic produce from small local farms, combines European dishes with a twist of Japanese elements as both the manager and head chef hail from Japan.

Opened in 2022, this inviting ground-floor spot features large windows that let in ample natural light, fostering a relaxed mood. The open kitchen turns out unpretentious Italian fare, with lunch kept simple and more choice at dinnertime. Pasta is a highlight – try the rich and creamy carbonara with crispy bacon and parmesan. Save room for the house-made tiramisu, which is not overly sweet. Piano performances on Thu and Sun make this a great place to meet.

Opened in 2022, this BOM Hospitality Group restaurant has a dimly lit interior, making the open kitchen a focal point. Chef Kiên Phan blends traditional and modern, crafting dishes that reflect a deep respect for Vietnamese culture. The à la carte menu revolves around the grill, and each tasting menu has its own theme. Over 100 wine labels, many natural, bolster the offering. Reservations are recommended for this refined experience.

This bistro with a vintage Parisian vibe is a spin-off of La Villa, operated by the same French owner-chef. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, it serves classic, no-frills Gallic fare ranging from pastries and baguette sandwiches to pork terrine and pâté en croûte. Inspired by the chef’s childhood souvenirs, the rustic Provence-style lamb ragout is unbelievably rich and flavoursome. Also check out the wine list leaning towards French labels.