1. Nephele – Private Fine Dining in Ho Chi Minh City
Enter ‘Cloud Nine’ at Nephele, where diners are invited on an intimate exploration of flavors, fire, and the fleeting beauty of the seasons. Rooted in a philosophy of honoring nature’s rhythm and boundless creativity, this fine dining destination in Saigon brings together Chef Francis Tran’s bold wood-fired techniques, Head Sommelier Paul Vo’s expert wine curation, and Head Bartender Hung Lee’s innovative mixology.
Chef Francis’s 10-course tasting menu showcases the finest seasonal ingredients, elevated through the power of fire, precision, and an endless pursuit of excellence. Every element—from the first amuse-bouche to the last sip of wine—tells a story of balance, refinement, and innovation.
Housed in a striking Indochina Art Nouveau villa, the newly opened Nephele embodies elegance, intimacy, and sensory discovery. It is undoubtedly one of the best places to eat in Ho Chi Minh City for those seeking culinary artistry at its finest.
📍 Location: 125/12 Nguyen Cuu Van, Binh Thanh District, HCMC
2. La Villa French Restaurant – Timeless French Elegance
Set in a charming colonial villa, La Villa French Restaurant is a beloved institution in Saigon’s fine dining scene. Helmed by Chef Thierry Mounon, this Michelin-recommended restaurant brings an authentic French fine dining experience to Ho Chi Minh City, complete with impeccable service and an extensive wine list.
The menu features beautifully plated French classics made from the finest ingredients, many of which are directly imported from France. Whether indulging in foie gras, perfectly cooked meats, or delicate seafood dishes, guests are transported to the heart of French gastronomy with every bite.
📍 Location: 14 Ngo Quang Huy, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, HCMC
3. Akuna - A Bold Culinary Narrative of Saigon
Located on the 9th floor of Le Méridien Saigon, Akuna is the brainchild of MICHELIN-awarded Chef Sam Aisbett. Drawing inspiration from Vietnam's rich culinary landscape, Akuna offers a unique tapestry of flavors that marries Chef Sam's dedication to provenance with delicate Japanese touches.
The tasting menu is a reflection of the city’s "beautiful chaos" and Chef Sam’s time at acclaimed restaurants such as Quay and Whitegrass. Paired with a curated wine list that champions natural and organic selections, Akuna is an ode to innovation and craftsmanship, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate daring, contemporary cuisine.
📍 Location: 9th Floor, 3C Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC
4. Quince - Casual Fine Dining
A pioneer of wood-fired cuisine in Ho Chi Minh City, Quince Saigon is a haven for those who love bold, flame-kissed flavors. The open kitchen, with its glowing embers and aromatic smoke, sets the stage for an experience that is both rustic and refined.
Here, premium cuts of meat and locally sourced produce are transformed over fire, resulting in dishes that are deeply satisfying and packed with flavors. A carefully curated selection of natural wines and craft cocktails further enhances the experience, making Quince a standout in Saigon’s culinary landscape.
📍 Location: 37bis Ky Con, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, HCMC
5. AnAn Saigon – A Modern Take on Vietnamese Street Food
AnAn Saigon is where street food nostalgia meets contemporary fine dining. Led by Chef Peter Cuong Franklin, this Michelin-starred restaurant reimagines Vietnamese classics with modern techniques and a global perspective.
Diners can expect refined versions of familiar flavors—think caviar-topped banh mi, elevated pho, and creative takes on regional specialties. Set in a stylish multi-story space in the heart of District 1, AnAn offers a vibrant, lively atmosphere that perfectly complements its bold and playful menu.
📍 Location: 89 Ton That Dam, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC
6. Ciel Restaurant – French-Vietnamese Symphony
For those who appreciate the delicate balance of French techniques and Vietnamese flavors, Ciel Restaurant is a must-visit. Meaning “sky” in French, Ciel aspires to elevate fine dining in Ho Chi Minh City through thoughtfully curated dishes that highlight the best of both worlds.
Chef Viet Hong, with experience in globally renowned kitchens, champions local ingredients in a refined, contemporary setting. The result is a menu that fuses classic French sophistication with Vietnamese warmth, offering dishes that are elegant, nuanced, and deeply satisfying.
📍 Location: 6/3 50 Street, Thao Dien Ward, Thu Duc City, HCMC
7. ORYZ Saigon – A Contemporary Exploration of East Asian Cuisine
Under the guidance of Chef Chris Fong, ORYZ Saigon offers an ever-evolving menu inspired by the diverse culinary landscapes of China, Japan, and beyond. With a focus on slow-cooked techniques, fermentation, and umami-rich flavors, ORYZ takes diners on a journey through time-honored traditions and modern interpretations.
The intimate dining space is designed to reflect the philosophy behind the food—minimalist yet deeply thoughtful. Each course is a testament to the craftsmanship and the delicate balance of flavors, making ORYZ a compelling addition to fine dining in Saigon.
📍 Location: 51 Tran Nhat Duat, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, HCMC
8. Aiii Restaurant – An Artistic Interpretation of Modern Vietnamese Cuisine
Aiii House Saigon is where culinary artistry meets modern Vietnamese cuisine. Founded by Chef Alain Pham, Aiii takes Vietnamese fine dining to an artistic level, with a tasting menu that is as visually stunning as it is flavorful. Combining heritage flavors with contemporary plating and techniques, Aiii offers a bold, innovative approach to Vietnamese cuisine.
Every dish tells a story—whether through unexpected flavor pairings, unique ingredient sourcing, or the careful interplay of textures. For those looking to experience a new dimension of Vietnamese gastronomy, Aiii delivers an unforgettable journey.
📍 Location: 27/6 Nguyen Binh Khiem, District 1, HCM
