Gourmets yearn for the sun-drenched coasts and a taste of delectable flavours of the Mediterranean in the exciting dining scene of Ho Chi Minh City, where the exotic spices of global cuisine dance with the scent of Vietnamese street food. We at Expat Choice are aware of the appeal that Mediterranean food has to everyone, with its unique blend of vibrant flavours, seasonal ingredients, and deep culinary history.
As foodies, we've set out to find some of the finest Mediterranean restaurants this city has to offer through our adventure of discovery. These restaurants curate experiences that take guests to the vibrant markets of Spain, the vineyard-dotted hills of Italy, and the blue waves of Greece. These eateries have made a name for themselves in the culinary community of Ho Chi Minh City by being authentic and innovative, winning over both locals and expats with their delectable food.
Come along with us as we set out on a epicurean adventure across the flavours of the Mediterranean, where each meal reveals a tale of mastery in the kitchen, craftsmanship, and culture. Prepare to be swept away by the diverse tapestry of Mediterranean cuisine, from mezze to moussaka, falafel to tagine, right here in the centre of Saigon. Main Image Credit: The Olive Grove Facebook Page
Basilico
Basilico, a well-known Italian restaurant, is situated on the lobby level of the InterContinental Residences Saigon and provides a contemporary, casual dining experience.
Basilico, which specialises in handcrafted desserts and authentic Italian food, is proud of its large wine range and wood-fired pizza oven, which combine to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that goes well with its skillfully prepared food.
Together with its menu, Basilico offers a variety of high-quality Australian steak cuts, including dry-aged and wet-aged options, as well as monthly specialties. Guests can savour a range of authentic Italian cuisine, including over nine pizza varieties and thirteen pasta varieties.
To ensure a genuinely personalised dining experience for every palate, Basilico also provides the option for customers to tailor their pizzas by selecting their preferred protein, cheese, and veggie toppings. Image Credit: Basilico Facebook Page
Pickles Eatery
Pickles Eatery, a modern epicurean sanctuary, is proudly housed inside a stunning two-story heritage shophouse in the Binh Thanh area. Its dedication to gastronomic perfection is reflected in its wide assortment of imported wines and varied Mediterranean-inspired menu.
Pickles offers a wide range of foods that are inspired by several cultures and regions, ranging from colourful salads and handmade cheese platters to savoury small plates and filling meat dishes.
Pickles places a strong emphasis on using seasonal fruit supplied from Vietnam and premium local ingredients, paying tribute to its Vietnamese heritage. The inside of the restaurant has a rustic beauty all its own, with soft Edison lighting, abundant foliage, and pastel blue accents against textured grey walls.
Pickles promises a great dining experience for wine connoisseurs and cuisine aficionados alike with its exceptional wine selection that includes champagne, rosé, red, and white varietals from over ten different countries. Image Credit: Pickles Eatery Facebook Page 2nd Image Credit
a. 83 Nguyễn Công Trứ, Phường 19, Bình Thạnh, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Tomatito Saigon
Tomatito Saigon is a Spanish restaurant and pub that invites guests to savour real Spanish food while hanging out with friends. The menu is broad and has a lot of seafood, including specialties like lobster, shrimp, and snails served in a classic Spanish way.
Apart from its delicious food, Tomatito has a lively bar with a variety of traditional Spanish cocktails. Favourites include wines and cocktails, which go well with the tasty food.
With its hardwood furniture and lighting in Spanish style, the restaurant's décor oozes elegance. The bar is a great place for unique check-ins because of its eye-catching design. A great culinary experience is certain at Tomatito, whether you're dining alone or with a group of friends.
Since its founding in 2018, Tomatito has received a great deal of praise. It was named the "Best New Restaurant" in its first year in business and has since won several more awards. Image Credit: Tomatito Saigon Facebook Page
a. 171 Đ. Calmette, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 712290, Vietnam
LE 17 Bistro
Explore LE 17 Bistro, a chic location with a modern vibe, tucked away on the second floor of the Sofitel Saigon Plaza. Located at 17 Le Duan Boulevard, this elegant bistro is named for its landmark address and welcomes patrons to savour the taste of traditional French food.
The charm of classic French cuisine is evoked at LE17 Bistro, where cooks expertly prepare classic home-style French dishes that take you to the centre of France's culinary legacy.
Start your adventure on the lounge and bar patio, perfect for digestifs and aperitifs. Enter the courtyard area, which has a hint of the classic French Gazebo charm. A private brassiere room follows the bustling main bistro-chic dining space, which is not to be missed.
One especially unique element is the private room, which is furnished to resemble a charming Provence cottage. Each space has a unique vibe that lets guests experience the magic of good French cuisine. Image Credit: LE 17 Bistro Facebook Page
a. 17 Le Duan Blvd, District 1, 700000 Ho Chi Minh City
Octo Tapas Restobar
Octo Tapas Restobar offers an appealing variety of Spanish food and drinks while skillfully fusing a lively pub ambiance with relaxed dining. The name of the restaurant was inspired by mollusks and chosen to symbolise good fortune.
The menu offers dishes made with excellent, fresh ingredients that appeal to both local and foreign palates. A wide variety of cocktails are also available for guests to enjoy, such as the revitalising Octo Spritz, Lychee Saketini, and Mi Casa Su Casa.
Highlights that you just must try are the delicious tuna ceviche, the sumptuous bikini sandwich, and the fulfilling salmon flatbread, which are all paired with rich sweets like choco loco and classic churros.
The interior has a modern yet cosy vibe thanks to its industrial-chic decor, which is defined by exposed brick walls, wood-clad ceilings, and sleek metal accents. Octo Tapas Restobar is abuzz with vibrant energy, ensuring a memorable eating experience for everyone who visits. Image Credit: Octo Tapas Restobar Facebook Page 2nd Image Credit
a. 75 Đ. Hồ Tùng Mậu, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
The Olive Grove
Welcome to a Mediterranean oasis tucked away in the heart of the busy city of Saigon. The restaurant is designed to reflect the charm of Sidi Bou Said and the stunning scenery of Santorini.
It offers a variety of seating options, including cosy bar nooks, open-air patio settings, and an airy dining space with balcony seating. The menu highlights the vibrant spices of Morocco, the rich herbs of Greece, and the fragrant scents of Lebanon, all contributing to the rich tapestry of Mediterranean cuisine.
The dining experience is enhanced with carefully chosen wines from the Mediterranean region, an assortment of craft beers, and classic and signature cocktails.
For a special celebration, an occasion with friends, or a romantic meal, this restaurant invites guests to immerse themselves in the flavours and atmosphere of this captivating region, providing a Mediterranean retreat without having to leave Saigon. Image Credit: The Olive Grove Facebook Page
a. 106 Phạm Viết Chánh, Ward 19, Bình Thạnh, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 72323, Vietnam
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