While Saigon might be known for its sidewalk nhậu culture and booming craft beer scene, a sophisticated new wave of wine bars has quietly taken over the city. From intimate, vinyl-filled listening rooms, to Japanese and French inspired menus, to lush garden retreats, the city is now home to an incredible variety of places to sip and swirl.
These locations are recommendations from people who live in Ho Chi Minh City that we've recently profiled.
The Refinery: A Parisian bistro and wine bar tucked inside a historic opium factory in District 1.
Recommended by DJ, Producer and Co-Founder of Piu Piu, Lee.
About The Refinery: Step through the archway on Hai Bà Trưng and you’ll find yourself in a secluded, leafy courtyard that feels worlds away from the city's chaos. Housed in the former "Manufacture d'Opium" built in 1881, this spot oozes colonial charm with its original architectural features and bistro-style terrace. It is a classic destination for a glass of wine (or bottle), or a hearty French meal, offering a solid list of Old and New World wines by the glass in an atmosphere that is quiet and romantic.
Try: the cold cut and cheese platter to share, the slow-cooked beef cheek bourguignon, or their excellent value set lunch if you are stopping by during the day.
Price Range: Set lunch from 235k, mains 250k - 450k+, wine glass 190k+
Hear more from Lee here.
Mowe Wine Space: An intimate, vinyl-filled natural wine hideaway on Phạm Viết Chánh.
Recommended by Val, writer and Newsletter Manager for Mark Manson.
About Mowe Wine Space: Found in the alleys off the bustling Phạm Viết Chánh street, Mowe is a sanctuary for those who love their wine with a side of good music. At night it transforms into a cozy, “analog” wine bar focusing on natural wines and a specially curated menu. With vinyl records spinning in the background and a team that is genuinely passionate about what they pour, it feels less like a bar and more like hanging out at a cool friend's house.
Try: asking the staff for a funky natural wine recommendation (they are very knowledgeable!), listening to a full album on vinyl, and catching one of their special kitchen pop-up events.
Price Range: whites and reds 150k+, natural wines 270k+
Address: 40/8/7 Phạm Viết Chánh, Phường 19, Bình Thạnh
Here more from Val here and here.
Curious about the best date spots in the city? Here's our list of the best date spots in Saigon, recommended by locals.
MAD Wine Bar: A garden escape for wine and food lovers in Thảo Điền.
Recommended by Anh, owner of Bluish Cafe and Mowe Wine Space.
About MAD Wine Bar: This spot is a lively yet relaxing escape on the busy Xuân Thủy street. Run by a passionate team of Danish chefs and sommeliers, MAD offers a "garden wine concept" that feels like a European getaway in the middle of Ho Chi Minh City. With a massive selection of natural and organic options, it’s perfect for both casual sipping in their breezy outdoor courtyard or a serious tasting session inside their cozy restaurant.
Try: the charcuterie board and excellent cheese selection, their Tuesday $1 oyster special, their weekday happy hour from 2-7PM
Price Range: glasses 140k+, small bites 180k+, charcuterie board 400k+
Address: 63 Xuân Thủy, Thảo Điền, District 2
Hear more from Anh here.
Secret Wines: A hidden French bistro and wine cave in Bình Thạnh & Thảo Điền.
Recommended by Louis, head chef at Oliuu Bistro.
About Secret Wines: With two locations- one in the vibrant Phạm Viết Chánh neighborhood and another tucked away in Thảo Điền, Secret Wines functions as both a wine shop and an intimate French bistro. The venue is run by a passionate French team who view dining as an art form, offering a cozy, warm atmosphere where the extensive selection of French wines is perfectly paired with authentic French cuisine. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy a slow, sophisticated evening away from the city's chaos.
Try: the homemade cold cuts and cheese platter, the beef tartare, .
Price Range: starters from 350k, mains from 360k, cold cut platters from 490k, their special events
Address:70 Phạm Viết Chánh, Phường 19, Bình Thạnh, 47/1/15 Quốc Hương, Thảo Điền, District 2
Hear more from Louis here and here.
Curious about the best hidden gems in the city? Here's our list of hidden gems in Saigon, recommended by locals.
Lửa: A Michelin-selected open-air wine bar in Thảo Điền.
Recommended by Nhi, co-founder of 2cms.
About Lửa: "Lửa" might mean fire, but the vibe here is incredibly cool and laid-back. This wine bar is set in a charming courtyard offering a nice escape from the business of Thảo Điền. While the venue is managed by a Japanese sommelier who brings a meticulous touch to the service and wine list, the food menu is distinctly European. It focuses on seasonal dishes and organic produce, earning itself a place in the Michelin Guide for its high-quality cooking.
Try: their homemade sourdough bread with cultured butter, the Japanese white and orange wines, or asking Yu, the sommelier, to pair a glass from their extensive wine collection.
Price Range: glass 270k+, small plates 150k+
Address: 2 Đường số 11, Thảo Điền, District 2
Hear more from Nhi here.
Mita 274: A Tokyo inspired spot blending natural wine and sake with Viet-Japanese fusion in Bình Thạnh.
Recommended by chef Minh Tâm.
About Mita 274: This hidden gem in Bình Thạnh feels like stumbling into a cozy home in a quiet Tokyo neighborhood. While it is the perfect spot for sake and natural wine lovers, the real star here is the kitchen. The menu offers a creative Viet-Japanese fusion style, where delicate Japanese techniques meet bold local ingredients. With a laid-back patio it’s a spot that balances elegance with a fun, experimental culinary spirit.
Try: joining for one of their pop up events, their lunch set menu, asking for a sake pairing for their unique menu.
Price Range: sake glass 140k+, wine 220k+, mains 120k+
Hear more from Minh Tâm here.
