Are you in pursuit of the most romantic experiences in Ho Chi Minh City or perhaps seeking a memorable date night idea to cherish your time together? Look no further. Our community members have meticulously selected and curated a collection of the city’s most enchanting cafes, restaurants, and activities each designed to kindle the flames of romance.
Explore intimate dining spots with breathtaking views, uncover hidden gems and discover unique, budget-friendly date ideas. Here, in the heart of this vibrant city, you’ll find the perfect setting to express your love and create memories together.
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Romantic Restaurants, Bars & Cafes
From the city’s network of hidden alleys to the rebuilt apartments lining the Nguyen Hue Walking Street promenade, Ho Chi Minh is full of romantic cafes and eateries. You need to know where to look, though! Whether you are searching for a romantic night out at a restaurant with your significant other or you are getting to know a new date over coffee, let us guide you through a few of our favorites.
Note that this guide will not focus on Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife scene, which offers a different, faster-paced type of romance.
1. Enjoy Sunset and Drinks with Panoramic City Views
Top Pick: Experience elegance at Landmark 81′
From upscale restaurants to casual eateries, Landmark 81 offers a variety of dining experiences set against the backdrop of panoramic cityscapes and the tranquil river.
Ussina Sky 77 Restaurant
Ussina restaurant is a beloved dining spot, renowned for its prime location, spacious ambiance, and diverse cuisine. Perched on the 77th floor of Landmark 81, it offers unparalleled city views and a unique dining journey at Cloud 9, making it a top choice.
The Truffle Saigon
Perched atop the 73rd floor of Landmark 81, The Truffle has been a celebrated icon in Vietnam for over 4 years. The Truffle invites guests into a luxurious yet welcoming atmosphere, where every visit promises a unique culinary journey with a meticulously curated menu that evolves every two months.
S79 – Skyline Dining
S°79, perched on the 79th floor of the Landmark Building, celebrates simplicity with hidden beauty. Their chefs have reimagined classic dishes with innovative cooking techniques, introducing a fusion of Asian ingredients with Western and Japanese influences.
Landmark 81 stands as an exceptional choice for dining with its array of restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences. Each restaurant on its soaring floors promises not only exquisite food but also breathtaking views of Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Indulge in a Boozy Brunch
Top Pick: The Vintage Emporium
You don’t always need sunset views, candles, or classical musicians playing in the background to be romantic. Sometimes, a fantastic brunch, chic decor, and a delicious menu are enough! The Vintage Emporium has all of that and more, with two outlets in District 1 and District 2 that both feature bistro-style decor, a unique drinks menu, and an all-day brunch.
Addresses: 95 Nguyen Van Thu, District 1; 1 Street Number 39, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
3. Chat & Hangout Over Coffee
Savoring a coffee with your significant other is a delightful experience that blends the vibrant energy of the city with intimate moments. Engaging in heartfelt conversations while seated at a charming café, savoring the rich aroma of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee is a perfect way to connect and create lasting memories together.
Top Pick For Specialty Coffee: The Hummingbird Cafe
The Hummingbird Cafe is a haven for coffee enthusiasts in Saigon, celebrated for its dedication to specialty brews. Nestled in a cozy corner of the city, this charming café exudes warmth and tranquility, offering a retreat from the bustling streets outside.
Address: 103BIS Đ. Võ Thị Sáu, Phường 6, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh
Top Pick for Local Style Coffee: Thaiyen Cafe
Thaiyen Cafe embodies the essence of a local-style café in Saigon, offering a cozy retreat for coffee lovers seeking an authentic experience. Nestled in a quiet corner, it radiates a welcoming atmosphere perfect for enjoying a freshly brewed cup of Vietnamese coffee.
Address: 79/2/1 Phan Kế Bính, Đa Kao, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh
4. Romantic Sunset Date on the Saigon River
Top Pick: Chang’s Bistro & Cakes
End your day with a romantic sunset dinner at Chang Bistro, perfectly positioned beside the serene Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City. Delight in a serene atmosphere as you savor a delightful meal, with panoramic views of the river gently flowing by.
Address: 16/9 Nguyen Van Huong, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Top Pick: The Deck Saigon
The Deck Saigon offers a truly romantic setting for a sunset meal along the River. Nestled amidst lush greenery and elegant decor, this waterfront restaurant provides an intimate ambiance perfect for couples seeking a memorable dining experience.
A relaxing dinner cruise along the Saigon River is a truly novel date night idea. Not only is it a different way to enjoy the twinkling lights of Ho Chi Minh City reflecting off the water at dusk; but it’s also a wonderful way to get to know each other better over a slow, luxurious meal.
Address: 38 Nguyễn Ư Dĩ, Thảo Điền, Quận 2, Hồ Chí Minh 10000
Top Pick: Saigon River Cruise
Savor a dreamy dinner cruise on the Saigon River in Vietnam, starting with hotel pickup and a scenic drive through bustling Saigon streets before boarding a traditional ship. Choose between two set menus when booking, and indulge in a five-course Vietnamese feast, each dish a flavorful exploration of local cuisine.
Want to spend a memorable night in the Saigon River? Book Your Dinner Cruise with Vietnam Is Awesome.
5. Wine & Dine at Saigon’s Most Fabulous Date Night Restaurants
Saigon offers various places where you can savor a delightful meal crafted by award-winning chefs when you visit Vietnam! While Vietnam is renowned for its street food scene, this dynamic city also boasts numerous high-end establishments perfect for celebrating special occasions.
Ciao Bella
Treat your partner to comforting and delicious Italian food at one of the best Italian restaurants in Saigon!
Address: District 1 & Thao Dien
Racha Room
The Racha Room boasts Thai-heavy Asian cuisine and an intimate and cozy interior, making it a great spot to celebrate your love with drinks or a romantic dinner.
Address: District 1 & Thao Dien
Octo Tapas Restobar
There’s something great about sharing small plates of food; it makes the entire dining experience more intimate and special. Spend your romantic date night at Octo to enjoy an impressive spread of Spanish dishes. Octo was one of the restaurants in Vietnam recognized by Michelin.
Address: 75 Ho Tung Mau, District 1
Maison des Rêves
Enjoy gourmet French and Vietnamese fusion dining in a casual and low-stress atmosphere.
Address: District 3
NP Bistro
Offers a culinary journey that satisfies both adventurous palates and those seeking familiar flavors with the goal of evoking happy memories
Address: Binh Thanh
Madame Lam
Enjoy modern Vietnamese cuisine with a creative twist in a relaxing, stylish setting. Discover their story here.
Address: Thao Dien
Quince Saigon
A Modern European fusion feast with sharing boards and an exciting open kitchen, perfect for foodie couples looking to wine and dine.
Address: District 1
Anan Saigon
For a romantic date with a touch of luxury, Anan Saigon is a Michelin-starred gem. Chef Peter Cuong Franklin’s fusion of modern cooking and traditional street food creates an unforgettable dining experience, perfect for a special evening in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
Address: District 1
Pickles Eatery
Step inside savor an eclectic meal that blends international flavors and local ingredients, all while seated in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Address: Binh Thanh
Something Unique: Romantic Ideas In Ho Chi Minh City
In the mood for something more original than coffee shops or restaurants? We have got you covered with these 5 fun activities to try with your significant other on your next date.
1. Take Dancing Classes
All kinds of couples’ dance lessons are available in Saigon. For example, Saigon Swing Cats in District 1 teaches Americana jazz dances like the Lindy Hop, the West Coast Swing, and the Shap. La Salsa in District 3, which is only open on weekends, teaches salsa and other Latin American dances. Not only will dance build your trust in one another, but the sensual dance moves will surely spice up your date night.
Addresses: 5 Le Duan, District 1 (Saigon Swing Cats); 212 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, District 3 (La Salsa)
2. Break Free Inside the Xscape Room
If both of you are in the mood for something more thrilling (and, at times, scary) than a traditional date night, put your brains to the test at Inside Xscape Room. An escape room is a great date idea anywhere, as it will get you two working together towards a common goal.
Xscape Room is located in Phu Nhuan District, a chic and vibrant area of the city. It has five themed rooms, most of which include live actors that will occasionally drop into the rooms during the games to help create a more vivid experience.
Address: 240 Nguyen Dinh Chin, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City
4. Go to the Saigon Opera House
If other types of performances are more up your alley, take your date to the Saigon Opera House for an acrobatic, ballet, live music, or orchestra show. The Opera House may just be the most elegant example of French Art Deco in the city, and just the building will create a romantic spark.
Address: 7 Lam Son, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
5. Take A Trip Down The Mekong Delta
This is a great way to see the country together while not venturing too far from Ho Chi Minh City.
Nothing is more romantic than cruising the Mekong Delta in a rowboat with your special someone. The lush green backdrop of provincial Vietnam is an excellent canvas for romance, and that’s especially true in the colorful and fancy-free atmosphere of the Mekong Delta region. Couples can book a guided trip to the Mekong Delta that will include excursions to floating markets, pagodas, and other colonial structures.
6. Unwind, Relax and Connect with a Luxurious Spa Date
Take time to unwind, kick back, and bond over a luxurious spa day in Ho Chi Minh City. The city is a spa paradise with options galore for couples—think jacuzzi dips, soothing massages, revitalizing facials, and sauna delights. Don’t miss out on the unique experience offered by Noir Spa in the Dark!
Discover our carefully curated list of Spa’s in Saigon here and treat yourselves to a well-deserved pampering session.
7. Sit By Turtle Lake
With a tower resembling a lotus, little fountains, and many fishes, Turtle Lake has become a hot spot where young adults hang out and buy banh mi from street food vendors while chatting. Come here to sit by the pond and stare into each other’s eyes while the city bustles around you.
The lake is located at the intersection of Vo Van Tan and Pham Ngoc Thach Streets in District 3.
8. Picnic At Vinhomes Central Park
Both locals and foreigners consider Vinhomes Central Park in Binh Thanh District to be one of the nicest parks in the whole of Ho Chi Minh City. With well-maintained lush green lawns and a huge Japanese Garden featuring zen ponds, it is a beautiful and peaceful spot for lovers.
Pack a picnic full of your date’s favorite foods, tea, coffee and perhaps even a bottle of Dalat wine. Looking for an even more laid-back experience? Buy some snacks at the convenience store and just enjoy each other’s time while sitting in the park!
Top Tips from Cupid in Vietnam
If you are looking for romantic nights out with your long-time partner or planning your first date with a new flame – we hope you have a pleasant, fun evening with the following tips:
- Bring a small surprise or gift.
- Take turns to treat each other.
- Treat waitstaff well.
- Be kind, keep an open mind & stay respectful.
- Book your reservation in advance – some of these restaurants get busy.
Happily Ever After
We hope this guide has given you at least a few ideas of where to take your loved one on a date night in Ho Chi Minh City! And after you go on your date here in Saigon, why not check out a few of Vietnam’s most romantic getaways? To learn more about history and culture, check out our Ho Chi Minh City tours here!
