Broma Not a Bar
Chill Skybar
The Iron Bank – Cocktail Vault
Rum Bar
The Gin House
Firkin Bar
The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen
Malt Saigon Bar (Pub)
Rabbit Hole
Indika Saigon
Carmen Bar

Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated happy hour or casual spot to grab a beer, Ho Chi Minh City has it all. Nightlife in this bustling city is just as exciting as its daytime activities, with somewhere to grab a drink for every mood. Moreover, in addition to the area’s nightclub scene, many venues also have themed promotions and live music on certain days.

Tourists and ex-pats love exploring this side of HCMC, as many know that food and drink choices are crucial to discovering a deeper connection to the area’s culture. Compared to many other parts of the world, alcoholic beverages are very affordable around Vietnam, making it an easy choice to sample the city’s finest watering holes.

Here are the top bars that Saigon has to offer in no particular order. Cheers!

Broma Not a Bar

Broma Not a Bar. Photo: Broma Not a Bar

Despite its name, Broma Not a Bar is very much a bar and one of the most popular in Saigon. A hopping evening destination in HCMC for several years, Broma Not a Bar offers some of the best entertainment, mixed drinks, and craft beers around. Boasting a two-story rooftop setup, there is plenty of space for socializing. Moreover, there’s an in-ground fluorescent fish tank that gets a lot of attention.

With live music several days a week, guests at Broma Not a Bar can bust a move on the dance floor, lounge about, or enjoy the funky decor that compliments the venue’s overall chill atmosphere. Adventurous drinkers can try a custom-made cocktail whipped up at a moment’s notice by the talented barkeep staff. Conveniently located, this is undoubtedly one of the town’s must-visit hotspots.

41 District, 41 Nguyễn Huệ, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

Chill Skybar

Chill Skybar. Photo: Chill Skybar

Located on the 26th floor of the AB Tower, Chill Skybar is the pioneer of the skybar concept in Vietnam. Not only is this bar one of the most impressive in the city but also doubles as one of Saigon’s most popular nightclubs. At the rooftop bar, several carefully designed cocktails, impressive beer options, wine, and champagne selections are served while customers take in the panoramic views of the city.

Their famous lit-up bar is the venue’s centerpiece, along with the rest of the modern tables and chairs. While traditional full meals aren’t served here, they do have a variety of snacks and bites. However, people who want to get a more extensive dinner can head inside to the dining club. It’s best to visit the Chill Skybar as early as possible to get a good seat and beat the crowds to get inside.

Keep in mind that there is a dress code; as stated in their motto, they like guests to “dress to impress.”

AB Tower, Tầng 26, 76A Lê Lai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 93 882 28 38

The Iron Bank – Cocktail Vault

The Iron Bank – Cocktail Vault. Photo: The Iron Bank – Cocktail Vault

Boasting medieval decor and candle-lit walls, the Iron Bank – Cocktail Vault is a cozy establishment set inside an old apartment building. While the floor space isn’t too ample, bartenders have an extensive spirit selection to create some fantastic signature cocktails.

Choose from “New Money” or “Old Money” cocktails, or even request a custom drink if you’re feeling spunky and ready for anything. The atmosphere is incredibly relaxing, and thanks to all the interior decor, this is the perfect watering hole for unwinding and forgetting about the chaos of the world.

47 Tôn Thất Đạm, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 899 467 900

Rum Bar

For a really authentic Saigonese drinking experience, find the Rum Bar in District 1. While there isn’t a lot of signage or bells and whistles to this place, it’s been open for decades and hasn’t changed much since the day it started serving their family-owned and made rum. Created by the current owner’s mother in the 1970s, Rum Bar continues to be a popular gathering place for locals and tourists.

Don’t expect to find a fancy bar or seating area, as most people enjoy the house rum outside on plastic stools around a small table. There are some bar bites like chicken wings and fried intestines to snack on, but nothing much more than that. Situated in a prime location for bar hopping, Rum Bar is rather inexpensive and a great place to interact with locals.

19 Cong trinh lien doanh, Mạc Thị Bưởi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh

The Gin House

The Gin House. Photo: The Gin House

Gin-lovers in HCMC have a place to go, as many enthusiasts of this spirit gravitate towards The Gin House for some unique cocktails and excellent prices. The menu includes many unusual mixtures, such as their Bahn Minh cocktail made with blue cheese, passion fruit, and gin.

Set right in District 1, this fantastic little hidden gem of a bar has an incredibly cozy vibe that welcomes locals and tourists. After 10 pm, some nights have live music playing right in the central area, making it an even more intriguing place to stop for a few drinks.

28/3A Đường Tôn Thất Tùng, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 90 889 36 60

Firkin Bar

Firkin Bar. Photo: Firkin Bar

Dimly lit and classy, the Firkin Bar in District 1 is a must-do for hard liquor enthusiasts that enjoy sipping in an upscale, sophisticated environment. This establishment has a spectacular whiskey collection with helpful bartenders who know how to throw together a cocktail that your tastebuds will remember.

Despite the dark, moody tones of the interior, the inside is a cozy place to relax and sip while chatting with others. The bar also sells an assortment of cigars and provides an outdoor terrace for those who wish to smoke them while drinking.

20 Mạc Thị Bưởi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000 | +84 93 131 27 23

The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen

The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen. Photo: The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen

Just as it’s named, this classic cocktail bar with a New York-style speakeasy vibe is located down a small path of Pasteur Street. Inside, you’ll find a small split-level area with the bar on the bottom floor, providing plenty of space to mingle and sip. Boasting an impressive selection of liquor, cocktails are combined with local ingredients to create delicious, southern Vietnamese-inspired drinks.

The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen‘s modern design includes fixtures made from industrial materials, and their tempting menu of small plates is divine. While happy hour specials are 50% off until 8 pm, make sure to stick around for the live music in the evening.

63/1 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 93 565 39 69

Malt Saigon Bar (Pub)

Malt Saigon Bar (Pub). Photo: Malt

For a casual night on the town, head to Malt Saigon Bar, which is actually more of an American-style gastropub. Attracting ex-pats and tourists, Malt serves up craft beers, single malt whiskey drinks, cocktails, and tasty home-style pub food like Reuben sandwiches and garlic truffle fries.

There’s always something to do at Malt, as this laid-back establishment offers classic bar amenities including darts and shuffleboards, sometimes even putting on tournaments. Additionally, they also host live music and have special events like a chili cook-off and trivia nights. With a soothing environment and District 1 location, this bar is the ideal place to unwind after a busy day.

46 Mạc Thị Bưởi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 93 875 40 08

Snuffbox

Snuffbox. Photo: Snuffbox

Step back into the 1920s with a visit to Snuffbox, an elegant and themed speakeasy tucked away in a hidden space within District 1. Despite the unassuming exterior, the moment you step inside the bar, you’ll feel as if you’re celebrating the end of prohibition. Promo nights happen on particular days of the week, and there is never a charge to go inside.

Live music happens on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, providing a nice background ambiance between the sounds of sizzles and shakes. The menus at Snuffbox are attractive on their own, as they are rotated based on the time of day. Tuesdays offer a special ladies-only menu of cocktails, while Thursdays feature specially designed bespoke drinks.

If you’re staying in Saigon for an extended period, check out their VIP membership packages for perks and access to invite-only parties.

14 Tôn Thất Đạm, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 94 170 18 88

Rabbit Hole

Rabbit Hole. Photo: Rabbit Hole

Head to Rabbit Hole to experience this fun underground watering hole in Saigon’s District 1. Renovated in 2018, the bar is styled to resemble an American-style speakeasy. With dimmed lights and a featured L-shaped counter, this moody bar provides elegant mixology options ranging from traditional drinks to more adventurous ones.

If you don’t want to sit at the bar, a lounge with plush and retro furniture provides a good place to sit and socialize.

Don’t forget to try their signature “Mad Hatter” cocktail on your next stop-in, which was crafted as a play on connecting their bar name to Alice in Wonderland. With daily promos and live jazz music on Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday evenings, Rabbit Hole is a great place to enjoy a fancy cocktail and unwind.

138 Đ. Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000 | +84 28 3823 4896

Indika Saigon

Indika Saigon Bar. Photo: Indika Saigon

Indika Saigon, also known as “The House of Curiosity,” is a trendy place for locals, tourists, and ex-pats that enjoy a temporary escape from daily life. This beautiful property is set up in an old French house at the back of a tiny alley, but its rustic decor and environment only add to its charm.

Dine or drink outside under the trees in its courtyard, or hang out inside between the ancient and attractive stone walls. Not only are the cocktails and beer served here top-notch, but they serve incredible meal options, like their woodfire pizzas.

Aside from alcohol, drink options at this establishment include fresh juices and coffee. Refer to their website or social media to learn about their weekly promos and events, which often have trivia nights and live music. The evening hours are geared more towards drinks and entertainment, so it’s best to go early if you’re hoping to eat before you drink.

43 Nguyễn Văn Giai, Đa Kao, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 710359

Carmen Bar

Carmen Bar. Photo: Carmen Bar

If you’re craving South American-inspired tropical drinks and Latin music, head to Carmen Bar. Housing both a full-scale restaurant and bar, the two areas are separate and operate independently. Designed with fun, dazzling decor, the Flamenco music flows through Carmen Bar and is excellent at getting people to let loose on the dance floor.

The rough and ready exterior is complemented by a romantic, dimly lit inside area with a lively ambiance and tasteful furniture.

8 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh | +84 90 361 85 77

Ho Chi Minh City is not lacking in the bar scene and caters to drinkers of all styles. The next time you’re craving a perfectly crafted cocktail, freshly brewed beer, or just a relaxing good time, visit one of these choices for a fantastic time out. And if you’re looking specifically for rooftop bars in HCMC, there are plenty of options to choose from!

Đăng bởi: Khương Nguyễn