As the summer season approaches, there’s no better time to reconnect with friends and loved ones over exceptional drinks and unforgettable atmospheres. Whether you’re seeking intimate corners for romantic rendezvous, lively spaces to toast with friends, or luxurious lounges to indulge in creative cocktails, Vietnam’s vibrant bar scene has something for every occasion. From whisky havens and steampunk-inspired escapes to izakayas buzzing with energy, these standout venues promise to make your celebrations truly memorable.
Ministry Of Men
Located within the community-oriented Sofitel Saigon Plaza at 17 Le Duan, Ministry Of Men redefines the classic gentleman’s club with a modern and inclusive twist. Adorned with theatrical red curtains and Chesterfield sofas, the bar evokes old-world charm while welcoming guests of all genders. Portraits of luminaries, from Queen Elizabeth to Muhammad Ali, line the walls, reflecting the venue’s eclectic ethos. The talented team, led by Kata Simon, 2023’s B.A.R. Awards Bar Icon of the Year, delivers exceptional service and drinks that match the space’s refined atmosphere. The bar’s allure extends to Hanoi, where a sister venue is making waves under Kata’s leadership. Whether enjoying a classic cocktail or a contemporary creation, Ministry Of Men offers a luxurious yet approachable experience.
Address: Sofitel Saigon Plaza, Level 3, 17 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC, Vietnam. Tel: 1800 2280.
The Enigma Mansion
After a brief hiatus punctuated by guest shifts from notable regional talents like Nighthawk Singapore and Bacardi Legacy Winner Pok Praphakorn, The Enigma Mansion reopens with a bold new identity. Shedding its previous neo-Tokyo, space library theme, the bar now embraces a timeless aesthetic with exposed brick walls, inviting upstairs booths, and intimate anterooms. Co-founder Vu Ngoc, alongside bartenders Thong Hoai and Loan, add a splash of style in tailored salmon-toned uniforms. Above them, a dramatic phoenix sculpture symbolises the venue’s rebirth. Guests can expect an intriguing cocktail menu balancing experimental creations with refined classics, accompanied by a revolving line-up of guest bartenders from both local and international scenes. The Enigma Mansion is not just a bar—it’s a hub for creativity, collaboration, and an ever-evolving drinking experience.
Address: 5H Ton Duc Thang, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC, Vietnam. Tel: +84 867 497 455.
Nhau Nhau
Perched above Anan Restaurant on Ton That Dam Street, Nhau Nhau combines retro Saigon charm with adventurous mixology. Designed by Sean Dix, the space is a visual homage to Vietnam’s rock and soul era, featuring jade tiles and a nostalgic playlist. Chef Peter Cuong Franklin and bartender Finn push boundaries with locally inspired offerings like the Phở Cocktail, garnished with a smoking cinnamon stick, and the bold coconut worm shot, topped with caramelised worms. For those less daring, the Tamarind Whisky Sour offers a more approachable yet equally creative option. Nhau Nhau is a celebration of innovation, local flavours, and playful experimentation.
Address: 2F, 89 Ton That Dam, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, HCMC, Vietnam. Tel: +84 904 792 920.
The Haflington
In Hanoi’s bustling heart, The Haflington combines the sophistication of a European museum with whimsical design. A suspended dinosaur skeleton greets guests as they enter, setting the tone for the bar’s quirky yet elegant aesthetic. The two-storey venue features fossil displays, leather seating, and warm wood accents, creating a comfortable yet captivating ambiance. The Jungle Book-themed menu takes patrons on a journey through both classic and original cocktails, such as the Rabbit Habit, a blend of mezcal, carrot juice, and cinnamon syrup. Whether you’re savouring a drink or exploring the décor, The Haflington promises a memorable evening.
Address: 94 Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam. Tel: +84 879 499 094.
