Thanks to Italy’s prestige in gastronomy, there are a plethora of restaurants in Saigon serving up its delicious regional cuisine nowadays. Whilst many eateries have come and gone, Basilico restaurant, at the InterContinental Saigon, has proudly stood as a premiere destination for Italian cuisine lovers in Ho Chi Minh City for more than a decade.
The “Trattoria”
Launched in late 2011, Basilico first introduced Saigon foodies to the Italian concept of “Trattoria”. While some locals were already familiar with the term “Fine Dining”, as presented at various restaurants citywide, the principle of “Trattoria” was newly introduced to their diners as a fresh and homey approach to Italian food service. Characteristics like presenting comforting and homemade recipes, coupled with an array of colourful wine selections, plus offering a relaxed and unpretentious dining atmosphere, has since made “Trattoria” only second to “Pizzeria” (pizza house) in terms of its popularity in Saigon. Reflected through their congenial and approachable eatery, Basilico presents the very best Italian cuisine to their returning regulars and 1st time visitors, enjoyed throughout the day.
Prepared With Vietnamese Spirit
The most surprising fact about Basilico is that its Head Chef, Chef Binh, is a born Vietnamese, and not Italian as would be expected to lead the kitchen at such a renowned Italian eatery. He began his culinary career in 2002, and since 2006 has made mastering the art of Italian cuisine his life’s work and career passion. For the past 17 years, Chef Binh has successfully executed flavours which brilliantly reflect the zest of Italian classics, while simultaneously satisfying the discerning palates of his local Vietnamese customers through his wonderful food. It is common to find the term “authentic” when you look for good Italian restaurants online. But, as Chef Binh once stated “authenticity, like any luxury, loses its value once it is everywhere,” Basilico chose to honour Italian cuisine by “understanding its philosophy and making delectable treats out of it”.
Creating Memorable Dining Experiences
Between the broad selections available on the main menu, seasonal specials, and dishes developed specifically to pair with wine, Chef Binh has always tried to create eclectic menus for Basilico, reflecting the various wants and needs of their guests.
Keeping up with tradition, this July, Basilico introduced a new sharing menu, offering guests a generous plate in combination with another essential element of Italian cuisine, being wine. Named Gusto Divino (meaning “divine taste”), this new sharing menu for 2 is recommended for any intimate occasion like a romantic date night, an anniversary celebration, or simply a casual dinner with a friend.
Other dining options include their new à-la-carte menu, launched earlier this year, and their unique concept of “Night Brunch”, served every second Friday night. From antipasti (starters) to pizza, pasta, risotto, main courses, and dolci (desserts), guests will find a wide range of iconic Italian classics available for lunch or dinner on their à-la-carte menu. And be sure to bring a healthy appetite to Basilico’s “Night Brunch”, as it offers a virtual cornucopia of delectable delights which will surely satisfy your cravings for incredible Italian food.