BARSON has officially wrapped up Chapter 4 of its acclaimed series “Nights of the Best”, closing the year with a remarkable highlight for the festive season. Continuing the momentum of previous chapters, BARSON once again brought global craftsmanship to Saigon’s cocktail community, this time through the presence of 夜香木 Yakoboku – the celebrated bar from Kumamoto, Japan, ranked Top 25 Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2025.
Kento Kamiguchi – Head Bartender of Yakoboku
A Night-Fragrance Experience Recreated In Saigon
During two special guest shift nights on 12 & 13 December, BARSON transformed into the world of “night fragrance,” the signature essence of Yakoboku. Nestled inside a 150-year-old wooden house in Kumamoto, Yakoboku draws inspiration from the night-blooming jasmine, embracing a philosophy of minimalism and aromatic depth. This spirit was faithfully brought to life at BARSON, expressed through cocktails that revealed delicate layers, quiet complexity, and sensory storytelling.
Kento Kamiguchi – Head Bartender of Yakoboku
Kento Kamiguchi – The Subtle Power Of Japanese Craft
Leading the two-night experience was Kento Kamiguchi, Head Bartender of Yakoboku and Top 10 Diageo World Class Japan 2024. Renowned for his precise flavor control and nuanced use of local ingredients, Kento introduced creations that embodied Yakoboku’s essence: understated, aromatic, and deeply evocative.
Guests praised the refined expressions of scent and flavor, the harmony of each layer, and the intimate, immersive atmosphere that BARSON is known for.
Guests enjoy cocktails made by Kento Kamiguchi at BARSON
Four Chapters, Four Distinct Global Perspectives
Chapter 4 not only brought Yakoboku closer to cocktail enthusiasts in Vietnam but also reaffirmed BARSON’s position as an international meeting point for mixology artistry. Preceding Yakoboku, the series had introduced three influential names from Asia and beyond:
Chapter 1: Hope & Sesame Guangzhou – where Cantonese culture meets contemporary techniques.
Chapter 2: Alice Cheongdam – a modern Korean icon known for its narrative-driven approach.
Chapter 3: Punch Room – a refined exploration of classic and contemporary punch expressions.
Micky and Miller from Hope & Sesame Guangzhou at BARSON
With Yakoboku as Chapter 4, BARSON adds a new tone to the tapestry: minimalist, introspective, and subtly enchanting – much like the jasmine that blooms only at night. “Nights of the Best” will continue with future chapters, bringing more world-class names to Saigon – where every encounter becomes a night of excellence.