My Culinary Adventure: Unveiling the Best French Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City

As an American backpacker who's spent years exploring Asia's vibrant cities, I'm always on the hunt for unique culinary experiences. This time, my journey took me to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, a place where French colonial influences blend seamlessly with the local culture. My mission? To uncover the best French restaurants in the city, spanning a range of budgets from budget-friendly to upscale. So, join me as I share my delicious discoveries!

A Hidden Gem in a Historic District

My first stop was a charming French restaurant tucked away in an unassuming alley, a former opium factory district. The restaurant's name pays homage to this unique history. The tranquil ambiance of the outdoor seating area offered a welcome respite from the city's hustle and bustle. Inside, the décor exuded classic French elegance. Although they offer a weekday business lunch menu, I visited on a weekend and opted for the à la carte menu. A delightful surprise was the chocolate fountain, perfect for dipping strawberries and mini waffles - a sweet ending to a savory meal.

I started with the pan-seared foie gras served with steak, adorned with what appeared to be shredded cucumber or perhaps tuna. The foie gras was melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The steak, unfortunately, was a bit overcooked for my liking. I also sampled the Boeuf Bourguignon, a French classic. The beef, incredibly tender, melted in my mouth. The duck confit was equally impressive, falling apart effortlessly, accompanied by a rich red wine sauce that perfectly complemented the tender meat. Lastly, the squid ink risotto with a perfectly seared scallop was a delight. While similar to versions I've had elsewhere, the overall dish was well-executed.

A Warm Embrace in District 2

My next culinary adventure took me to District 2, where a cozy French restaurant awaited. Despite its unpretentious exterior, the restaurant offered a warm and inviting dining experience.

I began with the steak tartare, which was exceptional. The olive oil enhanced the natural sweetness of the beef, and the absence of any gaminess made it a standout dish. The tuna tartare was equally delightful, boasting fresh flavors and the fragrant aroma of olive oil. The addition of scallions, ginger, and garlic added a unique twist. The accompanying egg yolk, however, was a bit underwhelming compared to the vibrant flavors of the tartares.

Next, I tried the roasted chicken with mushroom sauce. The rich, creamy sauce was divine, and while the chicken appeared dry, it was surprisingly juicy. The accompanying ratatouille was bursting with the flavors of tomato, bell peppers, and herbs – a true culinary masterpiece. The steak, cooked to a perfect medium-rare, was enhanced by a flavorful mushroom or onion sauce. It was so good I wished I had ordered two! The chef's special, a mix of quinoa, farro, chickpeas, and a unique sausage, was an intriguing dish. Initially mistaken for goose, the sausage turned out to be a flavorful salami. The chicken skewers were simple but satisfying, and the refreshing vegetable soup was a light and flavorful addition to the meal.

A Garden Paradise in District 1

My final destination was "Le Jardin," a French restaurant nestled in a lush garden setting in District 1. The name, meaning "garden" in French, perfectly captures the restaurant's ambiance. Despite its lack of reviews on Google Maps, don't doubt its existence! Unfortunately, the escargots were sold out, a testament to their popularity. Instead, I opted for the snails, which were swimming in a garlicky, buttery sauce – a must-try for garlic lovers.

The duck leg, crispy and tender, was another highlight. As a self-proclaimed duck breast aficionado, I was thoroughly impressed by their rendition. The seared skin was crispy and flavorful, while the meat remained juicy and tender. Finally, the mussels, prepared with a white wine sauce, were simply divine. The sauce, paired with crusty French bread, was the perfect accompaniment to the fresh, flavorful mussels. I couldn't resist sopping up every last drop of the delicious broth.

This restaurant offered remarkable value, serving authentic French cuisine at reasonable prices. It's no wonder it's a favorite among locals and expats alike.