JH's Date Spots Review

As the vibrant cityscape of Ho Chi Minh City basks in the post-winter formal glow, the air is tinged with the promise of new relationships and budding romances. For new couples, each date is a step in their journey together, a chance to explore, connect, and create memories. Drawing from the collective wisdom of seasoned dating veterans at SSIS, we've crafted a guide to the city's most enchanting date spots. From the intimate corners of quaint cafes to the lively ambiance of bustling restaurants, each spot is a backdrop to the unfolding story of a new romance.

Restaurants: Flavorful Foundations for Romance

Source: Trip advisor

Bandido Saigon - Tacos & Tequila

Average Price: ~300,000 VND per person

Address: 24bis Dong Du, Ben Nghe, District 1

Phone number: 0868 885 600

Imagine walking hand-in-hand into Bandido Saigon, where the vibrant atmosphere is as inviting as the warm smiles that greet you. This restaurant is a treasure trove for new couples, offering a lively yet intimate setting perfect for getting to know each other. The array of Mexican dishes, from the zesty Tacos Dorados De Tinga De Pollo to the rich and creamy guacamole, is ideal for couples who love to explore and share. The frozen margaritas, each a burst of flavor, offer a refreshing respite and a toast to new beginnings. Bandido is more than a dining experience; it's a place where laughter echoes, and connections deepen. Turn your typical date into a culinary adventure where you seek to explore new flavors and experiences with your partner.

“Good Mexican food, upstairs, in an alleyway, kind of in a funky downtown part of Saigon. Good food and good vibes” - Mr. Robidoux

Source: Vietnamdrive

Pho Dau

Average Price: ~120,000 VND per person

Address: 288 M1, D. Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ward 8, District 3

Phone number: 028 3846 5866

Pho Dau, with its rich history and traditional charm, offers a cozy backdrop for couples seeking a quiet, heartfelt meal. The pho, a symbol of Vietnamese culinary heritage, is a soul-warming dish perfect for sharing stories and dreams. Each bowl, with its clear, amber-hued broth and tender veal, is a taste of Saigon's past, making it an ideal spot for couples who appreciate the simplicity and depth of traditional flavors. Walk down a discreet alleyway, and you might see the humble setting that allows for undistracted conversation, making every bite an opportunity to bond and savor the moment.

“I like it cause I went with the person I liked, the food is also really good” - Annie Truong (Senior)

Thai Street

Average Price: ~300,000 VND per person

Address: 32 D. Tran Ngoc Dien, Thao Dien, District 2

Phone number: 028 6654 9525

For the couple seeking an exotic culinary adventure, Thai Street is a delightful choice. As you step in, the ambiance transports you to the vibrant streets of Thailand, with its rich aromas and lively music. The restaurant's decor, a blend of traditional and modern Thai elements, sets the stage for a romantic evening. The menu, offering both spicy and non-spicy options, caters to all palates, ensuring that every couple finds something to love. The attentive service adds to the experience, allowing you to focus on each other and the delicious journey of Thai flavors.

“It was kind of tucked away in a discreet location, and getting there was part of the fun. Once inside, the food and service were amazing, especially for a first date.” - JH Shin (Senior)

After the tantalizing tastes of these culinary havens, let's explore the city's creative heart through workshops where hands-on activities forge stronger bonds.

Workshops: Crafting Your Love Story

Source: Vietcetera

Hey Camel Ceramics

Price: 450,000 VND per person

Address: 331/8a D. Le Van Sy, Ward 13, District 3

Phone number : 0703 551 085

Hey Camel Ceramics is a sanctuary for creative souls. For the new couple, it's a place to discover each other's artistic sides and create something beautiful together. The workshop's intimate setting, under Leandro Marcelino's guidance, offers a unique opportunity to connect and communicate without words. As you shape clay into tangible expressions of your creativity, you're also building the foundation of your relationship, learning about each other's tastes, patience, and humor. It's a memorable experience, culminating in a keepsake that symbolizes the start of your shared journey.

Nokkaew Complex

Price: 499,000 VND per person

Address: 4/2 Phan Ke Binh, Da Kao Ward, District 1

Phone number: 0703 839 155

At Nokkaew Complex, the sweet aroma of baking fills the air, setting the scene for a delightful date. Baking together is not just about following a recipe; it's about teamwork, laughter, and occasional flour fights. The spacious and welcoming environment of the café is perfect for couples to relax and enjoy the process of creating and decorating cakes. This workshop is an opportunity to learn about each other's preferences and quirks, making it an ideal date for couples who love to share and indulge in sweet moments.

“I found this place online, and it was a cool spot to make and decorate cakes. They had all sorts of colors for us to mess with and it was a memory I really cherish.” - Han Phan (Senior)

Source: NOTE - The Scent Lab

NOTE - The Scent Lab

Price: 550,000 VND per person

Address: 34 D. Nguyen Duy Hieu, Thao Dien, Thu Duc

Phone number: 0896 490 038

For a date that appeals to the senses, NOTE - The Scent Lab is an enchanting choice. In this workshop, led by the talented Rei Nguyen, couples embark on an olfactory journey, creating their own signature scents. The process of selecting and blending fragrances is intimate and revealing, offering insights into each other's personalities and preferences. The minimalist and elegant design of the Lab adds to the serene experience, making it a perfect setting for couples to connect on a deeper, sensory level.

From the hands-on experiences of the workshops, let's meander into the calming ambiance of cafes, where quiet conversations and shared glances weave the tapestry of your growing bond.

Cafes: Quiet Corners for Intimate Conversations

Chidori Coffee In Bed

Average Price: 160,000 VND

Address: 134 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

Phone number: 0968 345 306

Chidori Coffee In Bed offers a unique, Japanese-inspired setting that's perfect for couples seeking a tranquil retreat. Imagine sipping coffee while lounging on a bed, surrounded by the minimalist elegance of Japanese decor. This cafe is a serene oasis in the heart of the bustling city, ideal for new couples looking to share quiet moments. The soft cushions and a selection of thoughtful books provide a comfortable, relaxed environment. It's a place where conversations can gently unfold, and connections deepen over shared cups of meticulously brewed coffee.

Source: Goldensea

Kujuz Coffee

Address: 5 Tran Quy Khoach, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1

Kujuz Coffee is a hidden gem that offers a unique experience right from the entrance. The cafe, with its locked gate and eclectic windows, creates an air of mystery and exclusivity. It's a perfect spot for couples who appreciate a sense of adventure and discovery. The vintage interior, reminiscent of a bygone era, sets a nostalgic backdrop for deep, meaningful conversations. Kujuz offers a tranquil haven from the outside world, where new couples can focus on each other, sharing stories and dreams in a space that feels like a secret world of their own.

Country House Cafe

Address: 18C Phan Van Tri, Ward 10, Go Vap District

Phone number: (08) 3921 2353

Stepping into Country House Cafe is like entering a whimsical European village. Its charming windmills, ancient castles, and lush gardens create a romantic and dreamy atmosphere. For new couples, this cafe is an enchanting escape that offers a variety of cozy nooks and crannies to explore together. The rustic tables and chairs, surrounded by the garden's natural beauty, provide a peaceful setting for couples to chat and connect. It's an idyllic spot for those early morning dates or late afternoon get-togethers, where the beauty of the surroundings mirrors the blossoming of a new relationship.

Source: The Highball Vietnam

CỘI Saigon

Address: 77-79 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1

Phone number: 0355 164 332

CỘI Saigon is a haven for couples who share a love for jazz and the timeless allure of the 1960s. The warm yellow lighting and classic interior evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication. Here, new couples can enjoy the intimate setting while savoring coffee or cocktails. The evenings come alive with live music, offering a rhythmic backdrop to conversations and shared moments. It's a space that blends the charm of a bygone era with the vibrancy of contemporary life, creating a unique setting for romantic and memorable dates.

From the soothing ambiance of cafes, let's step into the world of entertainment, where fun activities and playful adventures await to add a joyful chapter to your love story.

Entertainment: Joyful Escapes and Shared Laughs

Vincom Ice Rink

Price: 200k VND per person

Address: 208 D. Nguyen Huu Canh, Vinhomes Tan Cang, Binh Thanh

Phone number: 0981 139 105

For couples looking to add a dash of excitement to their date, Vincom Ice Rink offers a fun and energetic experience. Skating side by side, hand in hand can be both exhilarating and humorous, especially for beginners. It's an opportunity for new couples to support and encourage each other, sharing laughs and occasional stumbles. The cool, refreshing environment of the rink makes it a delightful contrast to the city's warmth, providing a lively setting for an unforgettable date.

PHOTOTIME

Price: 100k VND per person

Address: 101 D Ton Dat Tien, Tan Phu, District 7

Phone number: 036 935 7270

At PHOTOTIME, capture the joy and spontaneity of your new relationship in a fun and creative way. This Korean-style photo booth offers a range of costumes and colorful frames, allowing couples to express their personalities and create lasting memories. It's a playful and light-hearted date idea, perfect for those moments when you want to immortalize your budding romance in a series of charming snapshots.

“It captures the first memory of us together, and its a really cute scene to always remember.” - Rachel Nguyen (Senior)

Source: CATFE facebook

CATFE

Price: 89,000 VND per person

Address: 119 D. Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1

Phone number: 0936 908 590

CATFE is a dreamy destination for animal-loving couples. This cozy cafe, filled with playful cats, offers a unique and relaxing environment. You can spend hours chatting, playing with the felines, and enjoying a range of snacks and drinks. The laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for casual, comfortable dates where you can both be yourselves and enjoy the simple pleasures of companionship and cuddly cats.

In the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh, every corner holds a promise of discovery, and every venue is an opportunity to nurture a new relationship. Whether it's through the shared enjoyment of a meal, the collaborative creativity of a workshop, the quiet intimacy of a cafe, or the joyful laughter at an entertainment spot, these places offer a canvas for your emerging love story. As you explore these destinations, let them not just be places you visit, but memories you create, stories you tell, and the beginning of a journey you embark on together.