Tiger Tales

Ho Chi Minh City

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September 2011 | Words HENNO KOTZÉ

• INSIDER TIP

  coffee varieties

  Vietnamese coffee varieties are graded on strength, with 8 being the strongest. A No 8 coffee is called café chon after the weasel-like animal that only eats the coffee fruit.

• SHOP TALK

  Dogma Vietnam

  Dogma Vietnam is a street-style gallery featuring fashion items, posters, patches and mouse pads all decked out in bright propaganda slogans.

• CHEAP EATS

  Sen Quan Chay

  Vegetarian eatery Sen Quan Chay has the feel of a Buddhist retreat with its no-footwear policy and Zen garden decorations. Offerings include lemongrass tofu clay pot.

• TOP TABLES

  Hoa Tuc

  Situated in part of an old opium factory, Hoa Tuc dresses up street stall specialities like bun thit nuong (vermicelli noodles with grilled pork) in suit and tie. The young rice ice-cream is a must-try.

• AT YOUR LEISURE

  Up Café

  The eccentric Up Café is inverted so it feels like you’re sipping your coffee while perched on the ceiling. Be brave and take a seat under the suspended – and upended – baby grand piano.

• LATE & LIVELY

  Acoustic Bar

  Typically packed, Acoustic Bar is home to some of the best acoustic sets the city has to offer. Regular open-mic nights let you live out your rock-star fantasies.

• OVERNIGHT

  Ma Maison

  Nestled in the heart of a working-class Vietnamese neighbourhood, Ma Maison affords guests a glimpse into the everyday lives of area residents. This boutique inn has a French countryside feel and fantastic art displays.