East Restaurant by Ngo Thanh Hoa

What reviewers say

Excerpts from public Google reviews. They are the reviewers’ opinions, not ours, and we have not verified them.

• ★ 53 weeks ago

  Dining at East by Chef Ngô Thanh Hòa was one of the highlights of our trip. We chose the prix fixe menu, and every single dish was exceptional. Each course burst with familiar Vietnamese flavors while presenting them in a completely new and unexpected way. Every bite hit all the right notes; sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami in perfect balance. I don’t know how Chef Thanh Hòa does it, but he has an incredible talent for transforming nostalgic flavors into innovative, modern creations without losing their soul. Every dish was beautifully plated, and it felt like each one told a story; reflecting Chef Thanh Hòa’s culinary journey and his vision of blending tradition with contemporary techniques. The presentation was artistic, but never at the expense of flavor. One of the most memorable parts of the evening was having the opportunity to chat with Chef Thanh Hòa himself. We had such a warm, engaging conversation, and his passion for Vietnamese cuisine was evident in every word. It made an already wonderful meal even more meaningful. From the impeccable service to the elegant ambiance, East is the perfect setting for a special date night or any occasion worth celebrating. If you’re looking to experience Vietnamese ingredients and flavors reimagined in a thoughtful, creative, and delicious way, I can’t recommend East highly enough. It’s a dining experience that stays with you long after the last course.

• ★ 5a month ago

  I visited for a work dinner on a Monday evening, having made a reservation a few days in advance. The food was the standout of the night; exceptional, though that came as no surprise given the restaurant’s reputation. The cocktails were equally impressive, beautifully crafted and full of flavour. What truly elevated the experience was the service. The staff were attentive, welcoming, and always happy to assist with anything we needed. Combined with the warm ambience, it created a relaxed yet refined dining atmosphere. To top it all off, the chef took the time to come and chat with our table, which added a personal touch and made the evening even more memorable. Overall, I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking an impressive dining experience and outstanding modern Vietnamese cuisine.

• ★ 5a month ago

  We enjoyed a truly special evening here. Among the various Michelin-starred restaurants we tried in Saigon, East was a cut above the rest. The 6-course menu was crafted as a reflection of the Chef’s life, he personally explained how his childhood in the fishing village Cá Nà inspired the Hamachi Crudo. It was delicate, melt-in-your-mouth, plated in a creamy chilli sauce & embellished with hand-picked flower petals. Another stand-out was the Australian Wagyu, inspired by the Chef’s years in Sydney. It was paired with a unique Rendang-style sauce, celebrating his Indonesian influences. The mash was also made from local lotus seeds, keeping with the theme of local-first ingredients. It was my first time trying such a combination, very creative and exquisitely executed. The dessert was a lovely chocolate fondant cake made with local Marou chocolate beans, finished with a coconut ice cream and adorned with more beautiful flowers. Overall it was a very tasteful and thoughtfully executed menu, you can tell he’s a chef who loves his craft. We had such a wonderful time chatting with the Chef about his culinary journey & he gave us a long list of his personal favourite Saigon eateries too— very grateful! Would recommend everyone visit East once in your life, truly worth a special trip.

• ★ 52 months ago

  We dined in East Restaurant by Ngo Thanh Hoa this evening. From the moment we entered the restaurant we were welcomed by Chef Ngo and looked after so well by all the team. Chef Ngo chatted with us and explained the menu, flavours and overall concept of his ‘hừng đông’ tasting menu. Every single course was incredible with amazing flavours and great variety from fish to meat to vegetarian courses. Chef Ngo does a brilliant job of bringing a modern Vietnamese style menu to life. I couldn’t recommend East Restaurant more. It is Michelin standard food and service at a very affordable price point. Thank you to Chef Ngo and all the team!

• ★ 5a month ago

  My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed the complete dining experience at East. From the decor, hospitality service, to dishes served. Each plate was meticulous crafted to showcase Vietnamese flavors in a new, elevated way. I was very surprised when my wife, who hails from Huế, with the most difficult palate, had no negative things to say. Only that everything was delightful, interesting, and enjoyable to eat. She said the duck was the best cut she’s ever had. The only regret we have is not taking a photo with. Chef Ngo Thanh Hoa before departing. He came out to chat with us for a short time. You’ll quickly find he is sharp, passionate, and high energy. Precisely what you’ll find in his dishes.

• ★ 55 months ago

  Our first time visiting East and we left feeling that we will visit it again. Gotten the Doan Vien set dinner and I must say it was meaningful curated with a huge effort towards blending culture and taste. I guess it's a signature style of Chef Ngo. We've also had the opportunity to interact with Chef Ngo and his energetic demeanour pretty much sums up the style and vision he has for the restaurant. Price is affordable for a fine dining setting. Started with an amazing welcome drink and some starters and the dishes were well paced when served. The lady serving us on level 3 (facing the road) was extremely patient and made a conscientious effort to explain dish by dish to us in both Vietnamese and English.

• ★ 55 months ago

  Wow, speechless. Had such an incredible meal at east - i consider myself a foodie and this is one of the best restaurants I’ve tried in the world, even better than some Michelin starred restaurants! Very interesting blend of oriental flavours mixed with western influences. Service was amazing too, the staff were very polite and helpful. We also had the chance to speak to Chef Ngo, who was so nice and friendly! Thank you very much to Chef Ngo and his team for letting us have such a wonderful meal. Highly recommend to anyone ever in Saigon, you have to check this restaurant out!

• ★ 53 months ago

  Celebrated friends birthday whilst holidaying in VN and was recommended this restaurant. Hidden fine dining experience! Should be a Michellin level destination. Chef Hoa know how to cook and take you on a food journey blending east and west flavours. Food is amazing and not one dish could be faulted.