Nhà Tú - Việt Nam Restaurant — Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re seeking an authentic Vietnamese dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, Nhà Tú is a hidden gem that should not be missed. Tucked approximately 50 feet into an alley off Vo Van Tan Street in District 3, this charming restaurant offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

A Warm Welcome and Memorable Encounter

From the moment we stepped into Nhà Tú, we were enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The staff greeted us with genuine smiles and attentiveness, setting the tone for an exceptional dining experience. What made our visit even more special was meeting the owner herself. Her passion for Vietnamese cuisine and dedication to providing a homely ambiance were evident as she shared stories about the dishes and the inspiration behind the restaurant. We were delighted to take a photo with her, capturing a memory that added a personal touch to our visit.

Culinary Delights

Nhà Tú’s menu is a celebration of traditional Vietnamese home-style cooking. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and a deep understanding of flavor balance. We indulged in a variety of dishes, each more delectable than the last. The steamed snails stuffed with minced pork were a standout, offering a harmonious blend of umami and lemongrass fragrance . The mixed vegetables dressed in a fish sauce reduction with pork crackling provided a delightful crunch and savory depth . These dishes, among others, showcased the chef’s skill in bringing out authentic flavors that resonate with comfort and nostalgia.

Ambiance and Setting

The restaurant’s setting is as captivating as its cuisine. Housed in a three-level building, Nhà Tú offers various seating options to suit different preferences. The ground floor features traditional wooden furniture and soft lighting, creating a cozy dining environment. Ascending to the upper levels, guests can enjoy the rooftop terrace adorned with lush greenery, providing a tranquil space to dine under the stars . This rooftop area is particularly popular in the evenings, offering a refreshing breeze and a peaceful retreat from the city’s energy.

Location and Accessibility

While Nhà Tú is situated off the main road, its location adds to its charm. The short walk into the alley leads you to a culinary haven that feels like a well-kept secret. This hidden aspect enhances the dining experience, making it feel exclusive and intimate. Despite its tucked-away location, the restaurant is easily accessible and well worth the visit.

Service Excellence

The service at Nhà Tú is exemplary. The staff’s attentiveness and knowledge about the menu contribute significantly to the overall experience. They are eager to recommend dishes and share insights into the ingredients and preparation methods, enriching our understanding and appreciation of Vietnamese cuisine. Their genuine hospitality made us feel like honored guests in a family home.

A Culinary Experience to Remember

Our visit to Nhà Tú was more than just a meal; it was a journey into the heart of Vietnamese culture and hospitality. The combination of exquisite food, inviting ambiance, and heartfelt service creates an experience that lingers long after the last bite. Meeting the owner and capturing that moment added a personal connection that elevated our dining experience. For anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City, a meal at Nhà Tú is an opportunity to savor authentic Vietnamese flavors in a setting that feels both special and familiar.

In summary, Nhà Tú stands out as a beacon of traditional Vietnamese culinary excellence. Its hidden location, exceptional service, and delectable dishes make it a must-visit for both locals and travelers seeking an authentic and memorable...

It's so sad that I only found this wonderful restaurant at the end of my 60 days in Saigon. I seldom find a menu that showcases as many items that I would like to try. I came for lunch yesterday and was so impressed, I have returned for lunch again today even though it's a long walk from my hotel. Yesterday, I sat inside. Today, I took one of the two outdoor tables. The food is simply presented but packed full of subtle flavours. Yesterday, I started with the fried spring rolls that were satisfyingly crisp to bite into. These came with a dipping sauce, sliced raw chillies, and delicious fresh herbs. I followed this with a baby clam and morning glory broth. After two months of eating pho bo tei each day, initially, I found it a bit bland, but soon my pallet adjusted to the delicate taste. The sweet baby clams reminded me of my youth. I grew up on the Gower coast in South Wales, and as children, we would collect such morsels when the tide changed. Today, I have opted to start with Banh Khot, the bite-sized version of its big brother, Banh Xeo (which I also love). Today's main course will be mackerel cooked with tamarind. Oh, my mouth is already watering. I had Google searched where to eat clams in Ho Chi Minh and had no idea that Nha Tu had been awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand. The Michelin guide inspectors certainly nailed this one. It is a true star among a city of thousands of fabulous restaurants. I have eaten a lot of banh khot over the years on my many visits to Vietnam. Now I know they were inferior to what just arrived at my table. The turmeric and coconut batter was beautifully crispy on the bottom, with a slightly gooey centre, each disc crowned with a fresh prawn. What can I say about my mackerel, Wow! Simply wow! A generous traunche of fish, lovingly cooked and presented with a taste suitable for gods. Tip: Take the optional steamed rice. It really rounded out the dish. I score this restaurant a solid 10 out of 10. I can't remember the last time I was...

The best we had in Ho Chi Minh. Comfortable, delicate, and clean.

In Taoyuan, Taiwan, there are many Vietnamese restaurants. The ones we’ve tried before tend to leave a strong first impression, like Vietnamese pancakes that have an intense buttery flavor from the first bite. While delicious at first, it becomes overwhelming by the fifth bite. However, Nha Tu’s dishes are refined and smooth, allowing you to enjoy every bite from start to finish. It feels like having a meal at home.

Every dish was handled with precision. The chili sauce for the mussels was mild and soothing, leaving us feeling comfortable even the next day. It’s a shame that with only two of us, we couldn’t order more dishes—otherwise, we would have loved to try the oyster hotpot.

We were walk-in customers and arrived just after 5:00 PM. Within 10 minutes of our arrival, there were already customers hoping for a last-minute table, and the next available slot was after 10:00 PM. We were very lucky.

However, we noticed a reserved table next to us for guests who were maybe supposed to arrive around 6:30 PM or 7:00 PM. By the time we left, they still hadn’t shown up. It was unfortunate that the restaurant had to turn away several walk-in customers because of this. Perhaps if the reservation slots were set at 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, and 8:00 PM, instead of 6:30 PM, 7:00 PM, and 7:30 PM, it might help manage table turnover more efficiently. This way, you could potentially accommodate 2-3 rounds of guests in one evening. Just a small suggestion—I’m not sure if it’s helpful.

I hope we can...