The Joi Factory (Vegetarian Café Restaurant) — Restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City

Food I had the recommended com tam, and I wasn't aware this place was fully meatless, this wasn't obvious for this dish as it didn't either list the ingredients or that it's vegetarian or vegan. Other dishes this was mentioned. While I'm open to good vegan and vegetarian food, this was a surprise and would have probably chosen something else if I knew. The meat replacement was of course something that seems soy based, and also deep fried and light crispy with a mostly oil flavour and not much else. Didn't like that much other than the crispiness. Included were more deep fried small bits that looked like croutons and fried garlic or something thin sliced veggie. It was too oily, so didn't eat more than two bites. The dish included some of the typical Vietnamese pickled veggies which was highly needed with the deep fried stuff. The egg meatloaf, that of course is vegan, was good with noodles and veggies. The soup was lukewarm, but taste nice with veggies and especially the mushrooms. The broken rice was well cooked, not dry or mooshy and was nicely garnished for decoration.

Service Order at the front desk and got a glass with my number, drinks and food were served to me pretty fast so all good.

Atmosphere While cozy with cute jazzy music, I feel the setup and lighting is more aimed towards the night with life music and drinking. Because for me as a day time place for coffee, tea and lunch it's too dark. The lights are covered with cloth and there aren't too many windows of which 2 are also quite shaded by plants or trees. Only one high table in the corner and the shared table next to the front desk seem nice and light. I haven't needed mosquito spray anywhere in Saigon the last 3 weeks, but it seems in here I got quite a few bites for the hour...

It's my first time in Vietnam, first time Ho Chi Minh City and first time at this place. Entered, scanned the area, sat down at a table. Not very busy. About 30% occupancy. I've noticed 2 servers chatting. Since nobody made an effort to approach me it dawned on me that maybe guests have to order at the cashier. Stood up, walked to the cashier and asked if I have to order here. With a disparaging look I've received a yes. Grabbed a menu and walked back to my table. Sat down, mood changed and felt like that this place does not deserve my money. Grabbed my phone, opened maps and found a vegan restaurant 150m away. Took 3 pictures so that no one could say that I haven't been here. Stood up, grabbed the menu, returned it to its place, smiled at the cashier and I said in friendly tone: thank you. Got a derogatory, silent look in return, walked out and walked 150m to the next vegan restaurant where I received a warm welcome and the menu the moment I sat down.

So there are businesses in this city where they actually care about their guests.

I've visited this place Friday July 5th...

Exceptional service and food. Most of the staff speak English, responsive, and excellent communication among staff to staff. Vy is very authentic and provide honest service. My makes sure that I have a positive experience and that I make healthy food selections. Cyn has been attentive at making sure my water cap is full and ready to take my order. Chung is professional, as is the rest of the staff. They are eager to open the door and greet you when you arrive. All of the staff have be friendly. I enjoy their open mic night at 8 pm on Tuesday. This place attracts some good talent. Thy and Long help me to feel welcomed. Plus, the 50,000 VND fee for the entertainment goes into the Joi Foundation. Food is delicious and not expensive. Kitchen is immaculately clean. This has been the only place that I eat out at. I love the vegan food here, and I feel right at home. My favorite food items are Pho, Bahn Mi, spring rolls and Bun Hue. There is even a dish that reminds me of a Peruvian Lomo Saltado - it has fries and grilled mushrooms,...