The Best Martinis in Saigon: Where to Sip in Style

Updated4 September 2026 · original article published 5 March 2025

No matter how you take yours, the martini is a timeless cocktail that has captivated drinkers for generations. While it may be an acquired taste for some, purists argue that a true martini consists of just two ingredients: gin or vodka with a splash of dry vermouth. However, as the craft cocktail scene has exploded over the past decade, bartenders worldwide have put their own spin on this seemingly simple drink, cementing it into a global phenomenon.

When I moved to Saigon a year ago, I was on a quest to find the city’s best dirty martini. However, this exploration led me to some truly inventive creations that redefined how I think about and enjoy this classic cocktail.

Whether you prefer yours shaken, stirred, extra dirty, or with a lemon twist, here’s a curated list of the best martinis in Saigon.

1. Jackalope Bar

For some of the best martinis in Ho Chi Minh City, despite its whiskey-focused roots, Jackalope Bar knows how to make a top-notch martini. Their classic dry martini features Greenall’s Gin, dry vermouth, and your choice of an olive or lemon twist. The speakeasy-style bar prides itself on skilled, attentive bartenders who craft each martini with precision and elegance.

Located in the heart of Saigon, Jackalope Bar is the perfect spot to meet up with friends or unwind solo after a long day. Its unassuming entrance attracts just the right crowd, creating an atmosphere where conversation and good times flow effortlessly. The bar also hosts regular events, including live music performances every Saturday.

Even better, Saigon Scene app members can enjoy an exclusive 10% discount on their visit.

Become a Member

Address: 56 P. Đức Chính, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

2. Layla – Eatery & Bar

It would be impossible to talk about the best martinis in Saigon without mentioning Layla. In fact, they dedicate an entire page of their menu to the cocktail, offering fourteen different martinis to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy lychee martini or a citrusy absinthe-based creation, their selection is as innovative as it is delicious. Of course, purists can still enjoy a perfectly stirred classic martini, served with an olive or a twist.

Beyond being one of the city’s top cocktail bars, Layla also boasts an impressive food menu and an unbeatable atmosphere. The bar strikes the perfect balance between indoor and outdoor with covered seating for both. Plus, it has a pool table for some friendly competition, making it an ideal spot to sip, snack, and unplug.

Address: Second floor, 63 Đông Du, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

3. Bardo Cocktails & Arts

Bardo is the perfect spot for a night out, offering not only a vibrant social scene but also, arguably, some of the best martinis in Ho Chi Minh City. The bar regularly hosts events like karaoke, stand-up comedy, drag bingo, open mics, art exhibitions, and a rotating lineup of global DJs. Bardo has a strong sense of community, it’s a great place to meet people and make friends as both the patrons and bartenders are warm and inviting.

What’s more, Saigon Scene members can save a fantastic 10% off the bill with every trip. 

Become a Member

Address: 14 Đ. Số 11, Quận 2, Hồ Chí Minh

4. Boo SG Cocktail Bar

Boo SG offers a cocktail experience unlike any other, infused with innovative Vietnamese flavors. In March, their signature martini will be back on the menu. It takes inspiration from the Bánh Mì sandwich, infused with bread (yes, you read that right), cilantro, cucumber, and egg, then topped off with a baby carrot garnish.

In the meantime, they offer a great selection of bespoke martinis, including a jasmine tea-inspired creation made with gin and sake. If you’re looking for an extra kick, their Espresso Martini is also a must-try. Resident bartenders Khao and Nam are not only skilled mixologists but also great conversationalists, making every visit a memorable experience.

Even better, they host happy hour from Monday to Saturday (5:30-9:30 PM), where you can enjoy a classic gin or vodka martini for just 150K.

The bar itself is slightly tucked away, you’ll have to go through a restaurant below, but the journey is well worth it. The bar even recently hosted a special Martini Night, bringing in five guest bartenders from across the city to put their own spin on the classic cocktail. Hoping for a follow-up event soon.

Address: 119 Tôn Thất Đạm, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

5. Memento Saigon 

Perched on the top floor of the 135-year-old Ton That Dam apartment building, Memento Saigon is an elegant cocktail bar that attracts both locals and visitors alike. Its timeless charm and smooth jazz often playing in the background makes it the perfect setting for a romantic date. By day, the bar doubles into a cozy coffee shop, offering refreshing options like floral lychee iced tea alongside stunning city views.

While there’s no signature martini on the menu, the head bartender is always happy to craft a custom creation and with that skill, you can have one of the best martinis in Saigon. During my last visit, I enjoyed a modern take on the dirty martini, gin-based with tomato juice, infused lemongrass oil, and garnished with a dried tomato skin snack clipped to the glass.

Address: 14 Tôn Thất Đạm, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

6. CLIMB – Hidden Cocktails Bar 

CLIMB is easily one of my favorite bars in Saigon. Bartenders Kevin, Otto, and Nhat are incredibly skilled, each having honed their craft at the establishment for over two years.

Getting there requires a bit of effort, patrons must climb a few flights of stairs and enter through a yellow speakeasy-style door disguised as a vending machine. Inside, the space is intimate, with just nine bar stools and a few outdoor tables, making it the perfect spot to catch up with old friends or meet new ones.

While it’s not officially on the menu, CLIMB is famous for its MAR-TEA-NI, a unique twist on the classic martini featuring Vietnamese gin infused with red Thai tea, housemade orange and grape bitters, white cocoa, and saline, all elegantly served in an antique teacup. This is without a doubt one of the best martinis in Ho Chi Minh City I’ve tried.

Address: 15 Đ. Phan Văn Đạt, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

7. Satsuma House

This riverside café and restaurant has mastered the balance of sweet and salty with its Café Caramel Martini, made with coffee-infused vodka, fresh coffee, and caramel. For purists, Satsuma House also serves an excellent classic martini, arguably one of the best martinis in Saigon, best enjoyed on the patio while taking in the city lights and passing boats.

Beyond its impressive food and drink menu, Satsuma House offers a unique wellness experience. Before sipping on a martini, guests can unwind with rejuvenating activities like yoga or reformer Pilates, making it the perfect spot to indulge and recharge.

Get a trial of the Saigon Scene app and enjoy your first month of deals and discounts on us!

Become a Member

Address: 28b Nguyễn Văn Hưởng, Thảo Điền, Quận 2, Hồ Chí Minh

Try Out All the Best Martinis in Saigon with Saigon Scene Discounts

From classic dry martinis to inventive, locally inspired twists, Saigon’s bar scene proves that this timeless cocktail is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re savoring a perfectly stirred gin martini, indulging in a bold reinterpretation infused with modern Vietnamese flavors, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city’s best bars, there’s no shortage of exceptional spots to raise a glass. 

Join Saigon Scene now for just 59,000 VND a month and enjoy 10% off at the cocktail bars around the city! Spend 590,000 VND in a single visit, and your savings will cover the subscription cost, making every martini a chance to save. Download the Saigon Scene app today and start enjoying the best deals Saigon has to offer!

Become a Member