The Old Compass Cafe, Saigon

We’re always on the lookout for places with local character and great local flavours - where you feel comfortable to unwind from the intensity of the city, but retains a connection to the city. In cities like Saigon, that’s even more important.

That’s why we opened the Old Compass Cafe in 2016.

Since then it’s become a hub of local flavours, wine, coffee and great conversations - with a distinct Saigon vibe.



The food concept is based around the Vietnamese family meal with a concise selection of dishes that echo what is found of the Vietnamese dinner table. There’s always a vegetarian option.

I’ve been a fan of Vietnam’s home-cooked cuisine for a long time - yet many travellers never get to experience the simple delights of the Vietnamese home. So that’s what we’re offering - in a cosy old Saigon setting. Other manu items include a weekly special from Vietnam’s street food tradition such as bun thit noon, bo kho and bun bo Hue. There’s a small selection of banh mi sandwiches, gourmet baguettes, a cheese plate and bar bites.

Photo: Mark Bowyer The Old Compass Cafe, Saigon

Photo: Mark Bowyer The Old Compass Cafe, Saigon

Photo: Mark Bowyer The Old Compass Cafe, Saigon

The wine list is concise and mixes old and new world options including several by the glass. Saigon’s best craft beers are also served.
 
The Old Compass keeps a selection of books and magazines about Vietnam and the world for our guests - a few are available for sale too.

We also host regular talks on history, architecture, art and live music performances.

We’re right in the heart of Saigon - but hidden down an alley next door to the Liberty Citypoint Hotel. It takes a little effort to find us. Come by and say hi.

You can also ask about our Saigon Tales of the City heritage walking tour - a half day walk focused on history, heritage as well as the contemporary life of the city. In 2019 we have added a tour of Saigon's religious architecture and an alternative tour of the Cu Chi tunnels complex. For more on our heritage walk and other tours, check the website.


Disclosure
The Old Compass Cafe is our place in Saigon - so yes, we’re biased. But we’ve been very flattered by the response we’ve had from our customers over the past two years. Come by for a special Saigon experience.