L'Usine Eatery: A Concept Setting The Culinary Tone For The New Saigon

The iconic concept-store, L’Usine, has long been a reliable retreat for breakfast and lunch. Since July, when their new flagship location opened at 19 Le Thanh Ton, the brand have been making some subtle changes such as to their typeface, and to their store furnishings—just check the Japanese-American touches like the Noguchi lantern and the George Nakashima worktable. Now they are adding a dinner-only casual-dining restaurant on their top floor, the Eatery, serving a fresh seasonal ingredient-infused menu of European favorites with a modern twist inspired by Head Chef Ivan Barone’s experiences in Vietnam.

Already established as one of Saigon’s most dedicated culinary brands, L’Usine’s latest innovations found in its Eatery are not restricted to the cuisine. In keeping with the rest of the store’s updated concept, there are handcrafted leather banquettes, rustic wood-topped tables, and effortlessly iconic cane Breuer chairs. The Eatery is a place to celebrate and experience new Saigon in its most interesting incarnation. The layout of the Eatery is anchored by a deep-green tiled floor that invokes comfort with style. It’s a look that’s complemented by characterful original artworks and plantation shutters.

Every evening from 5pm until 10.30pm, the Eatery welcomes guests to this new dining destination with starters such as the Chicken Liver Pate With Toast & Cranberry Jam, a personal favorite of the L’Usine staff. For main dishes, there is Peri Peri Grilled Whole Baby Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce and Country Style Lamb Stew. With many of the dishes meant to be shared, the Eatery is the ideal spot to join a group of friends or family.

To top off the dining experience, the Eatery has crafted original desserts that incorporate ingredients native to Vietnam. Staff picks include the Passion Fruit Crème Brûlée and the Coconut Fluffy Cheesecake. Not to be forgotten, the drinks list at the Eatery features wines by independent producers, local craft beers from Pasteur Street Brewery and East West Brewing Co., and specialty cocktails like the Yuzu Mojito, another L’Usine favorite.

Overall, the carefully-curated aesthetics and atmosphere invoke a special sense of intimacy that makes the Eatery the perfect place for a casual, relaxed night out in the new Saigon.