Unlocking Saigon's Omakase: Unveiling Top 5 Experiences For Every Budget

Saigon's culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry, offering a taste of the world alongside its own unique flavors. For Japanese food enthusiasts, omakase, the art of trusting a chef to curate a personalized sushi experience, represents the pinnacle of indulgence. But what if you crave this exquisite culinary adventure without breaking the bank?

This guide unlocks the secrets of Saigon's omakase scene, unveiling 5 top-notch restaurants that cater to every budget.

1. Omakase Tiger

Omakase Tiger merges the artistry of omakase with the innovative spirit of sosaku sushi. Here, chefs Hiro and Chien curate meticulously crafted sushi sets, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients. Fresh seafood arrives weekly, both from Japan and various Vietnamese regions. Special sauces, crafted in-house, add unique flavor profiles exclusive to the restaurant.

Offering an intimate dining experience, the restaurant boasts only 8 counter seats, allowing guests to witness the artistry of the chefs firsthand. This intimate setting is ideal for romantic evenings or gatherings with close friends. Adding to the experience, the restaurant boasts a rooftop location with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, offering a romantic vista of the iconic Landmark 81 building.

Basic Information

• Prices start from VND 780,000++/pax to VND 980,000++/pax
• Opening hour: 17:00 - 22:30 (Closed on Monday)
• Address: Level 8, 85/9 Pham Viet Chanh, Binh Thanh District

2. Kaiseki Hanabi

Led by Chef Taka, a culinary veteran with experience at the Japanese consulate in Ho Chi Minh City and a renowned San Francisco restaurant, Kaiseki Hanabi offers an intimate dining experience. With only 10 seats and a private room for 11, reservations are a must (especially if you plan to choose from their omakase set menus). These menus typically include a captivating appetizer platter featuring a variety of small dishes, followed by a selection of tempura masterpieces.

Unlike many other restaurants, Chef Taka prepares and fries each tempura piece individually right in front of guests, ensuring the freshest possible experience – a true rarity in Ho Chi Minh City.

Basic Information

• Prices start from VND 1,000,000++/pax to VND 1,600,000++/pax
• Opening hour: 17:30 - 22:00 (Closed on Sunday)
• Address: 18 Street 41, Thao Dien ward, District 2

3. Yakiniku Yazawa Saigon

Yazawa, recognized on the prestigious 50 Best Discovery List, takes pride in its meticulous selection of the finest Japanese Wagyu Beef for their omakase experience. Each expertly grilled slice is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and freshness.

This restaurant exclusively features A5 Wagyu, the highest grade of Japanese beef. Skilled artisans handpick each cut, guaranteeing an unparalleled taste experience. While renowned for their yakiniku omakase (grilled meat), Yazawa offers a broader selection of Japanese cuisine. Additionally, their expert sommeliers curate a vast wine and sake list to perfectly complement your meal.

For those seeking a truly memorable celebration, Yazawa welcomes the opportunity to tailor arrangements to your special occasion. Don't hesitate to speak with their staff about any specific requests.

Basic Information

• Prices start from VND 1,980,000++/pax to VND 2,980,000++/pax
• Opening hour: 17:00 - 23:30
• Address: 219 Dien Bien Phu, ward 6, District 3

4. FUME | Japanese Modern Cuisine

Fume transcends the boundaries of a typical restaurant. Chef Shozo invites diners on a culinary adventure, weaving together the rich tapestry of traditional Japanese cuisine with his own creative flair. While the menu initially presents familiar Japanese dishes, each bite reveals subtle influences of French techniques and even pan-Asian flavors.

The highlight is undoubtedly the ever-evolving Omakase menu, which transforms every six weeks. It's a symphony of fresh seafood, with many ingredients sourced directly from Japan, alongside meticulously chosen cuts of fish. This dedication to quality extends beyond borders, as Chef Shozo prioritizes partnerships with both Vietnamese and Japanese farmers and fishermen.

Basic Information

• Prices start from VND 2,000,000++/pax to VND 4,000,000++/pax
• Opening hour: 17:30 - 22:00
• Address: 74/7L Hai Ba Trung, Ben Nghe ward, District 1

5. Yuzu Omakase

Yuzu Omakase Vietnam, a collaboration between Hoang An Nhien Group and Thailand's YUZU GROUP, bursts onto the Vietnamese hospitality scene with a modern take on the art of omakase. Led by a passionate team of young connoisseurs, Yuzu Omakase offers an experimental space and creative playground for adventurous palates. Get ready to conquer your culinary aspirations as they serve the most impressive expressions of modern omakase.

Nestled in the heart of the city, Yuzu Omakase Vietnam promises an unforgettable dining adventure. Their innovative approach utilizes modern twists to revolutionize the omakase experience, engaging all your senses with a truly immersive journey. This private and exclusive space caters to discerning diners seeking an extraordinary culinary encounter.

Basic Information

• Prices start from VND 4,000,000++/pax to VND 10,000,000++/pax
• Opening hour: 12:00 - 13:30 | 18:00 - 22:15
• Address: 34 Thu Khoa Huan, Ben Thanh ward, District 1