The word “bespoke” originated from England in the 17th century, initially coined for the clothing industry, describing individually custom-tailored corsets and shoes.
Its meaning has since expanded to various contexts, and in the bar world, “bespoke” means customized drinks. Bespoke bars cater to any of your personal cravings both in and outside the confinement of a pre-set menu. Hence, bartenders at bespoke bars have to actively keep themselves ahead of the drinking game to satisfy the wants of every customer.
Check out these places for a customized drink for your enjoyment.
Calmo – The Tonic Bar Tân Cảng
“Calmo” in Spanish means relaxation, winding down, and comfort. This bar is the lowkey friend who sets themselves apart from the bustling crowd, forever staying true to their unique self.
Located humbly in the small alley on Pham Viet Chanh street, The Calmo – Tonic Bar & Kitchen is a hiding nook for like-minded souls wanting a break from their busy surroundings. Check this place out if you’re looking for a calm evening or simply just a break to reminisce the ups and downs of life.
One of the must-try on their extensive menu is certainly their Georgia Peach Martini with tones of peaches and forest berries, accommodated by a Kit-Kat bar. Or you could opt for the Gin and Tonic and customize it with fruits, herbs, citrus flavors, or a touch of spiciness.
Address: 85/7 Phạm Viết Chánh, Bình Thạnh district
Contact: 090 274 95 22
Opening hours: Tue/Thu 16:30 – 00:30; Fri/Sat 16:30 – 01:00; Mon/Wed/Sun 16:30 – 01:30.
Happy hours: 16:30 – 19:00 daily with BOGO promotion for cocktails and 20% of all alcohol
Firkin Bar
A space for lovers of classical tones, at the center of the place, is a long wooden bar with leather seats, suitable for a mellow night. Firkin only has about 30 seats.
Each drink is uniquely crafted to suit each customer’s mood, taste, and preferences. Each visit to Firkin will be a brand new experience for its guests.
Firkin is surely the bar for whiskey fans with over 200 types stocked, notably The Macallan Editions or Formula 20. Try the blind tasting platter for a genuine comparison.
Address: 20 Mạc Thị Bưởi, district 1
Contact: 093 131 27 23
Opening hours: 18:00 – 00:00
Happy hours: 18:00 – 20:00 daily, 50% off for Firkin classic cocktail line
Labar
The atmosphere at Labar is busting and cozy yet not too noisy, just enough for the couples to lean closer to chat while enjoying the bartender’s performance.
Labar’s attraction lies in their presentation: drinks are incorporated with Asian ingredients such as sticky rice, ambarella, or shiso leaves for a strange but familiar flavor. First comes the awe, then the reminiscence. We highly recommend their “Hoa Nep” cocktail with glutinous rice wine or the tangy, easy-to-drink “Coc”. Feel free to request the bartender to customize your drink.
Labar also has an extensive wine menu to be enjoyed with Asian dishes such as Mac Khen Beef or roast duck provided in the same complex. Occasionally there are jazz nights or weekend DJ nights, or “guest shifts” with renowned guest bartenders.
Address: 52/3 Đông Du, district 1
Contact: 090 300 76 60
Opening hours: 17:00 – 01:00 weekdays; 17:00 – 02:00 Fri/Sat
CLIMB – Hidden Cocktails Bar
Through a hidden door that looks like a vending machine, you’ll arrive at CLIMB. This bar is located on the upper floor in a deep narrow alley on Phan Van Dat street. The space at CLIMB is decorated with passionate warm shades and eye-catching tones of red for an alluring, cozy, and relaxing atmosphere.
Their forté is undoubtedly whiskey-based drinks, from classics with a touch of Japanese fusion to creatively customized cocktails sure to satisfy even the most ambiguous requests. We recommend these interesting gems: CLIMB to the heaven, Matcha Cocktail, and Miyagi oysters served with spicy sauce.
Besides the bar, the balcony with comfortable leather seats is also a hot zone. Keep track of their schedule for special guest bartender nights as well as their seasonal events and trips.
Address: 15 Phan Văn Đạt, district 1
Contact: 097 300 50 60
Opening hours: 18:00 – 01:00 weekdays; 18:00 – 02:00 Fri/Sat
Happy hours: 17:00 – 20:00 with 30% off for crystal glass drinks
Vietnam Bar Week 2022 runs from 09 to 17 April 2022 in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, presented by Vietcetera and Mastercard. With a special bar map, you can explore 40 venues, earn program stickers, and get access to special drink menus for a week-long drinking experience showcasing Vietnam’s best of the best.
Special thanks to all sponsors of Vietnam Bar Week 2022: Mastercard, Diageo (owner of Johnnie Walker and Tanqueray), Lighthouse Group Indochina (exclusive distributor of Peroni and Super Bock), Good Food, Nestlé (exclusive distributor of San Pellegrino and Acqua Panna), Kamereo and Lacàph.
During the course of Vietnam Bar Week 2022, Mastercard cardholders enjoy the privilege of an exclusive 15% discount for the first drink at our participating bars.