11 Best Bars in Around Dong Khoi Street, Ho Chi Minh City

The place that really kicked off Saigon's craft beer scene, Pasteur Street is dedicated to combining American-style craft beer with uniquely Vietnamese flavors, such as jasmine, jackfruit, and chocolate. Do try a flight of beers to experience the full range of amazing flavors. Great-tasting American comfort food can be paired with the beer. The original taproom is tiny, but there are others across the city including at 26A Le Thanh Ton with 12 taps and an open-air rooftop and one with 150 seats located at 23A Ngo Thoi Nhiem in District 3.

Tucked down a little alleyway, this little speakeasy pays tribute to owner Minh Tan Pham's birthplace, the Mekong Delta. The Alley attracts a cool young crowd, who come for the well-executed cocktails, great food, and the friendly vibe, all in an industrial-chic setting.

Blanchy's Lounge is one of the city's most popular late-night haunts, attracting a mix of expats, tourists, and locals. If downstairs gets too crowded for your tastes, head for the rooftop terrace on the third floor. The three-hour-long happy hour on weeknights is a great value for a flash bar in a major city. For those curious about the peculiar name, it honors the moustache of Paul Blanchy, a colonial entrepreneur who made his fortune cultivating pepper and went on to become the first mayor of Saigon (1895–1901).

A small, trendy bar, Broma stocks an impressive array of bottled beers from all corners of the globe, and the bar staff mix an excellent cocktail. Make sure to sit in the open-air lounge on the top floor, where you will be right in between two of the city's flashiest skyscrapers (Saigon Times Square and Bitexco Financial Tower). The only drawback is the music, as customers often hijack the sound system.

A cozy 27-seat bar focusing on "bespoking" whiskey- and whisky-based cocktails (and if you don't know about the different spellings, strike up a conversation with the bar staff) in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Hundreds of specialty liquors from around the world line the bar (including over 250 types of whiskies), and a tasty menu of gourmet bar snacks complements the drinks. Ask about whiskey (and whisky) tasting flights.

Welcome to Indika, the "house of curiosity" that's focused on chill, in the garden or the bar. Indika regularly hosts events, so check their Facebook page for the latest schedule of live music, "wine and words" book club, and film screenings. A rotating menu that includes authentic wood-fired pizzas and lots of vegan and vegetarian options will satisfy any hunger pains from 10 am to midnight.

Lush's longevity in the ever-changing nightclub scene of Ho Chi Minh City is a tribute to its eternal grooviness and cool beats, a combination that attracts a clientele of young Vietnamese, tourists, and expats. The indoor and outdoor sections can get crowded on Tuesday (Ladies Night), Friday, and Saturday with DJs, dancers, and live music performers.

An Irish pub with pool tables, exposed brick walls, friendly staff, daily happy hour, and pretty fine food, O'Brien's Factory is a great place to relax, meet new friends, watch sports. Check their Facebook page for notices of live music acts, usually on Friday night.

Located 23 stories above the city, Shri boasts great views, stylish decor, and innovative food and beverage offerings. Signature cocktails are inspired by the flavors of Vietnam, including pho. If the weather's nice, a seat on the outdoor terrace is spectacular. Otherwise, the artfully lit interior sets the mood for a satisfying night out.

This posh lounge bar gets lively in the evening thanks to a generous happy hour 4:30–8:30 pm Monday to Saturday, with half-price cocktails. A classic martini, an oyster shot or something uniquely Vietnamese—the choice is yours. The bar menu is more extensive and surprisingly value-priced than elsewhere, focusing on modern cuisine. Smart-casual wear is expected.