A Guide to Thảo Điền, Ho Chi Minh City’s Most Stylish Neighborhood

Separated from downtown Ho Chi Minh City by a bend in the Saigon River, Thảo Điền was once best known as the city’s expat enclave—a leafy neighborhood of villas, international schools, and cafés catering largely to foreign residents. Over the last decade, however, it has evolved into one of the city’s most influential creative districts, as a new generation of Vietnamese chefs, designers, and entrepreneurs have transformed the area into a showcase for contemporary local culture.

This shift is now visible on nearly every block. Homegrown fashion brands have opened ambitious flagship stores, cutting edge concept shops celebrate the latest in Vietnamese design, and a new wave of bars and restaurants pairs global technique with regional ingredients and sensibilities. Though Thảo Điền remains far quieter and greener than the dense streets of shopping and nightlife hub District 1, it has become a compelling destination in its own right. From high-end fashion to late-night cocktails, here’s how to spend a day in Ho Chi Minh City’s hippest neighborhood.

The shady garden of Hôm cafe

Chimnon Studio

Seasonal matcha drinks and a host of pastries are available all day at Hôm

Courtesy Hôm

Designed to feel like a home—as its phonetic Vietnamese name suggests—Hôm doubles as a concept store for furniture, art, and décor, and has emerged as one the most popular cafés in a neighborhood teeming with them. Situated around a lush tropical garden, it draws a steady crowd of young creatives and remote workers, and local celebrities alike with Vietnamese espresso, seasonal matcha drinks, and freshly baked donuts. Come for the coffee, stay for the people-watching from one of the outdoor cabanas beneath the trees.

Outside OhQUAO, a paper goods and design store spotlighting local artisans

Lee Starnes