ABOUT US: The Story of Trở Về

The Origin: A Single Memory

Everything started with a single photograph taken in the late 1990s. The location was the outskirts of Saigon—a place that, at the time, still breathed with the rustic, tranquil atmosphere of the Mekong Delta.

In this frame, a young woman steps gracefully from an ox-cart, carrying a bamboo basket. The woman is our co-founder, Nguyen Thuy Tien. Captivated by the timeless spirit of the moment, the photographer titled this piece "Trở Về" (Cho-ve)—meaning "The Return."

The Philosophy: A Return to One’s Roots

"Trở Về" is more than just a name; it is the soul of Saigon Recipe. It represents a journey back to one’s past, back to one’s origins, and back to the authentic flavors of home. We have woven this philosophy into the very fabric of our two locations, each representing a different chapter of the Vietnamese spirit.

Two Eras, Two Expressions

Sukhumvit: The Warmth of the 1970s

Our Sukhumvit branch evokes the nostalgic atmosphere of 1970s Saigon and the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An. To capture the rustic, heartful soul seen in our origin photo, our staff wear the "Ao Ba Ba." This simple, collarless garment is the traditional everyday wear of the Mekong Delta’s countryside. It reflects the humble, heartfelt hospitality of a Vietnamese family home.

Suan Plu: The Serenity of the 1940s Our Suan Plu branch captures the quiet elegance of the 1940s Indochina era. The space is inspired by the garden restaurants of historic colonial hotels and the sidewalk cafes that once lined the streets of Saigon. The centerpiece of this setting is our bespoke iron furniture, handcrafted in Vietnam to recreate the delicate, hand-bent designs common in that era. In this refined yet airy atmosphere, our staff greets you in the graceful Ao Dai, inviting you into a moment of timeless tranquility.

A Sensory Journey

At Saigon Recipe, "Trở Về" is an experience for all five senses. From the melodies of bygone eras playing in the background to the tactile curves of our ironwork furniture, and finally, to the authentic family recipes passed down through generations.

We invite you to step through our doors and return to a place that feels like home.