I was just in Saigon for a few days and spent much time checking out the cafes. One of my favourites was La Fenetre Soleil – not as much for the food (there’s not too much to choose from apart from fried snacks and some desserts) but its eclectic Parisian style décor. With wooden floorboards, exposed brick walls, a super high ceiling and massive French glass doors, the space is dramatic in scale with a grungy European feel. Mismatched vintage furniture, a crystal chandelier and a massive vase of birds of paradise complete the look.
La Fenetre Soleil’s drinks menu is a drawcard – the spicy ginger juice is delicious and there’s a selection of teas made with fresh ingredients (like mint and lemongrass). Despite its dingy stairway entrance (though it kind of adds to the charm) I wish La Fenetre Soleil was my own apartment!
La Fenetre Soleil, 2nd Floor, 135 Le Thanh Ton, D1, Saigon
This was my favorite spot last time I was in Saigon, and it was one of the first spots I visited when I returned this week. My only complaint this time was the music- or should I say muzak? Their earl grey muffins are delicious enough to distract from that, thankfully. -X
PS- Have you had the Vietnamese coffee flavored french toast there? It’s delicious. -X
That sounds great – will have to try it next time!
love that place, took heaps of photos. will visit again in January 2010
excellent place thank you.
Hi Liz – do you know if La Fenestre Du Soliel rents rooms with the same feel ? Barry
Awesome article thank you for sharing!
Thanks for the info Liz – I am off there next week do you know if it still exists?
Hi Mike – I believe it moved premises a while ago. Apparently it’s now at 2nd floor, 44 Ly Tu Trong Street, cnr of Pasteur Street, D1. Not sure if it’s the same owners or vibe or anything but they have some photos of the interior on their Facebook page and it looks quite nice (though not as authentically vintage as the old place).