Sweet Spots: Where to get your dessert fix in Ho Chi Minh City

Got a sweet tooth that needs satisfying? You’re in for a treat - literally.

This city is bursting with dessert destinations, from cozy bakeries whipping up gooey cinnamon rolls to chic cafés serving indulgent tiramisu. Don’t forget the hidden gems—online micro-bakeries helmed by talented ex-restaurant pastry chefs, crafting luxurious entremets that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual café hangout or a fancy dessert delivered right to your doorstep, we’ve got the scoop on the best spots in Ho Chi Minh City to get your dessert fix so… grab a fork, and let’s dive into our favourite dessert spots in the city.

Courtesy of 1996 Space & Cafe

1996 Space & Cafe: 4-cheese melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake with a secret cheese

Tucked away on the second floor of an old apartment, 1996 has replaced the beloved White Noise Bar, keeping the vinyl tunes and cozy vibes but swapping wines for a matcha menu and creative pastries. Their must-try four-cheese cheesecake is silky smooth with a crispy, buttery crust— think Queic by Olivia, but with a secret cheese. Not into cheesecake? Try their flaky croissants, from classic buttery bánh sừng trâu to indulgent chocolate or savory cheese-filled versions. Already TikTok famous, 1996’s cosmic-themed space and charming balcony make it a perfect spot to soak up the chill vibes while savouring on one of their delicious pastries.

Credit: Garden Kisses

Garden Kisses: must-try cinnamon rolls & matcha

Gardenkisses started as an online bake shop during COVID-19 but opened its own spot in District 2 in 2022. Known for their unique sourdough cinnamon rolls—like Earl Grey cream, matcha black sesame, and miso caramel—starting at 65k, they’re a favourite for both flavour and gut health.

Matcha lovers, this is your go-to place! Gardenkisses jumped on the matcha trend early, offering everything from classic Usucha and lattes to creative options like tiramisu matcha. With ceremonial matcha options ranging from Uji Premium (75k) to high-end Asahi (150k), there’s something for every taste. Keep an eye out for their matcha workshops which can be found on their Facebook.

Credit: Made by Vu

Made by Vu: top-rate homemade goodies by a restaurant pastry chef

Craving a slice of decadent homemade cake without stepping outside? Made by Vu is your answer. This online micro-bakery, run with love by Vu, a former restaurant pastry chef, delivers high-quality cakes that will have you swooning.

Their chocolate line? Pure perfection. From the indulgent Triple Chocolate Gâteaux to the rich Devil’s Food Cake, and even the Caramel Chocolate Cake and Forest Noir Gâteaux, they’ve got all your chocolatey cravings covered. Just a few clicks, and you’ll be diving into the best chocolate cakes in town—no pants required!

Credit: Ivoire

IVOIRE: delicious works of art

After countless "re-opens" (I’ve lost track!), Ivoire has finally found a chic home on Ben Nghe Street, right near the Park Hyatt. Co-founded by Chef Kasey Doan, who started in kitchens at 17 and honed her skills in Melbourne at places like Bibelot and Burch & Purchese, this bakery serves some of Saigon's most luxurious cakes—and yes, the quality lives up to the price tag.

Their Petit Gâteaux (mini luxury cakes) and almond croissants start at 100k, with their stunning entremets going for 200k and up. Each cake is a work of art, taking hours (or days!) to create, and they're never too sweet—just the perfect balance. My top pick? The Avocado (200k), with creamy avocado mousse and a zesty hit of yuzu and mango. If you’re not in a rush, grab a seat and pair your treat with one of their teas.

  • Opening hours: 1130am to 830pm; 1030am to 730pm (Saturday and Sunday)

Credit: Rabbit & Fish

Rabbit and Fish: creative twists on childhood favs

Rabbitandfish, a cosy little bakery tucked away in a District 7 alley, has been serving up sweet treats since 2019. Owned by Jack, a Swedish baker, it’s more of a takeaway spot or a GrabFood go-to than a dine-in experience. If you’re ordering, I highly recommend their lan muoi (salted sponge cake)—a soft, smooth sponge topped with sweet cream and a salty hit of salted egg, all for just 49k. It’s the perfect balance of flavours at a super reasonable price! And don’t miss their chewy cookies—at 35k, they’re a steal for how good they are!

Credit: Peppes Forno

Peppes Forno: homemade Italian dessert treats

Newly opened Peppe’s Forno has quickly become one of my favourite spots this month. After hearing rave reviews from my followers, I had to visit—and it was love at first bite.

Run by Italian baker Steffano, this quaint bakery in a quiet Thao Dien alley serves up nostalgic Italian pastries like Tette Pistachio and Coffee Cornetto. The Pistachio Tette, in particular, is a must-try—trust me, the mousse alone warrants a return. With no set menu, what you see is what you get, though staples like Tiramisu and coffee are always available. As for prices? Very reasonable with coffee starting from just 40k and 50k for the Tiramisu.  

The real draw is the lovely couple behind the counter: Steffano and his wife Loan, who fill the space with warmth and hospitality, even offering complimentary cookies. Bonus: their adorable toy poodle is very good company

  • Opening hours: 8am to 6pm, 8am to 1pm (Sunday), closed on Monday

  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Peppesforno

  • Address: 61 Nguyễn Bá Huân, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City

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Jessy

Jessy’s a foodie through and through, coming from a family that's all about good eats in the food industry. She’s all about sharing her latest bites and brutally honest opinions on her page (@jcvyspoon) because, in her world, “sharing is caring.” And if she’s not sharing? Let’s just say... you've been warned!

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