Saigon’s cosiest wine bar is inside a cave

Credit: Space Synapse

Cool, classy and clandestine with an impressive wine cellar carrying more than 70 types of wine, Grotto might just be Saigon’s cosiest (and coolest) wine bar.

Opening in January 2022, Grotto is the latest addition to Saigon’s growing wine-bar scene, joining incumbents such as MAD Wine Bar, Cellar and Aperitivo. Founded by serial Korean restauranteur Jaesuk Lee, Grotto comes off the back of the closure of Jae’s Korean restaurant in District 9 following an exodus Korean expatriates back to their home countries.

Not his first foray into the wine industry, Jae decided to open a wine bar when he was presented with an opportunity to make his mark (once again) in Vietnam’s emerging food and drink industry - this time with a ‘cave’ wine bar repurposed from an underground parking lot in the heart of Saigon.

Akin to a speakeasy bar, Grotto’s entrance is not easy to spot despite its prime real estate on one of Thao Dien’s busiest roads. Tucked away at the end of a sloping walkway, I’m swept off my feet at first sight at Grotto’s architectural beauty and impressive wine cellar (and collection) standing right in the centre of the bar.

Credit: Space Synapse

Mimicking the natural wonders of a cave, Grotto, which translates into ‘cave’ in Italian, features intricately carved booths that look like tunnels and allow guests to move in-between. For those looking for a bit of privacy, simply draw the deep red curtains for an intimate evening of mystery and magic. Wine racks are built into the textured walls, with each individual groove cradling an assortment of wine bottles from Merlot, Cabernet, Pinot to Rosé thoughtfully strewn together. One of my favourite things about Grotto is the private dining room, which comfortably sits a party of 6 to 8. There’s also an outdoor bar for those looking to kick back, relax and smoke a cigarette with a glass in hand.

Credit: Space Synapse

Credit: Space Synapse

Needless to say, the wine menu has something for everyone but what makes Grotto unique is its wine-based cocktails. Best part? All you need to do is let the team know your spirit and wine of choice and wait for your personalised cocktail to arrive. I opt for gin and a touch of white wine, and the marriage of both at Grotto comes in the form of an illuminating blue cocktail served in a chic martini glass. While unusual at first glance, Jae quickly references the popular ‘Blue Grotto’, a sea cave located on the coast Capri in South Italy and the bright azure colour of its water.

On the munch front, you can find wine bar classics such as cheese and charcuterie boards as well as tantalising mains like Homemade stuffed pasta, Oven baked sea snails and Beef rib stew. There’s even a 4-course menu (starter, sub-main, main and dessert) for only VND 750,000 (limited to 8 pax per day). On the very rare occasion, you might even be treated to some white truffle and homemade brownies. And, if that’s not enough to entice you to visit this new kid on the block, maybe its generous weekly promotions - 50% off wine by the glass every Wednesday and unlimited free-flow wine by the glass on Thursday for ladies - will.

Credit: Space Synapse

Unlike its many industry counterparts, silence speaks volumes at Grotto and adds to its allure of being a restful and relaxing respite for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Saigon. A refreshing concept and much welcomed by an introvert like myself, let’s just say you’ll know where to find me after a hectic day - sipping on a glass of wine in an underground cave.

Address: 89A Xuân Thủy, Thảo Điền, Quận 2, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrottoBar.HCMC
Opening Hours: 5pm to 1am on weekdays and 2am on weekends (last order at 10:30pm; closed on Mondays)

Need inspiration? Check out my Dine Out Bucketlist including my favourite bars and restaurants in Saigon.

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