Gringo's

Description:

• There are now several nightlife enclaves in Saigon.  Bestriding the scene like a gaudy, insomniac behemoth is the Pham Ngu Lao backpacker area, while the streets between Ly Tu Trong and the Saigon River are dotted with everything from upmarket hostess bars to late night dives.  Another sterling option for debauchery has also emerged in the streets around Ton That Thiep, which, before Benh Thanh emerged as Saigon's primary traditional site of trading, was the location of the city's old market. These days the main items purveyed are food and drink, both of which come at a high standard at this Mexican-tinged joint.  Founded by Viet Kieu San Diegan Linh Phanroy, the venue is a homage to the taquerias he visited as a punk teenager in southern California. He's done a very decent job too. The fish tacos – a house specialty – are fresh and moreish and a far cry from the bog-standard Mexican fare available elsewhere. Meanwhile, top-notch margaritas, a fussball table and an eclectic music policy ensure convivial times.
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