Ink painting in the processing techniques and presentation art of Chinese cuisine

Chinese cuisine in Saigon is not merely a part of the city’s culinary landscape; it is a rich legacy of immigration, with streets bearing the imprint of history and traditional flavours. The influence of the Chinese community is deeply embedded in the city’s culinary identity. Cooking methods such as steaming, braising, stir-frying over high heat, and stewing with Chinese herbs have become integral to the lives of the local population. Dishes such as stir-fried rice, noodles, roast duck, and dim sum have transcended the Chinese community to become symbols that many visitors seek out when exploring the city.

From Guangdong to Beijing to Jiangsu, discover authentic Chinese cuisine in Saigon’s high-end restaurants—each offering its own signature dishes and contributing to the rich tapestry of Chinese culinary heritage.

Read more: Little-known “holy lands” of Asian cuisine

Li Bai is a poetic space where the spirit of the renowned poet Li Bai is brought to life through its elegant interior design. This Cantonese restaurant offers traditional dishes, masterfully elevated under the direction of Chef Thi Giang and Sous Chef Diep Nhieu. Here, classic dishes such as dim sum, seafood, and particularly the Dry-aged Peking Duck, are transformed into culinary works of art. The chefs’ patience and refined techniques are evident in every dish. Stepping through the doors of Li Bai offers more than just a meal—it is an experience that nourishes both the body and the soul.

If Li Bai evokes traditional values within a classic setting, Yu Chu (Royal Kitchen) at JW Marriott Hotel & Suites Saigon delivers a vibrant and modern take on Cantonese and Beijing cuisine. Inspired by the grandeur of royal kitchens, this restaurant offers an impressive open space where diners can observe the artistry of Chinese cooking in motion. From the sharp precision of knives carving paper-thin duck skin, to the graceful pull of hand-made noodles, every movement of the chef is a performance. The fiery flare of the pans adds to the spectacle, making each meal an unforgettable artistic experience, rich with profound flavours.

If you seek a new journey through Chinese cuisine, Man is the place to be. This restaurant, which champions Jiangsu-style cooking, offers dishes that will undoubtedly excite and expand your culinary horizons. The Longjing Tea Oil Roast Duck from Zhejiang is a standout—its crispy skin and firm meat are rolled with cucumber, chopped onion, yellow radish, and hawthorn jam, accompanied by three special sauces. Another highlight is the Yang Guifei Shrimp Ball, shaped like a lychee and wrapped in beetroot skin, filled with lychee jelly and macadamia nuts, and dipped in a passion fruit cheese sauce—creating a truly unique taste experience.

After experiencing traditional styles, head to DA for a unique fusion of cuisine and art in a modern setting. The space at DA resembles a film, blending Asian memories with contemporary flair, bathed in warm tones and light patches that make the dishes appear as individual works of art. DA’s cuisine is a sublime fusion that satisfies the most discerning palates. From the combination of fresh abalone with fatty foie gras to crispy duck spring rolls paired with a sweet and sour strawberry sauce, the flavours create perfect contrasts while complementing each other harmoniously. As the evening unfolds, diners are invited into the world of exquisite desserts and hidden performances, all set against the spectacular night-time view of the city.

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