AKUNA Restaurant

​From the moment you arrive, you can feel that the staff are genuinely excited to share this unique dining experience. The attention to detail is meticulous, from the selection of the plates to the 30+ different forks , thoughtful layout of the ambient lighting. The interior design successfully weaves elements of traditional Vietnamese culture into an amazing modern look. ​The restaurant feels wonderfully spacious. The layout is engineered for comfort, I think that even when the restaurant is fully booked, every guest is seated comfortably and can enjoy their conversation with a perfect sense of privacy. The chef’s masterful command of acidity is what really stands out for me. This technique acts as the signature of the kitchen, providing a constantly refreshing and surprising layer of flavor to every dish. The unexpected complexity makes each course memorable. ​The delightful feature is the dedicated cheese trolley, stocked with over 15 different varieties. While it is an optional add-on, I highly recommend it ​The meal undeniably comes with a higher price tag compared to many other establishments in Ho Chi Minh City, but you will feel that every single penny is well spent. The quality of ingredients, the service, and the overall artistry making it perfect for either a formal business dinner or a romantic night with a loved one.

We had a wonderful evening at Akuna. The food was exceptionally well prepared, with intricate flavours and thoughtful execution in every course. Each bite delivered the refined and memorable experience you’d expect at this level. Although the tasting menu evolves with the seasons, I’d expect the quality to remain consistently high throughout the year. One note for improvement: near the end of the meal, a liquor cart was presented alongside dessert. Because it wasn’t mentioned as an optional add-on, we assumed it was included in the tasting experience. Only later did we learn it carried an additional charge. Clearer communication similar to how the cheese cart pricing was explained would help avoid any surprises. I would have happily skipped the liquor or chosen something else had I known it was 1.5M VND (around 85 AUD) for a glass. Overall, a memorable dining experience with beautifully crafted dishes, and with just a bit more transparency around optional extras, it would be flawless.

Simply 10/10 experience Everything about the evening was just wonderful, the staff, the chef, the food, the service, and the atmosphere. Since it was my birthday, the team surprised me with a complimentary dessert and a handwritten birthday card. Very thoughtful and touching gesture. Our table had a nice view overlooking the Saigon River and the city night life, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner. The food was perfectly balanced in flavor, beautifully presented, and the service was attentive and warm. Blankets are available for female guests to stay warm or for a bit of extra coverage if your outfit calls for it. Another highlight for me was the sommelier. Unlike most fine dining restaurants that only offer wine pairings, Akuna also has a non-alcoholic pairing menu and it was truly impressive. Each drink was creative, complex, and matched the dishes perfectly. The creativity and craftsmanship behind it deserve real credit. Thank you to the Akuna team for making my birthday perfect!

Akuna is among the most premium fine dining restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City, yet my experience was mixed. The service and staff enthusiasm were truly impressive - professional, attentive, and consistent throughout the evening. The food was creative and of good quality, though it didn’t quite deliver the “wow” factor I expected at this price point. The space felt somewhat ordinary, lacking the refinement and elegance typical of top-tier fine dining. The restroom design was oddly styled, making it unclear whether the restaurant aims for a luxurious or youthful vibe. During my visit, a few tables were rather noisy, which disrupted the fine dining ambiance. Overall, while the service stands out, it’s not enough for me to return - though I do hope Akuna will achieve a more striking breakthrough in the future.

4.4/5 – Worth a visit. Akuna blends the chef’s Australian roots with Vietnamese and global influences. Unlike many other one-star restaurants in Vietnam, this truly is fine dining. The dishes lean toward the very complex side: beautifully composed, but at times the combinations bring together too many unusual or exotic ingredients, which can make it harder to fully appreciate each element. Probably one or two fewer ingredients per plate would elevate the flavors even more, as the ideas behind them are very interesting. The porcupine and the pig jowl were excellent Service and ambiance are excellent – Desiderio will make sure you’re well looked after.

Dining at this restaurant was a delightful surprise. Recognized with one Michelin star and among the three Michelin-starred establishments in Ho Chi Minh City, it offers innovative French cuisine. The dishes were thoughtfully crafted and presented by knowledgeable waitstaff who provided detailed explanations for each course. The saltwater-poached guineafowl paired with abalone stood out for its unique preparation, resulting in a well-executed combination. The slow-braised sea cucumber, pearl oyster, and egg in a flavorful pork broth were enhanced by an optional truffle topping, priced by weight. We opted for 6 grams, which perfectly complemented the dish. The confit pork jowl with smoked cod, served with kombu and fish sauce, was less to my personal preference, but still skillfully prepared. As I don’t eat beef, I chose the venison instead, which was enjoyable and well-cooked. Desserts offered a delightful array of sweet flavors, rounding off the meal beautifully. Paired with excellent white and red wines, the entire experience felt well worth the price. Situated in Le Méridien and overlooking the river, the ambiance added to the charm of the evening. I look forward to returning during a different season to explore the evolving menu.

Akuna Saigon, located on the 9th floor of Le Méridien Saigon, has garnered significant attention for its innovative fine dining experience under the guidance of Australian chef Sam Aisbett. The restaurant offers a fusion of Vietnamese ingredients with Australian and Japanese culinary techniques, resulting in a unique gastronomic journey. 🌟 Highlights from my personal experience • Culinary Innovation: Praising the meticulous attention to detail in each dish. • Signature Dishes: Standout offerings include the eight-hour slow-cooked and cold-smoked Australian free-range pork jowl served with scallop banh cuon, and the shaved saltwater crocodile with steamed garlic custard and rose heart radish. • Ambiance and Service: The restaurant’s atmosphere can be described as luxurious and cozy, with attentive and professional staff enhancing the dining experience. 📌 Final Thoughts Akuna Saigon offers a distinctive fine dining experience that combines local Vietnamese ingredients with international culinary techniques. While the innovative menu delights many, it may present challenges for those with traditional tastes. Reservations are recommended, and diners should be prepared for a culinary adventure that pushes conventional boundaries. Will definitely come back to celebrate milestones and special occasions.

5/10 - first Michelin - felt like a roller coaster; started off good, then came the seafood dishes - im not sure what it is, but it just wasnt good - enjoyed the dessert if that meant anything - I think im really picky with seafood and this didnt hit, but great people and cs Michelin might not be for me or the food was eh, but I dont think id be heading to any in vietnam anymore