Judy J
Google
We happened to stop by Dotori after a massage session nearby, and at first glance, the restaurant seemed very promising. It is a small and charming Japanese-style spot, tucked away inside a little Japanese enclave right in the heart of Saigon. The design, decorations, and overall atmosphere are all done with care, capturing an authentic Japanese vibe that immediately feels warm and inviting. Walking in, I truly appreciated the cozy setup and the sense of being transported to a different place.
However, as the evening went on, the overall experience did not quite meet my expectations. The biggest downside for me was the service. The staff did not seem very attentive or organized, and although it could have been because the restaurant was too crowded at the time, the result was still disappointing. Simple requests were overlooked, and there was a noticeable lack of warmth in the way customers were handled.
Another issue was the food. While the presentation looked decent, the dishes were rather heavy and oily, and the variety was limited. Compared to other Japanese restaurants in the city, Dotori did not offer many options, which made it difficult to find something that truly stood out. Instead of feeling satisfied, I left with the impression that the meal was average at best.
Overall, Dotori has a lot of charm in terms of its concept, location, and design, but unfortunately, the service and food quality do not live up to the potential. It was a missed opportunity, and I left feeling a little regretful. With better staff training and a more balanced menu, this place could become something special.
