Ben Nghe Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Renovated
2008
Price
$$
Rated for
Heritage Social ClassicOutside the door
Wartime rooftop canteen
A storied Saigon institution, this former wartime press hub centers on its breezy open-air rooftop bar.
What it’s good at
Remarkable
A 1927 automotive garage turned wartime headquarters for daily military press briefings.
Notable
Open-air rooftop garden bar where live bands play beside glowing golden crown fixtures.
Notable
A continuous Saigon landmark since the 1950s, anchoring the corner of pedestrianized Nguyen Hue.
What they say
Also in AFAR.
The topside scene is hypnotic. Servers glide effortlessly over a teak patchwork with formal flair.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
The front steps open directly onto pedestrianized Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street, right next to City Hall.
The rooms
Rooms are spread across three wings, with dark wood accents and large windows looking out toward the boulevard.
The water
Bring a swimsuit.
Pools and spa
Two rooftop swimming pools overlook downtown District 1, set beside an open-air tennis court and herbal spa baths.
Rooftop Garden Bar
Live bands perform nightly across the open-air terrace, where cocktails come with views down over Nguyễn Huệ.
At the table
Cung Dinh serves imperial court recipes under ornate carved ceilings, and Hoa Mai hosts traditional Vietnamese folk dance performances.
How it began
The property began in 1927 as a two-story French car garage before expanding into a hotel complex in 1959.
Good to know
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Ho Chi Minh City
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.