Augustin, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The impact of about a hundred years of French colonization has left an indelible impact on Vietnam's cuisine. French restaurants abound aplenty in the city, and the best part is that most of them are small, charming, little establishments which are very, very, VERY affordable.

As this was our first trip to Ho Chi Minh City, we relied on lots of food recommendations from friends. Augustin was one such recommendation of a friend's friend.

We had dinner really late, evident from the fact that we were the only 2 diners in the tiny little 30-person seater restaurant.

We started off with the Carpaccio de Boeuf Mozzarella et Basilic (VND 120,000), raw sliced beef with mozzarella cheese, olive oil and basil. We loved the paper-thin, sweet slices of pink raw beef, the mild, slightly chewy cheese and subtle spice of the basil herb.


We also ordered the Calamars Frits a la Romaine (VND 110,000), deep-fried squid with tartare sauce. The golden crispy rings of tender squid were very fresh. 


The Confit de Canard (VND 170,000), grilled duck confit, was one of the best I've ever had. The duck was meltingly tender and unbelievably moist. The crisp skin crackled and the flesh tore away from the bone with the slightest of prods.


The Filet de Sole Meuniere (VND 150,000), sole fillet with lemon, parsley and butter, was also very well done. Fresh, light and a very nice balance of flavours was achieved with soft buttery notes and the acidic lemon. This was served with flavoured rice.


Eating the Souffle au Chocolat (VND 110,000) was like eating chocolate air. The classic French dessert was fairy-light and we loved that the chocolate wasn't overwhelming. Please note that this was a humongous portion so even big eaters like the BF and I struggled to finish this.


Augustin also had one of the best Baguettes I've ever had. This were served complimentary, fresh from the oven, warm and sweet.


Chilled Fresh Fruits were also complimentary.


The interior of the charming little restaurant.



Augustin
10 Nguyen Thiep Street
District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam
Tel: 829 2941
Open from 11.30am to 2pm for lunch and from 6pm to 10.30pm for dinner; Closed on Sundays

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