Fast Facts

Restaurant Name: Saigon 

Address: Corner of Kloof and Camp Streets, Gardens, Cape Town 

Phone number: 021 424 7670

Opening and closing times: Closed on Mondays; Tuesday to Sunday 12noon to 9pm 

Average price of a main course: R180 

Parking situation: Small section of off-street parking available next to restaurant, otherwise on-street parking 

Food type: Sushi and Vietnamese cuisine 

Best for: Dinner with family and friends

Food 

The food is where Saigon really shines and their extensive menu ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for sushi, starters and dumplings to share, or a three-course meal. On the starter menu, you can’t go wrong with the chargrilled chicken skewers, served with noodles and greens. Tender and delicious, the lemongrass flavour that is often associated with Vietnamese cuisine packs a fragrant punch.

For mains, you can choose from an assortment of chicken, duck, beef, lamb, pork, seafood and vegetarian dishes. If you find the array of options overwhelming, look no further than the caramelised pork with black pepper sauce. Saigon gets the sticky caramelisation just right, every time, and the sauce is perfectly balanced with peppery, sweet notes.  

If you don’t like fish sauce or black pepper, you also can’t go wrong with the ginger kingklip or, if you feel like blowing the budget, the Nikkei fillet mignon. Note that rice and noodles must be ordered separately, although one portion of either is sufficient for two people to share. 

Drinks

The wine list is sufficient, with all the South African favourites represented. Although you may not find any new and exciting varietals here, you can be sure that your meal will be well complemented by what’s on offer.  

The by-the-glass selection is limited, so if you’re with a crowd, rather opt for a bottle to share. A range of cocktails is also available, with some interesting Asian-style twists thrown in. 

Service

This is a relaxed, local spot, so don’t expect silver service. The style is casual and at times borders on being overly familiar and a bit abrupt. However, for the most part, the waitrons are friendly and willing to offer recommendations as and when needed. 

Ambience

As with the service, the ambience also gives the impression that Saigon has been a staple in Gardens for years and they’re not about to change a winning formula now. It’s cosy enough, with muted lighting that creates a romantic atmosphere.  

If you can, nab a table by one of the large windows overlooking busy Kloof Street and Table Mountain. Be warned that it gets very smoky inside when there’s load shedding, which can be quite unpleasant. 

Eat Out critics dine unannounced and pay for their meals in full. Read our full editorial policy here.