At a Glance — ÚNU Eatery & Bar:
- Location: Inside ANIMA Saigon, 43-45 Ho Tung Mau, District 1.
- Concept: Contemporary Vietnamese storytelling mixology and modern sharing plates.
- Signature Style: Reimagining indigenous botanicals, rare herbs, and local spirits into multisensory liquid narratives.
- Atmosphere: Intimate, warm industrial ambiance with curated artwork and skyline views.
Cocktails That Carry Stories: The Mixology Philosophy of ÚNU Art-inspired Eatery & Bar
Each cocktail at ÚNU carries a vivid cultural and artistic story. Rather than relying on conventional ingredients, we return to the most pristine indigenous values. Drawing inspiration from the diverse geography of the country, stretching from the misty pine highlands of Da Lat to the fertile Mekong Delta, we apply contemporary mixology techniques to honor native elements and weave truly refined tasting experiences.
Most notably, the heart of ÚNU is Liquid Stories, a signature menu crafted alongside seven artists from the ANIMA project. Each drink safeguards a distinct fragment of memory, recalling childhood flavors, a distant journey, or transformative moments in life. Through deeply devoted mixology, we translate these memories into flavors, inviting you to step into a truly slow and peaceful tasting journey.
The Philosophy: Indigenous Botanicals & Cultural Memory
While traditional mixology often relies on imported spirits and commercial syrups, ÚNU chooses to return to the roots. We gather local herbs, wild mắc khén pepper, fermented tropical fruits, and artisanal Vietnamese rums and gins, gently weaving them into cocktails of surprising depth and delicate nuance.
Each drink on our menu carries an evocative micro story, reflecting local folklore, the historical echoes of Saigon, or the artistic moods from the floors above.
Signature Cocktails to Experience: The Liquid Stories
- Memoirs of the Delta: A delicate blend of artisanal Vietnamese rice spirits, pandan smoke, clarified coconut water, and citrus oil.
- Highland Mist: Infused with wild Dalat artichoke bitters, botanical gin, and mountain pepper honey, delivering an earthy, herbaceous depth.
- The Saigon Nocturne: A bold, bittersweet nightcap combining roasted Vietnamese dark cocoa, aged rum, and spiced coffee reduction.
Seven Artists, Seven Flavors of Nostalgia
- Tuýp Trần – A Slice of Saigon
When Tuyp first came to the South, the flavors of broken rice and street-side ambarella stayed with him. His cocktail combines tequila, pickled mango, ambarella, and chili — bright, direct, and alive with the spirit of Saigon. When was the last time you shared a sweet-and-sour snack with friends, laughing between bites?
- Phạm Xeen – Sea Salt
His childhood in Can Gio was marked by salt fields, fishing trips, and bowls of sour fish soup. His cocktail blends gin, tomato, salted berries, and soda — balanced and refreshing, just like the sea breeze of his hometown. What does the sea taste like to you?
- Bách Vũ – Between Hanoi and London
Born in Hanoi and shaped by years abroad, Bach remembers both the street-side draft beer (Bia Hơi) and leisurely London afternoons with a Spritz. His cocktail brings together Moscato, beer foam, curry leaves, and root beer – a bridge between East and West, between home and longing. Is there a flavor you carry with you, no matter where you go?
- Mzung Nguyễn – The Taste of the Central Coast
Her Central Vietnam memories are filled with sunlight, wind, waves, and the aroma of fermented shrimp paste in clay jars. Her cocktail, made with gin, wine, and soursop soda, is highly aromatic and herbal – like a soothing tide that settles the soul. What flavor brings the coast back to you?
- Đặng Quang Tiến – The Warmth of the Mekong
He recalls late afternoons when his mother would crack open coconuts in the garden. His cocktail is aged directly inside a dried coconut, with whisky, Campari, and fino sherry seeping into the flesh – sweet, earthy, and layered like a family meal. What flavor brings you back to the family dinner table?
- Lê Phi Long – Morning on the Perfume River
The drifting mist on the Perfume River and the ringing of temple bells at dawn – these are Long’s memories of Hue. His cocktail combines rum, longan, and lotus foam – gentle, calm, and pure, like meditation in a glass. What quiet moment has stayed with you?
- Quốc Anh Lê – The Spirit of Change
When he was a young boy, his favorite treat was iced Milo from his uncle’s cart – sweet, cold, and filled with laughter. His cocktail evolves that memory into adulthood with whisky, chocolate, mint, and roasted grain ice – playful and bold, echoing his ever-changing spirit. Do you still remember the thrill of a childhood treat you always longed for?
A journey meant to be savored slowly. From the shores of Can Gio to the misty Perfume River, from the small alleys of Hanoi to the vibrant streets of Saigon, take your time to choose a story or leisurely wander through them all.
Explore Dining & Culture at ANIMA
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a reservation to visit ÚNU Eatery & Bar?
Reservations are highly recommended for evening bar seating and weekend dining, especially around peak hours (7:00 PM – 10:00 PM).
Does ÚNU serve food alongside cocktails?
Yes. ÚNU offers an inventive menu of modern Vietnamese sharing plates, small bites, and dinner dishes crafted to pair harmoniously with our beverage program.
Visit ÚNU Eatery & Bar
- Opening Hours: Daily from 6:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Location: G & M Floor, 43-45 Ho Tung Mau Street, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Hotel Stays: Pair your dining experience with a stay in our Artist Rooms & Suites.
