For a taste of local fare in "real" local atmosphere, head to tiny Hoa Dai Do -- just north of the park at 40 Le Dai Hanh St. (tel. 0313/810-452) -- which slings hash Vietnamese-style, the likes of good stir-fries, noodle soups, roasted dinners, fried rice, and noodles. They march out an English menu when you arrive, but you can also have a peak in the kitchen to see what looks familiar and/or appetizing.
In the park adjacent to the high-end Harbour View Hotel, find Van Tue Restaurant (1A Hoang Dieu; tel. 0313/746-338; www.vantue.com). This oversize garden restaurant caters mainly to big wedding parties and other special events, but they do have some private rooms and serve delicious fresh seafood (by the pound) from a limited English menu. It's a bit pricey, but good, especially with a group.
