For atmosphere alone, the Temple Club is a must-see in Ho Chi Minh. As the name suggests, this is an old Chinese temple (ca. 1900), with original wood and masonry. The decor is upscale, but the prices are reasonable and the food is great. The ceiling is high, and the walls are exposed brick. The floor is terra cotta draped in antique throw rugs, and there are some great Buddhist tapestries and statuary about. There's a classic old wooden bar and a formal but comfortable dining room, as well as a lounge area in the back for coffee and dessert. The cuisine is standard Vietnamese from all parts of the country. This place does a good Hanoi-style cha ca (fried monkfish), and the grilled fish Long Va style (grilled fish on a bed of spring onions and dill covered in crisp garlic and peanuts) is an excellent choice. For dessert, the homemade Hue cake in secret sauce, a steamed cake made of ground green beans served with a pandan and coconut sauce, is done just right. The coffee is the real thing; they even have cappuccino. This is one of the most atmospheric and romantic spots in town.
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