Laid-back bar in central Ho Chi Minh City features impressive cocktail list plus Mediterranean cuisine
July 26th, 2017
Bustling Ho Chi Minh City offers plenty of choices for night time entertainment, and Layla Eatery & Bar is one of its newest options. Having opened in December 2016, it has quickly gained popularity among young locals and expats alike, thanks to its unpretentious atmosphere. Its founders – Australian bartender Jay Moir and a Vietnamese partner – wanted to create a place where people feel comfortable and relaxed while they enjoy quality food and drinks. They have certainly succeeded.
Design Occupying a privileged location within a colonial-era apartment building, Layla overlooks the famous Dong Khoi street and so is right in the heart of the city’s entertainment district. If you grab a window seat you can enjoy great views of the busy thoroughfare below, as well as the historic buildings opposite. The interior has a quirky feel to it thanks to its industrial design and contemporary artwork. There is plenty of seating available, and a large, exceedingly comfortable sofa in one corner to sink into. Past the bar there is also a cozy covered garden terrace, decked out with wooden furniture and plants.
Cuisine Various light food options are available at Layla if you are feeling hungry. The menu has a distinctly Mediterranean flavour with dishes like Spanish omelette and chorizo on offer. There is also a selection of seafood which includes oysters and calamari. Groups can order one of the generous charcuterie platters to share, and several desserts are available to finish the meal off.
Drinks Layla’s main attraction is its polished cocktails, with an extensive array of choices including new inventions and timeless classics. Cocktails are mixed by the talented bar staff who are as friendly as they are skilled. If you are feeling creative, they will also let you create your own from a list of suggested ingredients. Alternatively, you can order wine – of which there are dozens – beer, whisky or a liqueur.
Layla Eatery & Bar is open Monday to Saturday from 4 pm, with its opening time on Sunday being 12.30pm. The Happy Hours from 5 pm to 8 pm Monday to Saturdays, and the Sunday Session from 12:30 pm entice with great deals on drinks.
Layla interior
Layla cocktails
(Featured contributor Max Sergeant)
