Exploring Tan Dinh - Part 1
Tan Dinh ward has always been one of my favorite areas of Saigon. If you are looking for a central location with a lot of indie shops and cafes, this place has so many interesting things to offer. In this first installment of our new article series entitled “Exploring Tan Dinh”, I will give you a glimpse of the different shops and cafes I love. Hopefully, it will be a helpful guide for you as you explore the area.
Moc Little Farm (MLF)
Zero waste concept store and plant-based cuisine
38/16a Tran Khac Chan Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Nestled on a quiet street, MLF easily attracts your attention with its beautiful decor and a lovely main window in front. There is a big, round bar/kitchen counter designed in the center where you can sit and mingle with the owners. The concept of this cafe is bringing the cozy feel of home so that everyone can relax and enjoy a healthy glass of slow pressed juice or a slice of home-baked avocado cheesecake. I get to try their home-cooked lunch with a good balance of steamed rice, vegetables, soup, plus a banana ice-cream for dessert! MLF’s menu is seasonal so do send them a message to ask what’s available before you come.
Pacey Cupcakes (PC)
14 Dang Dung Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Who doesn’t love a yummy cupcake with a moist, fluffy texture and creamy frosting?! Cupcakes are my favorite dessert for an afternoon treat, and it’s even better when you go with a friend and order many types to try. Since I first moved to Saigon, Pacey Cupcakes has become my most favorite cupcake place in the city. They have not only a delicious selection of cupcakes but also cupcake parfaits (see photos). PC has its own unique interior design and if you want to read a book while savoring every bite, come upstairs where there are big windows and comfy seats.
Ten
Vintage & tailor-made clothing
212/13A Nguyen Van Nguyen, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
I close my eyes and think of Ten, wondering how I can define such a colorful and vibrant place. What appears in my memory are their signature sunshine yellow and teal green walls, a lot of daisy and polka dots pattern dresses, a balcony soaked in the golden afternoon sun, the hustle and bustle of Tran Quang Khai street. Ten is not only known for their collection of one-of-a-kind vintage dresses, but also for their tailor-made clothing with a vintage vibe. You can either buy a ready-made dress on the shelf, or order a custom-made one for yourself by choosing the fabric you like from a large selection in Ten’s fabric swatches book. That’s one of my favorite parts of shopping at Ten, you can always “design” your own dress!
Photography by Huy Hoang, Thao (Banh)| Words by Kim Anh.