A Taste Of Vietnam With Cocktails And Bar Bites

The Space at Ủ Bar:

It’s not too difficult to find the entrance to Ủ, where a small door leads up a narrow staircase, just wide enough for one person to pass at a time. The pathway is long and somewhat mysterious, evoking a sense of a safe haven, where thoughts can float freely, detached from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Following the path, I ascend the stairs towards the glowing sign, passing through the waiting area before entering Ủ through a gray door. The space opens up before my eyes, contrasting and striking. It’s easy to notice that many traditional materials have been creatively modernized and subtly integrated, giving the place a distinct personality. The low ceiling is layered with dark metal panels, complementing the wooden furniture and shelves, creating a minimalist yet luxurious combination. The lighting is thoughtfully arranged, casting light and shadow that divides the space, enhancing the sense of privacy for those sipping their drinks.

A fragrant cup of tea, like an invitation to embark on a journey to experience the old and the new, is carefully preserved at Ủ through its cocktails and snacks…

Fairy Tales in the Glass of Spirits:

In a clever play on words, the “cocktale” or the collection of spirits is a fusion of the old and the new.

The drinks here predominantly feature handcrafted spirits as their main ingredient. The newly launched concept drinks, introduced in mid-October, are called Kho Tàng Tửu Tích (The Treasure Chest of Spirits) – a collection of signature “cocktales” with four signature drinks: Thạch Sanh, Sọ Dừa, Bánh Chưng Bánh Giầy, and Mai An Tiêm. Each of these drinks is inspired by Vietnamese ingredients and fairy tales.

One distinctive feature of Ủ is its fascinating drink names. Browsing through the menu, Vietnamese guests will undoubtedly be intrigued by names like Me Me Đá, Mê Muội, Bưởi Trưa, Tàu Hũ Gánh, and Ủ Mê Shu. Even before tasting, Ủ already piques the curiosity of customers with its unique names. The drinks also offer a variety of distinctive aromas and a range of flavors, from light to strong… In general, there’s something for everyone at Ủ, ensuring each guest can find their perfect drink.

Bar bites menu: A Highlight of the Experience

A visit to the bar is not just about drinks, but also about food! Ủ Bar invests not only in its drink menu but also in its food offerings. Enjoying the bar bites menu at Ủ Bar feels like embarking on a flavor adventure. Inspired by familiar street food dishes like soup, noodles, and skewers, Ủ puts a unique twist on them, transforming these classic items into perfect snacks for sipping cocktails and relaxing with friends.

Take, for example, the Hến Xúc Bánh Đa (clam served with crispy sesame rice crackers), where clams are cooked in a spicy XO sauce and paired with crunchy sesame rice crackers. Or the Nạc Nọng Xiên Que (grilled skewers of marinated pork), featuring tender pork marinated in a distinctive teriyaki sauce, char-grilled to perfection and served with pickled vegetables, offering a hint of spice from chili powder. For a refreshing change, try the Súp Gà Lá É (chicken soup with Vietnamese basil), a dish you might not expect to find in a bar. Sipping on a warm bowl of this delicate soup, made from chicken broth, bobo seeds, and mushrooms, while savoring creative cocktails, is a novel experience for any guest.

Amid the multitude of hidden bars, it’s clear why Ủ Bar has a lasting place in the hearts of many patrons. Perhaps it’s the modern Asian-inspired ambiance that feels both familiar and unique. Or maybe it’s the stories embedded in each signature drink. It could also be the passion of the team, who meticulously craft and innovate each product, from drinks to snacks, to offer customers an unforgettable experience.