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BOCĀO Basque Izakaya

📍 12 Nguyễn Văn Hưởng, Thảo Điền, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Open in Google Maps ↗ Tuesday-Sunday 16:00-23:00; Friday-Saturday 16:00-00:00; Monday Closed +84902888502

Overview

BOCĀO Basque Izakaya sits on Nguyễn Văn Hưởng street. This riverside restaurant is in Ho Chi Minh City’s Thảo Điền area, District 2. It merges Basque culinary traditions with a Japanese izakaya small-plate format. The location offers direct views of the Saigon River. Diners also see the Landmark 81 tower from here. The kitchen cooks many dishes over embers and open fire. The menu emphasizes small, shareable plates. It builds these plates from quality produce.

The chef-owner of Octo Tapas guides BOCĀO’s concept. The menu lists both seafood and meat dishes. Guests enjoy specific plates like clams cooked over coals. Other options include lamb tsukune and wagyu steak. A signature Basque cheesecake always features on the dessert menu. The venue serves dishes at a pace suitable for a complete dining experience. The name Bocāo means “bite” in Spanish.

The space features an open design. Warm decor fills the interior. The restaurant arranges seating to maximize river views. Its western-facing position creates a beautiful setting for sunset views. The establishment offers a curated list of wines and cocktails. These drinks pair well with the food. Guests can order wine by the glass, jug, or bottle. The venue attracts an international clientele from the Thảo Điền neighborhood.

The format suits both small dinners and larger groups. The restaurant operates from afternoon into evening. It closes on Mondays. Fire-grilled cooking defines its offering. A riverside setting and izakaya service style complete the experience. BOCĀO provides a distinct dining option within the Thảo Điền area.

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