Jardin Delices - Provided by vietnam720.com

Bibi Oi
17A Le Thanh Ton, Q1 Tel: 3824 2487
Long-running, homey French and Mediterranean-style restaurant recently relocated from its original vantage point on Thai Van Lung. Three-course set lunches go for under VND200,000 and the main courses have a particular focus on meat dishes. Speciality steak dishes (VND600,000 to VND650,000 for two) are carved and shaped at the table, a nice touch. Has 15 French wines by the glass.

Jardin Delices
4 Thao Dien, Q2 Tel: 3744 4722
Set in quiet, respectable An Phu, Jardin Delices is an oasis of brightness, colour and flavour. Looking like it was designed by Philippe Starck, the indoor dining area is complemented by comfy outdoor seating and a swimming pool in the garden. The food is classic French enlivened with modern twists like the grilled beef tenderloin which sits next to a vegetable and parmesan boulgour with crystallised garlic.

K Cafe
28 Do Quang Dau, Q1 Tel: 3913 4673
The closest Saigon has to a Parisian zinc, with plenty of lively Gallic conversation, Ricard, wine, beer and a good selection of well-priced and tasty bistro fare. Located in the backpacker area and fronted by the affable Paulo, the lively atmosphere often continues into the small hours.

La Fourchette 
9 Ngo Duc Ke, Q1 Tel: 3829 8143
Bistro-style French restaurant with a deserved reputation earned over 14 years for excellent home-spun cuisine at reasonable prices, all in an atmosphere far removed from the bustle of the streets. It’s small, and hence gets busy, and once you’ve tried the food you’ll see exactly why people keep coming back. Best to book in advance.

Le Jardin
31 Thai Van Lung, Q1 Tel: 3825 8465
The relaxing and informal garden setting and the robust, tasty French food have justifiably made this place one of the favourite hangouts for expat residents. Hearty main courses cost from VND70,000, a carafe of house wine VND60,000. Open for lunch until 2pm and for dinner, but closes relatively early. Closed Sunday.

La Nicoise
42 Ngo Duc Ke, Q1 Tel: 3822 8613
Treading the line between café and restaurant, this, compact venue is full of character and offers light French dishes from a daily changing lunch menu as well as a range of teas, coffees and juices. Open until 10pm.

L’en Tete
1st Floor, 139 Nguyen Thai Binh, D1 
Atmospheric first-floor restaurant that mixes retro décor, locally painted art and live piano or jazz with quality French cuisine. Main courses start at around VND120,000 with modern takes on classic French fish and meat dishes combined with more international choices. Open 5pm to midnight.

Le Toit Gourmand
31/4 Hoang Viet, Ward 4, Tan Binh
Tel: 0908 225884
Table d’hote fine dining that is truly an experience in this gastronome’s delight. Owner Gils puts a personal touch on an imaginative menu of French and Mediterranean cuisine, and the atmospheric setting only enhances the definitive flavours. Just saying “brouillade d’oeufs à la truffe” evokes excitement. Well, sometimes. Worth making the trip towards the airport to enjoy.

Ty Coz
178/4 Pasteur, Q1 Tel: 3822 2457
Understated venue set in a colonial villa which aficionados agree does some of the best, classic French cuisine in town. Among a host of highlights, the sole meuniere stands out, although with such high standards it’s hard to go wrong. Indecisive? Try the set three-course business meal for under VND200,000.