Ho Chi Minh City: Vietnamese Set Menu at Livannah

Introduction

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant food scene is a must for any traveler, and a dedicated Vietnamese set menu at Livannah offers an inviting way to indulge in home-style cooking. This experience promises a taste of Vietnam’s culinary soul, served in a relaxed, welcoming environment.

What we appreciate most about this tour are the authentic flavors, the variety of dishes, and the chance to enjoy a comprehensive, well-paced meal. Plus, it’s a great option for those who want a sit-down experience without the hassle of street food or multiple stops. That said, the rating of 3.9 suggests it’s a decent choice, but perhaps not a standout for everyone.

This experience suits travelers seeking a casual, flavorful introduction to Vietnamese cuisine with the comfort of a set menu. It’s particularly ideal for food lovers, those less eager to venture into street stalls, or anyone wanting a relaxed meal with authentic touches.

Key Points

• Authentic Vietnamese home-cooked dishes served in a cozy setting
• Variety of flavors from appetizers to desserts, including salads, spring rolls, and mains
• Flexible main options: pork ribs or snakehead fish fillet
• Fresh ingredients and traditional recipes highlight Vietnam’s culinary heritage
• Relaxed, single-day experience that’s easy to fit into any itinerary
• Good for travelers seeking a comforting and authentic meal

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

The Vietnamese Set Menu at Livannah is designed as a one-day culinary journey through Vietnam’s home cooking. Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the restaurant offers a warm, friendly atmosphere where you’re welcomed by staff who are accustomed to guiding visitors through their tasting experience.

The experience is quite straightforward—upon arrival, you inform the staff of your reservation, settle in, and prepare for a feast of familiar flavors. The meal begins with a refreshing appetizer of Goi Xoai, a mango salad that’s both tangy and sweet. It’s light but bursting with flavor, setting a vibrant tone for the meal.

Following that, you’ll enjoy a palm heart salad with shrimp and pork, served with crispy shrimp crackers. It’s a lovely mix of textures and tastes that highlights Vietnam’s love for fresh herbs and balanced seasoning. Reviewers mention the “special takes” on spring rolls and the fresher-than-fresh noodles, which add to the dish’s authenticity.

Main course options are a highlight, offering you a choice between Vietnamese pork ribs with fish sauce or snakehead fish fillet with fish sauce. Both dishes are cooked in traditional styles, emphasizing the use of fish sauce, which is a cornerstone of Vietnamese cuisine. Guests often praise the generous portions and the well-seasoned, tender meat/fish.

The meal finishes with a dessert of tropical fruit and ice cream—a light, sweet ending that leaves you satisfied but not overly heavy. The use of fresh, tropical fruits makes it feel like a true taste of Vietnam’s bounty.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Arrival and Seating

Timing is flexible, but it’s recommended to arrive at your reserved time. You’ll check in with the staff—friendly and efficient—and then settle into your table. The restaurant’s ambiance is casual yet comfortable, making it suitable for both relaxed lunches and leisurely dinners.

The Appetizer: Goi Xoai (Mango Salad)

Starting with a mango salad is a clever choice—bright, tangy, and refreshing. It’s a perfect palate cleanser and a good showcase of Vietnamese fruit-based salads. Reviewers note that the “amuse bouche” sets a cheerful, vibrant tone, with some calling it a “delicious way to start”.

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The Salads: Palm Heart and Shrimp

Next, you’ll move on to a palm heart salad with shrimp, served alongside traditional shrimp crackers. The contrast between the crunchy crackers and the tender shrimp and palm hearts creates an engaging mix of textures. Many mention the generous shrimp portions, and some appreciating how the salad is both hearty and fresh.

Spring Rolls and Noodles

Spring rolls are a staple, but Livannah’s version is praised for its “special takes” and use of fresh herbs. The noodles served alongside are described as light but flavorful, making them a great addition rather than a heavy course. The salad and herbs add a fresh, herbal punch that Vietnamese cuisine is known for.

Main Course: Pork Ribs or Snakehead Fish

The main course choices are thoughtfully prepared. The Vietnamese pork ribs, seasoned with fish sauce, are tender, with some reviewers mentioning they are “fall-off-the-bone”. The alternative, snakehead fish fillet, is described as fresh and well-cooked, with the fish sauce providing a savory depth.

Dessert: Tropical Fruits and Ice Cream

The meal concludes with tropical fruit, often mango or pineapple, combined with a scoop of ice cream. The combination is described as “refreshing” and a perfect way to end the meal on a light note.

Dining Environment and Service

While the focus is on food, service and ambiance are important. Guests describe Livannah as friendly and efficient, with staff guiding you through the set menu. The environment is casual but clean and comfortable, ideal for relaxing and savoring each dish without feeling rushed.

Some reviews mention that the experience is “a bit slow”, but this generally isn’t a major issue. The pace allows you to truly enjoy each course, especially if you’re in no rush.

Value and Practicalities

The experience operates on a “reserve now & pay later” basis, offering flexibility if plans change. The price seems reasonable considering the variety and authenticity of the dishes. Since it’s a set menu, it’s especially good for travelers wanting to avoid the unpredictability of street food and instead enjoy a curated, wholesome meal.

It’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of travelers. The experience is valid for just one day, so check availability and book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is ideal for food lovers who want a structured, authentic Vietnamese culinary experience. It’s especially suitable for those who value home-style dishes over street food or casual dining. If you appreciate generous portions, fresh ingredients, and classic flavors, this experience will satisfy your cravings.

It’s also perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed meal with no fuss, in a location that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s cooking traditions. If you’re traveling with family or friends, the set menu can be a cozy, communal way to enjoy a meal together.

The Sum Up

The Vietnamese Set Menu at Livannah offers a straightforward yet authentic way to sample Vietnam’s home-cooked flavors. You’ll enjoy a carefully curated selection of dishes that showcase the country’s balance of freshness, seasoning, and tradition—all served in a friendly and relaxed setting.

While the experience might not be a high-end culinary adventure, it provides great value for those seeking genuine tastes without the hassle of street vendors or multiple courses. The meal’s variety and quality make it a good pick for anyone new to Vietnamese cuisine or craving a comforting, well-prepared feast.

Travelers who love flavorful, family-style dishes and want a simple, authentic dining experience should definitely consider this meal. It’s a gentle, tasty introduction to Vietnam’s culinary heart, perfect for a laid-back afternoon or evening in Ho Chi Minh City.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Since the set menu features shrimp, pork, and fish, it’s not ideal for vegetarians. You might find some vegetarian options, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Can I choose my main course?
Yes, you have the option to select between Vietnamese pork ribs or snakehead fish fillet when ordering.

How long does the meal last?
The experience is designed to be a one-day activity, but the actual dining time typically spans around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the pace of the group.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is perfectly fine. The environment is informal and comfortable.

Are drinks included?
The description doesn’t specify drinks, so expect to pay separately if you wish to order beverages.

What language is spoken during the experience?
The host staff speaks Vietnamese, but the experience being a set menu at a restaurant suggests that communication is straightforward, with staff likely to speak basic English.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for all travelers.

In sum, for those wanting a relaxed, flavorful, and authentic Vietnamese meal, Livannah’s set menu offers a dependable taste of traditional home-cooked dishes. It’s a practical choice that balances quality, comfort, and culture in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

You can check availability for your dates here: