The first thing that strikes one about Hideaway Cafe is that the name fits. Nestled down a small laneway off Pham Ngoc Thach Street in Ho Chi Minh City, Hideaway is tricky to find. And sitting in a generous armchair in the light-filled, Moroccan-inspired dining room, really does feel like being in a haven; far from the noise and havoc of the streets outside. Very appealing. I predict long afternoons over cups of coffee or freshly squeezed juices, maybe even a decadent cake or two; the owners installing WiFi in the building means I could work on my laptop here too!
Hideaway had an official launch party on July 2, with over 200 people attending. But even before, the ex-pat grapevine buzzed about this new cafe. By the time I got around to reviewing. Hideaway, I had lunched here twice already and been impressed with both the setting and food. Architect David Hodgekinson had just returned from a holiday in Morocco before he started renovating this French villa, resulting in three separate rooms featuring arched windows, high tented ceilings, plush seating and stone washed walls. Upstairs is a separate lounging room with couches and bean bags, perfect for private parties or dining with young children.
General Manager Christine describes the cuisine as "contemporary British"; the menu put together by one of the partners, An, a British Viet Kieu. Every item on the menu is something she has cooked herself at home. An hopes to raise the profile of British cuisine and lift it from the outdated stereotype of "bangers and mash," Hideaway's food is bold, innovative and flavoursome. The tangy, sweetness of the grilled sea bass and fruit salad with mango and avocado (VND80,000) is memorable. A classic Caesar Salad (VND45,000), comes with either grilled chicken (VND60,000) or smoked salmon (VND75,000), served with a hearty anchovy dressing. I fell in love with the Linguine with chicken in spicy sauce (VND60,000), a herby, olive oil and garlic based pasta; friends rave about the Spaghetti with prawns, chilli and rocket (VND60,000). Appetisers include barbequed duck and herb rolls (VND25,000) and beef slices with pesto wrapped in mustard leaves (VND30,000). Desserts are just too good. Glandula mousse cake is a dense, flourless chocoholic fantasy (VND40,000) and that British classic, bread and butter pudding, is rich and velvety (VND30,000). One of the best things about this menu is there is so much choice - including 12 veggie options - so deciding what to order is no easy task.
Hideaway Cafe
Add: 41/1 Pham Ngoc Thach St, Dist 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Tel: (84-8) 822 4222
