In a city where the F&B scene buzzes with new openings every moment, 'NAMO slowly yet boldly makes its return after 5 years. Once a celebrated name for authentic Italian cuisine in HCMC, 'NAMO steps back into the race, still rooted in premium Italian dining but with a more playful twist, catering to a broader, global palate.
It All Starts with the Chef
Chef Ivan Barone, a name synonymous with the proper execution of Italian cuisine in Saigon, is more familiar with the brand than any of us. He has been part of 'NAMO's growth, from an F&B newcomer to when it became a symbol of premium dining in the city. But for Chef Ivan, it’s not just about his 30 years of cooking; we also see in him a seamless blend of his signature Italian style with a Vietnamese personality, manifested through his gestures, way of thinking, and the food he creates. Indeed, his 10 years living in Vietnam have more or less influenced him, and for that he feels at home at 'NAMO because it allows him to incorporate his Italian roots into the vibrant Saigon dining scene.
Brainstorming the Concept
The 5-year hiatus gave us the space to rethink our core offerings and the evolving tastes of our customers. Italian cuisine is, without a doubt, loved by both locals and expats, as evidenced by the growing number of Italian restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City. But when you’re craving the real deal—authentic Italian food, a place to take your friends and family for a memorable date night, to impress and surprise—where do you go? Recognizing this gap, ‘NAMO seized the opportunity to bring back the concept people once loved. But this time, we’re focusing on premium casual dining—welcoming, comfortable, and for everyone. We’re not about fine dining or aiming for sophistication; we just want to offer a premium feel with quality food that tastes as good as it looks.
From Ideas to Execution
Italian cuisine is one of the most popular international choices in Saigon, but the authentic flavors can sometimes feel unfamiliar to locals. For example, many prefer their marinara sauce a little sweeter or their pasta saucier—flavors that stray from traditional Italian tastes. At the new 'NAMO, we understand this and are here to bridge the gap. While we stay true to authentic Italian techniques, we're flexible and open to adjustments. Chef Ivan, with his deep understanding of traditional cuisine and his experiences sampling local dishes in Saigon, approaches food in a more playful way, adding the necessary twists to make 'NAMO more approachable for both local and international palates.
Visit us at 34 Lê Lợi and experience the new 'NAMO for yourself. We look forward to seeing you!
Upstairs, 34 Le Loi, D.1, HCMC.
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