The Deck Saigon
Tours & Activities in Ho Chi Minh City
This experience suits travelers who appreciate traditional performing arts and are interested in local customs presented in an accessible format. It is ideal for those seeking an evening activity that differs from typical urban nightlife, including families with older children, cultural enthusiasts, and visitors wanting to combine live entertainment with other Ho Chi Minh City experiences like river dining or scenic city rides. The show’s gentle pace and seating arrangement make it suitable for a wide range of guests.
This Mekong Delta Premium Tour with Speedboat & Lunch begins in Ho Chi Minh City, departing early in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat and maximize time on the water. The journey follows the winding Mekong River, traveling southward into the heart of the delta region. Guests board a comfortable speedboat that swiftly navigates the river's channels, offering close-up views of the lush landscape and traditional river life. Along the route, the boat stops at several villages and small islands where visitors can step ashore to visit local homes, tropical fruit gardens, and artisanal workshops. The day includes a midday meal featuring regional specialties served at a riverside restaurant, providing a chance to taste fresh, locally sourced ingredients while enjoying views of the water. Key stops include a bee farm where the hum of busy bees fills the air and the scent of wildflowers lingers, allowing visitors to observe honey production methods that have been practiced for generations. At a fish farm, the sight and sound of carp and catfish swimming beneath wooden docks highlight the importance of aquaculture in the delta’s economy. The tour also visits a tropical garden abundant with jackfruit, durian, and rambutan trees, where the sweet and sometimes pungent aromas mingle. Visitors walk through shaded pathways lined with fruit trees and seasonal flowers, experiencing the delta’s natural bounty firsthand. Traditional basket weaving demonstrations and local markets showcase the daily crafts and trade that sustain these communities. Tour groups are kept small, generally capped at around 12 participants, to maintain an intimate atmosphere and allow the guide to engage with each guest. The guide provides detailed explanations in clear English, sharing insights into the daily life, farming techniques, and environmental challenges of the Mekong Delta. Transport is handled via a modern air-conditioned coach from Ho Chi Minh City to the boat dock, followed by the speedboat ride along the river. The itinerary balances time on the water with short walks in shaded, flat terrain, making the pace manageable but active. This tour is well-suited for travelers interested in rural life and ecological systems, as well as those who appreciate fresh local food and gentle outdoor activity. It offers a break from the urban environment of Ho Chi Minh City, inviting participants to observe and absorb the rhythms of one of Southeast Asia's most important river ecosystems. Individuals who enjoy photography or have an interest in agriculture and traditional crafts will find the stops particularly engaging.
This tour gives you a quick overview of the Mekong Delta; then exit with your boat cruise upstream on the Mekong River to Cambodia.
About The Deck Saigon
Opening Hours
Today: 8:00AM–12:00AM
Where to Find The Deck Saigon
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Guest Experiences
Authentic Stories from Diners
If you’re looking for the ultimate "treat yourself" evening in Saigon, The Deck in Thao Dien remains the gold standard for riverside dining. These photos capture exactly why it’s a favorite: the seamless blend of sophisticated Pan-Asian cuisine and a view that makes the city feel a world away. The Ambiance: Riverside Chic The vibe here is "effortlessly upscale." Sitting right on the edge of the Saigon River, the restaurant offers a front-row seat to the shimmering skyline across the water. Whether you’re seated on the open-air wooden deck or near the floor-to-ceiling glass doors, the atmosphere is romantic and serene—lit by glowing table lanterns and the distant lights of the city’s high-rises. The Spread: A Masterclass in Fusion The food at The Deck is as much about presentation as it is about fresh, high-quality ingredients. Looking at the spread, here are the highlights: • Oysters on Ice: A quintessential start here. They are served perfectly chilled with a bright mignonette and the classic kick of Tabasco. It’s the ideal pairing for a humid Saigon evening. • Beef Tataki: The sear on the beef looks spot-on—rare in the center and topped with crispy garlic chips and microgreens for that essential crunch and hit of umami. • Sesame-Crusted Tuna: This dish is a standout for texture. The thick crust of black and white sesame seeds provides a nutty contrast to the delicate, fresh tuna inside. • Sides & Sips: Even the sides, like the charred broccolini, aren't an afterthought. And, of course, no meal here is complete without one of their signature cocktails (the martini in the photos looks crisp and expertly poured). The Verdict The Deck isn't just a restaurant; it’s an experience. While it sits at a higher price point for Ho Chi Minh City, you’re paying for the meticulous service, the "hidden gem" feel of the District 2 riverfront, and a sunset-to-starlight transition that’s hard to beat anywhere else in the city.
Dining here feels like enjoying a private meal on a luxury sailing house in Hawaii. The atmosphere is elegant yet relaxing, with ocean-inspired decor and soft lighting that creates a calm, upscale mood. The food is refined and beautifully presented, using fresh ingredients that taste light and sophisticated. Each bite feels carefully crafted, perfectly matching the luxurious seaside vibe. It’s not just a meal, but a full experience of comfort, elegance, and island-inspired indulgence.
The Deck Saigon is a beautiful outdoor riverside restaurant offering a classy and relaxed atmosphere. We were very satisfied with the menu, the high quality of the ingredients, and the excellent taste of all dishes. The elegant setting by the river, combined with attentive service, made the dining unique.
We came for the new years event at 8:30 for the second seating. Food was amazing but service was so rushed. Literally as soon as we finished one course the next one was brought out. We. Asked if we could have time between the second and were told no because the kitchen was in sequence as order put it. Very disappointed giving the amount we paid plus ordering bottle of wine and cocktails. Then before we had even finished our drinks they asked us to leave the table and go into the main bar area. The meal itself was delicious and food nicely presented. The cod was cooked perfectly. There was a mix up with the dessert and was brought the wrong dessert which was corrected. Food was definitely 5/5. Our table was in the restaurant with a decent view however the screaming child who was running around with his nanny killed a bit of the atmosphere. The dj was great as were the sparklers and fireworks for new new years. Good night but worth the price tag, not so sure.
The space is airy and especially impressive at sunset, with a well-arranged dining setup. However, the dishes focus more on offering unique or experimental flavors. The desserts were delicious. A staff member came to ask about the food, but only addressed one of us (we were a party of two). There was also a small typo on the plate decoration. Overall, it’s still worth a visit if you appreciate a beautiful view.
Other Restaurants in Ho Chi Minh City
Arriving by boat, this District 7 restaurant offers a serene atmosphere with professional staff and a photo service led by an art director. Suitable for couples celebrating special occasions, the food is reasonably priced but less remarkable than the setting.
Cruising the Saigon River on the Ben Thanh Princess combines skyline views with a multi-course Vietnamese dinner, live band, and magic show. Staff provide attentive service and English-speaking assistance, elevating the dinner experience in District 4.
This small Tan Binh spot serves rich Tonkotsu ramen with a slightly different noodle texture than usual. Alongside ramen, try their customizable beef bowls, gyoza, or panna cotta for dessert. Expect a lively atmosphere with loud music and close table settings.