Lost & Found: A Hidden Oasis of Cocktails and Nostalgia in Saigon

Some places are stumbled upon; others are hunted down. Lost & Found, a cocktail bar tucked away in a quiet alley off 19/6 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, decidedly falls into the latter category^[0]. In a city that never sleeps, finding a doorway into a quieter, more reflective version of Saigon is a prize in itself. My search for this hidden gem ended not with a glaring neon sign, but with the soft glow of a single bulb illuminating a narrow passageway, a fitting prelude to the intimate world waiting inside.

The Atmosphere: A Temporal Threshold

Stepping through the door is like crossing a temporal threshold. The bar is inspired by the early colonial days of old Saigon, a concept that is felt rather than merely stated^[1]. The design is a characterful juxtaposition of bold floral upholstery against bright green walls, a visual nod to a bygone era that manages to feel both nostalgic and strikingly fresh^[2]. Vintage floor tiles and a low, cozy ceiling complete the picture, creating an atmosphere that patrons consistently describe as "cozy and inviting," a perfect little hidden spot that feels like home^[3]. The lighting is dim, intimate, and forgiving, casting everything in a warm, amber hue that makes the outside world feel miles away.

The soundtrack to this scene is a carefully curated playlist of nostalgic indie rock, its melodies weaving through the low hum of conversation without ever overpowering it^[4]. This isn't a raucous club, but a sanctuary for those who appreciate the art of a good drink and good company. The space is intimate, with seating that encourages leaning in and sharing stories, making it ideal for a date, a deep conversation with a friend, or even a solitary moment of contemplation with a perfectly crafted drink.

The Libations: Impeccable Craft & Storytelling

And it is the drinks that are the undisputed stars of the show. The menu, accessible via a discreet QR code that reveals seasonal specials, is a thoughtful curation of both classic and signature cocktails^[5]. The classics are executed with reverence. A Sazerac arrives with the perfect balance of rye whiskey, absinthe, and Peychaud's bitters, its lemon twist a fragrant finale^[6]. A Negroni is bracingly bitter and complex, a testament to the quality of its components^[7].

It is the signatures, however, that truly capture the spirit of the place. Each one tells a story. The Lost in Saigon is a sophisticated blend of rye whiskey and elderflower liqueur, a drink that feels both sturdy and elegant^[8]. The A Di Da Phat, with its chamomile-infused vodka and honey syrup, is floral and soothing^[9]. Perhaps the most conversation-starting is the Cinnamon Babe, where bourbon is infused with smoked cinnamon bark, resulting in a drink that is spicy, smoky, and utterly memorable^[10].

The Culinary Companions: Beyond Afterthoughts

While the focus is on libations, the food offerings are far from an afterthought. They are designed to be the perfect companions to the cocktails. The fan-favorite Chicken Lollipops are a revelation—crispy, tender, and spiced just right, they are the ideal savory bite to balance a spirited drink^[13]. For something lighter, the addictive roasted corn snacks are a simple yet brilliant offering, their smoky sweetness pairing wonderfully with nearly any cocktail on the menu^[14]. It’s this attention to detail, even in the snacks, that elevates the experience from simply having a drink to enjoying a complete sensory moment.

The Heartbeat: Attentive Service

This meticulous care extends seamlessly to the service. The staff at Lost & Found are frequently highlighted in reviews for being warm, attentive, and knowledgeable^[15]. They are not just servers but guides, happy to recommend a drink based on your preferences or explain the story behind a signature creation. Bartenders like Thao are praised for their friendliness and skill^[16], while meeting the owner, Tyler, feels less like encountering a proprietor and more like being welcomed by a gracious host who is genuinely invested in your enjoyment^[17]. The service is prompt yet never rushed, allowing each guest to settle into the bar's relaxed rhythm.