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An inside ambiance of the Basilico Restaurant - Photo: Ann Wheaton
This Italian Trattoria, located in the InterContinental Hotel complex, was our venue for breakfast before we commenced our morning shopping in the nearby Vincom Center. The décor is smart, slick and modern with both indoor and outdoor seating. There is also seating in the lobby area which is great for families with children that need more space. It is a pleasant refuge away from the insane pace of the motor scooters, bikes and vehicles on the choked and overcrowded streets around the centre of the city.
The all-day breakfast is supplemented by a ‘Healthy’ option (VND165,000) which includes a choice of cereal, muesli or yogurt served with fresh fruit or egg white omelette with spinach. Fresh juice, coffee and toast are included.
We opted for the regular breakfast (VND175,000). Two eggs cooked to your choice served with tomato, bacon, mushrooms and chicken sausages or scrambled egg with Norwegian smoked salmon and herb cream cheese. The same inclusions as above.
I was disappointed that the breakfast menu was so limited when there are such wonderfully diverse dishes that could be offered rather than the staid and ordinary. The menu does, however, offer a selection of baguettes and various other breads with a diverse range of fillings for diners, like me, who have tired of the humdrum of eggs with the usual accompaniments.
The service was excellent and we were delivered of our chosen options within a short time span. Our three year old companion having chosen his ‘favorite’ of banana pancakes with maple syrup which were, unfortunately, a bit doughy and heavy. Our breakfast choices from the set menu were beautifully presented, hot and tasty and the coffee was particularly good.
Basilico offers a full menu for all day dining, their pizzas have a reputation for excellence, although I am yet to try them. There is also a specials lunch menu which is offered at VND270,000 for two courses. This venue is a relaxing and restorative escape from the hustle and bustle of the city buzz. Drop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Basilico, corner of Nguyen Du and Le Van Huu streets, District 1, HCMC, tel: (08) 3520 9099.
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