In the last century, when the Chetty community, traders from East India, settled in Saigon, an imposing Hindu sanctuary, the Mariamman Temple, was founded right in the heart of the city. Across the street, a large three storey guesthouse was built as a hospitable place for travelers and pilgrims visiting the temple and its holy grounds.

Today, the second floor of this former guesthouse hosts the Temple Club, which continues to function as a favorite meeting place, a crossroads, for both travelers and Saigon residents alike. All patrons have in common a taste for well-being. They know that they can come to the Temple Club to escape the busy life and the heat of Saigon and will always be welcomed for a drink or fine authentic local fare.

The Temple Club reflects the refinement and "art de vivre" befitting Saigon during the early days, when the city was known as the "Paris of the East". It also features the blend of cultures that cohabited in Vietnam, back then. The house was born Indian, the atmosphere is casually European, the decor features many Chinese pieces and the food is a blend of all that. But the whole thing is before all Saigonese, typically Vietnamese.

The Temple Club consists of a bar, a restaurant, both indoors and on the verandah, and finally, the Club lounge. A venue for privacy, a quiet conversation or an intimate dinner between friends on soft leather sofas and large low tables, the decor of The Temple Club is exquisitely reminiscent of a bygone era. You can even take a piece of the decor home with you, as the owners - who are also "Temple Design", the furniture and design company based in Saigon - permit sales of selected items to the Temple Club guests.

The Temple Club is open from lunchtime, throughout the afternoon, and in the evenings for happy hours and dinner. Afternoon tea, Sunday brunch, and private functions are also favorites of patrons.

Email: templeclub@templevn.com