In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, nestled within the bustling Japanese Quarter off of Thai Van Lung Street, lies a culinary gem that is both a testament to friendship and a celebration of cultural fusion—Trattoria Three Little Owls. This establishment, with its unique blend of Italian classics, Japanese-Italian fusion cuisine, and an impressive selection of wines by the glass, has quickly become a favorite spot among those in the know.
Address: 8a/g3a Đ. Thái Văn Lung, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Ho Chi Minh City (located next to Maria Ozawa’s Bar and accross from Bar Oza - no relation.)
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM (it’s best to inquire about seating before coming.)
Email: trattoria.tlo.hcmc@gmail.com
Zalo: 0886676127
Facebook: three.little.owls.hcmc
Instagram: trattoria.tlo.hcmc
The intriguing name of the restaurant, Trattoria Three Little Owls, has a story as compelling as its menu. According to the owner, Mitsuru Ono, the inspiration behind the name originates from Ikebukuro, a vibrant district in Tokyo known for its association with owls. In Japanese, "owl" is pronounced "FUKUROU," which bears a resemblance to "IKEBUKURO," thus making owl statues a common sight throughout the district, symbolizing the area.
The story goes deeper than just a linguistic coincidence. Trattoria Three Little Owls was born out of a profound bond between three friends who shared a passion for food, culture, and music. "Three Little Owls started with three of us, including myself. At that time, our main business was catering, such as participating in festivals, mainly in Tokyo," Chef Ono recounts. The trio's love for reggae music, and particularly Bob Marley's iconic song "Three Little Birds," played a significant role in naming their venture. It was a harmonious blend of their location in Ikebukuro, the unity among the three friends, and their favorite song that led to the christening of Three Little Owls.
Originally launched as Champion Local Foods Booth in Tokyo's vibrant West Ikebukuro area in 2015, the eatery quickly became a lunchtime favorite, offering busy city-dwellers a delicious escape with its world street food-inspired menu. The establishment's initial tagline, “Would you like to take a delicious short trip during lunch time?” perfectly captured its essence: a gateway to global flavors.
In 2019, Chef Ono took the bold step of relocating to Da Nang, Vietnam, where Bistro Three Little Owls was born. Tucked away in a serene back alley, the bistro enchanted diners with its mouth-watering pizzas, homemade focaccia, and a vast selection of wines by the glass. It became a cherished spot among locals and expatriates alike, celebrated for its fusion of Mediterranean cuisine with a Japanese touch.
However, the journey was not without its challenges. A robbery in November 2019 and the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of the bistro. Despite these hurdles, Three Little Owls made a strategic move to An Thuong, Da Nang's expat epicenter, in early 2020. The relocation, along with the introduction of no-contact delivery and a daily special board, was a testament to the team's adaptability and commitment to their patrons.
The unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, particularly in Da Nang, eventually led to the difficult decision to close the bistro's doors in December 2021. Yet, hope and perseverance led to a new beginning.
A pivotal moment in the journey of Three Little Owls unfolded when Chef Ono teamed up with a friend to introduce Ichibanya Yokohama Ramen to Ho Chi Minh City in September 2020. Situated within the bustling Japanese Quarter, this venture laid the groundwork for Three Little Owls' eventual migration to the city.
Finally, in July 2023, Three Little Owls made its triumphant debut in Ho Chi Minh City. It quickly gained recognition for its exquisite Italian classics, Italian-Japanese fusion dishes, impressive wine selection, and impeccable service. All of this was offered within an intimate setting catering to just eight guests, further enhancing its appeal.
What makes Three Little Owls special isn't just its delicious food, but also its secret hideaway status. By choosing not to be on Google Maps and by being tucked away in a popular night life district, the restaurant creates an exclusive vibe, making it a delight for those who stumble upon it. This unique approach has built a loyal following, with diners excitedly sharing tales of finding this hidden treasure.
Despite the changes over the years, with Chef Ono now steering the restaurant on his own, the spirit of the original trio remains. The friendships endure, and the legacy of their collective passion is evident in every dish served at Trattoria Three Little Owls. "Now, I am the only one left, but I am still best friends with my former companions," the owner reflects, highlighting the enduring bonds that form the restaurant's foundation.
Trattoria Three Little Owls stands as a remarkable testament to the power of friendship, the beauty of cultural fusion, and the universal language of music. It invites patrons to experience not just a meal, but a story—a story of three friends who embarked on a culinary journey, leaving behind a legacy that continues to enchant and satisfy palates in Ho Chi Minh City.
In the ever-evolving landscape of global cuisine, certain eateries carve out a niche so unique, they become legends in their own right. Trattoria Three Little Owls, a discreet culinary haven nestled in the Thai Van Lung Japanese Quarter of Ho Chi Minh City's District 1, is one such establishment. This restaurant's journey from Tokyo to Saigon, with a significant chapter in Da Nang, reads like a culinary odyssey, marked by resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Trattoria Three Little Owls symbolizes more than just a restaurant; it represents a journey of passion, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of culinary excellence. For those lucky enough to experience its offerings, it stands as a testament to the magic that happens when cultures converge on a plate, served up with a side of heartwarming hospitality. In the bustling streets of Saigon, Three Little Owls invites you to uncover one of the city's best-kept secrets—a place where every meal feels like a discovery, and every visitor leaves as a friend.
Some dishes from a previous visit:
Chicken Liver Terrine and Sangria Jam
Mentaiko Spaghetti with Burnt Butter
Happy dinner mascots
Special of the day, medium rare
Charcoal Craftsman Style Carbonara
