Mastering Mixology: Inside the Mind of Vietnam’s Top Bartender (AUDIO)

"In the West, we say hospitality; in Vietnam, it’s still just F&B. Bridging that gap is everything to me." – Jason Pham

This episode with Jason was truly inspiring. Jason’s journey from Australia to Saigon (officially Ho Chi Minh City), rooted in his family’s refugee story, brings so much depth to what he does in the hospitality industry here in Vietnam.

He’s not only a skilled mixologist but also an incredible storyteller, blending Vietnamese and Western influences in a way that’s reshaping Saigon’s cocktail scene.

Our conversation really highlights the passion, creativity, and hard work behind his bars, and I think listeners will walk away with a new appreciation for the artistry involved in every drink he serves.

Niall Mackay

Key Takeaways:

Jason’s Negroni Secrets: Why he uses Lady Trieu Flower Bomb Gin to elevate his signature cocktail, the Negroni.
Mastering Hospitality: Jason’s philosophy on remembering guests’ names and creating a welcoming atmosphere in Vietnam’s young cocktail scene.
Balancing Two Clienteles: How Jason tailors service for both Western expats and affluent Vietnamese in Saigon’s growing bar industry.
Embracing Cultural Heritage: Jason’s journey as an Australian-Vietnamese and reconnecting with his roots in Vietnam.
“Viet Kieu” Influence: How a mentor inspired Jason to return to Vietnam to make the most of the emerging market’s unique opportunities.

Chapters:

10:00 - The Secret Ingredients to the Perfect Negroni
22:00 - How Jason Builds Community Through Hospitality
40:00 - Serving Saigon’s Diverse Clientele: Expats and Vietnamese Elites
58:00 - Growing Up Australian-Vietnamese: Jason’s Cultural Journey
01:02:00 - Why Vietnam is a Land of Opportunity for Viet Kieu and Entrepreneur

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I'm Niall Mackay, aka The Podcast Guy, founder of Seven Million Bikes Podcasts and host of a Vietnam Podcast.

I love sharing my passion for podcasting and the incredible stories from Vietnam. Thanks for joining me on this journey!