Fawcett debuts book and bar inspired by Vietnam

British bartender and artist Richie Fawcett has created a new cocktail bar and book inspired by the “culture and idiosyncrasy” of Vietnam and its characters.

Mac Thi Buou cocktail features in The Art of Saison

The book, named Cocktail Art of Saigon, is also the cocktail menu at Shri Restaurant and Lounge. It will become the central inspiration for his new bar and gallery The Studio Saigon, where a selection of the cocktails will be served.

The hardback book features 41 original cocktails created and illustrated by Fawcett, to celebrate 41 years of peace after the Vietnam War.

Recipes feature ingredients from local markets, house-made specialities, local liqueurs, and premium spirits brands.

It also features illustrations of historic landmarks and lesser-known corners of old Saigon.

“My book is about how much I enjoy this amazing city, its warmth and its history”, said Fawcett. “Each drawing is equally detailed, and the street scenes and friendly people have inspired me to create these new cocktails. My new bar is for friends and customers who I have enjoyed drinking with.”

“The bar and the book reflect the way in which I discovered the city – hopping on a scooter or walking at random, and discovering a thrilling new experience around every corner.”

Set to open in April 2017, the hybrid bar-gallery reflects Fawcett’s admiration of the city from its tones of grey, orange and silver to the ornaments from local antique markets.

Located in downtown Old Saigon on the first floor of a 1930s residential block, entry to The Studio Saignon is through a hidden entrance that is used as a motorbike parking hall.

Inside, classic white walls create a gallery space for Fawcett’s black and white sketches, while the bar area is described as “intimate and cosy”.

Cocktail Art of Saigon is available from Shri Restaurant and Lounge for VND500,000 (£17.50/US$22) and soon via Amazon.