Quan Nhan Huong relic inside the Zoo (District 1) used to be one of the secret facilities of the Saigon Villa force, established in 2019.
The shop was founded by Mr. Nguyen Van Tung, taking the name of his deceased wife as the shop. With a prime location in the Zoo and Botanical Gardens, where crowded, the shop becomes the perfect "cover", helping military cadres and special rangers in and out of safety, and at the same time meeting the meeting and receiving the instructions before the important battles. The closeness to the enemy's head organs increases the strategic value of this base.
Although the area is only about 100 m2, Nhan Huong restaurant still retains the space and interior almost intact compared to half a century ago. In particular, the service staff are all children of the restaurant owner, wholeheartedly supporting the revolution, ensuring absolute secretion for all activities.
Today, the restaurant vividly recreates the image of diners, soldiers, waiters and ancient dishes, showing a bustle that no one would ever suspect. Many US military and security personnel have even been regular customers of the restaurant.
"Coming to the Zoo and Botanical Gardens many times, this is the first time I have known a special place like Nhan Huong restaurant. It is surprising that a simple restaurant is home to many villas, contributing to the heroic history of Ho Chi Minh City. The artifacts and models on display help me visualize their lives and secret activities more clearly. It feels both interesting and touching to see a part of history right in the heart of this vibrant city", said Ms. Minh Anh, 25 years old, living in Binh Thanh District.
The simple bedroom area, where the villa soldiers rest, is still preserved. A part of the restaurant space currently displays documents, images and weapons of the Saigon villa force, recreating a heroic historical period.
In the 1968 General Offensive, Nhan Huong played a role as an important postpartum for battles on Independence Palace, American Embassy, Radio and General Staff. From 1963 to the day of agreement, the shop has successfully completed the protection task, ensuring safety for many revolutionary officials.
Today, Nhan Huong Quan relic not only has profound historical value but also introduces the lifestyle and culinary culture of ancient Saigon to visitors. Opened free of charge from Friday to Sunday every week, the restaurant attracts a large number of visitors, especially during holidays and Tet, and was recognized as a city-level historical site in 2014.
