Saigon Supper Inn has arrived at Manly Wharf, offering commuters and locals an authentic taste of Vietnamese street food crafted by chef Bao La.
Transformation of Manly Wharf
Saigon Supper Inn opened on 12 September 2025 at Manly Wharf, taking over the former Chat Thai site. The venue is part of a wider redevelopment of the precinct by Brisbane-based Artemus Group, which bought the leasehold for $80 million in 2023.
Since the purchase, the group has rebranded Wharf Bar into Felons Brewing Co, launched Felons Seafood, and acquired Hugos Italian. It is also building a microbrewery and diner where Aldi once operated. Co-founder Adam Flaskas said their goal is to revitalise Manly Wharf while keeping it inclusive for locals and visitors.
Chef Bao La’s Story
Head chef Bao La grew up in his family’s restaurant in Australia before training with chefs Dan Hong and Jowett Yu. He later worked in Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Paris, opening acclaimed venues including Le Garçon Saigon and Le Petit Saigon.
In Vietnam, he partnered with social enterprise KOTO to launch ST25 by KOTO at Sofitel Saigon Plaza, which earned a Michelin Selected Award. After returning home, he settled in the Northern Beaches to share authentic Vietnamese flavours with the community. His cooking focuses on fresh produce, sustainability, and simple, accessible dishes.
Flavours of Saigon
The menu captures the street food flavours of Ho Chi Minh City. It features five types of Banh Mi made with baguettes baked daily using sustainable New South Wales flour and traditional fillings.
Another highlight is the Saigon-style beef pho, made with a sweet broth and beef from local regenerative farmers at CopperTree Farms. Saigon Supper Inn also serves Vietnamese iced coffee, kombucha, and coconut juice, open Wednesday to Sunday for dine-in and takeaway.
A Local Connection
Saigon Supper Inn’s philosophy goes beyond food. Bao aims to foster a sense of community among locals and travellers through shared meals and approachable service. His team acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land, the Gayemagal people of the Eora Nation, and expresses respect for their elders.
The focus on community, local produce, and cultural respect makes Saigon Supper Inn a fitting addition to the evolving Manly Wharf precinct.
Published 8-October-2025
