Great-tasting pho and good coffee to match. I’ve been to both locations, and while the Bancao-Bancao branch is more accessible location-wise, I prefer the Libis branch when it comes to service. The staff there were more attentive and the overall dining experience felt better. That said, getting around from Libis can be a bit tricky at night. I dined there around 10 PM and had a hard time finding a ride back to my hotel, so I ended up walking back to the main highway. As for the food — solid. The beef balls are so good, and the broth is clean, flavorful, and already perfect on its own. I was honestly almost afraid to add anything because it tasted great as is. Would definitely come back for the pho (and the coffee).
Overview
Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines is a delightful fusion of two rich culinary traditions: Vietnamese and Filipino. Nestled in the heart of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, at PQQ8+J47, Rizal Avenue Extension, this cozy diner brings the best of both worlds to your plate. Whether you're craving the bold, aromatic flavors of Vietnam or the comforting, savory tastes of the Philippines, this restaurant delivers an unforgettable dining experience.
As soon as you step into Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines, you're greeted by the warm ambiance that reflects the spirit of both cultures. The décor is a blend of traditional Vietnamese elements, such as bamboo accents and rustic wooden furniture, mixed with Filipino touches, like colorful woven textiles and local artwork. It’s clear from the moment you walk in that a lot of care has gone into creating an inviting, homely atmosphere for guests.
The menu at Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines offers a mouthwatering selection of both Vietnamese and Filipino dishes, each prepared with fresh, local ingredients. One of the standout items is the Vietnamese Pho, a fragrant noodle soup made with tender beef or chicken, fresh herbs, and a flavorful broth that’s been simmered for hours. It’s the perfect balance of savory, aromatic, and slightly tangy flavors that warms you from the inside out. If you're in the mood for something a bit spicier, the Vietnamese Bun Bo Hue, a spicy noodle soup with a rich, spicy broth, is a must-try.
On the Filipino side, the restaurant serves up some classic favorites like Adobo and Sinigang, both of which are staples in any Filipino household. The Adobo at Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines is a perfect example of this comfort food done right-tender meat in a tangy, soy-based marinade, served with a side of steaming rice. The Sinigang, a sour soup made with tamarind and vegetables, is the perfect antidote to a hot day, offering a refreshing and tangy taste that’s sure to satisfy.
But what truly sets this restaurant apart is the attention to detail and the skillful blending of both culinary traditions. It’s not just about serving two cuisines; it’s about celebrating the unique flavors of each in a way that complements and enhances each other. You might find yourself enjoying a Filipino-style spring roll with a Vietnamese dipping sauce or a hearty Vietnamese rice dish paired with a Filipino dessert like leche flan, creating a cross-cultural culinary experience that’s both exciting and comforting.
The staff at Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines are friendly and knowledgeable, always happy to recommend dishes based on your preferences. Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, they make sure you feel right at home and ensure that every meal is served with a smile. Their attention to detail in both the food and service makes for an overall pleasant dining experience.
Located at PQQ8+J47, Rizal Avenue Extension, the restaurant is easily accessible for both locals and tourists. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty of Puerto Princesa or just enjoying a day in the city, stopping by for a meal at Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines is an excellent choice. With its relaxed atmosphere, flavorful dishes, and friendly service, it’s a spot that promises not just a meal but an experience that transports you to two different corners of Southeast Asia.
What’s more, Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines doesn’t just serve great food; they also cater to various dietary needs, making it a versatile option for those who have specific preferences or restrictions. Whether you're vegetarian, gluten-free, or just looking for something lighter, the menu has plenty of options to suit your needs.
As you dine, you’ll likely notice the local community's frequent visits, adding to the restaurant's charm and authenticity. It’s clear that Rene's Saigon Restaurant of Vietnam & Philippines has established itself as a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're seeking a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner with family and friends, this restaurant is a perfect choice. The combination of great food, wonderful service, and a cozy ambiance makes it a standout in the area.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Takeaway ✓ Dine-inPopular for
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Coffee ✓ Quick bite ✓ Small plates ✓ Vegan options ✓ Vegetarian optionsDining options
✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Casual ✓ Cosy ✓ TrendyCrowd
✓ Groups ✓ TouristsChildren
✓ Good for kidsParking
✓ Free of charge street parkingPhotos
1 / 4
Location
Reviews
- No ratings yet 251 reviews
As a first timer to try it, I love their beef pho soup perfect for the rainy weather when we went there. Big servings and the meat is tender and savoury. But 2 of us wasn't able to eat it when the soup is still hot and the noodles became soggy after 1hr. I cannot say that service is bad but maybe they just overlooked it or ignored even when we follow-up many times then came back to us to double check if we have 3 orders. At that time, the resto was not busy. Only few tables were occupied. Suggestion to waiters that you need to double check if the order is complete. You have the notes and we let you read it again to confirm. Thank you.
Rene Saigon in Puerto Princesa is a hidden gem for authentic flavors and a cozy dining experience. I ordered the beef stew, and it was perfectly tender with a rich, savory broth that felt like a warm hug in every bite. To complement the meal, I tried the hibiscus juice with pomegranate. an absolute delight with its refreshing, tangy-sweet flavor. The combination of hearty comfort food and a unique, vibrant drink made for a memorable meal. Highly recommend for anyone seeking delicious and soulful dishes!
So freakin awesome!!! We had coconut cream coffee with milk 100/10!!! Beef stew 10/10 Beef balls brisket noodles 10/10 Crispy pork spring rolls 10/10 Shrimp fresh spring rolls 70/10!
Our tour guide Jed had recommended Vietnamese restaurant Rene's Saigon. We came in on weekday an hour before closing and were only the guests. We met the owner himself Rene who I believe is Vietnamese that lives in Palawan. We got recommendations directly from him. We got Goi Cuon or freshrolls, Chaolong, Bun Tuoi Pork BBQ, Banh Mi and Coconut coffee The staff are quite fast and food got served in no time. Chaolong is good and its a distinct noodle beefsoap on its own. Its different from the usual pho I tried in HCM. My favorite is Bun Tuoi (rice vermicilli with pork bbq) easily won me over. The sauce mix with it made a lot of difference. Springrolls and banhmi are good. Coconut coffee got my nod, definitely a good concoction of coconut milk and brewed coffee. Not too sweet. Overall they had meet our expectation and its fairly price. An authentic Vietnamese restaurant must visit in Puerto Princesa.
I was so happy to discover this place and speak to Raymond and Rene the sons of the place. It was nice to connect with the family of someone who also was part of the Vietnam refugee camp. My mom was also part of the camp and learning that such a place is preserved to help build the community is inspiring. I hope that one day I too can help contribute and give back to Palawan who has helped my mom and me at birth. Seeing the blending of locals in this area with Vietnamese culture filled my heart.