By Sitaram Mewati
The St. Regis Mumbai is set to offer an exclusive two-night Vietnamese culinary and cocktail pop-up at By The Mekong on Friday and Saturday, March 13 and 14, 2026. This immersive event invites guests to explore Vietnam’s rich gastronomic and cocktail heritage.
The pop-up brings the essence of Saigon’s vibrant nightlife and contemporary Vietnamese cuisine to Mumbai, showcasing the celebrated team behind Stir, Modern Classic Cocktails, one of Vietnam’s most renowned bars. Stir has consistently appeared on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list, with its recent ranking at No. 61 in 2025. The bar is known for redefining modern cocktail culture with innovation, storytelling, and refined techniques.
Leading the experience is Thep Dinh, Bar Manager of Stir and Co-Founder of Savor Cocktail Club, considered one of Vietnam’s most influential bartenders. A World Class Diageo Vietnam Champion in 2019, and Vietnam Bartender of the Year in 2019 and 2023, Thep brings his Symposium philosophy to Mumbai, offering an immersive bar takeover rooted in modern mixology. Joining him behind the bar is Sameer Shaw, Head Mixologist at The Penthouse, who brings his expertise to the collaboration with refined techniques and creative execution. Over the two evenings, guests can enjoy four specially curated cocktails per night, each designed to narrate a story through contemporary methods and timeless inspiration.
Alongside the cocktails, Head Chef Nhan Ngo will curate a Vietnamese menu in collaboration with By The Mekong’s Head Chef Li Qiang. Chef Nhan, known for his work in renowned kitchens across Vietnam and Asia, blends bold flavors and delicate balance in his offerings.
This collaboration, hosted by Dean With Us, founded by Akanksha and Rupali Dean, presents a rare opportunity for Mumbai’s food and cocktail lovers to experience a slice of Saigon’s progressive dining culture.
