Discover the culinary world of Alain Pham, a French-trained chef and co-founder of Aiii House Saigon. From Paris to Saigon, his work blends Vietnamese heritage, fine dining techniques, and emotional storytelling.

From Saigon to Paris, and Back

A Culinary Journey Rooted in Identity

Alain Pham is a French-trained chef and co-founder of Aiii House Saigon, whose culinary journey traces a meaningful arc between Saigon and Paris — blending personal heritage, classical training, and a deep commitment to cultural storytelling.


Born in Vietnam to a Vietnamese–French family with no professional ties to the kitchen, Alain found his earliest inspiration in his grandmother’s rustic meals, simple yet profound flavors that sparked a lifelong dedication to gastronomy.

After formal training at Le Cordon Bleu Paris, Alain sharpened his skills in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe, including Arpège, Le Taillevent, and OLO Helsinki. He later earned a Master’s degree in Culinary Arts from École Ducasse Paris, deepening both his technical command and culinary philosophy.

His return to Vietnam marked a turning point: a desire to reconnect with his roots and elevate Vietnamese cuisine with contemporary expression. As co-founder and Head Chef of Aiii House Saigon, he now leads one of the city’s most distinctive culinary spaces, where artistry, precision, and cultural memory converge.

For Alain, food is not just nourishment; it’s narrative. His approach blends classical French technique with Vietnamese heritage, reinterpreting traditional dishes with an open, inclusive spirit. Through each plate, he tells a story — one rooted in emotion, identity, and a deep respect for craft.