Windsor's Saigon Sally to Close and Reopen as Thai Restaurant BKK

So long Saigon Sally — after more than four years in business, the popular Vietnamese eatery in Windsor is set to close its doors next month. But diners won't be mourning long, with the venue set to reopen as a Thai joint just a few weeks later.

"We have a very loyal clientele and we want to keep them stimulated and inspired," said Saigon Sally co-owner Simon Blacher in a statement announcing the news. "This is why we have decided to re-invent the restaurant offering."

Named after the bustling Thai capital, BKK will be headed by head chef Sean Judd, previously of Longrain and Chin Chin, as well as Bangkok's Nahm. Under his direction, menu highlights will include gai yang (turmeric and lemongrass chicken cooked over smoke) and som tam tod (a crispy papaya nest salad). The refurbished space will also feature a cocktail bar and function space, both of which are expected to open before Christmas.

As for Sally, her spirit will live on at sister Vietnamese venue Hanoi Hannah, on whose menu Blacher says we can expect some of Sally's signature dishes to pop up before too long. He's also teased the possibility of resurrecting the beloved lady in the CBD, or maybe even interstate. You can also visit the team's Japanese restaurant Tokyo Tina just around the corner.

The restaurant relaunch is something that quite a few Melbourne venues are testing at the moment. Just this week Green Park announced it would become Park Street, while, just around the corner in Prahran, Toko has closed to make way for new karaoke bar tokosan.

Saigon Sally will continue to operate as normal at 2 Duke Street, Windsor until September 3. BKK is expected to begin service later that month. For more information or to make a booking before they close, visit saigonsally.com.au.