Guides & Tips

Top 5 Unique Vietnamese Coffee Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

Dan Vy

3 min. to read

When you think of Vietnam, one of the first things that likely comes to mind is coffee. Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, and the Vietnamese have turned coffee into a culture of its own, especially in Ho Chi Minh City. From hidden cafes tucked away in old apartments to vibrant sidewalk spots that perfectly capture the city’s essence, Saigon offers a coffee experience unlike any other. Let’s dive into five unique Vietnamese coffee experiences you absolutely can’t miss when visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

Table of Contents

Top 5 Unique Vietnamese Coffee Experiences in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Introduction

Vietnam boasts a rich coffee culture, deeply influenced by French colonialism and local ingenuity. Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon, elevates coffee beyond a beverage; it’s a lifestyle. From bustling streets to hidden cafes, the city’s coffee scene is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and creativity. Indeed, Vietnamese coffee in Ho Chi Minh City offers a unique experience for everyone, from coffee connoisseurs to casual drinkers. Let’s explore five must-try coffee adventures in this dynamic metropolis.

🌟 Want to explore more of Saigon? Check out now: Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City: Taxis, Ride-Sharing Apps, and More

2. Cafes in the Old Nguyen Hue Apartment

The old Nguyen Hue Apartment Building is an iconic Saigon landmark. Once a historic structure, it’s now a vibrant hub for quirky cafes and boutique shops. Located on bustling Nguyen Hue Walking Street, this building may look ordinary from the outside. However, step inside and discover a treasure trove of unique experiences. Moreover, it’s a perfect spot to savor authentic Vietnamese coffee while exploring the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

Must-Visit Cafes in the Nguyen Hue Apartment Building 🇻🇳

☕️ Partea – English Tearoom

Although primarily a tea room, Partea offers a unique experience where you can enjoy your beverage while surrounded by vintage decor. It’s a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

⏰ 9 AM–10 PM

☕️ Buihaus Coffee

Buihaus, a hidden gem nestled within the building, is renowned for its modern design and exceptional espresso-based drinks. In fact, it’s a must-visit spot for Vietnamese coffee lovers in Ho Chi Minh City. Moreover, the minimalist interior starkly contrasts the building’s aged exterior, creating a cool, serene ambiance perfect for savoring your coffee.

⏰ 8:30 AM–9 PM

☕️ Saigon Oi Cafe

Saigon Oi Cafe is a charming oasis nestled within the historic 42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Building. This fifth-floor gem boasts a relaxed atmosphere with earthy tones, macrame accents, and an abundance of lush greenery, creating a homey feel. Saigon Oi offers a delightful menu of iced drinks and coffee concoctions, often topped with ice cream or tropical fruits, perfect for indulging in while soaking up the unique ambiance of this iconic Saigon landmark.

⏰ 7 AM–11 PM

🌟 Want to explore more of Saigon? Check out now: A Guide to Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

3. Acoustic Coffee: A Melodic Escape

If you crave something beyond the ordinary Vietnamese coffee in Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon’s acoustic cafes offer a unique escape. In addition to the aromatic brew, these cozy spaces feature live acoustic music, creating a soothing atmosphere.

Popular Acoustic Cafes in Saigon 🇻🇳

☕️ Cooku Nest Cafe

Nestled in a quiet corner of District 3, Cooku Nest Cafe offers a cozy atmosphere with nightly acoustic performances. The cafe’s warm, rustic interior adds to the overall charm, making it a favorite spot for both locals and expats.

📍17bis Tu Xuong, Ward Vo Thi Sau, District 3, Ho Chi Minh
⏰ 8:30 AM–10 PM

☕️ Yoko Cafe

Yoko Cafe is renowned in Saigon’s acoustic scene. Notably, it has been hosting live music for years. Moreover, this cafe is a popular destination for those who savor both excellent Vietnamese coffee and live music in Ho Chi Minh City. The eclectic mix of performers and genres ensures there’s something to delight everyone.

📍22A Nguyen Thi Dieu, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh
⏰ 8 AM–12 AM (Only Sunday: 4 PM–12 AM)

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4. Coffee and Craft Workshop

For those who love to get hands-on, Saigon offers a unique combination of Vietnamese coffee and craft workshops. These workshops allow you to explore your creative side while sipping on some of the city’s best coffee.

Recommended Workshops for Tourists 🇻🇳

☕️ 86 Tran Quang Khai

Craving a unique Vietnamese coffee experience in Ho Chi Minh City? Look no further than 86 Tran Quang Khai! This creative haven combines a delicious coffee shop with a fun workshop space. Here, you can sip on your favorite brew while unleashing your inner artist. Their signature experience? Crafting your personalized phone case! It’s the perfect opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind souvenir or express your style.

Remember, spots fill up fast! Be sure to book your workshop experience in advance and arrive before 7 PM as they stop accepting new customers after that time. With opening hours from 9 AM to 9:30 PM, 86 Tran Quang Khai is the perfect spot for a creative caffeine fix!

📍86 Tran Quang Khai Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
⏰ 9 AM–9:30 PM

☕️ Toong Teng Studio & Café

Toong Teng Studio & Café is a unique blend of art and Vietnamese coffee in Ho Chi Minh City. While savoring delicious beverages, visitors can explore their creativity through mosaic workshops. Guided by skilled artisans, participants learn to transform colorful tiles into stunning pieces. Moreover, this combination of relaxation and artistic expression makes Toong Teng a must-visit for those seeking a unique and enjoyable experience in the city.

📍412/10 No Trang Long Street, Ward 13, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City
⏰ 8 AM–9:30 PM

🌟 You might want to check out: Travel to Ho Chi Minh with Foreign Tourists: A Comprehensive Guide

5. Long-standing Cafes: Coffee and Cultural Identity

Ho Chi Minh City is home to numerous long-standing cafes that have been serving up coffee for decades. These cafes are not just places to grab a drink; they are institutions that have witnessed the city’s history and evolution.

Historical Significance of Long-standing Cafes 🇻🇳

☕️ Cheo Leo Coffee

Cheo Leo Cafe is a legendary spot for Vietnamese coffee in Ho Chi Minh City. Established in 1938, it offers a true taste of traditional Vietnamese coffee, served in small glasses with a side of condensed milk. The cafe’s location in a bustling alley adds to its charm.

⏰ 6 AM–6 PM

☕️ Cafe81

Cafe81 is a nostalgic haven for those seeking a glimpse into Vietnam’s past. Its interior is a treasure trove of vintage charm, boasting an old Russian sewing machine, a retro TV, and a classic radio cassette. Completing the authentic ambiance is the traditional 20th-century Vietnamese seating, inviting patrons to step back in time and savor a moment of tranquility amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

⏰ 7 AM–11 PM

🌟 Learn more about the history of Saigon with a visit to A Guide to Ho Chi Minh City’s War Remnants Museum

6. Sidewalk Cafes: Embracing the Saigon Lifestyle

One of the most authentic ways to experience Saigon’s coffee culture is by sitting at a sidewalk cafe. These unassuming spots are scattered throughout the city, offering a simple yet quintessential Vietnamese coffee experience.

Popular Sidewalk Cafes in Saigon 🇻🇳

☕️ “Vot” Coffee

Vot coffee, or filter coffee, is a quintessential Saigon experience. Moreover, it’s a staple of Vietnamese coffee culture in Ho Chi Minh City. This traditional brewing method involves pouring hot water through a cloth filter filled with ground coffee beans. Consequently, the result is a smooth, flavorful cup enjoyed by locals for generations. In fact, these sidewalk cafes offer a window into the authentic world of Vietnamese coffee. Some long-standing vot coffee shops in Saigon include Ba Lu Coffee, Phan Dinh Phung Coffee, …

Saigon Coffee Culture: From Traditional Cafés to Trendy Coffee Shops

☕️ Ho Chi Minh City Street Coffee Culture

While not a specific cafe, the general culture of street coffee in Saigon is something every visitor should experience. Whether it’s grabbing a ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) from a street vendor or sitting on a small plastic stool by the roadside, this is where you’ll find the heart of Saigon’s coffee culture.

7. FAQs

1. What is the most unique coffee experience in Saigon?

The most unique coffee experience in Saigon is arguably visiting the cafes in the old Nguyen Hue Apartment Building. The combination of historic charm and modern coffee culture creates an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

2. Are there any traditional Vietnamese coffee drinks to try?

Yes, definitely! Traditional Vietnamese coffee drinks like cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) and cà phê đen đá (iced black coffee) are must-tries. They offer a taste of Vietnam’s rich coffee heritage.

3. Is coffee expensive in Ho Chi Minh City?

Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City is generally affordable. You can find a good cup of coffee for as little as 20,000 VND (about $1), especially in sidewalk cafes. Prices may be higher in more upscale or tourist-focused establishments.

4. How do I find the Nguyen Hue Apartment Building cafes?

The Nguyen Hue Apartment Building is located on Nguyen Hue Walking Street in District 1. The building itself is easy to spot, and once inside, you can explore the various cafes on different floors. Look out for small signs or ask locals for recommendations.

5. Can I find vegan coffee options in Saigon?

Yes, many cafes in Saigon offer vegan options, including plant-based milk alternatives like soy, almond, and coconut milk. Cafes like The Coffee House and L’Usine are known to accommodate vegan requests.

8. Conclusion

Ho Chi Minh City’s coffee scene is a vibrant tapestry reflecting the Vietnamese diverse soul. From historic Nguyen Hue Apartment Building cafes to lively sidewalk joints, each sip offers a unique taste of the city. Moreover, the city’s love for Vietnamese coffee is evident everywhere. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or simply seeking local immersion, Saigon’s coffee culture invites you to explore its depths. Indeed, these coffee experiences are more than just beverages; they are gateways to understanding Ho Chi Minh City’s captivating blend of history, tradition, and modernity.

So the next time you find yourself in this bustling metropolis, make sure to carve out some time to explore its unique coffee offerings. Each cup tells a story, and each cafe offers a new perspective on this incredible city. What are you waiting for? Contact Sun Getaways Travel now to have a special Vietnamese coffee tour in Ho Chi Minh City that is just for you!