Vietnam is the world’s second biggest coffee producer. Introduced by the French in the mid 1800s, drinking coffee is not just an everyday activity but it is engrained in Vietnam’s culture. Sweet in taste thanks to the use of condensed milk that was initially used as it is more forgiving than fresh milk in the country’s humid climate, coffee is typically served at the table using a filter whilst it is still brewing. The selection of cafés to enjoy the country’s number one drink in Ho Chi Minh City is vast, but we have chosen a few to tease your tastebuds.
1. Mockingbird Café
Climb up four dark flights of stairs in this old apartment block, head down the corridor and once through the wooden doorway you will be pleasantly be surprised. An independent café oozing with cool, Mockingbird serves not only coffee but cocktails too. Its eclectic decor mixed with minimalist touches may think you have travelled to Berlin, but this is one hangout to sit back and enjoy a cup of the good stuff.
2. Trầm Café
Bringing the jungle inside, Trầm Café is alive with plants and greenery to escape the bustle of Vietnam’s capital city. Sip coffee under a canopy of trees or adventure on the walkways to traverse through the tree houses, and you will quickly be sucked into this setting. Seating is surprisingly comfortable considering the outdoorsy concept, and this is one café that is a true retreat.
3. La Rotonde
Looking for a more authentic spot to enjoy your coffee? Then head to La Rotonde. Situated in a colonial shophouse, La Rotonde has a choice of seating from a large communal table to quieter corners – this is the place to get down to work or catch up with friends. Your sweet tooth will be satisfied with tasty ice cream on the menu, and if a cup of Vietnamese coffee is not going to quite hit the spot, then sip on a Cuban mojito instead!
4. Work Café
A café that it is linked to a co-working space, Work Café is the place for those seeking inspiration or creativity. Sourced from Dalat the Arabica coffee is home-roasted and will get your senses stirring. Every type of coffee is available from lattes to espressos, and with a choice of food from around the world served, Work Café is the pitstop to refuel and recharge.
5. Ghế Đẩu Café
Situated in Saigon’s Café Quarter in Phú Nhuận District which has more cafes than you can shake a stick at, Ghế Đẩu Café offers a relaxed setting with the traditional low Vietnamese stools that are typically associated with Vietnam’s street dining. The concept is simply its setting: an outdoor café under the trees to watch the world go by.
