Top Vietnam Cafes: A Guide to the Best Coffee Spots

Vietnam is known for its vibrant café culture, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern flair. From bustling cities to peaceful countryside, the café scene in Vietnam is rich, diverse, and ever-evolving. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a cozy spot to relax, this guide to the top cafes in Vietnam will help you find the best places to enjoy a cup of coffee, local pastries, and an unforgettable experience.

1. Café Trung Nguyen Legend – Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, Café Trung Nguyen Legend is a must-visit. Known for its rich Vietnamese coffee, this café chain has gained international fame, and its flagship store offers a truly authentic experience.

Why Visit Trung Nguyen Legend:

• Famous Vietnamese Coffee: Trung Nguyen serves some of the best Vietnamese coffee, including egg coffee and black Vietnamese drip coffee.

• Unique ambiance: The café’s interior features an elegant blend of traditional and modern decor, making it the perfect place for a relaxing coffee break.

• Cultural experience: With its history and local significance, Trung Nguyen is not just about coffee—it’s about experiencing Vietnamese coffee culture.

Visiting Café Trung Nguyen Legend offers a unique chance to enjoy Vietnam’s finest coffee while learning about the country’s brewing traditions. It’s a must for anyone wanting to dive into the heart of Vietnam’s coffee scene.

2. The Workshop – Ho Chi Minh City

The Workshop in Ho Chi Minh City is a contemporary café offering a global twist on Vietnamese coffee. Known for its professional baristas and high-quality beans, this café is perfect for those seeking a more sophisticated coffee experience.

Why The Workshop Stands Out:

• Specialty coffee: The Workshop serves some of the finest single-origin coffee beans, offering options like pour-over, espresso, and cold brew.

• Modern and stylish: The café features an industrial-chic design, with an open-concept barista area, making it a hotspot for coffee aficionados.

• Educational experience: The Workshop offers coffee workshops, giving customers a chance to learn more about brewing methods and coffee tasting.

If you’re looking for a modern coffee experience with an emphasis on quality and craft, The Workshop is the place to be.

3. Café Đà Lạt – Da Lat

Nestled in the cool, mountainous region of Da Lat, Café Đà Lạt is known for its picturesque surroundings and warm, inviting atmosphere. This café is a hidden gem in the heart of Vietnam’s coffee-growing region, offering a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle.

Why Café Đà Lạt is Special:

• Fresh coffee beans: Da Lat is known for producing some of Vietnam’s best coffee, and Café Đà Lạt offers freshly brewed coffee made with locally sourced beans.

• Scenic location: The café is set in a peaceful garden with views of the surrounding hills, making it an ideal spot to unwind.

• Comforting atmosphere: The cozy interior, combined with its serene location, creates a perfect environment for sipping coffee while enjoying the cool climate.

Whether you’re a coffee lover or simply someone looking to enjoy a peaceful retreat, Café Đà Lạt offers an experience like no other.

4. Cong Caphe – Nationwide

Cong Caphe is a popular chain that has gained a loyal following across Vietnam. This café is well-known for its nostalgic décor, which often includes vintage communist propaganda posters, and its unique take on traditional Vietnamese coffee drinks.

Why Cong Caphe is Loved:

• Vintage atmosphere: The décor gives you a sense of stepping back in time, adding an element of nostalgia to your coffee break.

• Vietnamese specialties: Cong Caphe is famous for serving delicious Vietnamese iced coffee, coconut coffee, and egg coffee—a true local favorite.

• Relaxing vibe: Whether you’re sitting in the cozy interior or enjoying the outdoor seating, Cong Caphe provides a perfect spot to unwind and people-watch.

If you’re looking for a café with a unique atmosphere and authentic Vietnamese coffee, Cong Caphe is the place to go.

5. The Alley – Hanoi

Located in Hanoi, The Alley is a chic café that blends modern design with traditional influences. Known for its creative coffee drinks and inviting atmosphere, The Alley is perfect for anyone looking to explore Hanoi’s vibrant café culture.

Why The Alley is Worth a Visit:

• Innovative coffee drinks: The Alley serves a wide variety of creative coffee beverages, from classic Vietnamese drip coffee to more experimental concoctions.

• Stylish design: The café’s contemporary yet cozy interior features minimalist furniture and soft lighting, offering a comfortable setting for coffee lovers.

• Perfect for photos: With its sleek design and Instagram-worthy corners, The Alley is a great spot for snapping photos while enjoying your coffee.

Whether you’re a fan of classic coffee or looking for something new, The Alley in Hanoi offers a refreshing twist on traditional Vietnamese cafes.

6. Highlands Coffee – Nationwide

A household name in Vietnam, Highlands Coffee is one of the largest and most popular coffee chains in the country. With locations nationwide, it’s an ideal spot for those craving a quick yet satisfying coffee experience.

What Makes Highlands Coffee Stand Out:

• Convenience: Highlands Coffee has multiple locations across major cities, making it a convenient choice for travelers and locals alike.

• Quality coffee: Known for its consistent coffee quality, the chain serves a range of beverages, from hot and iced coffee to smoothies and teas.

• Affordable options: Highlands Coffee provides great value for money, offering a solid coffee experience without breaking the bank.

If you’re in need of a quick coffee fix or simply want to experience a local coffee chain, Highlands Coffee offers an accessible option for all.

7. Trung Nguyen Legend – Hanoi

For those visiting Hanoi, a trip to Trung Nguyen Legend is a must. Similar to its counterpart in Ho Chi Minh City, this café serves some of the best coffee in Vietnam, featuring rich brews and a cozy atmosphere.

Why Trung Nguyen in Hanoi is Worth Visiting:

• Famous Vietnamese coffee: Trung Nguyen Legend is renowned for its robust Vietnamese coffee, with options like egg coffee, coconut coffee, and traditional drip coffee.

• Historical setting: The café has a charming, vintage ambiance, reflecting the rich culture and history of Vietnam.

• Relaxing environment: With its spacious interiors and comfortable seating, Trung Nguyen Legend is perfect for long coffee sessions and conversations.

If you’re in Hanoi and looking to enjoy the best of Vietnamese coffee culture, don’t miss a visit to Trung Nguyen Legend.

FAQs About Top Cafes in Vietnam

1. What is the best coffee to try in Vietnam?

When in Vietnam, be sure to try egg coffee—a rich and creamy drink made with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee. Other must-try drinks include Vietnamese iced coffee and coconut coffee.

2. What makes Vietnamese coffee different?

Vietnamese coffee is made with strong Robusta beans, which create a rich, bold flavor. The coffee is often served with condensed milk for sweetness or over ice for a refreshing twist.

3. Can I find international coffee chains in Vietnam?

Yes, you can find international coffee chains such as Starbucks and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, but the local coffee culture offers a unique experience.

4. Is it common to drink coffee in the afternoon in Vietnam?

Yes, drinking coffee is a daily ritual for many Vietnamese people, often enjoyed in the morning or afternoon, especially in cafes that offer both traditional and modern coffee experiences.

Conclusion: Explore Vietnam’s Café Culture

Vietnam is home to some of the best coffee in the world, and its café culture is an essential part of the country’s charm. Whether you’re sipping a cup of egg coffee in Hanoi, enjoying a relaxing break in Da Lat, or experiencing the modern twist on coffee in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers an exciting variety of cafes that cater to every taste.

Each café in Vietnam tells its own story, showcasing the rich history and culture of the country. So, the next time you’re in Vietnam, make sure to explore its diverse café scene—it’s a journey worth taking.