Hôtel des Arts Saigon - MGallery - Luxury hotel - A Mug in Saigon: Exploring Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Vietnam is celebrated for its rich coffee culture, a blend of deep-rooted history, creativity, and modern flair. In Saigon, this culture comes to life in countless cafés, ranging from bustling sidewalk spots to serene, art-filled spaces. Whether you’re savoring a traditional cà phê sữa đá or indulging in locally sourced chocolate, each café offers a unique taste of Vietnam’s innovation and authenticity. This guide will take you on a journey through Saigon’s most captivating coffee spots—perfect for both locals and travelers eager to experience the city’s best flavors and ambiance.

The History of Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnam’s journey with coffee began in 1857 when French missionaries introduced Arabica plants to the northern regions (Vietnam Briefing). The Central Highlands, especially Đắk Lắk and Lâm Đồng, soon became prime coffee-growing areas, thanks to their favorable climate and rich soil. By the early 20th century, coffee production flourished, especially with the cultivation of robusta beans, which are now Vietnam’s primary export (Bazan Coffee).

During the Vietnam War, coffee continued to be cultivated despite the challenges, but it wasn’t until after the Đổi Mới reforms in 1986 that the coffee industry expanded rapidly. The reforms encouraged private enterprise, transforming Vietnam into the world’s second-largest coffee producer (Vietnam Briefing).

Vietnam’s coffee culture also evolved during this time, giving rise to iconic drinks like cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) and cà phê trứng (egg coffee). These creative variations emerged from Vietnam’s resourcefulness, turning simple ingredients into unique coffee experiences. Today, Saigon’s cafés showcase both traditional and modern coffee styles, blending local flavors with global trends (Hey Explorer).

Iconic Vietnamese Coffee Drink

Vietnamese coffee is known for its strong, bold flavors and inventive twists. Here are some must-try drinks for anyone visiting Saigon:

Cà phê sữa đá

A classic Vietnamese iced coffee sweetened with condensed milk, offering a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness.

Cà phê trứng

Egg coffee, a creamy and delightful drink made with whipped egg yolk, sugar, and robusta coffee. Originating in Hanoi, it’s a must-try for visitors seeking a unique flavor.

Bạc xỉu

A milky version of cà phê sữa đá, with more condensed milk, resulting in a sweeter and lighter flavor, ideal for those new to strong coffee.

Top 10 Must-Visit Cafés in Saigon

Saigon’s café scene is as diverse as its coffee offerings. From artisanal brews to sustainable chocolate, here are the top 10 standout spots to explore:

1. Café des Beaux-Arts 

Address: Hôtel des Arts Saigon, 76-78 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, District 3

Why Visit: Located within the luxurious Hôtel des Arts, Café des Beaux-Arts offers a serene setting surrounded by art, creating a tranquil atmosphere to enjoy traditional Vietnamese coffee in style. This café is known for its artful decor and calm ambiance, making it a unique destination for coffee lovers seeking a refined experience.

Website: hoteldesartssaigon.com

Google Maps: Café des Beaux-Arts on Google Maps

2. Okkio Caffe 

Address: 122 Lê Lợi, Bến Thành, District 1

Why Visit: Known for its minimalist design and cozy ambiance, Okkio Caffe is the perfect spot to enjoy a relaxed cup of coffee just steps away from Ben Thanh Market. Its stylish interiors and quality coffee attract a mix of young locals and travelers.

Website: okkio.vn

Google Maps: Okkio Caffe on Google Maps

3. The Hidden Elephant Books & Coffee 

Address: 35 Phan Chu Trinh, Bến Thành, District 1

Why Visit: This hidden gem offers a tranquil environment with a selection of books, making it ideal for coffee enthusiasts and readers alike. Escape the bustling streets of Saigon and enjoy a peaceful afternoon in this cozy space.

Google Maps: The Hidden Elephant on Google Maps

4. L’Usine 

Addresses:

34 Lê Lợi, Bến Nghé, District 1 |19 Lê Thánh Tôn, Bến Nghé, District 1

Why Visit: L’Usine combines café culture with boutique shopping and gallery space, making it a cultural hotspot. Known for its industrial-chic decor, L’Usine offers quality coffee and an eclectic menu, making it an excellent stop for both locals and tourists.

Website: lusinespace.com

Google Maps: L’Usine Le Loi on Google Maps | L’Usine Le Thanh Ton on Google Maps

5. Maison Marou 

Address: 167-169 Calmette, Nguyễn Thái Bình, District 1

Why Visit: Maison Marou is a paradise for chocolate lovers, offering locally sourced, sustainable chocolate along with a selection of artisanal coffees. This stylish café is known for its bean-to-bar approach, showcasing Vietnam’s cacao in a variety of decadent treats and drinks. Perfect for anyone looking to experience unique Vietnamese flavors while supporting sustainability.

Website: maisonmarou.com

Google Maps: Maison Marou on Google Maps

6. The Cacao Project 

Address: 143 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, District 3

Why Visit: The Cacao Project is dedicated to sustainable chocolate and offers a fascinating view of the chocolate-making process in its mini factory. Known for flavors like Longan dark chocolate, it’s an essential stop for chocolate enthusiasts. Learn more about the Chocolate Revolution in Saigon.

Website: thecacaoproject.vn

Google Maps: The Cacao Project on Google Maps

7. Café Apartments (Kỳ Đồng)

Address: 42 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, District 1

Why Visit: This unique location offers multiple themed cafés within an old apartment building. Each floor hosts a different café, providing a range of atmospheres and coffee styles, along with views of the bustling city.

Google Maps: Café Apartments on Google Maps

8. La Viet Coffee 

Address: 191 Hai Bà Trưng, District 3

Why Visit: Originally from Da Lat, La Viet brings a fresh take on Vietnamese coffee, focusing on single-origin brews and sustainable practices. This café is a must-visit for anyone interested in the authentic flavors of Vietnamese coffee.

Website: lavietcoffee.com

Google Maps: La Viet Coffee on Google Maps

9. The Workshop Coffee 

Address: 27 Ngô Đức Kế, Bến Nghé, District 1

Why Visit: As a pioneer of the third-wave coffee movement in Saigon, The Workshop offers an airy, industrial loft space with a focus on pour-over and siphon brews. Perfect for coffee enthusiasts and remote workers alike.

Website: theworkshopcoffeesaigon.com

Google Maps: The Workshop Coffee on Google Maps

10. Old Compass Café 

Address: 3rd Floor, 63/11 Pasteur, Bến Nghé, District 1

Why Visit: Located in a hidden alley, Old Compass Café is a cozy spot with a vintage vibe, perfect for coffee lovers and book enthusiasts. Known for its intimate setting, the café often hosts cultural events and talks.

Website: oldcompasscafe.com

Google Maps: Old Compass Café on Google Maps

Conclusion 

Saigon’s coffee culture is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself, offering experiences that reflect Vietnam’s rich history, resourcefulness, and creativity. Whether you’re visiting a hidden book-filled café, savoring single-origin brews, or indulging in Vietnamese chocolate, each coffee spot tells a story. Exploring these cafés offers more than just a caffeine boost—it’s a way to connect with Vietnam’s traditions and emerging innovations. Embrace the journey, try something new, and let Saigon’s unique coffee scene leave a lasting impression.

To explore even more of Saigon’s hidden gems and top experiences, visit Le Guide de Saigon. For a truly immersive stay, book your visit at Hôtel des Arts Saigon–a boutique luxury hotel in the heart of Saigon.