The Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City: A Trendy Spot in Saigon

The nine-storey Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh. (Image source: Internet)

Imagine a retro apartment building where every floor is a new surprise: hip coffee shops, quirky boutiques, and Instagram-worthy views. Welcome to the Cafe Apartment Ho Chi Minh – Saigon’s coolest hidden gem. Located at 42 Nguyen Hue, this iconic building has transformed from a humble residential complex into a vibrant hub for creativity and coffee lovers. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this unique Saigon landmark with Lua Viet Tours!

History of the Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City

Built in the 1960s, the Cafe Apartment Ho Chi Minh originally served as a residential complex for the US government officials and military advisors. The nine-story building witnessed Saigon’s transformation through decades of change, eventually falling into neglect in the early 2000s.

Around 2015, young entrepreneurs and artists began transforming abandoned apartments into creative spaces. Today, the Cafe Apartment stands as a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City‘s thriving café culture and urban renewal. Each floor tells a unique story, hosting independent businesses that showcase Vietnamese creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Its significance was even recognized by National Geographic UK, who featured the building on their Facebook post.

The amazing view of the Cafe Apartment Saigon at night. (Image source: Samsara Tran)

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Exploring The Cafe Apartment

When you enter The Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find yourself in a world where vintage charm meets modern creativity. The building features narrow corridors, winding staircases, and an old-school elevator. While some might see the weathered walls and exposed wiring as signs of age, these elements add to the building’s authentic character and Instagram appeal.

Best Cafes at The Cafe Apartment

The heart of the Cafe Apartment Saigon lies in its diverse array of cafes, each with its own unique personality. Here are a few recommended spots:

• The Maker Concept: For a taste of modern Saigon, The Maker Concept hits the spot. This trendy cafe’s industrial-chic design and innovative menu of specialty coffees and light bites make it a favorite among locals and expats alike.
• The Letter Café: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at The Letter Café. Inspired by the charming lanterns and decor of Hoi An, this tranquil retreat offers a peaceful escape where you can savor a quiet cup of coffee and unwind.
• Saigon Ơi: Immerse yourself in the heart of Vietnamese coffee culture at Saigon Ơi. This cozy spot focuses on traditional cà phê sữa đá and other local favorites, served alongside delicious Vietnamese snacks.

Beyond Cafes

While cafes are the main draw, the Cafe Apartment Saigon offers much more. Explore the various boutiques showcasing local designers, browse unique artworks in the galleries, or discover the innovative co-working spaces. You might even stumble upon a hidden restaurant offering delicious Vietnamese cuisine. The building is a microcosm of Saigon’s diverse and dynamic entrepreneurial scene.

Beside the cafes, this department also features boutique shops, art galleries,… (Image source: Internet)

Photography Hotspots

The Cafe Apartment Ho Chi Minh is an Instagrammer’s dream. Every corner offers a photo opportunity.  The best angles can be found along the narrow walkways, capturing the verticality of the building and the bustling activity within. The lighting is particularly magical during the golden hour, just before sunset, casting a warm glow over the building.  Don’t forget to capture the stunning views of Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the Saigon River from the upper floors.

The view of Nguyen Hue Street from the Cafe Apartment. (Image source: Internet)

Floor-by-Floor Breakdown

To help you navigate the vertical maze of the Cafe Apartment, here’s a floor-by-floor breakdown (For the best experience, please check the latest information online as business operations may change):

1st Floor

As you begin your climb, you’ll likely be greeted by a striking mural. The first floor is home to PNT Beauty Salon, offering a glimpse into the building’s original architecture. But the real secret lies hidden within: Krystalini Cocktail Bar. Accessed via the second floor and a hidden staircase, this speakeasy-style bar boasts a dimly lit, prohibition-era vibe and a creative cocktail menu. Ring the bell, and you might just find yourself transported to a world of hushed conversations and expertly mixed drinks.

Krystalini Cocktail Bar – a hidden gem in the Cafe Apartment Ho Chi Minh. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

2nd Floor

The second floor is where the real diversity of the Cafe Apartment becomes apparent. Gốm x Nicotin Cafe & Workshop offers a unique blend of coffee and creativity, with pottery workshops and a laid-back atmosphere. The Indian House provides a taste of India with delicious snacks and masala tea. For a healthy bite, try Poke Saigon’s green-laden poke bowls. And for those interested in geomancy, Tình Lâm Trang Sức Phong Thủy offers feng shui jewelry.

The atmosphere at the Nicotin Cafe. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

3rd Floor

The third floor caters to a variety of tastes. Downtown Steakhouse offers American comfort food, while Oops specializes in milk tea and Taiwanese cakes. Dosh is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering a dazzling array of creative doughnuts. Meraki Cafe, a popular chain, has one of its three locations here. And for a touch of fashion, L’étranger (also known as O.N Workshop) features Vietnamese designer brands.

Nguyen Hue Street view at Dosh. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

4th Floor

The fourth floor is a blend of international flavors and local finds. % Arabica, a Japanese coffee chain, offers sophisticated brews. 21Grams serves up delicious vegetarian set lunches and dinners with an East/Southeast Asian fusion. And for souvenirs, The E.Y.E offers unique bags, mugs, and hats.

% Arabica – a Japanese-style coffee shop (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

5th Floor

The fifth floor boasts Saigon Ơi, a spacious and stylish cafe with a large balcony offering stunning views.  Meraki Cafe makes its third appearance here. The Boulevard, a small and intimate cocktail bar, is perfect for a relaxed evening. Madam Quyên, a renowned Vietnamese restaurant, has one of its two locations here.  And for organic cosmetics, HẠC Organic is a great place to find unique gifts.

The balcony view at Saigon Ơi.  (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

6th Floor

The sixth floor is a culinary destination. The Letter combines coffee with fashion and cosmetics. Madam Quyên’s main restaurant is located here, offering a delectable journey through Vietnamese regional cuisine. And the mysterious 6even remains an enigma, possibly a boutique hotel room.   

The Vietnamese cuisine restaurant – Madam Quyên. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

7th Floor

The seventh floor blends business and residential life. Buihaus, a unique space that’s both a cafe and a family home, offers a truly personal experience. Michi Sushi provides a taste of Japan with reasonably priced dishes and a vibrant atmosphere.   

A boy playing guitar at Buihaus. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

8th Floor

The eighth floor features The Letter and Good Day Coffee (another location for each). Saigon Fast offers nail and hair services. And Pờ Coffee, with its cool retro aesthetic, is a must-visit for coffee aficionados.

Pờ Coffee is a must for coffee aficionados. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

9th Floor

The ninth floor is the most residential, offering a mix of businesses and private homes.  Good Day Coffee and The E.Y.E have their second locations here. Quán Nhà, a North Vietnamese restaurant run by a resident, offers a truly authentic dining experience. Ruby Beauty provides salon and spa services.  And the elusive 4K Hostel remains a mystery.

The interior of Quan Nha. (Image source: Vietnam Coracle)

How to Get into The Cafe Apartment Ho Chi Minh?

Address: 42 Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening Hours: Most cafes operate from 8 AM to 10 PM

To enter The Cafe Apartment, look for the entrance on the side of the building, to the left of the Fahasa Bookstore (when facing the building from Nguyen Hue Walking Street). Inside, you can take the elevator for a small fee of 3,000 VND (approximately $0.13 USD). Many cafes and shops will reimburse this fee with a purchase. However, in our experience, skip the elevator and take the stairs. This way, you’ll discover hidden murals and art installations tucked away on each floor, adding an extra layer of exploration to your visit.

Best Time to Visit:

• Mornings (8-10 AM): Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful start to your day with a quiet coffee.
• Evenings (4-6 PM): Witness breathtaking sunset views over the Saigon River, creating a perfect backdrop for photos.

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You can either take the elevator or use the stairs to get around the building. (Image source: Internet)

The Cafe Apartment Ho Chi Minh City is a symbol of Saigon’s vibrant culture and creative spirit. From its humble beginnings as a residential complex to its current status as a trendy hub for cafes, boutiques, and art spaces, the Cafe Apartment at Nguyen Hue Street offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Saigon. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, this Cafe Apartment is a must-visit destination.