The Coffee Apartments in Ho Chi Minh
My TikTok feed has been feeding me (no pun intended) this location since I arrived. I think it saw me as an Instagram girl and figured I needed to come here to get a shot of espresso and a new feed post. Well, it got me semi right. I am fully attached to my Instagram account, hence doing this for a living, but I’m absolutely adverse to being pulled into one of many tourist traps. When it’s necessary and pertinent, I will willingly sign myself up for it; otherwise, I will go look for the furthest place where the locals go, where I can hear them talk, and I can see how they live and try to blend in. Nevertheless, I did want a picture for my feed outside of this place!
Originally built in the 1960s, The Café Apartment was home to government officials and military personnel. Over the decades, as the city evolved, so did the building’s purpose. Instead of being torn down for new development, it found new life as a multi-level shopping and café complex, proving that history and modernity can coexist beautifully.
Exploring The Café Apartment
Now, if, unlike me, you want to explore inside, walking into The Café Apartment immediately strikes you with its nostalgic yet energetic atmosphere. The building retains much of its original architecture, giving it a rustic and cozy charm. You can either take the staircase for a leisurely exploration or pay a small fee to use the elevator, though many cafés will reimburse this cost if you make a purchase.
Each floor houses a unique mix of establishments, from fashion boutiques and bookstores to beautifully designed coffee shops.
A Cultural Experience
Beyond its great coffee and shopping, The Café Apartment is a 21st-century icon. Its preserved facade and eclectic modern businesses reflect Ho Chi Minh City's evolving identity. It’s a favorite hangout spot for locals, digital nomads, and tourists, offering a place to work, relax, and soak in the city’s unique energy.
Tips for Visiting
Location: 42 Nguyễn Huệ, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon to evening for the best ambiance and city views
Getting There: Easily accessible by foot, motorbike, or taxi
Don’t Miss: The stunning nighttime view of Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street from one of the higher-floor cafés
So if, like me, you’re a curious bug or you want to dive into the apartment complex floor by floor, this is a spot you can’t miss in the city. It’s more than just a building—it’s a living, breathing part of the city’s culture and creativity.
