Escape the sterile monotony of your home office, or of your actual office. Ho Chi Minh City’s cafes provide a vibrant backdrop for your workday, your reading nook, and your personal sanctuary. From sun-drenched areas overlooking bustling streets to hidden alleyway hideaways with vintage charm, these cafes are your retreat from the ordinary.
Join us as we explore the top 5 havens for working, reading, and recharging in Saigon, where delicious coffee, good vibes, and a touch of local magic await.
Palais des Douceurs
Nestled on the first floor of a charming shophouse, Palais des Douceurs is more than just a patisserie; it’s a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Stepping through the shoe store below, you embark on a mini-adventure, ascending the staircase until you reach the glass door. Pushing it open, you’re greeted by a symphony of sights and smells that instantly transports you to a Parisian wonderland.
The air hangs heavy with the sweet aroma of freshly baked pastries while the display cases overflow with different colors and textures. Each cake is a work of art, meticulously crafted with delicate details. It’s no wonder the name “Palais des Douceurs” translates to “Palace of Sweets” – this is truly a haven for cake lovers.
For a true indulgence, try their signature St. Honore Caramel Dulcey, a decadent creation where airy choux puffs dance atop a bed of rich pastry cream, all enveloped in a symphony of caramelized sweetness. Or Foret Verte with Uji matcha mousse, amarena cherries filling, and mascarpone cream with a cherry on top.
But the Palais des Douceurs’ experience extends beyond the cakes itself. The intimate space exudes a timeless elegance, with soft lighting, antique furniture, and the gentle murmur of satisfied diners. It’s a haven for focusing on a book, or work, and a place to savor each bite and lose yourself in the sheer joy of pure indulgence.
Opening hours: 9:30 - 21:30
Address: 1st Floor, 87 Nguyen Trai, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
96B Experiment
96B Experiment Cafe is a haven for coffee connoisseurs and adventurous palates alike. Founded by an SCAE-certified roaster, 96B blends the spirit of a hidden, experimental lab with the warmth of a welcoming neighborhood hangout. Here, freshly roasted beans sourced from Vietnam’s hidden highlands are used for meticulously brewed cups of coffee. Apart from the delicious drinks, their pastry selections are of good quality and worth a try. You can sample their caneles or pain au chocolat. Additionally, they host private coffee workshops, scheduling them according to attendees’ availability, so feel free to reach out to them to arrange your session.
Thanks to its location in the quiet Phan Ngu Alley, the cafe is completely separate from the hustle and bustle of Saigon. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee expert seeking an exquisite single-origin pour-over or a curious explorer yearning for unexpected flavor combinations, 96B promises an invigorating journey across the spectrum of coffee artistry.
Opening hours: 8:00 - 18:00
Address: 96B Phan Ngu, Da Kao Ward, District 1
Bosgaurus Coffee Roasters
Situated in a charming French-style villa on the banks of the Saigon River, Bosgaurus Coffee is a haven for discerning coffee enthusiasts. True to its name, Bosgaurus specializes in Arabica beans, offering a unique twist on the beloved Vietnamese cà phê sữa đá. This dedication to quality makes it one of the few specialty coffee stores in Ho Chi Minh City to elevate this classic drink with the nuanced flavors of Arabica.
Their open floor plan and cafe bar create a sense of transparency and connection. Watching the meticulous brewing process unfold, from bean selection to final pour, becomes an immersive experience. This public and activated design encourages interaction, inviting patrons to engage with the knowledgeable staff and delve deeper into the world of coffee.
The minimalist aesthetic, dominated by black, white, and stainless steel, is intentional. It strips away distractions, allowing the focus to fall entirely on the coffee itself. Whether you prefer the spacious comfort of the interior or the breezy charm of the outdoor seating by the river, Bosgaurus offers ample space to relax and savor your cup. The all-glass walls further amplify this sense of openness, blurring the lines between the cafe and the vibrant cityscape beyond.
For those seeking a consistent coffee experience, Bosgaurus boasts a second location in District 1, echoing the same minimalist elegance and dedication to Arabica excellence. So, whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a stylish riverside retreat, Bosgaurus Coffee promises an aromatic journey into the world of specialty coffee.
Opening hours: 7:30 - 21:00
Address: 1D5, 92, Villa, Nguyen Huu Canh Street, Saigon Pearl, Binh Thanh District; 12 Nguyen Sieu, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1
Miyama - Modern Tokyo Restaurant Cafe
Located within the heart of the city’s opulent Saigon Center, Miyama’s minimalist, rustic-chic ambiance evokes the tranquility of a Tokyo cafe, offering a haven for work, quiet contemplation, or intimate conversations. While the space itself invites a sense of escape, the true magic unfolds on your plate.
Miyama dreams of a modern dessert paradise, a Tokyo-inspired haven where fresh trends take root. A quarter of its space is dedicated to an alluring bar, where skilled hands craft delectable cakes and desserts each day, vibrant expressions of the latest global whispers. Their must-try creations include freshly baked madeleines, soufflé, matcha mille crepes that dance on your tongue, and St. Honore, a symphony of textures and flavors. And don’t forget their house-made almond milk, a delightful ode to freshness and purity.
Opening hours: 9:30 - 21:00
Address: Saigon Center, L3-01, 65 Le Loi, District 1
Little HaNoi Egg Coffee
Stepping into Little HaNoi Egg Coffee feels like crossing a portal into Hanoi, even though you’re still in the heart of Saigon’s bustling District 1. The architecture, bathed in the deep ochre hues of the Vietnamese capital, whispers of quiet alleyways and hidden courtyards. Amidst the city’s relentless cacophony, this quaint cafe offers a haven of serene charm, contrasting with the fast-paced life outside.
From the classic yellow facade to the aged brick floors, every detail speaks of gentle nostalgia. Time seems to slow down as you step inside, inviting you to linger over a cup of their signature egg coffee, a delightful blend of rich espresso and creamy egg yolk. For something a little different, try their cocoa coffee, a sweet and comforting treat.
Opening hours: 8:00 - 22:00
Address: 119/5 Yersin, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
2nd Floor, 212 Le Lai Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
169L, Ky Con, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1