The Cafe Apartment: A Unique Blend of Old and New in Ho Chi Minh City
Last updated on June 27th 2024
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's bustling metropolis, is known for its vibrant street life, rich history, and thriving food scene. One of the most unique and Instagram-worthy spots in the city is the Cafe Apartment, located at No. 42 Nguyen Hue Street in the heart of District 1.
The Cafe Apartment is a nine-story building that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years. Originally constructed in the mid-1960s, it served as dormitories for government and military personnel, including US advisors during the 1950s and 1960s, as well as naval officers in the post-war period. After the Fall of Saigon in 1975, some of the apartments were allocated to shipyard workers.
However, it wasn't until around the 2010s that the owners of these apartment buildings began embracing the concept of cafe apartments, which subsequently blossomed into a cultural phenomenon in Saigon/Ho Chi Minh City. Today, the Cafe Apartment stands as a testament to its history, housing a vibrant mix of cafes, boutiques, and creative businesses.
To get to the Cafe Apartment, simply head to Nguyen Hue Street in District 1. The best time to visit is in the evening when the street comes alive with its vibrant atmosphere and the building itself is nicely illuminated. Inside the building, you can access each floor using the old staircase entrance or opt for the convenience of the lift/elevator by paying a small fee of 3,000 VND.
As you explore the different floors, you'll encounter a variety of businesses, including beauty salons, a multitude of cafes and coffee shops, fashion boutiques, an English-style tea house, and even co-working spaces. Each floor offers a unique atmosphere and decor, making it a treasure trove for coffee lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike.
Here are a few recommended restaurants and cafes within the Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City along with some food recommendations:
Address: 42 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Food Recommendation: Known for its Vietnamese cuisine, Madam Quyên offers authentic local dishes like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls.
Address: Second floor, 42 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Food Recommendation: Specializing in Hawaiian seafood dishes, Poke Saigon is a great spot to try delicious poke bowls with fresh ingredients.
Address: 99 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Food Recommendation: With a diverse menu catering to both dining and chilling, this restaurant presents a range of options from Vietnamese specialties to international dishes, boasting an impressive 4.9-star rating based on over 1000 reviews on Google.
Arabica Ho Chi Minh City, The Cafe Apartments
Address: 42 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Street, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Food Recommendation: Arabica is known for its coffee and light bites, making it a perfect place to enjoy a cup of quality coffee and pastries.
The Monkey Gallery DESSERT BAR
Address: 91 Mạc Thị Bưởi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Food Recommendation: Indulge in a variety of delectable desserts and sweet treats at The Monkey Gallery DESSERT BAR, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
These restaurants and cafes offer a diverse range of culinary experiences within the Cafe Apartment, allowing visitors to enjoy a mix of local and international flavors while soaking in the unique atmosphere of this iconic building in Ho Chi Minh City.
The Cafe Apartment is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Ho Chi Minh City. Its unique blend of old-world charm and modern creativity, coupled with the vibrant atmosphere of Nguyen Hue Street, makes it a truly memorable experience.
If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, make sure to explore Holicay, offering over 200 itinerary templates that you can customize to suit your preferences, making trip planning hassle-free. When you visit Ho Chi Minh City, don't miss adding the Cafe Apartment to your itinerary. Enjoy a delightful cup of coffee, wander through the charming boutiques, and soak in the city's rich history and culture. Who knows, you might even capture that picture-perfect Instagram shot to share with your friends and family back home.
Check out some food reviews for the restaurants and café shared above: