The best season to café hop is definitely autumn. With the grueling summer heat replaced by a soft, warm breeze, it’s the perfect weather to enjoy both cold and hot drinks. That being said, at the Café Apartments in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you can hop from café to café without ever leaving the building!
Built in the mid-20th century as a residential block and converted into a cultural hotspot in 2015, the apartment building now houses specialty cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops. But the building’s weathered façade and rustic interior still preserve its vintage mid-century charm. With balconies overlooking the Nguyen Hue Walking Street and plenty of cocktail lounges and dive bars to choose from, the Café Apartment has become a top destination for those looking to experience the Saigon nightlife—all in one place.
Begin at Fahasa, Vietnam’s renowned bookstore chain on the ground floor, then work your way up all nine floors—which is more than enough for a full day of exploration. For food options, Dosh serves donuts with playful and creative flavors; 21Grams offers a vegetarian Asian fusion menu; and Madam Quyên specializes in iconic Vietnamese dishes. Despite its name, the Café Apartment is much more than just coffee; it’s also a great stop to pick up some unique souvenirs before heading home. A personal favorite is The E.Y.E., a store selling tote bags with interesting graphic designs and puns in both English and Vietnamese.
The café highlights include Pờ Coffee, known for Vietnamese classics like egg coffee and salt coffee, served in a post-war inspired setting. There’s % Arabica on the fourth floor, a popular Japanese brand known for its high-quality beans and expert baristas. On the same floor is Meraki Café, an Instagrammable spot with specialty drinks and curated home goods. Finally, check out Good Day on the top floor for coffee, sweets, and a sweeping view of the city.
This unique vertical village truly offers a concentrated dose of Saigon’s vibrant culture, from aromatic coffees to unique finds and lively nightlife, all within a charming, historic setting. For more hidden gems and unforgettable travel experiences across Asia, keep an eye on RADII to discover your next must-visit destination.
Cover image via Luke Digweed.
