Discover the best cafes in Hanoi with our updated 2025 guide, featuring local gems, iconic drinks, and the city’s top coffee spots worth your time.
If you love coffee, Hanoi is going to be your kind of city. This place doesn’t mess around when it comes to caffeine. From tiny stools on the sidewalk to hidden rooftops and stylish modern cafés, the coffee scene here is full of character and full of surprises.
Cafes in Hanoi aren’t just about the drink (although the coffee is seriously good). They’re where the city slows down. Where students hang out, locals catch up, and travelers like you take a break from the chaos outside. Whether you’re into a strong Ca Phe Sua Da, curious to try the famous egg coffee, or chasing something new like coconut coffee or salted cream coffee, Hanoi has something for every kind of coffee lover.
We’ve spent a lot of time in Hanoi & Vietnam over the years, and every visit brings new favorite spots. In 2025, we came back for another deep dive. We checked in on old classics, tried out hidden gems, and, yes, crossed a few overrated spots off the list. This updated Hanoi coffee guide is packed with the best cafes in Hanoi right now, from local favorites to cool new hangouts that deserve the hype.
So if you’re wondering where to get great coffee in Hanoi, whether it’s your first time here or your fifth, this guide’s for you.
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Hanoi Trip Planning Essentials
VISA
Vietnam requires a visa for citizens of certain countries. Make sure to check the visa requirements on ivisa.com for your nationality before you go.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Consider getting travel insurance from Heymondo when traveling to Vietnam. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
FLIGHTS
Discover the best flight deals to Hanoi on Skyscanner.
INTERNET
Airalo eSIM lets you stay connected as soon as you arrive at your destination. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Or use the code AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
ACCOMMODATION
Best hotels in Hanoi: Golden Rooster Hotel ($), Salute Premium Hotel & Spa ($$), Scent Premium Hotel ($$$).
TRANSPORT
Ready to travel to your next destination in Vietnam? Book your bus or train tickets via 12go.Asia.
GETTING AROUND
The best way to discover the old quarter & around is by foot. Make sure to download the Grab app, which is Hanoi’s Uber.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
For booking the best & cheapest city tours and day trip excursions, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
LANGUAGE
Basic English is spoken in major cities, but knowing basic Vietnamese comes in handy! Recently we have been loving the Ling App to pick up some language basics.
ONLINE PRIVACY
Safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using ExpressVPN. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
Coffee Culture in Vietnam: A Rich Blend of History and Flavor
Saying Vietnam runs on coffee might sound dramatic, but once you’ve spent time here, you’ll see it’s not far from the truth. Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and coffee isn’t just a drink here. It’s part of daily life, from quiet mornings at street stalls to late-night café chats.
Coffee first arrived in Vietnam during the French colonial era in the 19th century. The French brought over Arabica plants and began cultivating them in the Central Highlands, especially around Da Lat. Thanks to the region’s cool climate and fertile soil, coffee took off, and Vietnam never looked back.
Before that, Vietnam was a tea-drinking country. But over time, coffee took on a life of its own here. Locals adapted it to suit their own tastes and ingredients, resulting in uniquely Vietnamese brews like egg coffee and coconut coffee. Sweetened condensed milk, introduced due to a lack of fresh milk, is now a classic pairing you’ll find in every corner of Hanoi.
Today, the coffee culture in Vietnam blends old and new. On one side, you have traditional sidewalk cafés where locals sit low to the ground, slowly sipping iced coffee while watching the city move around them. These spots are all about people-watching, socializing, and keeping things simple. On the other side, there’s a new generation of beautifully designed coffee shops: minimalist spaces with curated playlists, pour-overs, and signature drinks that are as photogenic as they are tasty.
Vietnam is now known globally for its strong, bold Robusta beans. The country’s coffee success is rooted not just in exports, but in its homegrown love for the drink. And nowhere is that more visible than in Hanoi, where every cup tells a little story of culture, creativity, and community.
Exploring the Art of Vietnamese Coffee: The Classic Phin Brew
One of the best things about cafes in Hanoi is how many still use the traditional Vietnamese brewing method. It all starts with a small metal tool called a phin: a simple tin filter that sits right on top of your cup. The tin filter has three parts: a perforated plate, a screw-on press, and a brewing chamber.
The process is slow and unhurried. Coarsely ground Robusta coffee goes into the phin, a bit of hot water is added to let it bloom, then more hot water is poured in. From there, gravity takes over. The coffee drips steadily into the cup below, often already filled with a layer of sweetened condensed milk. Stir it up once it’s done, and you’ve got cà phê sữa, a strong, bold brew balanced by creamy sweetness.
It’s this no-fuss, hands-on method that defines Vietnamese coffee. You’ll see it everywhere, from tiny street stalls to stylish cafes in Hanoi. The ritual is part of the charm, and honestly, the wait is part of the reward.
What to Order: The Different Types of Vietnamese Coffee
Now that you know how it’s brewed, let’s talk about what to order, before jumping into the best cafes in Hanoi. Because Vietnamese coffee comes in all kinds of creative, delicious forms. Vietnamese coffee isn’t just about a caffeine hit, it’s a whole experience. If you skip the local varieties, you’re missing out on one of the city’s true highlights.
Forget caramel lattes or your usual flat white. In Vietnam, coffee comes with bold flavors and creative twists that make it uniquely Vietnamese. From egg coffee to coconut blends, here’s what to try:
Black Coffee – Cà Phê Đen
A straightforward no-nonsense, traditional Vietnamese drip coffee. Just strong, slow-dripped Robusta coffee, no milk, no sugar. Order it hot (cà phê đen nóng) or iced (cà phê đen đá) for a punchy, wake-you-up kind of brew. Thanks to the high Robusta content, it’s more intense than your average cup. This unique blend has led to Vietnam becoming the world’s largest producer of Robusta coffee and the second-largest producer overall.
Coffee with Condensed Milk – Cà Phê Sữa
Too bold? Go for cà phê sữa, where sweetened condensed milk softens the strength. It’s creamy, rich, and perfect iced (cà phê sữa đá) on a hot Hanoi day. This classic combo is one of Vietnam’s best-loved drinks for good reason.
Egg coffee – Cà phê trứng
Hanoi’s most iconic coffee creation? Without a doubt, it’s egg coffee. This creamy masterpiece tops strong Vietnamese coffee with a frothy mixture of egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk. It’s like a rich, dreamy dessert in a cup. Now, the idea of raw egg in your coffee might sound a little… off. But trust us, you’ll be egg-statically surprised by how good it is (yep, we went there). The whipped egg foam is velvety and sweet, perfectly balancing the boldness of the coffee underneath. It honestly reminded us of tiramisu.
Traditionally, it’s served in three layers: sweetened condensed milk on the bottom, hot robusta coffee in the middle, and a fluffy egg topping on top. The best way to enjoy it is by gently stirring from the bottom to get a bit of everything in each sip. You can order it hot or iced, but we recommend trying the hot version at least once, it’s like a cozy hug in a cup.
Egg coffee originated right here in Hanoi, and while you’ll spot versions around the country, nothing quite compares to the original in the north. It’s a must-try for any coffee lover, or dessert lover, really.
Coconut Coffee – Cà Phê Dừa
This one quickly became a favorite. Coconut milk and condensed milk are blended into a frozen slushy and poured over espresso. Sweet, creamy, and refreshing, it’s like a coffee milkshake with a tropical twist. The version at Cong Caphe is legendary.
Yoghurt coffee – Cà Phê Sữa Chua
Yes, yogurt and coffee. And weirdly, it works. Tangy, creamy yogurt balances out the bitterness of the coffee, creating a light and refreshing drink that’s perfect for an afternoon boost.
Salted coffee – Cà phê Muối
Our personal favorite! This trend started in Central Vietnam Hue but has made its way to Hanoi too. A pinch of salt adds surprising depth and smoothness to the coffee, without making it salty. If you spot it on a menu: ORDER IT! We even tried to recreate it at home!
The Best Cafes in Hanoi for Vietnamese Coffee
We’re not shy about our love for Hanoi, it’s a city that has our hearts for so many reasons! The vibrant streets, the colorful houses, and the downright delicious food, it’s a lot, in the best way. But let’s be real, sometimes Hanoi’s lively chaos can be a bit overwhelming. As much as we love the energy, sometimes you need a breather from all that motorbike madness. That’s when the cozy cafes in Hanoi come to the rescue.
Some are tucked down narrow alleys, others hide above shopfronts or open into leafy courtyards. A few have been around for decades, still run by the same families, while others are newer spots with a modern vibe. But they all have something in common: they offer a little pause from the chaos outside.
Whether you’re chasing your first egg coffee or just want a peaceful corner to recharge, these are some of the best cafes in Hanoi to soak in the city’s coffee culture, one cup at a time.
Loading T Cafe
Let’s kick things off with our top pick: Loading T Cafe, tucked away on the second floor of a charming French colonial house in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. We revisited it during our 2025 trip to Hanoi, and honestly, it still holds up as one of the best cafes in Hanoi.
The space is just beautiful. Vintage tiles, old wooden door frames, antique furniture, everything feels authentic, quiet, and effortlessly cool. It was actually the very first cafe we ever visited in Hanoi, and it blew us away then & still does today.
What makes Loading T special isn’t just the setting, though. It’s the coffee. They’ve created their own twist on the classic Hanoi egg coffee by roasting cinnamon sticks with the beans, which adds this warm, cozy flavor to every cup. Both the hot and iced egg coffees are incredibly creamy and rich, with just the right amount of sweetness. We couldn’t pick a favorite. If you only have time to visit one cafe in Hanoi, make it this one. It’s calm, comforting, and completely unforgettable.
Loading T Cafe Address | 8 P. Chân Cầm, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
Hanoi Coffee Station
Hanoi Coffee Station is a great spot if you’re after quality coffee and a bit of quiet just steps away from Hoan Kiem Lake. We first stopped by for their egg coffee, which was smooth, balanced, and not overly sweet, but ended up staying longer than planned thanks to the relaxed vibe and friendly staff.
There’s a small upstairs balcony where you can watch city life go by, but inside is just as cozy. They also serve a solid brunch menu with things like granola yogurt, avocado toast, and smoothie bowls. It’s a nice change of pace if you’re looking for something lighter, and they’ve got plenty of vegetarian options too.
Everyone here really knows their coffee. The owner even took the time to chat with us about how they brew, and offered to show us how they make their egg coffee from scratch. It’s one of those cafes in Hanoi where you feel genuinely welcome and where both the drinks and food are made with care.
Hanoi Coffee Station Address | 44 P. Hàng Bè, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 11011
Cafe Giang
Cafe Giang is where Hanoi’s famous egg coffee was born, and if you want to try the original, this is the place. Located in the Old Quarter, the café feels like stepping back in time with its vintage decor and old photos lining the walls.
The story behind the egg coffee is just as interesting as the drink itself. During the 1940s, fresh milk was hard to come by, so Nguyen Van Dao’s father got creative. Instead of milk, he used whisked egg yolks mixed with coffee and sugar, topped with a frothy egg cream. That simple invention became a Hanoi classic and is still made exactly the same way today.
Cafe Giang is still family-run, and while many places have tried to copy their recipe, this is the real deal. Not into coffee? They also serve egg hot chocolate and other tasty options.
If you’re near Hoan Kiem Lake and want a taste of history along with a unique coffee, Cafe Giang is worth a stop.
Cafe Giang Address | 39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm
Hidden Gem Cafe
Despite the name, Hidden Gem Cafe isn’t so hidden anymore, and that’s because it’s really good. The drinks and food here are some of the best in Hanoi. The building itself is worth a visit, too. From the street, the entrance might not stand out much, but inside you’ll find a burst of color and plenty of plants.
The café is surprisingly large, spread over several levels, with cozy corners that each have their own vibe. Street art is everywhere, giving it an urban, creative feel. What’s even cooler is that much of the design uses recycled materials. From plastic bottles and old tires to vintage bikes and tractor parts turned into tables. It’s a colorful, lively space filled with murals showing everyday life in Hanoi.
For drinks, the classic egg coffee is a must-try, but don’t miss the iced jasmine tea with fresh mango and pineapple; it was amazing. On the food side, their fried spring rolls and bánh mì stood out as some of the best we had in the city.
Hidden Gem Coffee Address | 1 Hàng Mắm, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
A Good Day cafe
On our latest trip to Hanoi, we found a new favorite: A Good Day Cafe, a local spot near the French Quarter. Honestly, it felt like a little secret we almost wanted to keep to ourselves. Their egg coffee is hands down the best we’ve ever had; it was like a dessert in a cup. We couldn’t help but say “wow” after the very first sip.
The café has a few seats outside, with a bit of a Parisian feel, where you can watch the street life unfold next to an old banyan tree. But what really made the visit special was the owner! He was so welcoming and clearly passionate about his coffee. You could see the genuine joy on his face when we ordered a second cup.
This place quickly became our go-to spot, and we were more than happy to make a little detour just to come back for that incredible coffee.
A Good Day cafe | 2A P. Nguyễn Xí, Tràng Tiền, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Lermalermer
I’m still dreaming about the salted coffee from Lermalermer; it was hands down the best one we had in Hanoi. They don’t stick to the traditional recipe but give it their own twist with a rich, salted caramel latte. Just make sure to stir it well, then sit back and let it blow your mind. We found this place on the day we were leaving and were honestly gutted we couldn’t come back for more. It was that good.
The space itself is a total mood: warm, cozy, and full of natural textures with lots of outdoor seating and eclectic furniture. It had such a calm vibe, I couldn’t stop taking photos for future home inspo. You won’t see many other tourists here; it’s mostly young and really stylish locals hanging out here. It’s a little outside the Old Quarter, but it’s super easy to reach and not far from the Temple of Literature.
Lermalermer | 16 Ng. Yên Thế, Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám, Đống Đa, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Ta Coffee
I don’t use the term hidden gem lightly, but Tạ Coffee truly feels like one. From the street, it looks like there are just a couple of seats by the counter, but keep walking through the back, and you’ll step into the most beautiful hidden courtyard. It’s like slipping into another time entirely.
The ambiance here is calm, quiet, and just so peaceful. It felt like the perfect little escape from the busy energy of the Old Quarter. We ended up staying much longer than planned, just soaking it all in. The coffee was easily one of the best we had in Hanoi. Smooth, rich, and made with care. And the staff were incredibly warm, so kind, patient, and welcoming, all with the biggest smiles. Honestly, we left feeling a little lighter.
Tạ Coffee | 4A Ng. Gạch, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Hanoi Shouten – Coffee
If you find yourself wandering around West Lake, make sure to pass through the Trúc Bạch area. This charming stretch of colorful houses along the water almost feels like a tiny slice of Hội An.
For a peaceful coffee break, Hanoi Shouten is a lovely stop. It’s a stylish little café with a quiet, relaxed feel and a great selection of desserts. We loved how they set out low chairs right by the lake, so you can sip your drink with a view of the water. There’s also a cute shop inside with locally made goodies, perfect if you’re looking for a small gift or just want to browse something a bit different. A calm, classy spot worth the detour.
Hanoi Shouten – Coffee | 160 P. Trấn Vũ, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
An Café
An Café became our go-to breakfast spot during our first trip to Hanoi, and honestly, it’s still one of our favorites. It’s a laid-back, cozy place with a rich coffee aroma that hits you the moment you walk in. Their Vietnamese banh mi is top-tier, and their coffee is even better!
They’ve got a great mix of classics and more creative drinks. Their “Art” coffee lineup is especially fun! Think a bold blend with red wine or their signature “Hanoi Winter” with cinnamon and spice. Both were surprisingly good and beautifully served.
The outdoor seating is perfect for soaking in the Old Quarter atmosphere, and the prices are super reasonable as well. And we haven’t even mentioned the banh mi again, they are so crispy, flavorful, and packed with options. We don’t usually return to the same place twice when we travel, but this one had us coming back daily. That’s how good it was.
An Café Address | 04 P. Đình Ngang, Cửa Nam, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam – They recently moved to a new location!
Cafe Dinh
Cafe Dinh is one of those classic local spots that keeps things simple, in the best way. You won’t find any fancy decor or trendy signs here, just low stools, a quiet upstairs room, and some of the best traditional coffee in the city.
It’s located right by Hoan Kiem Lake, but it’s easy to miss. The entrance is hidden between shops, with just a small sign inside pointing you up a narrow staircase to the second floor. Once inside, it feels more like someone’s living room than a café, feeling calm, casual, and unpretentious.
What makes it even more special is its connection to coffee history. Cafe Dinh is run by the daughter of the man who invented Hanoi’s famous egg coffee—yes, the same family behind Cafe Giang. And honestly, if you’re looking to try that iconic drink in a quieter spot, this is a great alternative. The egg coffee is just as rich and creamy, but the pace is slower and the setting more relaxed. That said, it’s slowly becoming more popular with tourists and Instagrammers, so it might not stay “under the radar” for much longer.
Cafe Dinh Address | 13 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
Vi Anh Coffee
It’s easy to overlook Vi Anh Coffee with the famous Café Giang right next door, but it’s absolutely worth a stop. This cozy local favorite has a warm wooden interior, with colorful lanterns on the ceiling that give off a subtle Hoi An feeling. Head up to the second floor for a cozy window seat that’s perfect for people-watching over a great cup of coffee. Their standout is the crème brûlée-style egg coffee, complete with a torched top, one of the most creative twists we tried. We also kept hearing rave reviews about the iced coconut cream coffee, another local favorite.
Despite its central Old Quarter location, prices are super reasonable! Service was fast, the staff were kind, and the walls are decorated with old photos of Hanoi that add to the nostalgic feel. Definitely a great little stop, especially if you’re after something cozy and a bit more under the radar.
Vi Anh Coffee | 37B Nguyễn Hữu Huân Hà Nội Hanoi City, Vietnam
Cafe Duy Trí
If you’re exploring the West Lake area and in need of a coffee break, Cafe Duy Trí is the place to go. It’s a true institution in Hanoi and quietly iconic, making it one of the city’s oldest cafes still in operation. In fact, it was founded all the way back in 1936.
What makes this place even more special is that they use coffee beans sourced directly from their own farm. You can really taste the quality in every sip. The menu is classic, and while everything we tried was solid, the standout for us was their homemade yogurt coffee. It’s creamy, tangy, and thick, which turns out to be a surprisingly perfect match for their bold, roasted coffee. It almost feels like a dessert and breakfast rolled into one.
Of course, if you prefer to keep it simple, you can’t go wrong with the traditional Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk. The setting itself is very no-frills, with an old-school charm that feels frozen in time. This timeless atmosphere is exactly what makes the experience so special, offering a quiet and authentic slice of Hanoi’s coffee culture that remains untouched by passing trends.
Cafe Duy Tri Address | 43A Phố Yên Phụ, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội
Terra Café & Workshops
What a find! Hidden inside a quiet building that almost looks abandoned, Terra Café is a serene spot on the fourth floor with a lovely covered terrace overlooking one of the main streets in the French Quarter.
The space is bright and peaceful, with huge windows, wooden decor, and lots of greenery. The best seats are out by the balcony, where the calm vibe really shines. Drinks are well-made and reasonably priced, with good coffee and tea options. It’s a great place to read or get some work done, especially since it’s far from the tourist crowds.
What made it even more special for me was their sweet white cat, who greeted me at the entrance and made the space feel extra cozy. Quiet, beautiful, and full of charm. This café is well worth seeking out.
Terra Café & Workshops | 14 P. Ngô Quyền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Where to Stay in Hanoi?
★ BUDGET
- Features a bar and on-site dining, buffet or à la carte breakfast is available
- Located a 4-minute walk from Dong Xuan Market
- Twin & Double Rooms $
★★ MID-RANGE
- Guests can enjoy a spa and wellness centre, and the on-site restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options
- Located a short walk from Hanoi Old Town & Hoan Kiem Lake
- Twin, Double, Triple & Family Rooms $$
★★★ HIGH-END
- There is a restaurant, rooftop bar, spa and wellness centre, & bicycle rental on site
- Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, close to Hoan Kiem Lake
- Double, Triple & Family Rooms & Suits, all with city or lake views $$$
Vietnam Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | For booking boat, bus, and train rides online, we recommend using the website 12go.Asia. This platform has been our go-to across Asia, saving us from the hassle of queuing at travel agencies or bus stations. If you’re traveling during peak season, consider booking tickets ahead, some routes in Laos can get booked out quickly.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Vietnam is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels. We always like to compare prices on Agoda afterwards!
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Vietnam on Skyscanner. We love that they highlight the days with the cheapest prices for a destination, and the ability to search by month or region for flexibility.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, especially for backpacking in Vietnam, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Secure reliable internet access for your Vietnam trip with Airalo. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only).
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable city tours, day trip excursions, food tours, and cooking classes in Laos, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
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