Note: Happy National Day, Vietnam! Yesterday was the 80th anniversary of the French leaving the country. Au revoir, colonizers (well, this round of colonizers)! And a very happy Labor Day to those who celebrate!
One of the best things about cafe culture in HCMC and Vietnam in general is the sheer variety of cafes. There are seemingly endless types to fit your mood and your needs.
I’ve already published about garden-y cafes already, as well as about pleasant outdoor areas, but I’ve found a few more to suggest. These are perfect if you’re longing for green spaces in a city that has precious few of them.
In a world where third spaces (that aren’t home or work, if you’re unfamiliar with the term) are increasingly scarce, HCMC has got this down pat. Get out there and soak up the ambiance!
Xào Xạc Cafe & Plants
Hours: 7:30am-10pm
Address: 453/15 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường 5, Quận 3
https://maps.app.goo.gl/RTVGTsdx14eGE8vj7
This is easily my favorite of today’s bunch.
“Xào xạc” can be translated as the sound of wind rustling through the leaves, and it’s a pretty appropriate name for this charming spot. As the name suggests, it’s a cafe… with plants. +10 points for accuracy!
The ground floor has pottery for sale and you can bring takeaway food into the cafe. The first floor is dimly lit, studded with potted plants, and has a number of tables perfect for working. But the real draw is the incredible rooftop, which is awash in greenery and the faint tinkle of wind chimes.
Parking is around the corner; follow the directions on the chalkboard outside the entrance. It’s not that hard, but it’s a bit weird to find (there’s a very small sign).
Underhood Kafe
Hours: Saturday/Sunday, 7am-2am; Monday-Friday 7am-11:30pm
Address: 1A Đ. Đồng Nai, Phường 15, Quận 10
https://maps.app.goo.gl/g3jkfx8WHzRkirHJA
This unusual cafe looks like a warehouse from the outside, but opens up into a large space absolutely overflowing with tropical plants.
The majority of the interior is made up of a crunchy red gravel with low-slung chairs, perfect for chatting with a few friends or even larger groups. There are also regular tables and chairs in back - ideal for working, should you so desire.
The interior is much cooler than you’d expect - I went in expecting a greenhouse, and was pleased with the cool atmosphere. The size of the cafe makes it feel quite spacious and airy.
Note: I was an idiot and only got video on my visit, which is why these still captures are so blurry. Sorry. On the plus side, I’m posting a video about it on my socials today! Check it out!
Beanthere Cafe - Hoàng Dư Khương
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 8am-10pm; Monday 8:30am-10pm
Address: 39/5 Hoàng Dư Khương, Phường 12, Quận 10
https://maps.app.goo.gl/DjyLD4USKcGrnRfn8
This one is a bit of a cheat in two ways:
I’ve already covered a different branch of Beanthere and I’m loathe to repeat myself, and
There are no plants inside (sad face)
However, the landscaping is truly impressive, the garden view visible through the two story front window is remarkable, and the drinks and vibes are just as good as the other branch (there’s also a third branch that I haven’t visited yet).
They’ve even got a little waterfall out there! The windows could use a wash, but let’s chalk it up to part of the general shabby chic ambiance. They also have an extensive, delicious food menu and are known for high quality and unique kombuchas.
Bonus: there are a lot of outlets and the tables are super stable (you’d be surprised how uncommon these QOL features can be). Super convenient.
I hope you all had a great holiday no matter where you are or what you’re celebrating, and have a fantastic rest of the week. Thank you for reading, amigos!
Enjoy your time in the gardens!
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