8 Best Cafes in Hanoi You Shouldn't Miss: Egg Coffee, Coconut Brews & Rooftop Charm

If you love discovering the heart of a country through its coffee scene, Hanoi is the place to be. With a mix of tradition, innovation, and strong brews, the capital of Vietnam is a haven for coffee lovers. From iconic egg coffee to quiet second-story cafes, this guide covers 8 of the best cafes in Hanoi, each offering a unique vibe and flavor.

1. Giang Cafe – The Birthplace of Egg Coffee

Location: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Old Quarter
Why Visit: Giang Cafe is where Vietnam's iconic egg coffee was born. Imagine sipping a warm, frothy cup filled with creamy egg yolk, condensed milk, and robust Vietnamese coffee—a true dessert in a cup.

Vibe: Narrow alley, upstairs, filled with wooden furniture and locals
Perfect For: First-time visitors, coffee lovers, and history enthusiasts

2. Dinh Cafe – Hidden Gem with a Balcony View

Location: 13 Dinh Tien Hoang, Old Quarter
Why Visit: Cafe Dinh, often considered a hidden gem, offers good coffee and a stunning balcony view over Hoan Kiem Lake. Their egg coffee is rich and less sweet than others.

Vibe: Second-story cafe with a unique vibe, stairs lead to a cozy corner above the street
Perfect For: People watching, peaceful sipping, and photo moments

3. The Note Coffee – Sticky Notes and Sweet Coconut Coffee

Location: 64 Luong Van Can, near Hoan Kiem Lake
Why Visit: This cheerful coffee shop is covered in handwritten notes from travelers around the world. They serve a memorable coconut coffee and iced coffees with oat milk options.

Vibe: Colorful, Instagram-worthy, great for digital nomads
Perfect For: Coffee breaks filled with smiles, sharing good vibes, and chilling by the lake

4. Tranquil Books & Coffee – Peaceful Escape for Coffee & Books

Location: 5 Nguyen Quang Bich, Hoan Kiem
Why Visit: One of the best cafes in Hanoi for quiet time. Grab a cup of Vietnamese coffee or tea and relax with a book in a space that feels more like a library than a bar.

Vibe: Soft lighting, wooden chairs and tables, perfect for chilling
Perfect For: Writers, readers, and remote workers looking to unwind

5. Cafe Pho Co – Rooftop Views and Traditional Vibes

Location: 11 Hang Gai (through a silk shop)
Why Visit: Nestled above a busy street, this rooftop cafe offers one of the best views of Hoan Kiem Lake. Their coconut coffee is legendary, and the climb up the stairs is worth it.

Vibe: Rustic, hidden, filled with character
Perfect For: Sipping with a view, relaxing afternoons, and discovering old Hanoi

6. Blackbird Coffee – Stylish Minimalist Brew Bar

Location: 5 Chan Cam, near St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Why Visit: A modern favorite among coffee lovers. Their specialty beans are locally sourced, and their iced coffees and cakes are a great combo.

Vibe: Clean, bright, welcoming
Perfect For: Digital nomads, quick meetings, and enjoying great coffee with pastries

7. All Day Coffee – Where Brunch Meets Great Coffee

Location: 55 Quang Trung
Why Visit: A cafe, bar, and brunch spot rolled into one. Their menu includes everything from oat milk lattes to smoothies and dark roast Vietnamese coffee.

Vibe: Trendy, spacious, outdoor seating available
Perfect For: Chill afternoons, group hangouts, and working remotely

8. Maison de Tet Decor – Tay Ho's Eco-Chic Retreat

Location: 26 Quang Ba Street, Tay Ho District
Why Visit: Nestled in a colonial villa with lush outdoor seating, Maison de Tet serves organic coffee, tea, and light food. A peaceful break from Hanoi's busy streets.

Vibe: Natural light, boho charm, garden views
Perfect For: Long chats, brunch, and soaking up Hanoi’s slower side

FAQs

Where should I go in Hanoi for the original egg coffee?

You can’t leave Hanoi without a visit to Cafe Giang, where the legendary Vietnamese egg drink was born. Tucked down a narrow street, this cozy spot is filled with wooden furniture and warm charm. If you're lucky, you’ll find a seat inside to enjoy a creamy cup of this iconic dessert-like coffee.

Which cafe offers great coffee and balcony views?

Cafe Dinh is a great coffee destination, perched on an upper floor with a balcony view of Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s a cozy spot where you can sit, relax, and enjoy a hot cup of egg coffee—less sweet, more bold, and perfect for a chill afternoon.

Where can I experience Hanoi’s train street cafe culture?

Cafes along Train Street provide an unforgettable experience—sit just feet from the tracks and enjoy a good coffee while trains pass by. These spots are often filled with locals, and you might even find outdoor seating right by the rails. It’s a thrilling and photogenic way to sip and soak in the town.

Are there cafes in Hanoi with outdoor seating?

Yes, several cafes in Hanoi feature charming outdoor seating, ideal for a hot day or a cool evening. Whether you're enjoying smoothies, tea, or a classic Vietnamese drink, sitting under natural light while watching the street buzz around you is a perfect way to relax and take a break.

Where can I find good coffee and cakes in Hanoi?

From the Old Quarter to Tay Ho, you’ll find cafes that serve good coffee, fresh cakes, and flavorful pastries. Many are nestled in quiet alleys or hidden behind stairs, offering both bar-style energy and cozy nooks with tables to unwind, sit back, and enjoy a slow cup with a friend.

What’s a great place in Hanoi to sit and enjoy a flavorful drink or dessert?

If you're looking for a great place to sit, unwind, and truly taste the coffee culture of the country, head to Lá Studio. Nestled in a quiet spot with stylish upstairs seating, this peaceful cafe offers a refined menu of hot and cold drinks, delicate desserts, and teas full of rich flavour. It’s perfect for those who want to relax without worry, soak in the vibe, and enjoy a thoughtfully crafted experience in Hanoi.

Final Sips: Explore Hanoi's Cafe Culture

From egg coffee invented in the Old Quarter to coconut brews in a rooftop cafe, Hanoi offers unforgettable experiences for every coffee lover. Each cup tells a story—of tradition, flavor, and the city’s ever-evolving charm. So, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the best cafes in Hanoi, one sip at a time.

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