Cong Ca Phe in Saigon, Vietnam

People enjoying coffee at Cong Caphe Saigon’s second floor in District 1, retro Vietnamese café with a vintage vibe

This post contains affiliate links, meaning EVERLASTYING will earn a commission if you purchase through our link at no extra cost.
Read my 
disclosure for more information. I appreciate your support 🤍

Looking for a cool coffee break in Saigon that actually feels Vietnamese?

Cong Ca Phe is where old-school aesthetics meet bold cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee) — and yes, it’s a total vibe.

When my partner and I spent a few days in Saigon before flying off to Con Dao (read my Con Dao Island Guide for the full adventure), we went full-on local mode: food tours by moped, street eats, and of course, asking our guides what’s their favorite place to get their caffeine fix.

Their answer? Cong Ca Phe — and they weren’t wrong.

Let’s dive into what makes Cong Ca Phe special, what to order, and what’s nearby so you can make the most of your Saigon visit!


about Cong Caphe

Cong Ca Phe (Cộng Cà Phê) is not your average coffee chain.

Cong Caphe Saigon interior with distressed walls, vintage art, and rustic decor on the second floor

It launched in Hanoi back in 2007 and quickly became a local favorite, thanks to its quirky, vintage Vietnamese aesthetics, distressed walls, books, and art as decor, as well as handwritten menus. It’s like stepping into the past, with an iced coconut coffee in hand.

The name “Cộng” was inspired by Vietnam’s full official name: CỘNG HÒA XÃ HỘI CHỦ NGHĨA VIỆT NAM.

Founder Linh Dung wanted to bottle up the nostalgia of her childhood — from the furniture to the font on the napkins — and she nailed it.

Now? There’s over 100 locations across Vietnam, plus international spots in South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, and Canada.

This isn’t just coffee. It’s a vibe.


Cong Ca Phe menu

Whether you’re a die-hard coffee lover or a tea person like me, there’s something for you.

Prices are affordable by Saigon standards — drinks typically range from 29,000 – 65,000 VND ($1 – 3 USD).


drink highlights

Vietnamese coconut coffee and iced honey kumquat tea on wood table at Cong Caphe Saigon, District 1

Coffee with Condensed Milk and Coconut Milk (left)

One of the most loved drinks at Cong’s. A bold blend of Vietnamese coffee with creamy coconut milk and condensed milk — rich, slightly sweet, and ice-cold. It’s the drink to try.

Iced Honey Komquat Mountain Tea (right)

Since I don’t drink coffee, I decided to try something different. Tart, citrusy, and super refreshing. Kinda reminds me of a Vietnamese Arnold Palmer, no joke.

🔥 Want to try even more iconic Vietnamese drinks?

Book this Vietnamese Coffee Workshop where you’ll learn to make 4 types of traditional coffee — including that legendary egg coffee 🍳☕


what’s nearby (all walkable!)

After sipping your coconut coffee, take a walk around the area — you’re in one of the most iconic parts of Saigon. Cong Ca Phe’s District 1 location puts you steps away from some must-see spots.

  • 📚 Saigon Book Street – A hidden gem filled with indie bookstores and cute cafés

  • 🍜 Saigon Street Food & Moped Tour – We did this exact tour and LOVED it. Local guides, endless eats, and a way to see the city through their eye

  • 🚶‍♀️ Walking Tour with a Local Guide – Perfect if you want to learn stories from an actual local beyond what Google can tell you

  • 🎭 Saigon Opera House – Gorgeous French colonial architecture, especially at golden hour

🎟 Want to experience the Opera House up close?

Don’t just pass by — catch a live performance at this historic landmark! We watched the A O Show Bamboo Circus here and were seriously blown away. It’s a mix of acrobatics, dance, and storytelling with traditional Vietnamese flair.

👉🏼 Book your Saigon Opera House show tickets here — seats fill up fast!


final thoughts

Cozy second floor at Cong Caphe with bookshelf, vintage decor, and guests working at tables in Saigon café

Sure, the District 1 branch can feel a little touristy (especially inside The New Playground), but it still delivers on atmosphere and flavor.

My partner raved about his coconut coffee, and even my iced tea was a win — superrrr refreshing in Saigon’s heat.

Is it a hidden gem? Not quite.

Is it worth visiting for the drinks and aesthetic? Absolutely.

If you’re into unique spaces, strong coffee, and Vietnamese nostalgia — yes.


Hidden entrance to Cong Caphe inside The New Playground in Saigon, popular café in District 1

VISIT

Cộng Cà phê
Cong Ca Phe

HOURS

Monday - Sunday
7:00 AM - 10:30 PM

LOCATION

Located inside The New Playground

26/15 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 71000, Vietnam


check out my recent travel vlog!


DISCOVER MORE

11192024 10:28

Previous
Previous

【台中 吃茶三千】Chicha San Chen Flagship Store in Taichung, Taiwan

Next
Next

【嘉義 佐一茶屋】Chaya Zoy in Chiayi, Taiwan