42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments - A group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings
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42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments

4.4
·923 reviews·, Vietnam

A nine-story apartment building in Ho Chi Minh City transformed into a vibrant hub of unique cafes, boutiques, and creative spaces.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments - A group of people walking down a street next to tall buildings

42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A nine-story apartment building in Ho Chi Minh City transformed into a vibrant hub of unique cafes, boutiques, and creative spaces.

4.4
(923 reviews)

"A really nice concept to have multiple cafes housed within the same building. A haven for cafe hoppers!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs!

Skip the elevator fee and enjoy exploring each unique cafe level. :athletic_shoe:

☕ Share Your Treats

Sample more cafes by sharing drinks and snacks with friends. :coffee:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Nine-Story Cafe Hub

The Nine-Story Cafe Hub

42 Nguyen Hue Street, District 1

An entire apartment building transformed into a vibrant collection of unique cafes, boutiques, and creative spaces.

Instagram
City Views from Above

City Views from Above

Various cafes on upper floors

Enjoy your coffee or matcha with a unique perspective of Ho Chi Minh City's bustling streets below.

Reddit
Unique Cafe Concepts

Unique Cafe Concepts

Individual cafes within the building

Discover themed cafes, artisanal coffee, delicious cakes, and trendy matcha creations.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Stairs!

While an elevator is available, many travelers recommend taking the stairs to fully explore each level and discover hidden gems. It's a great way to burn calories before indulging in cafe treats! Reddit

Cafe Hopping Strategy

With over 30 cafes, sharing drinks and snacks with companions is a smart way to sample more without overindulging. Each cafe offers a unique vibe and city view. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
City lights, lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Such a cool concept! ☕️
@lolangelan
149.8K likes • 1M views

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs!

Skip the elevator fee and enjoy exploring each unique cafe level. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

☕ Share Your Treats

Sample more cafes by sharing drinks and snacks with friends. Reddit :coffee:

🇻🇳☕️📍 The Cafe Apartment, 42 Nguyen Hue In Ho Chi Minh City you’ll find The Cafe Apartments - a foodie destination in the city’s District 1. This nine-story building once was an old apartment complex and has been transformed into a space with over 30 cafes, boutiques, and shops. There’s no shortage of eating and shopping that you can do here! Walk or take the elevator to explore it all. #hochim...
milliephanatic
53 likes • 1.4K views
🇻🇳 SAVE THIS. The Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City is indeed a must-visit spot for cafe lovers. I mean, it’s 9 storeys of cafes. Situated at 42 Nguyen Hue Street in District 1, this nine-story building, originally residential apartments, has been transformed into a bustling hub of cafés, boutiques, and co-working spaces. Visited the popular % Arabica, and they have Maple Latte too. Liked t...
danielfooddiary
634 likes • 80.2K views

📸 Capture the Charm

The building's exterior and interior offer great photo opportunities. TikTok :camerawithflash:

💰 Elevator Fee

Be aware of a small fee for the elevator; climbing stairs is free. Reddit

The Cafe apartments in Ho Chi Minh City, one of my favourite places to go for an iced coffee or an amazing MATCHA 🍵 plus the cakes omg! The nine-storey apartment block at 42 Nguyen Hue stands as a testament to its history, housing a vibrant mix of cafes, boutiques, and creative businesses. 🇻🇳 If you are in Ho Chi Minh, is a must to come to this place! I did some thrift shop and I’m so stoked with...
traveler_mermaid
12 likes • 610 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Take the Stairs!

Skip the elevator fee and enjoy exploring each unique cafe level. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

☕ Share Your Treats

Sample more cafes by sharing drinks and snacks with friends. Reddit :coffee:

📸 Capture the Charm

The building's exterior and interior offer great photo opportunities. TikTok :camerawithflash:

💰 Elevator Fee

Be aware of a small fee for the elevator; climbing stairs is free. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(923 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Cafe Apartment is widely praised for its unique concept of transforming an old residential building into a vibrant hub of cafes and boutiques, offering a creative way to experience Ho Chi Minh City. Visitors love the variety of cafes, the city views from upper floors, and the charming atmosphere. However, some find the prices a bit high and the elevator system inconvenient, with a fee and potential queues.

"The Cafe Apartment is such a unique place in Ho Chi Minh City! From the outside, it looks beautiful and stands out right away. Inside, you’ll find a variety of trendy and cozy cafes, each with its own vibe. The concept of turning an old apartment building into a café hub is really creative. Once inside, you can enjoy a nice drink while getting a great view of the city. Definitely a must-try experience!"

Prathama Mohanty

"A really nice concept to have multiple cafe housed within the same building. A haven for cafe hoppers!

A rude surprise is a lady demand you to pay 3000VND. While it doesn't cost much, comparing it to 2000VND for ferry to get to Monkey island, this is crazy. So I opted to climb the stairs instead. Good decision. I stopped at every level, explore the different cafes and checked out their menu. While the stairways is a little cramp, the workout is necessary to burn some calories before and after visiting the cafe.

I ended up in one of the cafes at the top floor. The view is great and offers a different perspective as compared to street side cafes."

C Nick’s

"Loved it here! It’s so fun exploring all the levels and sampling each cafe. If you’re with other people I suggest sharing so you can get a taste of every cafe without getting too full. There’s also a level with really cute clothing to get some shopping in!"

Jennifer D-N

What People Like

Unique building concept
Variety of cafes
City views

What People Dislike

Elevator fee
Slightly high prices

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cafe Apartment is located at 42 Nguyen Hue Street in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many visitors also enjoy walking along Nguyen Hue Walking Street to reach it. Instagram+1

Yes, the building is quite prominent on Nguyen Hue Walking Street. Look for the distinctive facade. The entrance to the cafes is typically on the ground floor, where you'll find the elevator and stair access. TikTok

Most visitors recommend taking the stairs to explore each of the nine floors. This allows you to discover all the unique cafes and boutiques at your own pace. Reddit

Absolutely! Apps like Grab are very popular in Ho Chi Minh City and are a convenient way to get to the Cafe Apartments. Just set your destination to 'The Cafe Apartment, 42 Nguyen Hue'. Instagram

Yes, the surrounding Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and often street performers. It's a lively place to explore before or after visiting the cafes. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no entrance fee to access the building itself. You can freely wander through the common areas and explore the different cafes. Reddit

Yes, there is a small fee to use the elevator to go up the floors. Many visitors opt to take the stairs to avoid this fee and enjoy the exploration. Reddit

The cafes within the building generally operate during typical daytime and early evening hours, usually from around 9 AM to 10 PM. Individual cafe hours may vary. Instagram

While some cafes might accept reservations, it's generally not necessary. The concept encourages hopping between cafes, so most people find a spot upon arrival. Reddit

No, there are no admission fees for the cafes. You only pay for what you order from the menu. Reddit

🎫 ☕ Onsite Experience

You'll find a diverse range of cafes, from those serving traditional Vietnamese coffee and matcha to trendy spots with artisanal drinks and delicious cakes. Each has its own unique decor and atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Taste is subjective, but many visitors enjoy cafes on the upper floors for their views. It's recommended to explore and find one that suits your preference. Reddit

Yes, many cafes, especially those on higher floors, offer excellent views of Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the surrounding city. Reddit

Yes, in addition to cafes, you'll find boutiques selling clothing, accessories, and other unique items. It's a great place for a bit of shopping. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The building's unique architecture, the colorful cafes, and the city views make it a very photogenic spot. TikTokInstagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The focus is primarily on drinks and desserts. You'll find a wide array of coffees, teas (especially matcha), cakes, pastries, and light snacks. TikTokInstagram

Prices can be slightly higher than street-level cafes, reflecting the unique location and ambiance. However, many find it reasonable for the experience. Reddit

While some cafes might offer light bites, it's not primarily a dining destination for full meals. It's best suited for coffee breaks, desserts, and snacks. Reddit

Options vary by cafe. It's best to check the menu at each establishment, but many cafes offer plant-based milk alternatives for drinks and some dessert choices. Instagram

Yes, many cafes offer traditional Vietnamese coffee, often prepared with condensed milk. It's a great spot to experience this local specialty. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the building, especially the balconies and windows, offers great shots. Inside, each cafe has its own unique decor, and the stairwells can also be photogenic. TikTokInstagram

Generally, yes, but it's polite to be mindful of other patrons and not obstruct service. Some cafes might have specific photography policies, so it's good to observe. TikTok

Late afternoon or early evening can be great for capturing the city lights. Daytime offers good natural light for interior shots. Reddit

Don't miss the views from the upper floors looking down onto Nguyen Hue Walking Street. The contrast between the old building and the modern city is striking. Reddit

For personal use and casual photography, no permit is usually required. Professional photoshoots might need prior arrangement with the building management or individual cafes. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cafe Apartment can be a fun outing for families, especially if you embrace the stair-climbing adventure. Kids often enjoy the novelty of exploring different themed cafes and the visual stimulation of the unique decor. Sharing treats is a great way to manage portions and costs for younger ones. Reddit

While there aren't dedicated play areas, the journey through the building itself can be an engaging activity. Opt for cafes with more open spaces if possible, and be mindful of the stairs. The views from the upper floors can also captivate children's attention. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

To make the most of your budget, prioritize taking the stairs to avoid the elevator fee. Reddit When ordering, consider sharing drinks and desserts with travel companions to reduce individual costs and try more items. Reddit Look for cafes that offer simpler Vietnamese coffee options, which are typically more affordable than specialty drinks. TikTok

While the Cafe Apartment is an experience, remember that prices can be slightly higher than street-level options. You can still enjoy the atmosphere and take photos without making extensive purchases. Perhaps enjoy a single drink and soak in the ambiance. Reddit

couples

The Cafe Apartment offers a wonderfully romantic setting for couples. Explore the different levels hand-in-hand, discovering charming cafes with intimate seating. Sharing a dessert or a unique drink while enjoying the city views can be a perfect date activity. InstagramReddit

Choose a cafe on an upper floor for a more scenic backdrop, especially as the city lights begin to twinkle in the evening. The variety of atmospheres means you can find a spot that perfectly suits your mood, whether it's a cozy corner for conversation or a lively spot to people-watch. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Transformation of 42 Nguyen Hue

Originally a residential apartment building, 42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments has undergone a remarkable transformation into a vibrant hub for cafes, boutiques, and creative businesses. This nine-story structure, once home to local families, now buzzes with a different kind of energy, attracting both locals and tourists seeking unique experiences. The concept of repurposing old buildings into trendy social spaces is a growing trend, and this apartment complex is a prime example of its success in Ho Chi Minh City. Instagram+1

The building's exterior, while showing its age, possesses a charm that complements the modern interiors of the cafes. Visitors often remark on its distinctive appearance, making it a landmark on Nguyen Hue Walking Street. The transformation highlights a creative approach to urban development, breathing new life into existing structures and offering a fresh perspective on the city's landscape. TikTok

This unique destination offers a glimpse into how historical architecture can be adapted for contemporary use, providing a multi-layered experience that goes beyond just enjoying a cup of coffee. It’s a testament to the city's evolving culture and its ability to blend the old with the new. Instagram

Navigating the Cafe Apartment: Stairs vs. Elevator

A key aspect of visiting the Cafe Apartment is deciding how to ascend its nine floors. While a single elevator serves the building, it often has a queue and comes with a small fee. Many travelers strongly advise taking the stairs instead, viewing it as an integral part of the experience. Reddit

Climbing the stairs allows for a more intimate exploration of each level. You can pause at your leisure, peek into different cafes, and truly appreciate the variety of offerings. This method also serves as a good way to burn off some calories before indulging in the cafes' treats. The stairwells themselves, though sometimes narrow, add to the building's character and offer a sense of discovery. Reddit

For those with mobility issues or who are short on time, the elevator is an option. However, be prepared for potential waiting times. The consensus among many visitors is that the stair-climbing journey is well worth the effort for the full Cafe Apartment experience. Reddit

A Haven for Cafe Lovers

The Cafe Apartment is a dream destination for anyone who loves exploring cafes. With over 30 establishments housed within its nine floors, the variety is astounding. Each cafe boasts its own distinct theme, decor, and menu, ensuring there's something to suit every taste and mood. Instagram+1

From artisanal coffee and matcha creations to delectable cakes and pastries, the culinary offerings are a major draw. Visitors often recommend sharing items with friends to sample a wider range of what's available. The unique ambiance of each cafe, combined with the opportunity to enjoy city views, makes for a memorable cafe-hopping adventure. TikTokInstagramReddit

Beyond just coffee and sweets, some levels also feature boutiques, offering a chance for a bit of shopping. This makes the Cafe Apartment a versatile spot for a leisurely afternoon, combining culinary delights with retail therapy and scenic vistas. Instagram

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