42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments
A nine-story apartment building in Ho Chi Minh City transformed into a vibrant hub of unique cafes, boutiques, and creative spaces.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
42 Nguyen Hue Apartment Cafe Apartments
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
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.
"A really nice concept to have multiple cafes housed within the same building. A haven for cafe hoppers!"
🚶♀️ 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:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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.

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.

Unique Cafe Concepts
Individual cafes within the building
Discover themed cafes, artisanal coffee, delicious cakes, and trendy matcha creations.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Stairs!
Cafe Hopping Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ 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:📸 Capture the Charm
The building's exterior and interior offer great photo opportunities.
:camerawithflash:💰 Elevator Fee
Be aware of a small fee for the elevator; climbing stairs is free.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ 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:📸 Capture the Charm
The building's exterior and interior offer great photo opportunities.
:camerawithflash:💰 Elevator Fee
Be aware of a small fee for the elevator; climbing stairs is free.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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'.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
No, there are no admission fees for the cafes. You only pay for what you order from the menu.
🎫 ☕ 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.
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.
Yes, many cafes, especially those on higher floors, offer excellent views of Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the surrounding city.
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.
Absolutely! The building's unique architecture, the colorful cafes, and the city views make it a very photogenic spot.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Prices can be slightly higher than street-level cafes, reflecting the unique location and ambiance. However, many find it reasonable for the experience.
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.
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.
Yes, many cafes offer traditional Vietnamese coffee, often prepared with condensed milk. It's a great spot to experience this local specialty.
📸 📸 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.
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.
Late afternoon or early evening can be great for capturing the city lights. Daytime offers good natural light for interior shots.
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.
For personal use and casual photography, no permit is usually required. Professional photoshoots might need prior arrangement with the building management or individual cafes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Transformation of 42 Nguyen Hue
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.
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.
Navigating the Cafe Apartment: Stairs vs. Elevator
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.
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.
A Haven for Cafe Lovers
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit