7 Must-Visit Cafés in Hue for a Cultural Coffee Experience: Exploring the Heart of Vietnam’s Café Culture

Hue’s Café Culture: Where History, Heritage, and Coffee Meet

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is a city where time seems to slow down. Nestled along the Perfume River and surrounded by ancient citadels, pagodas, and lush gardens, Hue is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and tranquil pace of life. In recent years, the city’s café scene has blossomed, offering both locals and travelers a unique way to experience Hue’s charm—one cup of coffee at a time. From historic pavilions to riverside retreats, Hue’s cafés are more than just places to drink coffee; they are living museums of architecture, music, and tradition.

What Makes Hue’s Cafés Unique?

Unlike the bustling coffee cultures of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Hue’s café scene is defined by its deep connection to local history and a distinctive specialty: salt coffee (cà phê muối). Invented in Hue in 2010, salt coffee combines Vietnamese drip coffee with a blend of salt, fermented milk, and cocoa powder. The result is a drink that balances bitterness, sweetness, and a subtle saltiness, creating a flavor profile that has captivated both locals and visitors. Today, nearly every café in Hue offers its own take on this iconic beverage, making it a must-try for anyone exploring the city.

But Hue’s cafés offer more than just unique drinks. Many are housed in historic buildings, former royal residences, or vintage homes, each with its own story to tell. The ambiance is often serene, with wooden furniture, patterned tile floors, and lush gardens that evoke the city’s imperial past. Music, especially the poetic songs of Trinh Cong Son, a legendary Vietnamese songwriter, often fills the air, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere.

7 Must-Visit Cafés in Hue

To truly experience Hue’s café culture, here are seven standout spots that blend history, architecture, and exceptional coffee.

1. Gao: A Lakeside Retreat in the Imperial City

Set in a traditional wooden house with tiled roofs and surrounded by greenery, Gao offers a peaceful escape beside a lake within the Imperial City. The interior features wooden tables and chairs, while the outdoor space is adorned with flowers like yellow apricot, camellia, and white frangipani—plants once common in noble households. Gao’s menu includes coffee, fruit juices, herbal teas, and royal teas, with prices ranging from VND20,000 to VND150,000 (about $0.78 to $5.85). This café is ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in Hue’s culture and architecture.

Address: 214 Tang Bat Ho Street
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

2. De Po: Nostalgia in Dong Ba Market

Located inside Dong Ba Market—one of central Vietnam’s oldest and busiest markets—De Po exudes a nostalgic charm with its aged walls, patterned tile floors, and wooden window frames. Afternoon sunlight filters through the canopy, casting soft shadows and creating a cozy ambiance. After exploring the market’s culinary delights, visitors can relax here with a cup of caramel coffee, a local favorite praised for its smooth flavor. Prices range from VND25,000 to VND50,000 ($0.98 to $1.95).

Address: 2nd Floor, Dong Ba Market
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

3. Lau Tu Phuong Vo Su: Royal Pavilion Turned Café

Lau Tu Phuong Vo Su, a two-story pavilion built in 1923 for Emperor Khai Dinh’s birthday, once served as a quiet retreat for the royal family. Today, it welcomes visitors seeking a tranquil spot to enjoy coffee after touring the Imperial City. The pavilion is accessible from Dang Thai Than Street without requiring a citadel entrance ticket. The menu features coffee and tea, with prices from VND20,000 to VND50,000 ($0.78 to $1.95).

Address: Dang Thai Than Street
Hours: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.

4. Giao: Vintage Vibes and Salted Coffee

Housed in a vintage building with patterned tile floors and antique-inspired furniture, Giao captures the essence of Hue homes from decades past. Large windows bathe the space in natural light, and outdoor seating offers a view of bustling street life. The menu is diverse, but the salted coffee and salted coconut cocoa are must-tries, with prices between VND45,000 and VND59,000 ($1.76 to $2.30).

Address: 118 Chi Lang Street
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

5. Chieu: A Nostalgic Haven with Music

For over 30 years, Chieu (meaning “Afternoon”) has been a beloved local spot. Set in a two-story wooden house, it evokes the leisurely pace of old Hue. The balcony overlooks the Imperial City, and the air is filled with soft music, often featuring the works of Trinh Cong Son. The focus here is on coffee, especially salted coffee, with prices from VND20,000 to VND40,000 ($0.78 to $1.56).

Address: 44 Dang Thai Than Street
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

6. Gac Trinh: The Legacy of Trinh Cong Son

Opened in 2013, Gac Trinh (Trinh Attic) is a pilgrimage site for fans of the legendary musician Trinh Cong Son. The café once served as his personal retreat in the 1960s and 1970s, where he composed much of his music. Today, it preserves his photographs, letters, and memorabilia, including a photo gifted by singer Khanh Ly and a love letter to Dao Anh, his muse. The simple menu centers on coffee, with drinks priced from VND15,000 to VND30,000 ($0.59 to $1.17).

Address: 2nd floor, room 203, building number 19, Nguyen Truong To Street
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

7. Hue Cafe Roastery: Homey Vibes and Riverside Views

Located on the second floor of a house, Hue Cafe Roastery offers a cozy atmosphere with a balcony overlooking the Dong Ba River and Dieu De Pagoda. The quiet space is filled with the aroma of incense and freshly roasted coffee. In addition to coffee, the menu features traditional drinks like salted lemon and xi muoi tac (sweet-tangy kumquat with salted plum syrup), with prices from VND25,000 to VND45,000 ($0.98 to $1.76).

Address: 131 Huynh Thuc Khang Street
Hours: 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Salt Coffee: Hue’s Signature Brew

Salt coffee, or cà phê muối, is arguably Hue’s most famous coffee innovation. Created in 2010, this drink is made by layering salt, fermented milk, and cocoa powder at the bottom of a glass, then slowly brewing Vietnamese drip coffee over the mixture. The salt enhances the sweetness of the milk and cocoa, balancing the coffee’s natural bitterness. Served over ice, it’s a refreshing and complex beverage that has become a symbol of Hue’s culinary creativity.

Several cafés claim to serve the best salt coffee in Hue. Ca Phe Muoi is credited with inventing the drink, while other popular spots like Laph Cafe, House 87, and Tan Cafe each offer their own spin. The drink’s popularity has spread beyond Hue, but locals insist that the city’s unique atmosphere and water give it a special character that can’t be replicated elsewhere.

Beyond the Classics: More Notable Cafés in Hue

While the seven cafés above are essential stops, Hue’s coffee scene is much broader. According to travel guides and user reviews, other notable cafés include:

• Vy Da Xua: A riverside café with tranquil views and a menu of traditional drinks.
• Root Coffee Roastery: Known for its urban interior and specialty brews.
• Daudo: A modern riverside café favored by young locals.
• PhinHolic: A stylish downtown spot with a diverse menu and good workspaces.
• TA Cafe & Bakery: Located in the tourist area, offering great coffee, bakery items, and a relaxing balcony.
• View Cafe: Popular for people-watching and its lively local crowd each morning.

Many of these cafés are praised for their cozy atmospheres, friendly staff, and inventive drinks like coconut coffee, egg coffee, and fruit teas. Whether you’re seeking a quiet place to work, a scenic riverside view, or a taste of local tradition, Hue’s café scene has something for everyone.

The Role of Cafés in Hue’s Social and Cultural Life

Cafés in Hue are more than just places to grab a drink—they are social hubs, creative spaces, and cultural landmarks. Many serve as gathering spots for artists, musicians, and students, fostering a sense of community and intellectual exchange. The tradition of garden cafés, with their open-air layouts and lush greenery, reflects a broader Vietnamese appreciation for nature and socializing in beautiful surroundings.

Some cafés, like Gac Trinh, double as living museums, preserving the legacy of cultural icons. Others, such as those housed in historic buildings or royal pavilions, offer a tangible connection to the city’s imperial past. Even modern cafés, like Ton Corner Coffee Shop designed by TON Architects, blend contemporary design with local materials and traditions, showing how Hue’s café culture continues to evolve.

Tips for Experiencing Hue’s Café Scene

• Try Salt Coffee: Don’t leave Hue without sampling its signature drink. Each café has its own recipe, so try a few to find your favorite.
• Embrace the Slow Pace: Hue’s cafés are designed for lingering. Take your time, enjoy the ambiance, and soak in the city’s gentle rhythm.
• Explore Different Neighborhoods: From the Imperial City to riverside streets and bustling markets, each area offers a unique café experience.
• Listen to the Music: Many cafés play classic Vietnamese songs, especially those by Trinh Cong Son. Let the music enhance your experience.
• Respect Local Customs: Hue is known for its politeness and hospitality. Greet staff with a smile and enjoy the warm service.

Hue’s Café Culture in the Broader Vietnamese Context

Vietnam’s coffee culture is world-famous, with each region offering its own specialties. While Hanoi is known for egg coffee and Ho Chi Minh City for its vibrant café scene, Hue stands out for its blend of history, tranquility, and innovation. The city’s cafés reflect its imperial heritage, artistic spirit, and culinary creativity, making them essential stops for any visitor.

As tourism in Hue continues to grow, new cafés are opening, blending modern design with traditional elements. Yet, the heart of Hue’s café culture remains unchanged: a commitment to quality, hospitality, and a deep sense of place. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or a casual traveler, exploring Hue’s cafés is a journey into the soul of the city.

In Summary

• Hue’s café culture is deeply rooted in the city’s history, architecture, and artistic traditions.
• Salt coffee (cà phê muối) is a must-try local specialty, invented in Hue and now served citywide.
• Seven standout cafés—Gao, De Po, Lau Tu Phuong Vo Su, Giao, Chieu, Gac Trinh, and Hue Cafe Roastery—offer unique experiences blending heritage and hospitality.
• Beyond these, Hue boasts a diverse array of cafés, from riverside retreats to modern roasteries.
• Cafés in Hue serve as social, cultural, and creative hubs, reflecting the city’s gentle pace and rich legacy.
• Visitors are encouraged to slow down, savor the flavors, and immerse themselves in the unique ambiance of Hue’s coffee scene.