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It's easy to see that the lush green parks in front of the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, or Turtle Lake in Ho Chi Minh City have become ideal gathering places for young people. In particular, "coffee on the sidewalk" – a unique way of enjoying coffee – is becoming a hot trend attracting young people in the city.
The culture of sitting on the ground to drink coffee.
Sidewalk coffee, with its simple charm, has become a unique phenomenon attracting young people in Ho Chi Minh City. With just a simple plastic chair, a mat spread out in a park or on a sidewalk corner, and an affordable cup of coffee, you can enjoy wonderful moments of relaxation. The airy space under the cool green trees, along with the chirping of birds, creates a truly comfortable and intimate atmosphere.
A familiar sight every morning at the central park in District 1.
On weekends, these casual coffee shops become more bustling than ever. Young people come here not only to enjoy coffee but also to meet friends, share stories, sing together, paint, or simply sit and watch the people go by. The feeling of sitting next to each other and enjoying the shared space creates a special bond between strangers.
Ms. Bich, the owner of a sidewalk cafe in 30/4 Park, said: "On average, I sell 1,000 cups of coffee, iced coffee with condensed milk, and various types of tea a day. Mornings are the busiest time, and most of the customers here are young people."
On average, Ms. Bich sells 1000 cups of coffee, iced coffee with condensed milk, and various types of tea per day.
Sidewalk cafes are not just places to enjoy drinks, but also cultural spaces where people can freely express themselves. From impromptu singing and playing music, intimate conversations, to quiet moments for reflection, sidewalk cafes have become an indispensable part of life for many people in Ho Chi Minh City.
"Sitting on the ground for coffee is really interesting. It's completely different from sitting in a crowded, cramped cafe. Here, I can feel the pulse of the city and connect with friends," shared Thao Nguyen, a university student.
Sipping coffee...
and admire the vibrant rhythm of city life.
The park is a lush green color.
A familiar pastime for young people in Saigon.
Taking a stroll along Le Duan Street, one can easily spot bustling street corners and parks every morning, especially on weekends. From afar, hundreds of young people sit in small groups, enjoying coffee and chatting animatedly. A similar scene unfolds at the April 30th Park in front of Notre Dame Cathedral, where the cathedral's antiquity blends with the youthful energy of the young people, creating a vibrant and colorful picture.
"I often come here with my friends, especially on holidays. With its green spaces and the vibrancy of the city, it's perfect for those who want to spend time relaxing," said Nhu Y (22 years old).
Nhu Y often goes to the park with her friends to relax and sing.
Just like the free-spirited nature of Saigonese people, sidewalk cafes are not bound by any rules. With affordable prices, sidewalk cafes have become a familiar destination for young people. From vibrant streets like Han Thuyen, where young people gather to sing and play music, to quieter streets like Alexandre De Rhode, where couples go on dates, each sidewalk cafe location has its own unique character. No matter which location you choose, sidewalk cafes always offer a comfortable, intimate atmosphere and are a place for people to connect with each other.
Around these sidewalk cafes, you can also find a variety of breakfast foods.
And wedding cars are available for girls to buy for "Instagrammable" photos or to surprise friends.
Sidewalk coffee stalls are an indispensable part of life for young people in Ho Chi Minh City. Visiting Han Thuyen Street, sipping a cup of iced coffee, and chatting with friends is how many people find a peaceful haven in Saigon amidst the hustle and bustle. The lively laughter, the whirring of motorbikes – all create a unique characteristic of the city. No matter how much Ho Chi Minh City changes, sidewalk coffee stalls remain a place to rediscover simple, familiar values. And that's why they always hold a special appeal for so many people.
