Somehow, while wandering around, I accidentally came across Dot cafe. Located on the second floor of an old French house at 76 Tran Quoc Toan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, this is one of the buildings that still retains the ancient features of the quintessence of old French architecture, built in 1950. Possessing a prime location, the shop originally had a sign but it was lost a couple of times, so the owner decided not to install a sign anymore. This increases the sense of mystery and attraction for those who are interested in exploring a "hidden cafe".
Dot cafe is located on the 2nd floor of an old French-style villa, built in 1950.
The restaurant space is a harmonious combination of classic and modern features, creating a feeling that is both familiar and new.
Coincidentally, that day, Duc Huy, the owner, stopped by, and I had the opportunity to chat and discover everything about Dot cafe. What made me most curious was the name of the cafe. Although there was no sharp tone, when pronounced it felt like there was a tone. Huy explained that "Dot" means a dot, but here it was not the end but the beginning.
The habit of going to "favorite" coffee shops with friends inspired Huy to want to make something special and his own. From that urge, Dot cafe was born. When looking for a location for the shop, Huy initially aimed for a dark corner under the stairs on the first floor. After asking around the neighbors and knowing that the second floor of the house was currently for rent, he decided to put Dot here. The special thing about Dot is that Huy cleverly chose June 7 as the annual birthday of his brainchild, corresponding to the shop's address at 76 Tran Quoc Toan Street.
Dot cafe adds a sense of mystery and attraction to those who enjoy exploring a "hidden cafe"
At the time of opening the shop, Huy did not have a specific idea, the decorations were mainly brought from home and given by friends. The shop's decor is simple, seemingly without a concept, but every detail is coordinated very well with each other. Diverse models, antiques and even simple corners give visitors a familiar feeling like being in their own home. The time-stained glass windows with natural sunlight open up a nostalgic space. The quietness and coziness here are the attractions, making those seeking relaxation and peace unable to ignore them.
Not flashy or flashy, Huy did not apply too many standards but simply opened a coffee shop to create a space with stories to connect people together. "I want the shop to be gentle, peaceful, a bit retro. And if you pay attention, vintage and classic trends at any time will easily approach everyone. For Hanoians, they often like nostalgic things and old spaces," he said.
The "random" decoration creates interest and reflects the owner's own style.
Dot's menu is simple but divided into interesting categories such as: Vietnamese coffee, Western coffee, tea or even some fragrant matcha dishes. Dot designed the Good Kid coupons in an eye-catching way to thank each customer who comes to the shop and make appointments for the next time. When collecting enough points on the Good Kid coupon, customers will receive any free drink on Dot's menu.
Locations that many young people check in
Good child certificates are issued at Dot
"The most memorable day for me at Dot was the day my high school friend borrowed the shop to propose to me. Everyone was busy from the opening of the shop until late at night preparing to decorate the attic space of the shop. Melodious music played, creating an indescribably romantic atmosphere.
Or we have to mention Christmas Eve. That day was the busiest day of the restaurant, full of loyal customers who had been with Dot since the first days. People came to the restaurant in groups, sitting with close friends in circles around each table. The laughter and chatter made everyone get to know each other like family, closer together. All the stories and moments gathered at Dot made Huy realize that everything had to be tried to know and do.
From diverse models to antiques and even simple little corners
Among the myriad of cafes in Hanoi, Dot cafe appears with its hidden beauty in an old French house, a resting place for those who love quietness with a space containing a part of Hanoi culture. A cafe is not simply a place to enjoy drinks, but also a place for people to connect with each other.
The time-stained glass window with natural sunlight opens up a nostalgic space.
