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Hanoi's 36 streets and alleys are part of the ancient quarter, a region steeped in a thousand years of cultural heritage. Through countless ups and downs, the ancient quarter has endured the test of time and continues to thrive to this day. More than just a place for tourists to explore its ancient beauty, this part of Hanoi also opens the door to understanding its rich cultural and historical traditions.
If you just stroll along Hang Gai Street, one of the busiest streets in Hanoi, you'll have a hard time finding that cafe without asking for directions. That's because the only way to get to the cafe is through the clothing store.
The only way to get to the Old Town Cafe is through the clothing store.
The Old Quarter Cafe is located in the small alley at 11 Hang Gai Street.
Nestled in the narrow alleyway at 11 Hang Gai Street, about 200 meters long and hidden behind fashion boutiques, Pho Co Cafe is like a peaceful haven, allowing you to step back in time and rediscover the quintessential Hanoi of the past. In contrast to the bustling and vibrant atmosphere outside, the interior of the cafe opens onto a tranquil courtyard bathed in sunlight.
According to staff at the cafe, the old house was built in 1918, making it 106 years old. The family has preserved the house and opened a cafe there since 1998. They wanted to create a place where people could escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy peace and quiet. The cafe has become a favorite spot for both locals and foreign tourists.
Old Quarter Cafe was built in 1918, making it 106 years old today.
Old Quarter cafes are like peaceful havens that help us turn back time and rediscover the quintessential memories of old Hanoi.
With an area of 150 m²2The cafe boasts a cozy and intimate atmosphere, designed in the style of traditional Vietnamese houses. The house is divided into three sections: the main section, the middle section, and the back section. The main section houses the living room and veranda. The middle section features a skylight to let in abundant sunlight. The back section serves as the kitchen area.
The main living room space retains the marks of time with its set of tables and chairs made from rosewood, intricately carved with patterns that have endured through the years. Not only the architecture of the house but also every item in the cafe has been carefully preserved by the owner. The walls are decorated with ancient horizontal plaques, couplets, and paintings of old Hanoi… In addition, most of the objects in the cafe, such as statues and antique vases, are treasures collected during the family's travels throughout North and South Vietnam.
Old Town Cafe boasts a cozy and intimate atmosphere, designed in the style of traditional Vietnamese houses.
Every item in the Old Quarter cafe is carefully preserved by the owner.
In the Old Quarter cafe, most of the items are collectibles acquired during the family's travels from North to South Vietnam.
The central area features an atrium connecting to the living quarters at the back. This is the counter area where customers order food and drinks, and the space is also decorated with antiques and plants to add vibrancy. Foreign tourists are particularly impressed and delighted with this area.
After several renovations, half of the courtyard has been transformed into a small attic connected by a wooden staircase. The cafe has a few charming small tables, perfect for relaxing, reading, or chatting with friends. It's also the ideal spot for visitors to enjoy a cup of coffee in a tranquil setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the city streets.
The atrium space at Old Town Cafe is also decorated with antique objects and plants to add vibrancy.
After several renovations, half of the Old Quarter cafe's courtyard has been fitted with a small upper floor connected by a wooden staircase.
The cafe has a few lovely little tables perfect for relaxing, reading a book, or chatting with friends.
The back section comprises four floors, with the first and second floors serving as the family's common living area. The third and fourth floors house indoor and outdoor coffee spaces. To access this area, visitors ascend a narrow, steep spiral staircase.
The fourth floor features a breezy courtyard with a direct view of Hoan Kiem Lake in the heart of Hanoi. If you're looking for a space with a stunning view of Hoan Kiem Lake, Pho Co Cafe is the perfect choice. Moreover, this unique feature has also earned the cafe the affection and attracted many foreign tourists.
This is also the perfect place for tourists to enjoy a cup of coffee in a quiet setting, away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city streets.
Old Town Cafe serves a variety of coffees, teas, and other beverages. The menu is diverse, featuring juices and smoothies, but primarily focuses on coffee and cocoa. The coffee is brewed with pure Vietnamese coffee beans, resulting in a rich and delicious flavor. One of the cafe's signature drinks is egg coffee. In addition, coconut milk, yogurt smoothies, and juices such as starfruit, guava, and watermelon are all priced between 35,000 and 50,000 VND. The cafe also offers some light snacks, such as sunflower seeds, sandwiches, and bread.
Old family photos of the owner of the Old Quarter coffee shop.
Ancient ceramic vases
Having the opportunity to visit the capital city during the spring season, Hong Anh (from Bac Giang) shared: "I really love the old Hanoi atmosphere of the cafe. Although I only stumbled upon it by chance, following a recommendation from review videos on social media, I will definitely save this place to visit again if I have the chance to come to Hanoi next time."
Old Quarter Cafes are considered a great place to experience Hanoi's coffee culture. They are also the perfect spot for diners who want to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee in a peaceful and tranquil setting.
Traces of time at the Old Quarter cafe.
