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Xí Nghiệp is a cafe-pub with a "subsidy era" vibe, but not by simply rehashing old memories. Instead, it's a recreation of culture and art blended together to offer visitors a unique experience. From the outside, the cafe attracts attention with its rustic, simple appearance, unpretentious sign, and multi-colored glass windows, creating a striking contrast between light and color. As soon as you step through the door, you enter another world, where every brick and every wall bears the mark of time.
The Factory Restaurant is located on a small street corner, hidden away from the hustle and bustle.
Mr. Linh shared: “Over a decade ago, I started building the cafe with a capital of 40 million VND. Back then, I liked recycling materials, so initially I used decorative items like student desks and chairs or bricks bought from old schools. I also like to do everything myself; if I'm too busy, I'll instruct others to do it for me. For example, I painted these walls myself, and this piano is also my own design.” These are not just decorative items; they symbolize Mr. Linh's creativity and passion, creating a unique touch in the cafe's space.
The space evokes memories of a bygone era.
Over the years, Mr. Linh gradually transformed the factory into a cozy and intimate art space, preserving the rustic charm of its early days while maintaining its own unique character. The cafe is designed in a minimalist style, with exposed brick walls, worn wooden tables and chairs, and distinctive decorative details that naturally evoke the subsidy period. Inside, customers can find many works of art hanging on the walls, all created by Mr. Linh himself or his artist friends. These paintings, in addition to being decorative, also carry the stories, emotions, and ideas of their respective artists.
The space is decorated with works of art.
Another highlight of the restaurant is its lighting. The lighting is cleverly arranged, providing just enough warmth without being too harsh, highlighting the beauty of the paintings and antique interior details. The stained-glass windows create a stunning light effect when sunlight shines through, making the space more vibrant and colorful. Guests sitting by the window can admire the space, the natural light mixed with the colors of the glass, bringing a feeling of relaxation and nostalgia.
The bar at the Enterprise is also a unique highlight, designed in a rustic, simple style while still maintaining a touch of sophistication. The wines and drinks are neatly arranged, illuminated by soft yellow lighting. "I think that during the day, the Enterprise is an ideal place for people to relax, immerse themselves in a nostalgic atmosphere, and enjoy a cup of coffee. When night falls, the bar becomes an intimate spot for friends to gather, chat openly with the bartender in a cozy atmosphere, bridging any gaps," Linh said.
Mr. Linh, the owner of Xí Nghiệp restaurant, is the author of many of the paintings that decorate the restaurant.
At Xí Nghiệp, every customer can find their own little corner. Some like to sit next to the music player, closing their eyes and enjoying the gentle melodies of old songs. Others prefer to sit beside a large painting under warm yellow light, admiring the lines and colors, finding a little peace in their souls. Perhaps, the uniqueness of Xí Nghiệp lies not only in the paintings or decorative objects, but also in the feeling the cafe evokes – an authentic space where art is not just for viewing, but also for feeling and contemplating...
For Linh, maintaining the establishment is not simply a business; it's also a way for him to convey his soul, his passion for art, and the cultural values he cherishes. Every little corner of the shop, from the paintings on the walls to the old wooden tables, is a part of his life and creative journey. He sees each detail in the establishment as a precious piece, creating a whole full of emotion and meaning, where culture and art can blend, making visitors feel deeply connected.
The colorful glass windows at the cafe.
Amidst the plethora of bars and pubs today, Xí Nghiệp stands out with its unique character. Every detail here holds stories and emotions of the owner. Customers come to Xí Nghiệp not just to enjoy drinks, but also to experience, observe, and feel. Each visit reveals something new – perhaps a different perspective from a painting, an untold story hidden somewhere on the weathered walls, or simply a feeling that subtly permeates the cozy atmosphere.
Mr. Linh said: "Actually, no matter how much we change things, rearrange the paintings, or move the objects to different places, what makes Xí Nghiệp special is still the people. It is the people who come here who have shared, bonded, and created the unmistakable soul of the cafe over the years." Mr. Linh always believes that, even though the space may change over time, it is the attachment and stories of each customer that create the sustainability and uniqueness of Xí Nghiệp.
The bar, with its soft lighting, creates a cozy atmosphere for the restaurant.
