As overwhelming as Hanoi can be, it's widely agreed that they have an excellent coffee culture. On every corner, you'll find locals drinking their ca phe, catching up with friends, and smoking. But, as a remote worker, you need more than just coffee. A place with snacks, a place to plug in, and minimal distraction is typically ideal. After having spent a month in Hanoi, I wanted to take out some of the guesswork so others can easily find their next haunt.
Tiny Cafe
Off the main road, you'll stumble into an unassuming, tiny space. Don't be fooled. This place boasts three floors of straight-up vibes: indoor and outdoor space that is exquisitely decorated and made to feel like you're right at home. Since it's just a bit off the beaten path, there is usually plenty of seating. Their menu is extensive, covering coffee basics and specialties, including coconut coffee, as well as juices, smoothies, and a small snack menu. There is no air conditioning, but the space is equipped with plenty of fans. One thing to note is that this cafe does allow indoor smoking - but it's hardly noticeable, especially on the third floor with open-air ventilation.
Hidden Gem
This one is already on the list if you've done preliminary research into cafes. Besides the warm and cozy space, this café also makes a deep impression on tourists with unique recycled items inside. Despite being located in a small alley, the cafe is incredibly spacious with four floors to explore. The first floor is for parking at the kitchen that prepares delicious and healthy meals. The second floor is the inside area with some recycled handmade jean bags for sale. This cafe's third and fourth floors are like stepping into a hidden jungle full of natural light and trees. The cafe serves different types of drinks, from coffee to smoothies, juice, tea, cocktails, ice blended, and beers. You can also order organic spring rolls, salads, and more. The owner also runs Hanoi Backstreet Tours. Don't miss the city motorbike tour!
Hanoi Social Club
I got lost finding this one for the first time. A quiet oasis off a small alleyway in the center of Hanoi, The Social Club serves excellent coffee and tea, as well as hearty, vegetarian-friendly meals. The menu is in English and there are many Western dishes to enjoy. The relaxed vibe and terrace garden make it easy to comfortably spend an afternoon working here. The rustic decor on other floors keeps the space cozy and makes you feel like you've escaped the bustle of the city. They post about their regular events, like live jazz, on their Facebook page.
Xofa
Serving up some fancy drinks, Western lunches and dinners, and interesting desserts, it's easy to spend the entire day here. There are four unique spaces to explore: the patio, the first and second floors of the building, and the back balcony. The first floor is the only spot with air conditioning, but the other spaces have plenty of fans to keep cool. I cannot recommend the coconut coffee enough - it is incredible! They pride themselves on being like "a soft and gentle sofa", aiming to bring friends together and closer. Wifi connection is good and plugs are abundant - indoors and outdoors. Oh, and it's right next to Puku (see below).
Puku
Right next to Xofa and located in the middle of Hanoi's Food Street, Puku Café & Sports Bar provides a range of different cuisines: Italian, Mexican, European, and Vietnamese. Drinks varying from coffee to cocktails are served in a cozy ambiance with great vibes either inside or outside. Puku is probably Hanoi's best spot for 24/7 access. The spacious courtyard provided you with great 'people-watching' opportunities far removed from the traffic noise and fume. But, don't forget to explore upstairs, where there is plenty of seating, small rooms, and even space to hold meetings.
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