ARABICA || This Cool and Calm Caffeine Haven Makes for the Perfect Coffee Break in HCMC
There's no shortage of coffee shops in HCMC, Vietnam. Right in the heart of District 1 you'll find an entire apartment building filled with cafes.
You can take your pick or go cafe hopping, if you will. There are plenty of options, from ultra-girlie cafes decked out in pink to brunch spots where you can grab a latte and a bennie.
I opted for the calming, air-conditioned haven of Arabica because I visited during the height of the heat wave, and I could not survive sitting in a hotbox sipping on a hot latte.
Keep in mind that the Cafe Apartments is an older building. It’s common for hip and trendy cafes to be nestled within old buildings without elevators. Some do offer the option to take an elevator but for a cost.
Small square tiles, a white coffee bar against warm wood-planked floors complete the Arabica aesthetic.
Let's talk about the minimalist and chic design that is a signature of every Arabica cafe, with the neon sign on the wall, bright-white tiles, patterned upholstered seating featuring the brand's logo, and chic furnishings throughout. Wooden sliding doors open to the balcony if you want to get a tan under the hot, hot sun; for me, I would much rather observe the beautiful landscape from the safety of an indoor environment. Pricing-wise, this cafe is on the higher end, given it is a renowned brand, and there's also air conditioning and free wifi. There was only one other party there that day in the late morning, evidently also enjoying a break from the heat as one of the members dozed off in a corner.
A much needed morning dose of caffeine before walking 20,000 steps for the day.
The coffee? Lovely and aromatic, as one would expect of an Arabica brew. The croissant? Buttery and flakey. Carbs and caffeine proved to be the best start to my morning, providing me with the fuel needed to walk 20,000 steps to explore the city.
If you're also a fan of the merchandise, you can choose from lightweight tote bags to full-on backpacks, tumblers for on-the-go users, or mugs perfect for your work desk.
Add this cafe to your list for its tasty coffee, insta-worthy interiors, and reprieve from the monsoon weather in south Vietnam from May to September.
A minimalist pastry display at the cashier counter.
From totes to backpacks, you can stock up on Arabica merchandise at the cafe.
Visit
Arabica at The Cafe Apartments
42 Đ. Nguyễn Huệ, Street, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
Photography by Florence Leung