By An Phương

HCM CITY The sidewalk coffee culture in HCM City has regained its popularity recently with the opening of multiple fascinating destinations in the downtown area.

Even though themed cafes have gradually gained more recognition and attracted numerous check-ins via Instagram or Facebook, it is still common for teenagers and young adults to gather outside popular landmarks or cafes to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in the bustling atmosphere of HCM City.

Since the hottest season is around the corner, cafe-goers enjoy sitting outdoors, especially at night, for cool and breezy fresh air. They all agreed that the new egg coffee spot in Ngô Văn Năm Street in District 1 is a must-visit.

Open-air cafes are perfect for people-watching and they offer a great respite from the heat of the day.VNS Photo An Phương

A new spot on Ngô Văn Năm Street in the downtown area has gained much popularity in recent days. VNS Photo An Phương

​​Thuỷ Vũ, 28, told Việt Nam News that she is particularly fond of the view, which is looking over Bạch Đằng Wharf and even Landmark 81.

“This egg coffee spot is among my most favourite places to visit during the weekend. Though I am not a fan of coffee, I purely love the sidewalk coffee culture where everyone can just comfortably sit on the sidewalk and communicate or comment on matters that he or she cares about,” Thuỷ said.​

Visitors only need to spend around VNĐ50,000 for a beverage of choice and enjoy as many hours as they would like at a sidewalk eatery and coffee shop. VNS Photo An Phương

To curb pavement encroachment, relevant authorities currently limit the number of seats outside this place so many cafe-goers have decided to visit the coffee shop early to secure seats.

Compared to new places that have gone viral in recent days, smaller eateries in Đông Du Street in District 1 which sell strawberry tea and tré trộn (mixed sausage salad) have still been very much embraced by the public.

Each cup of strawberry tea is VNĐ25,000 each and locals can choose to go for the sweet or sour version. It is a perfect combination when served with mixed salad. VNS Photo An Phương

​“They have been around for many years and are very popular among youngsters who need refreshing after school hours,” Quốc Nguyễn, 22, said.

Quốc added that the relaxing nature of the eateries, albeit sometimes being relatively disorganised, has easily made them one of the top places to hang out during the weekend.​

Short chairs that are easy to move around and can be used as a desk are signatures of sidewalk coffee culture in HCM City. VNS Photo An Phương

​The sidewalk coffee culture is simple yet engaging, and can be considered a “mental therapy” for many locals in HCM City. VNS