On April 8 the American culinary magazine ranked Hanoi second on its list of the world's 10 best coffee cities.
The magazine surveyed more than 400 chefs, travel experts, food and travel writers, and wine professionals. The results were then reviewed by a so-called global advisory board, which ranked the leading contenders in each category.
Experts surveyed also recommended seven cafés visitors should try in Hanoi.
Refined
Owned by Tu Vu, this cafe represents Hanoi's new wave of coffee, using robusta beans and focusing on sourcing and selection.
The menu features black coffee and condensed milk coffee brewed with a typical Vietnamese filter, but also fruit-infused variations. Guests can also buy a coffee filter designed by the owner.
Locations:
- Floor 2, 17 Nha Tho Street
- 43 Van Mieu Street
- N2, Alley 54 Lang Ha
Photo courtesy of Refined
C.O.C Legacy Specialty Coffee
Tucked away down an alley, C.O.C Legacy Specialty Coffee draws visitors seeking a quiet space removed from the capital's bustle.
The place focuses on Vietnamese beans and brewing techniques. The menu highlights roasted coffees, ideal for a pour-over.
Location: 84 Hang Bac Street
Photo courtesy of Kimberly
Giang
Known as the birthplace of Vietnamese egg coffee, this shop dates back to 1946, when milk shortages led to the creation of a substitute made from whipped egg yolks, sugar and condensed milk.
Visitors are encouraged to try the signature drink, with its custard-like foam layered over coffee. Served like a dessert in a cup, it remains a must-try for first-time visitors to Hanoi.
Locations:
- 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street
- 57 Trang Tien Street
- In the Foodhall on the 3rd Floor, Lotte Mall West Lake
Photo courtesy of Indochina Voyages
Blackbird Coffee
This spot is ideal for those interested in Vietnamese specialty coffees. It focuses on brewing methods and offers cupping sessions for guests keen to explore the craft. On a hot day in Hanoi, a cold brew here makes for a refreshing choice.
Locations:
- 5 Chan Cam Street
- 63B Lan Ong Street
- 11A Dang Dung Street
Photo courtesy of Blackbird
Loading T Café
Hidden inside a French colonial-era villa in the Old Quarter, this shop offers a wide selection of drinks. Egg coffee and yogurt coffee are among its highlights. Popular with tourists, customers might have to wait for a table.
Location: 8 Chan Cam Street
Photo courtesy of Tripadvisor
Aramour
With mid-20th-century-inspired interiors, this cafe pairs its aesthetic with brewing techniques. Guests can expect lighter roasts and a menu focused on sustainably sourced beans. It's also a fun place to visit during holidays, when seasonal drinks like ginger lattes are available.
Location: 9 Hang Bun Alley
Photo courtesy of Aramour
La Viet Coffee
This roastery has gained popularity in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with multiple locations. Unlike the capital city's preference for robusta, La Viet focuses on Arabica beans from the Central Highlands, offering fruit-forward flavor profiles.
Locations:
- 32 Van Bao Street
- No. 103, Building B, Alley 6 Le Thanh Tong
- Room 116D, Dormitory 25 Lang Ha, Alley 57 Lang Ha
- 7 Vong Duc Street
- 3rd Floor, The Food Hall, Lotte Mall Vo Chi Cong
Photo courtesy of La Viet
