New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

By Tung Dinh   August 22, 2025 | 09:59 pm PT
A new café by the West Lake is drawing crowds with its laid-back vibes, offering an escape just minutes away from Hanoi’s crowded streets.
New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

Located at 152 Yen Hoa Street, May Kitchenware and coffee shop has become a popular spot among young people since opening in June. The two-story café sits right on West Lake and draws inspiration from Mediterranean design. Its open layout are redolent of an urban resort.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

The exterior is minimalist, with whitewashed walls, a wooden door and green trees that offer both shade and visual contrast on sunny days.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

The interior is a blend of wood and bamboo furniture, paired with a palette of whites, beiges and light browns. Gravel paths weave through stone slabs, plants and grass, creating a garden-like atmosphere.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

One corner has ceramic pots and jars, turning it into a photo spot that is popular with visitors. Rattan chairs and wooden shelves add to the rustic charm.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

The ceiling is lined with bamboo panels, allowing natural light to filter through, while rope pendant lights add an artsy touch. The gravel floor is another nod to nature.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

There is both indoor and outdoor seating. The atmosphere is generally quiet, though the limited air-conditioned areas mean it can get quite warm during midday.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

Smart layout and décor choices keep the space open. Every detail has been designed with evident care, catering to visitors who enjoy capturing moments for social media.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

The indoor space is intimate, with textured walls, wooden beams and red-tiled floors.

The tables and chairs are made from wood, stone and bamboo. Decorations like ceramic plates and pottery are arranged on shelves and tables, adding a touch of nostalgia.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

Hoang Nhat Vi, 21, says she looks for cafés with open spaces and good drinks.

"This place has different photo spots and everything looks great on camera. But the heat makes it hard to stay outside too long."

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

The café is spacious enough for groups of friends and family meetups. It is advisable to arrive there early, especially on weekends when it tends to get crowded.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

Hoang Giang, 23, said her first visit to the café matched what she had imagined from the photos she saw on Facebook.

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

Thanh Huyen said: "It was a hot day, but the lighting caused the photos to turn out great. The café is trending on social media right now, and so you even have to wait in line for some of the photo spots."

New, relaxed Hanoi café a hit with young crowds

The menu features a variety of drinks, from kombucha and fruit teas to espresso-based coffee, and some light bites. While beautifully presented, the flavors are nothing to write home about. Prices range from VND30,000 to VND65,000 (US$1 to $2.50).

 
 
go to top