Top 4 Oldest Coffee Shops in Saigon – Timeless Heritage

The long-standing coffee shops in Saigon not only preserve traditional flavors but also hold cultural memories amid the city’s modern hustle. Amid skyscrapers and new chain cafes, there are still small corners where time seems to stand still, inviting you to reminisce with every bitter sip. This article takes you through the top 4 coffee shops that have been beloved by locals for over two decades—true “witnesses” to the history of Saigon coffee.

Exploring the Oldest Coffee Shops in Saigon

Why are these long-established coffee shops so appealing, and why shouldn’t you miss them?

In the fast-paced modern life, people increasingly crave original, authentic values. These historic coffee shops in Saigon are more than just places to drink—they carry an entire sky of memories and culture that nowhere else can replace.

Every corner in these vintage cafes bears the marks of history: worn tables and chairs, time-stained walls, and simple utensils that tell stories of old urban life. Traditional brewing techniques, especially cà phê vợt (sock-filter coffee) and cà phê phin (drip coffee), are faithfully preserved, delivering rich, bold flavors that no modern machine can replicate. These small but special details make these old coffee shops indispensable meeting spots in Saigon life.

Discover the Top 4 Coffee Shops Over 20 Years Old in Saigon

Here is the list of these “historical witnesses” to Saigon coffee culture—any fan of the city should visit at least once.

1. Cà Phê Vợt Chú Thanh – Over Half a Century Preserving Chợ Lớn Flavor

Nestled in the heart of Chợ Lớn, Chú Thanh’s sock-filter coffee shop has existed for over half a century, becoming an inseparable part of Saigon memories. Located on Tân Phước Street in District 11, this modest spot carries strong Chinese cultural influences and maintains rare traditional brewing methods. The simple space, with time-worn walls, creates a unique feeling, transporting visitors back to an old Saigon.

Cà phê vợt Chú Thanh

The highlight is Uncle Thanh’s method: brewing with a cloth sock filter and steeping in clay pots. This technique captures the original essence, resulting in deep, unforgettable richness. A hot black coffee here—no fancy names—awakens all senses with a familiar yet refreshing taste.

People come not just for the coffee but to feel the authenticity in every detail: Uncle Thanh’s careful movements and the murmur of longtime middle-aged and elderly customers. For anyone seeking old flavors and a bit of peace in the bustling city, this is a must-visit, especially in the morning when the nostalgic atmosphere is strongest.

Contact Information:

• Address: 480 Tân Phước, Ward 6, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Pros: Signature flavor, affordable prices
• Cons: Small space

2. Cheo Leo Cafe – The “Elder Brother” of Saigon Sock-Filter Coffee (Since 1938)

When mentioning long-standing coffee shops in Saigon, Cheo Leo is always a standout name. Founded in 1938, it has lasted over 87 years and is now run by the third generation of the family. Tucked deep in a small alley on Nguyễn Thiện Thuật Street, District 3, Cheo Leo exudes vintage charm and remains a familiar gathering spot for generations of Saigonese.

Historic coffee in Saigon – Cheo Leo Cafe

The most special feature is the heat-retaining technique using clay stoves, keeping coffee piping hot and full of flavor. Traditional cloth sock brewing is preserved, delivering bold, rustic tastes that few places can recreate.

Many love the hot milk coffee (bạc xỉu), where creamy milk blends with the coffee’s clean bitterness and subtle smoky notes for an unforgettable experience. Its simplicity and endurance have made Cheo Leo the “elder” of Saigon sock-filter coffee—a living heritage that every city lover should experience.

Contact Information:

• Address: 109/36 Nguyễn Thiện Thuật, Ward 2, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Phone: 0369 626 363
• Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/cheoleocafe/
• Pros: Unique flavor, affordable prices
• Cons: Narrow space

3. Cà Phê Vợt Phan Đình Phùng – 70 Years Without Sleep

Located in Phú Nhuận District, this nameless coffee shop (commonly called Cà Phê Vợt Phan Đình Phùng) has become a cultural icon for both young and old in Saigon. Operating for over half a century, it faithfully uses traditional cloth sock brewing for clear, intense flavors hard to find elsewhere.

Cà Phê Vợt Phan Đình Phùng – Over 70 Years in Saigon

Unlike the quiet of other vintage spots, this place buzzes with life day and night. The sight of glowing charcoal stoves, steaming clay pots, and lively chatter is its signature. Open 24/7, you’ll always find people stopping by, sitting on small plastic stools, sipping coffee while watching the street.

The humble, everyday space makes it approachable. A sock-filter coffee here is straightforward, affordable, yet deeply satisfying. Evenings and weekends get especially crowded, capturing Saigon’s vibrant energy. Its persistence and simplicity make it a beloved spot where people reconnect with the city’s sleepless memories.

Contact Information:

• Address: 330/2 Phan Đình Phùng, Ward 1, Phú Nhuận District, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: Open 24/7
• Pros: Rich coffee flavor, variety of drinks
• Cons: Narrow space, limited seating, mostly takeaway

4. Cà Phê Ba Lù – Rich Chợ Lớn Identity (Over 70 Years)

Amid the bustling Phùng Hưng Market, Cà Phê Ba Lù has a modest footprint but delivers distinctive flavor through the blend of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures. It’s a place to enjoy coffee while immersing in classic Chợ Lớn life.

Cà phê Ba Lù – Long-standing coffee shop in Chợ Lớn, Saigon

What sets Ba Lù apart is its on-site manual roasting: beans are roasted over firewood with butter, alcohol, and salt for a unique aroma unlike machine-brewed coffee. Every step—from rinsing the sock filter to measuring, steeping, and dripping—is meticulous, yielding smooth, rich coffee with a lingering sweet aftertaste.

Sitting here amid vendor calls and conversations in Cantonese and Vietnamese feels like stepping into a living slice of Chợ Lớn history. A cup of Ba Lù coffee is more than a drink—it’s a taste of authenticity and nostalgia. Mornings are busiest, ideal for feeling the lively old Saigon vibe.

Contact Information:

• Address: 193 Phùng Hưng, Ward 14, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening Hours: 2:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Pros: Delicious aroma, reasonable prices
• Cons: Small premises, closes early

Tips for Visiting Saigon’s “Old-School” Coffee Shops

To fully savor the flavors and atmosphere, visit in the morning when coffee is freshest and regulars fill the place. These spots get busy early, so arriving soon ensures better seating. Bring small change, as most still prefer cash.

Most importantly, take time to observe, chat with the owners or older customers to hear the stories behind each cup. These moments let you touch a living piece of Saigon’s history.

These historic coffee shops in Saigon preserve original tastes while safeguarding the city’s memories and culture. If you get the chance, visit and experience the true beauty of Saigon—one cup at a time!