Buzz
If you appreciate tranquility, these quiet cafes in Hanoi are sure to please. Here, you can immerse yourself in a serene space, sip on coffee, observe the streets, or indulge in insightful books, unaffected by the hustle and bustle of passersby, creating a peaceful and quiet day.
East-West Book Cafe – 3/41 Nguyễn Chí Thanh
Situated on the lively Nguyễn Chí Thanh street, East-West Book Cafe allows you to enjoy your coffee while indulging in a good read. An ideal spot for young individuals seeking a quiet, gentle space for reading, staying youthful, and remaining energetic.
Interior of East-West Book Cafe (photo collection)
Despite its small size, the book cafe is neatly and cleverly arranged, creating a unique space right in the middle of the bookstore. The interior, furniture, and tables are covered with light-colored wood, making the space feel small but not cramped. The cafe's door is replaced with transparent glass, filling the room with natural light, serving the reading needs of customers.
Neatly organized and easily accessible books (photo collection)
Books here, although placed close together with many titles, are organized scientifically and easily accessible. Primarily organized by specific themes and alphabetically, you can effortlessly find the books you're looking for.
If you're in need of a serene space amidst the chaos of life, Dong Tay Bookstore is a not-so-bad suggestion.
NoLa Café – 89 Mã Mây
Perhaps owing to its location separated by ancient houses in Hanoi, this cafe exudes a sense of tranquility. To reach Nola's coffee seating area, you have to pass through a narrow corridor and then climb a similarly narrow staircase.
Nola Cafe is a suitable spot for those who appreciate tranquility (photo collection)
Adorned with a beautiful European-style design, this place transforms into a cozy haven during winter, with its indoor space immersed in classic colors. The outdoor area, adorned with greenery, gives visitors the sensation of stepping into an oasis amidst Hanoi—serene and gentle. A favorite among international travelers, the menu unsurprisingly features Western-style food and drinks.
La Place Café – 6 Ấu Triệu
When listing quiet cafes in Hanoi, La Place Cafe on Ấu Triệu street is a must-mention. This place offers a breathtaking view that captures the entire St. Joseph's Cathedral.
With an architecture blending European and Asian cultures, combining the classic French lines with the simplicity and rustic charm of Hanoi. Despite being nestled on Ấu Triệu street, this place still receives plenty of natural light, providing comfort for travelers who enjoy the feeling of observing a tranquil and poetic Hanoi, both serene and enchanting.
La Place Cafe (photo collection)
The venue is adorned with simplicity—from the furniture, items, to the white walls highlighting the blue door frame and vintage red sofa. Additionally, there are propaganda paintings of Vietnam alongside French artworks on the walls, creating an exquisite blend that is truly captivating.
The space at La Place Cafe is simple yet remarkably vibrant (photo collection)
What makes La Place special is also the scenery outside the window; from the cafe's balcony, you can contemplate the solemn and majestic St. Joseph's Cathedral, surrounded by a row of dreamy purple lilies in summer. Amidst the peaceful scene, occasionally, you hear the church bell chime softly during a summer noon.
The special charm of La Place comes from the view beyond the window (photo collection)
La Place Cafe also serves some of Vietnam's renowned dishes like pho, cha ca, bun cha… with the intention of introducing Vietnamese cuisine to foreign tourists, albeit at a relatively high price. In return, the place is very tranquil, suitable for those seeking a place to rest, read a book, or gaze at Hanoi's old quarter..
Living amidst the bustling Hanoi with many hectic activities, quiet cafes like these are rare spaces for us to slow down, relax, and contemplate the different facet of Hanoi, a city that carries a strangely serene and simple charm.
