Cafe Phố Cổ is a multilevel coffee shop at 11 P. Hàng Gai in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, reached through a silk shop and a narrow passage. Its upper terrace looks over Hoàn Kiếm Lake, while the lower floors have a quieter, old-house feel with plants and paintings. Order egg coffee, a strong, silky drink, or choose coconut or salted coffee; there are also juices and noodle dishes. The lake-facing seats are upstairs, so expect a steep climb if you want the view.
Finding the entrance
Cafe Phố Cổ is easy to walk past because it sits behind a shopfront on P. Hàng Gai. Look for the silk shop called Silklike at number 11 and go inside; a narrow passage leads from the shop to the cafe. The route opens into a courtyard before you reach the seating areas.
The tucked-away entrance is part of the visit, but it can make arriving less straightforward than finding a cafe directly on the street. Once inside, you can order before choosing where to sit. The cafe occupies several floors, with different seating areas as you climb.
Choosing a floor
The lower level has a home-like feel, while higher floors provide more seating options and the upper terrace is the place to look for a view over Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Plants and paintings add to the old-house atmosphere. The setting feels removed from the busy street outside, particularly on the upper levels.
Access to those floors involves narrow, steep stairs. If climbing is difficult, stay on the ground floor, where seating is available. The lake-facing seats can fill up, so arriving at a quieter time may give you a better chance of finding one. Some upper seating is air-conditioned, while the terrace is outdoors.
Coffee and food
Egg coffee is a familiar choice here. It is served hot and has a strong coffee taste under a smooth, silky egg topping. Coconut coffee and salted coffee are other options; the salted coffee comes in a small cup. For something fruity, pineapple and june plum juice has a refreshing, slightly salty character.
The menu also includes warm noodle dishes such as bún chả and bún nem, alongside fruit salad with yogurt, croissants and snacks. A noodle dish with fresh vegetables, peanuts and a light broth is one option for lunch. The range gives you room to stop for a coffee alone or sit down for food as well.
Perguntas frequentes
How do you find Cafe Phố Cổ?
Go into the Silklike silk shop at 11 P. Hàng Gai and follow the narrow passage to the cafe courtyard.
Can you see Hoàn Kiếm Lake from the cafe?
The upper terrace has a view over the lake. The cafe has several floors, and the terrace is reached by narrow, steep stairs.
What should you order at Cafe Phố Cổ?
Egg coffee is a popular choice. You can also order coconut or salted coffee, fruit juice, or noodle dishes such as bún chả and bún nem.
