Lê Phin — Restaurant in New York

Lê Phin is a rare and refreshing take on what a modern Vietnamese café can be. Nestled in the East Village, it brings a thoughtful and deeply authentic approach to Vietnamese coffee culture. At the heart of the experience is the traditional Phin brewing method—slow, deliberate, and full of character. The owner’s dedication to preserving and elevating this technique is evident in every cup served. It’s not just coffee here; it’s a ritual, a quiet moment of pause in the midst of New York’s chaos.

What truly sets Lê Phin apart is its flavor-forward, Vietnamese-inspired latte menu. The pandan latte is a house favorite—rich, creamy, and subtly floral. The Sau-mericano, made from fermented dracontomelon (or quả sấu), adds a tangy, refreshing twist you won't find anywhere else. Then there’s the lotus seed latte, delicate and nutty, like a warm hug in a cup. Each drink is a beautiful fusion of tradition and innovation, paying homage to Vietnamese roots while speaking to the modern palate.

The café itself is a haven—quaint, sun-drenched, and filled with peaceful energy. It feels like a quiet corner in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where time slows and conversations flow. The wooden details, soft music, and warm lighting create an atmosphere that invites you to stay, to read, to reflect. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick caffeine fix or spending a lazy afternoon with a book, the space accommodates both.

The baristas are friendly and knowledgeable, always eager to share the stories behind the drinks. There’s a clear sense of pride in what they do, and it shows in the consistency and care of each pour. Beyond the drinks, the honeycomb cake is a must—chewy, golden, and perfectly sweet. It’s the kind of café that turns first-timers into regulars. Lê Phin isn’t trying to mimic trends—it’s creating its own lane, rooted in culture, flavor, and heart. For anyone looking to experience Vietnamese coffee done right, this is the...

Le Phin is a small neighbor gem of a coffee shop with its own special cozy charm in the East Village. the space is small but well utilized with several seating options from the window nook to a few tables to a inside bench and an outside one. the interior is very neat and clean filled with warm light woods in a friendly-to-the-eye modern decor. nice place to catch up with friends or do some work if there are seats.

ordered a cup of Ca Phe Sua Nong, which is a traditional Northern Vietnamese hot milk coffee, via the traditional Phin filter method. if you order any drink made via the Phin, be prepared for a little wait bc the coffee takes a little time to filter through the Phin into the condensed milk. this is a small (4-5 oz), sweet yet strong coffee drink. the coffee is a tasty balance of slightly bitter / sweet. the phin filtering is paperless so the coffee oils drop into your drink and add this layer of smell, taste, and texture to the Ca Phe Sua Nong. now, i understand why it is enjoyed throughout Vietnam hot or iced. though the serving is small…it definitely had me savoring and appreciating each sip as i walked around. Ca Phe Sua Nong, $4.25 + tax + tip

the staff is kind and answered all the qs i had about the menu of drinks. watching my drink being made as i waited showed the care that Le Phin puts...

It was one of those aimless afternoons in the East Village when I stumbled upon Lê Phin, tucked quietly along E 10th Street. The kind of spot you might pass without noticing—until the warm, amber glow inside catches your eye and slows your step.

The space is intimate, beautifully composed, and deliberate in its aesthetic. A harmony of soft wood, textured walls, and clean lines that makes you want to linger. There’s a quiet coziness here that feels equally suited for a solitary hour with a book or a quiet exchange with a friend.

I ordered an iced latte and a chai danish. The latte was straightforward and well-balanced, the kind of drink that doesn’t try to impress yet lands exactly where it should. The chai danish, on the other hand, was a small indulgence—flaky, aromatic, and spiced just enough to feel both familiar and slightly exotic.

Service matched the tone of the place—calm, attentive, and without rush. Stella and Danielle were behind the counter that day, each bringing a gentle warmth to the exchange. It’s a small detail, but in a city where transactions often blur, their quiet attentiveness stood out.

Lê Phin may not demand your attention, but it rewards it. A little haven for a quick coffee, a few emails, or simply watching the world turn slowly...