Cafe Giảng — Restaurant in Hà Nội

Cafe Giang: An Iconic Hanoi Experience, Even for Non-Coffee Lovers! You know you've found a true Hanoi institution when you have to navigate a tiny alleyway to discover it. Cafe Giang is just that – a legendary spot that feels less like a cafe and more like a hidden, bustling piece of living history. And while the coffee I tried wasn't quite to my personal taste (I'm a bit particular!), the overall experience was so uniquely charming and atmospheric that I couldn't help but fall in love with the place. Stepping into Cafe Giang is like being transported back in time. The multi-story building hums with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike perched on low stools, chatting amidst the clinking of glasses and the rich aroma of coffee. It's cozy, a little chaotic, and utterly authentic. The walls are adorned with vintage photos and memorabilia, telling the story of the cafe's origins and its famous egg coffee (cà phê trứng) – the very drink I had to try, despite my usual coffee preferences. Even though the sweet, custardy richness of the egg coffee wasn't my personal favorite flavor profile, the sheer novelty and cultural significance of sipping this iconic drink in its birthplace was fantastic. It's a culinary adventure, a piece of Hanoi's soul in a cup. You're not just having a beverage; you're participating in a ritual that dates back decades. The service is swift and efficient, typical of busy Hanoi establishments, but delivered with a genuine smile that makes you feel welcome. The ambiance is the real draw – the low hum of conversation, the clatter of porcelain, and the sheer buzz of a place where people genuinely connect over a shared tradition. It’s a sensory feast, a vibrant snapshot of Vietnamese life. My takeaway? Don't go to Cafe Giang just for the coffee if you're a purist. Go for the experience. Go for the history. Go for the chance to sit elbow-to-elbow with strangers, soaking in the atmosphere of a truly iconic Hanoi landmark. It's a must-visit, an essential part of any trip to the city, and a place that proves even if a drink isn't your cup of tea (or coffee!), the memory can still be...

Cafe Giang (officially Café Giảng, founded in 1946) is a timeless gem nestled in a narrow alley off Nguyen Huu Huan Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This historic café is internationally revered as the birthplace of Vietnamese egg coffee, a novelty born when milk was scarce and creativity plentiful .

Entering Cafe Giang feels like stepping back into post‑war Hanoi. Inside, faded yellow walls are adorned with vintage photos and memorabilia, while clusters of low wooden stools and tiny tables seat patrons close to the ground—a truly authentic Vietnamese setup . Fans creak overhead, stools are snugly arranged, and the aroma of strong coffee mingles with energetic chatter—there’s nothing polished about it, but that’s its charm .

The star: cà phê trứng (egg coffee). Served in a small cup placed inside a hot-water bowl, the care taken to maintain its temperature reflects decades of tradition . The frothy egg yolk topping—whisked with condensed milk, sugar (and often butter/cheese)—lies on top of a robust Vietnamese coffee base. The result? A rich, dessert‑like sip—sweet custard meets strong coffee, balanced beautifully .

Many visitors liken its taste to tiramisu: indulgent yet addictive. One travel writer noted they planned their return even before finishing their first cup, calling it “so sweet, but so tasty” . Others on Reddit echoed similar sentiments: “A good egg coffee should feel like a Tiramisu in a coffee cup” —though a few confessed that the hot version impresses more than the iced, which can feel overly acidic or diluted  .

The service is efficient: despite tightly packed seating and continuous influx of locals and tourists, drinks arrive quickly and staff are friendly and practiced . Prices are modest—typically between 25,000–40,000 VND for the signature egg coffee (~1–2 USD) .

In short, Cafe Giang isn’t glamorous—but it’s authentic. It’s the soul‑warming birthplace of Hanoi’s most iconic drink, served with heritage and heart. A must‑visit whether you’re a coffee lover or...

Giang Coffee, located in the historic Old Quarter of Hanoi, Vietnam, is a highly acclaimed café renowned for its signature egg coffee. Nestled at No. 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street in Hoan Kiem District, this establishment has garnered a stellar reputation for its aromatic and delectable egg-infused beverages, priced between 35,000 and 50,000 VND. Boasting a remarkable history of over 70 years, Giang Coffee has proudly catered to numerous generations of discerning Hanoi residents and visitors, surpassing all expectations.

Distinguished by its ingenious use of frothy egg custard in lieu of traditional milk, Giang Coffee has crafted a truly exceptional cup of coffee that rivals even the finest cappuccinos enjoyed in the Western world. Having learned of this exceptional establishment through a trusted acquaintance, my curiosity and desire to savor the unique egg coffee experience at Giang Coffee were thoroughly piqued during my visits to Hanoi. However, it took me several attempts, due to the café's consistent popularity and limited seating, to finally secure an opportunity to partake in this gastronomic delight.

What sets Giang Coffee apart is its ability to create an indulgent whipped egg layer that imparts a harmonious and enticing aroma, devoid of any lingering egg aftertaste. The café exudes an air of nostalgia, evoking a bygone era; however, it can be slightly stifling and claustrophobic despite the provision of air conditioning and fans. The affordability of the menu items is noteworthy, considering the establishment's longstanding prominence and legacy. Giang Coffee serves as an exemplary embodiment of Hanoi's distinctive cultural heritage.

While this establishment is certainly worth experiencing at least once or twice to savor the unique flavors of egg coffee, it may not necessarily lend itself to prolonged patronage. Overall, I would confidently bestow a rating of 4 out of 5 stars upon Giang Coffee for its exceptional offerings and dedication to preserving the traditions of this renowned...