Discover the meaning of “Cộng” in Cộng Cà Phê and its unique retro-military concept in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward! Explore drinks, costs, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group. Book now!
Photograph the communal allure of Hanoi’s street sceneCộng Cà Phê, a Hanoi-born coffee chain, is a cultural phenomenon that blends Vietnam’s wartime nostalgia with vibrant coffee culture, captivating visitors in Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter. Pronounced “kong kah fay,” the word “Cộng” derives from “Cộng Hòa Xã Hội Chủ Nghĩa Việt Nam” (Socialist Republic of Vietnam), meaning “communal” or “public,” evoking the collective spirit of Vietnam’s post-war era. Founded in 2007 by Nguyễn Linh Dung, Cộng’s retro-military concept transports patrons to the 1960s–70s with olive-green decor, vintage propaganda posters, and war-era memorabilia like enamel cups and repurposed woks as lampshades. Signature drinks like coconut coffee and cà phê sữa đá, priced at $0.80–$2.50 (20,000–62,500 VND), are served in locations like 27 Nhà Thờ, offering a bold, sweet taste alongside an immersive ambiance.
The “Cộng” name playfully nods to the Viet Cong (Vietnam War guerrillas) and “Cộng Sản” (communism), reflecting a cheeky yet reverent take on Vietnam’s history, initially sparking controversy with Lenin-inspired menus that were later toned down. Cộng’s concept celebrates communal living and resilience, resonating with young Hanoians and tourists through its Instagram-worthy aesthetic and innovative beverages. In Hoan Kiem Ward, Cộng uses sustainably sourced robusta beans and reusable straws, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike traditional sidewalk stalls or egg coffee-focused cafés, Cộng’s nostalgic narrative and diverse menu make it a must-visit in Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly coffee tours guide travelers to Cộng’s unique experience, ensuring a sustainable, immersive adventure. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Cộng Cà Phê locations using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly coffee and food tours in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who explore Cộng Cà Phê’s “Cộng” meaning, retro concept, and sustainable practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local businesses, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and savor Cộng Cà Phê responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews
Capture the nostalgic charm of Hanoi’s retro coffee gem (Source: Source: Internet)Cộng Cà Phê’s unique retro-military concept sets it apart as Hanoi’s most distinctive cafe chain:
Wartime Nostalgia: Inspired by the 1960s–70s subsidy era, Cộng’s decor—military-green walls, propaganda posters, and vintage items like Russian-language books—evokes Vietnam’s post-war communal life, as noted by founder Linh Dung’s vision to share her childhood memories.
Cheeky Branding: The name “Cộng” playfully references the Viet Cong and communism, initially using Lenin’s works as menus, blending humor with historical reverence, though toned down after brief closure.
Innovative Drinks: Cộng pioneered coconut coffee, blending robusta with coconut milk and condensed milk, creating a creamy, tropical sensation that’s a national hit.
Communal Vibe: Designed for lingering, Cộng fosters social connections with cozy wooden alcoves, bookshelves, and board games like Vietnamese Monopoly, reflecting the communal ethos of “Cộng.”
Eco-Conscious Practices: Hoan Kiem Ward branches use local robusta from Đắk Lắk, reusable straws, and biodegradable cups, supporting sustainable tourism.
This concept, blending history, humor, and innovation, makes Cộng a cultural landmark, offering a time-capsule experience in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
Cộng’s menu celebrates Vietnam’s coffee heritage with creative twists, priced at $0.80–$2.50 (20,000–62,500 VND). Below are must-try drinks, verified by recent reviews:
Cộng’s iconic creation, blending phin-brewed robusta, coconut milk, condensed milk, and ice, served in a retro tin cup, offering a creamy, tropical flavor.
Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND).
Best Time: Afternoon (2:00–4:00 PM) for a refreshing sip.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable straws; local coconut milk.
A classic, brewed via phin, mixed with condensed milk, and poured over ice, delivering a bold, sweet, creamy taste.
Cost: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
Best Time: Morning (8:00–11:00 AM) for a caffeine kick.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal packaging; reusable cups encouraged.
A milk-heavy coffee with less espresso, served iced, ideal for a sweeter, milder taste, popular among locals.
Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND).
Best Time: Midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) for a light drink.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local condensed milk; eco-friendly straws.
A tangy mix of black coffee, condensed milk, and yogurt, served iced, offering a refreshing, unique flavor.
Cost: $1–$1.80 (25,000–45,000 VND).
Best Time: Afternoon (3:00–5:00 PM) for a cool treat.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local yogurt; biodegradable cups.
Seasonal blends like mango or watermelon, perfect for non-coffee drinkers, made with local fruits.
Cost: $1.20–$2.50 (30,000–62,500 VND).
Best Time: Evening (6:00–9:00 PM) for a refreshing end.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local market sourcing; minimal waste.
Note: Cộng does not focus on egg coffee, unlike Café Giang, but excels in coconut coffee. Smoking may occur in some areas; request balconies for fresh air.
Dive into the communal vibe of Hanoi Travel (Source: Source: Internet)To experience Cộng Cà Phê authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:
Choose Balcony Seats: Opt for upper floors at 27 Nhà Thờ for St. Joseph’s Cathedral views or 116 Cầu Gỗ for Old Quarter vibrancy, ideal for photos.
Savor Slowly: Take 10–20 minutes to sip, stirring coconut coffee to blend flavors, embracing Hanoi’s leisurely pace.
Engage with Decor: Explore propaganda posters, vintage books, and board games for a cultural immersion, reflecting Cộng’s communal ethos.
Sides: Pair drinks with croissants ($0.80–$1.20 or 20,000–30,000 VND) or pastries for a snack, available at some branches.Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring a reusable cup or straw for potential discounts, supporting Cộng’s use of local beans and eco-packaging.
Enhance your Cộng Cà Phê experience with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:
Join a 2–3-hour walking or cyclo tour, sipping coconut coffee at Cộng Cà Phê (27 Nhà Thờ) at 9:00 AM, exploring its retro concept.
Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports local cafés.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (200 m from 27 Nhà Thờ) at 10:00 AM or 5:00 PM, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity to see Ngoc Son Temple.
Cost: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Explore Dong Xuan Market (1 km from 116 Cầu Gỗ) for coffee beans or crafts at 11:00 AM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Learn phin brewing in a 2-hour eco-friendly class at 2:00 PM, using local robusta to make cà phê sữa đá.
Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable sourcing; minimal waste.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).
Walk to the Weekend Night Market (500 m from 27 Nhà Thờ) at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for souvenirs and street food.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; walkable.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).
Photograph the wartime allure of Hanoi’s coffee scene (Source: Source: Internet)Cộng Cà Phê locations in Hoan Kiem Ward, like 27 Nhà Thờ, are accessible in 5–10 minutes from central Hanoi:
By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 2–5 minutes. Every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.
By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Hoan Kiem Lake (5 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
By Bicycle or Walking: Bicycle rental ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND); walk 5–10 minutes.
By Taxi or Grab: To 27 Nhà Thờ, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND). Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people).
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “27 Nhà Thờ, Hoan Kiem Ward”).
Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit:
Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits; comfortable shoes for Old Quarter walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, cup, straw to minimize waste.
Extras: Notebook for café notes; cash for quick payments. Tip: Carry small VND notes; request non-smoking areas or balconies at Cộng.
Learn Hanoi’s coffee heritage with expert insights (Source: Source: Internet)Food and Drink Fees
Drinks (coconut coffee, cà phê sữa đá, smoothies): $0.80–$2.50 (20,000–62,500 VND).
Sides (croissants, pastries): $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND).
Guided Coffee Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Market Purchases (souvenirs): $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).
Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Walking: Free.
Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)
Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Cộng drinks, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, coffee tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Book early for Tet or dry season; carry VND for small purchases.
Timing: Dry season for balcony seating; rainy season for cozy indoor spots. Morning (8:00–11:00 AM) for quieter vibes; evening (6:00–9:00 PM) for lively crowds.
Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.
Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); bring reusable cups. Buy local souvenirs ($0.50–$3 or 12,500–75,000 VND) at Dong Xuan Market.
Navigation: Use offline maps with addresses like “27 Nhà Thờ, Hoan Kiem Ward.”
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Old Quarter; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.
Weather: Dry season for open-air seating; rainy season needs waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; tip baristas $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND). Request non-smoking areas if needed.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); limit caffeine and sugar intake. Apply mosquito repellent.
Our sustainable tours showcase Hoan Kiem Ward’s coffee culture at Cộng Cà Phê:
Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60/person, 1 day): Cyclo tour to Cộng Cà Phê (27 Nhà Thờ) at 9:00 AM, tasting coconut coffee, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market. Includes guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120/person, 2 days): Cộng Cà Phê at 116 Cầu Gỗ, Night Market, coffee workshop, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($200–$350/person, 3 days): Cộng Cà Phê, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links! TripAdvisor Reviews
Cộng Cà Phê, with its name meaning “communal,” is Hanoi’s retro coffee icon, offering a nostalgic dive into Vietnam’s wartime era at Hoan Kiem Ward spots like 27 Nhà Thờ, where coconut coffee costs $1–$1.50. Its military-chic decor, local robusta beans, and reusable straws blend history with sustainability, reflecting Hanoi’s communal spirit. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to Cộng’s unique “Cộng” concept, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel journey filled with flavor and nostalgia. Whether sipping on a balcony or exploring the Old Quarter, Cộng Cà Phê promises an unforgettable Hanoi adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your journey today!
Ready to explore the “Cộng” legacy at Cộng Cà Phê? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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