The famous long-established fishing net coffee shop in Ho Chi Minh City.

When mentioning Ho Chi Minh City, people not only think of special landmarks like the Saigon River Wharf, the Independence Palace, skyscrapers, or the bustling streets throughout the year but also remember the distinctive flavor of coffee that has captured the hearts of countless visitors. Among them, fishing net coffee a drink deeply associated with the city always holds a special place in the hearts of both locals and tourists who love this land named after President Ho.

1. What is fishing net coffee? The origin of fishing net coffee

Although there are no specific records of its origin, fishing net coffee, also known as kho coffee or sock coffee, is believed to have appeared in the 1950s. According to various sources, the origin of fishing net coffee comes from the Chinese community living in Saigon.

At that time, while drip coffee was considered a drink for the upper and middle classes, fishing net coffee mainly served the working class. With its simple preparation method, affordable price, and unique flavor, this drink quickly gained popularity. Gradually, fishing net coffee became a distinct culinary feature of the culture of Ho Chi Minh City's people, from the past to the present.

The Famous Long-established Fishing Net Coffee Shops in Ho Chi Minh City

Fishing net coffee is a simple drink with a long-standing tradition and a distinctive flavor.

See more: Top 10 hottest places in Ho Chi Minh City

2. The Uniqueness of Fishing Net Coffee

True to its name, "fishing net coffee" is derived from the unique brewing tool used. Instead of using a drip filter or machine, fishing net coffee is brewed by pouring hot water over roasted and ground coffee placed in a fine cloth net. This process is repeated several times to extract the coffee essence, creating a rich and distinct flavor. After brewing, the coffee is kept in a clay pot to maintain its flavor and temperature.

In terms of flavor, fishing net coffee typically has a mild, smooth taste, not as bitter as drip coffee or machine coffee. The bitterness is complemented by a slight creaminess, with a sweet aftertaste that lingers in the throat, making it a favorite among food enthusiasts. At a fishing net coffee shop, the faint aroma of coffee blends with the unique scent of the cloth net, creating a distinctive and unforgettable atmosphere.

In addition, people are not only impressed by the unique flavor but also by the atmosphere and the barista's brewing technique. The swift movements of the barista as they lift and lower the net, carefully adjusting to prevent the coffee grounds from spilling out and mixing with the water, make coffee lovers marvel. Therefore, each cup of coffee is a harmonious combination of flavor, brewing skill, and the passion of the barista.

The process of brewing fishing net coffee requires meticulous attention and patience, from roasting and grinding the beans, adjusting the heat, pouring water, to the rhythmic motion of the coffee net.

Especially, fishing net coffee is often enjoyed at humble sidewalk cafes, not in fancy or modern establishments. Drinking fishing net coffee, people can sit for hours chatting and socializing over a hot cup of coffee while watching the world go by.

3. Fishing Net Coffee Shops in Ho Chi Minh City

These humble fishing net coffee shops may not be numerous or feature grand designs, but they have stood the test of time for over half a century and remain an essential part of Ho Chi Minh City's coffee culture. To truly experience authentic fishing net coffee, you can visit these places.

3.1 Chu Thanh's Fishing Net Coffee

Having withstood the passage of time, Chú Thanh's fishing net coffee still retains its traditional flavor, attracting customers with its uniqueness and simplicity. Located in District 11, Ho Chi Minh City, this coffee shop is marked by a rustic, simple space. Old wooden tables and chairs, plain porcelain cups, and warm yellow lighting create a nostalgic, peaceful atmosphere.

What draws customers here is the delicious and rich flavor of the fishing net coffee. The coffee is hand-roasted and filtered through a net, bringing a light bitterness, a touch of creaminess, and a lingering sweet aftertaste. Each cup of coffee is a harmonious blend of original coffee flavor, expert brewing techniques, and the passion of the owner.

Address: 478, 480 Tan Phuoc, Phuong 6, Quan 11, TP.HCM
Operating hours: 06:00 - 21:00

3.2 Phan Đình Phùng Fishing Net Coffee

Tucked in a bustling alley on Phan Đình Phùng street, this fishing net coffee shop is a must-visit for coffee lovers in Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you can enjoy a variety of drinks such as iced coffee, milk coffee, bạc xỉu, iced tea, and more.

However, this shop may not be ideal for those who want to take photos or work, as the space is quite small. Nevertheless, if you just want to sit and enjoy your coffee while chatting, it's perfect. While sitting at the shop, you can soak in the atmosphere of Saigon's streets, listening to stories from both inside and outside the cafe, from current events to showbiz gossip.

Address: 330 Phan Dinh Phung, Phuong 1, Quan Phu Nhuan, TP.HCM
Operating hours: 06:00 - 22:00

Sipping on a cup of fishing net coffee and savoring its rich flavor at these old-fashioned coffee shops evokes a sense of nostalgia for visitors.

3.3 Cheo Leo Cafe

With over 80 years of history, Cheo Leo is considered the oldest fishing net coffee shop in Saigon. The coffee brewing tradition here has been passed down through three generations. It’s no surprise that the method of brewing coffee in clay pots and the flavor have remained unchanged over time. This tradition means there’s no need for online sales or advertisements, as loyal customers have stuck with Cheo Leo Cafe for decades.

However, Cheo Leo Cafe also attracts many young people who appreciate its nostalgic coffee style, paired with an exceptional flavor that’s hard to find anywhere else. Visitors here get to slow down a little amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.

Address: 109/36 Nguyen Thien Thuat, Phuong 2, Quan 3, TP.HCM
Operating hours: 06:00 - 18:00

3.4 Cafe Ba Lu

Cafe Ba Lù is an essential destination for those who love fishing net coffee – a drink rich in cultural heritage. Having existed for nearly 70 years, this coffee shop is a testament to the lasting tradition of coffee flavor.

Located in a house built in the old Chinese architectural style, the shop is simple and rustic yet incredibly cozy. The tables, chairs, and brewing equipment have all aged with time. When visiting, you’re not only enjoying the delicious taste of the coffee but also transported back in time, sipping your coffee, chatting with friends, or simply watching the people pass by.

Address: 199B Phung Hung, Phuong 14, Quan 5, TP.HCM
Operating hours: 06:00 - 18:00

Fishing net coffee has become an inseparable part of the cultural life in Ho Chi Minh City due to its unique brewing method, distinctive flavor, and the special way it’s enjoyed. This drink has also become a key attraction for tourists, who come to experience and savor it.

See more: Ho Chi Minh City Travel: Attractions, Dining, and Airfare

If you want to experience this popular and historically rich drink, why not fly with Vietjet to Ho Chi Minh City today? Grab a 0 VND ticket between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM daily to take advantage of affordable travel opportunities and enjoy the city named after President Ho, along with delicious cups of fishing net coffee. For more details, click HERE.

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