A small coffee shop in Ho Chi Minh City is experiencing a surge in popularity thanks to its patriotic décor, attracting large crowds daily and causing occasional traffic congestion. Ngâm Cà Phê, tucked away in a narrow alley on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street in District 3, features a prominent two-meter-long map of Vietnam and numerous Vietnamese flags, creating a highly Instagrammable environment.
A Nationalistic Hotspot
The cafe’s vibrant display of national pride, featuring a large, crimson map of Vietnam and numerous flags adorning both the interior and exterior walls, has become a significant draw for locals eager to capture patriotic photos, especially in the lead-up to national holidays. This has resulted in consistently high occupancy rates, with the cafe bustling with activity throughout the week.
“When I saw the map of Vietnam at the cafe on social media, I felt very proud and wanted to go take pictures and join in the lively atmosphere before the big holiday,” said Anh Đào, a 24-year-old resident of Go Vap District. Despite three attempts, Ms. Đào hasn’t yet managed to secure a seat inside the popular establishment. “On Friday, I went to the cafe to have a drink and take pictures, but the staff said they were fully booked, so I had to go home. The next day, I went again, but the atmosphere was the same – lots of young people dressed up to take pictures with the map of Vietnam. The third time, the staff said there was only one seat left. I was with a friend, so we couldn’t go in either,” she explained. Undeterred, she vows to return until she successfully captures her patriotic photograph.
Traffic Congestion and a Popular Study Spot
The cafe’s popularity has extended beyond its walls, impacting the surrounding area. The constant flow of customers and passersby stopping to take photos has occasionally caused traffic jams in the narrow alley, with frustrated motorists honking their horns.
“The atmosphere in front of the cafe is always lively,” reported a Dân trí newspaper reporter. “There are always many customers coming to have drinks, and even passersby waiting to take pictures with the vibrant wall of national flags.”
Despite the crowds, Ngâm Cà Phê also serves as a popular study spot for local university students. Nguyễn Thảo, a student at Ton Duc Thang University, frequently visits the cafe for studying and socializing. “I’ve been coming to Ngâm Cà Phê for a while,” she said. “They recently added the flags and map, and it looks really nice. I love their green tea drinks. My friends and I come here not only to take pictures but also to relax, study, and work.” Ms. Thảo also pointed out that she managed to secure her photos earlier, when the patriotic decorations were newly installed and the cafe had less fame. “The large red map of Vietnam is impressive,” she added, “and the flags everywhere make it feel very cozy and patriotic.”
Details and Accessibility
The cafe, located at 193/19 Vo Thi Sau Street in District 3, operates 24/7. Prices range from approximately 40,000 to 60,000 Vietnamese Dong per item (approximately $1.70 to $2.50 USD). While the numbers may vary, this serves as a general estimate of the cafe’s pricing.
Atmosphere and Design
Beyond the eye-catching map and flags, the cafe’s décor extends to the drinks themselves. Even the beverage cups are adorned with patriotic imagery of the Vietnamese flag. This consistent theme creates a fully immersive and celebratory atmosphere captivating those who visit the space. The overall design choice is intended to create a sense of national pride and unity. This is clearly communicated throughout the decoration of the interior.
Conclusion
The patriotic decorations at Ngâm Cà Phê have transformed a small coffee shop into a popular gathering spot, highlighting the powerful effect simple displays of national pride can have on public engagement while simultaneously impacting the surrounding community.
