Hà Nội's winding alleys are home to many recycling and sustainable coffee houses where guests may take a break from the city's bustle.
Bottle decorations, car tyre chairs and light bulbs made from discarded containers are just a few examples of how recycled coffee shops collect seemingly useless objects to create a one-of-a-kind space that is reminiscent of childhood but very creative.
Hidden Gem Coffee
Almost everything at Hidden Gem Coffee, which is tucked away in a little alley off Hàng Tre Street, is second-hand. Although there isn't a ton of space, the interior design and decorations on each level really stand out.
Unique space of Hidden Gem Coffee. Photo courtesy of the cafes
To explain his inspiration for the design, Nguyễn Văn Thơ, owner of the café said: "My hometown was being industrialised, creating a lot of pollution. Waste and toxic substances were flushed down waterways. That's why I came up with the concept of a recycled coffee shop as a way to contribute to environmental protection."
Thơ has come a long way to realise his vision. "My two friends and I wandered across Bắc Ninh, Hoà Bình and Phú Thọ provinces, stopping by every single junk store and even some landfills to search for unwanted goods. We hoped to repurpose them for the café in some way."
More than 90 per cent of the furniture and decorative items at Hidden Gem Coffee are recycled from wood, rubber, glass and plastic waste and disused items. The café has an eye-catching ceiling made from discarded plastic bottles.
At Hidden Gem Coffee, bamboo and stainless-steel straws are used instead of plastic, throwaway ones. Other utensils used at the shop are all made from environmentally friendly or recyclable materials.
“I want to do something to protect the environment," Thơ said, hoping his café will help spread the environmental protection message throughout the community.
Hanoi Bus Cafe
The Hanoi Bus Cafe is entirely housed in an abandoned bus, with passenger seats replaced by tables, chairs, and decorations made from recycled materials. These items are unusual, break the old cliche, and stand out from other coffee shops.
In the cool weather of Hà Nội, nothing beats relaxing with a hot drink in this café's unusual setting.
The Hanoi Bus Cafe is on an abandoned bus with repurposed tables, chairs, and decorations.
There are small pots of gorgeous plants on the table, recycled paint containers serving as seats and a tyre swing hanging from the ceiling, all of which add to the unique atmosphere.
The beverage options at Hanoi Bus Cafe are varied and reasonably priced, making it a great choice for people looking for an exclusive and eco-friendly hangout.
Cafe Nhà 41
Cafe Nhà 41, tucked away on a quiet alley of Hà Nội's Thái Hà Street, is well-known for its laid-back, low-key vibe that's kind to the environment.
Cafe Nhà 41's various nooks and crannies contain tables made from old tires.
When customers enter the café, they will see a single-story house painted in sunny yellow that harmonises beautifully with the greenery outside.
An ancient set of chairs fashioned from bus seats, repurposed bicycle wheels or guitars can be found in any one of this café's many nooks and crannies.
Many visitors exclaim: "What a strange place," yet the café's offbeat vibe is what it gives its special character."
If you're ever in the area, stop by Cafe Nhà 41 for a cup of tea, to relax in the botanical garden, and have a great time at this unique, eco-friendly coffee shop. VNS
OVietnam