The sidewalk coffee culture of Vietnamese youth: a blend of urban life and tradition
Sidewalk coffee, or "cà phê bệt," has become a distinctive cultural phenomenon among Vietnamese youth, especially in bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The image of young people sitting together on plastic stools or directly on the ground, enjoying coffee in parks or public squares, is now an iconic part of modern urban life. This article will delve deeper into the sidewalk coffee culture, why it has gained such popularity, and its role in connecting young people with the rhythm of the city.
1. What is Cà Phê Bệt?
Cà phê bệt is a casual and outdoor way of enjoying coffee without the need for fancy chairs or a traditional café setting. Instead, groups of friends typically buy coffee from nearby shops or street vendors, then gather in open spaces like parks, sidewalks, or public areas to sit together. The unique aspect is that instead of sitting on chairs, people sit directly on the ground—hence the term "bệt," meaning "sitting down" or "squatting" in Vietnamese. This allows them to chat, enjoy their drinks, and take in the fresh air.
This simple form of relaxation not only offers a break from the city's hectic pace but also reflects the collective culture of Vietnamese people, especially in urban settings where space is limited, and life moves quickly.
2. Origins of Cà Phê Bệt
The sidewalk coffee culture emerged as a creative response from urban dwellers facing space and cost limitations. In large cities like Ho Chi Minh City, where life is fast-paced and stressful, finding a peaceful place to unwind isn’t always easy. High-end cafés are often expensive, and not everyone can afford to frequent them regularly.
Thus, cà phê bệt became a budget-friendly solution. Young people could easily grab a cheap coffee from small shops or street vendors and then sit outdoors, saving both money and space. This accessibility has played a significant role in the rapid spread of this cultural trend.
3. Why is Cà Phê Bệt So Popular Among Youth?
Sidewalk coffee offers a unique and refreshing experience for young people, making it highly appealing and widespread. Here are some key reasons for its popularity:
a. Freedom and Flexibility
One of the standout features of cà phê bệt is its freedom and flexibility. Without a fixed location or strict rules, people are free to choose where, when, and how they want to sit. Relaxing in an open space, sitting directly on the ground, gives a sense of natural comfort and freedom, allowing people to unwind without the societal constraints found in more formal settings.
b. Fostering Friendships
Cà phê bệt isn’t just about drinking coffee—it’s a social experience. It’s a space where friends gather, chat, and bond over shared stories, from school and work to personal life. This intimate and close-knit atmosphere has made sidewalk coffee a popular destination for meetups and socializing among young people.
c. Affordable Cost
In an age of rising living expenses, sidewalk coffee is a cost-effective choice for those looking to save. Instead of spending a significant amount of money in a high-end café, people can buy a cheap cup of coffee from a roadside vendor and enjoy the outdoor space for free. This has made cà phê bệt particularly attractive to students and young adults on a budget.
d. Enjoying Green Spaces in the City
Sidewalk coffee spots are usually located near parks, squares, or public spaces filled with trees, offering a refreshing and tranquil environment amidst the busy city. For many young people, it’s a chance to relax and enjoy nature without leaving the city or spending on more expensive outdoor retreats.
4. Popular Sidewalk Coffee Spots
a. 30/4 Park, Ho Chi Minh City
Located in the heart of District 1, 30/4 Park is one of the most famous and beloved sidewalk coffee spots in Ho Chi Minh City. With its spacious layout, abundant greenery, and proximity to iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, it attracts large crowds of young people, especially in the afternoons and evenings. Beyond coffee, it’s a perfect spot for taking photos, strolling, and engaging in outdoor activities.
b. Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi
In Hanoi, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake is another prime location for sidewalk coffee lovers. With its scenic views and open atmosphere, Hoan Kiem Lake not only provides a place for people to enjoy coffee but also to admire the tranquil waters and partake in communal activities.
5. Sidewalk Coffee and Urban Development
As rapid urbanization continues, large cities in Vietnam are becoming increasingly dense with high-rise buildings and congested traffic systems. Despite its simplicity, sidewalk coffee plays a valuable role in preserving communal spaces for residents, especially young people.
While modern Western-style cafés and premium coffee chains are proliferating, cà phê bệt has maintained its unique position due to its down-to-earth, rustic appeal—something that many still crave in the hustle and bustle of modern life.
6. The Future of Cà Phê Bệt
Although sidewalk coffee still holds immense appeal, it faces challenges from the ongoing urbanization process and public space regulations. To ensure that sidewalk coffee culture thrives, there needs to be support from local authorities and a collective effort to protect public spaces, as well as raising awareness about environmental preservation.
Nevertheless, with its adaptability and strong connection to youth culture, sidewalk coffee holds promising potential for future growth. As more young people seek authentic, low-key experiences in the urban jungle, this culture is likely to evolve, perhaps finding new ways to flourish in changing cityscapes.
Conclusion
Sidewalk coffee has become an integral part of urban life in Vietnam, offering young people a distinctive and meaningful experience. Its freedom, flexibility, and communal nature make it more than just a way to enjoy coffee—it’s a symbol of connection between people and their cities. As cities continue to grow and evolve, cà phê bệt will likely remain a cherished and enduring aspect of Vietnamese culture.