Củ Cải Bakery & Cafe - Bakery in Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City

Tucked away in a quiet alley between District 1 and 2, this spot is a little hidden if you aren’t a Google Maps pro. But I think that’s exactly what makes it charming. It’s a small, local bakery serving some classic pastries- think cinnamon buns, croissants, and canelés, etc - alongside a rotation of seasonal bakes. I ordered a cinnamon bun and a latte, and both were exceptionally good. The bun was soft with a bit of crunch, and not overly sweet like a lot of other places. The latte was surprisingly awesome too. They source their beans from a small local roaster, and I think the high-quality coffee machine really takes it to the next level. It had a great balance of fruity and chocolatey notes, and the milk didn't overpower the coffee like it does at many other spots. Just a heads up: the space is pretty small with only three tables inside, so you’ll want to get there early if you want to snag a seat. Overall, it was such a comfortable and sweet experience.

They say true love is not found, but stumbled upon — and I couldn’t agree more. As I wandered aimlessly through the busy streets of Ho Chi Minh City on my solo journey, I turned into a quiet little alley and stumbled upon a humble yet exquisite bakery, one that radiated warmth, passion, and an unspoken sense of love. With each pastry I tasted, I realized it wasn’t just my hunger being filled, but something deeper — a profound love for pastries I never knew I had lost. Every bite felt like the first. Delicate, rich, and made with a kind of care that words could hardly capture. You could taste the passion baked into every layer, every crumb. This isn’t a bakery that simply sells pastries — it offers art, devotion, and a heartfelt story in every creation. Each bake is crafted to perfection, not just for profit, but for love. Perhaps that’s why everything sells out so quickly… because when something is made with genuine heart, it doesn’t just please the palate, it lingers in the soul. I also had the pleasure of meeting the baker herself. Listening to her story moved me deeply. Once part of the corporate world, she chose to leave behind stability to pursue her lifelong passion for baking. It was a leap of faith, and one look at her pastries tells you — she made the right choice. Her courage, her artistry, and her sincerity shine through in every creation. Travel has always been my way of finding myself when I feel out of place — and this little bakery, tucked away in the heart of Ho Chi Minh, made me feel at home again. It’s not just a place I visited; it’s a piece of my journey, a part of my heart that I’ll never let go of. ps; the owner is mad chill

Small but cozy spot, tucked away in a quiet little valley. A nice escape from the noise of the main street. The owner is super friendly and also one of the best pastry suppliers around. Perfect place to spend a slow Sunday morning and recharge. Definitely worth a visit and I’ll be coming back for sure.

I’ve been to Củ Cải more times than I can count, and it still feels special every single visit. There’s always something new to discover, yet the quality and care never change. It’s the kind of place that quietly becomes your favorite. Not because it tries too hard, but because everything just feels right. The pastry chef/owner is a master of their craft - knowledgeable, thoughtful, and deeply passionate. You can taste the difference in every bite. The pastries are not overly buttery, but still rich with depth and character, perfectly crispy and flaky on the outside, tender within. It’s the kind of balance that only comes from experience and real love for baking. I come here for any occasion: when I’m celebrating something, when I need a little pick-me-up, or just on a regular lazy morning. There’s something about this place that fits every mood. The pastries are always delicious, the vibe is warm and familiar, and I somehow always leave happier than when I arrived. Prices are very reasonable, especially for the quality and consistency you get here. There’s a genuine warmth in everything they do. From the way things are baked to the friendly service. Recently, they’ve started making more savory items, and it’s such a great direction. You can tell they’re always evolving, always curious, and never cutting corners. Whether you’re stopping by for a quiet morning pastry, an afternoon coffee, or just to see what’s new, Củ Cải never disappoints. Simple, soulful, and absolutely worth returning to again and again.

This sweet little bakery hits all the spots: good pastries, chilled vibe and great music. Perfect place to relax and enjoy some coffee in the heat of Saigon. Most of the pastries are excellent but my favorites are the pain suisse and the plum danish.