Softly sits on a residential alley off Nguyễn Duy Hiệu, occupying what feels like someone's living space opened for guests — a ground floor that opens toward the street and an air-conditioned upper floor for those who want a cooler, quieter retreat. The two-level layout keeps the crowd manageable and the mood unhurried, which appears to be the entire point. There are outdoor seats under the roof and chairs facing the alley for mornings when the air is worth sitting in.
The tiramisu coffee is the drink most regulars mention first — a house signature that holds up well against the density of coffee options scattered across Thao Dien. The matcha latte has its own following, and the brunch menu runs to smoothie bowls and tartines: straightforward, fresh, and priced accessibly enough that returning mid-week requires no deliberation. None of it is elaborate, but the quality-to-price ratio is consistently noted.
Staff are recognized for warmth and English fluency, which makes Softly a reliable landing spot for expats and long-term residents who want competence without fuss at the counter. The Nguyễn Duy Hiệu alley sits far enough from the main Thao Dien strip to stay genuinely quiet on a Saturday morning, with just enough street activity to make the front-facing seats rewarding rather than dull.
Where other cafes in the area lean into design or density, this one leans into pace. Tables don't turn quickly because the space doesn't push for it. Opening at 7 AM means early risers get first choice of upstairs seats before the mid-morning crowd settles in. The result is a place that earns repeat visits through consistency and atmosphere — functioning as a morning ritual for neighborhood regulars and a deliberate detour for those coming from elsewhere in the city.
Friendly, warm, and helpful staff. Good brunch with affordable price. And nice hot matcha latte ❤️ They have outside area and also indoor one, if you dont like the air-con like me ☺️ I came on Sat morning but not too busy, pretty quiet upstairs. Would def come back again for my me-time 🌸
Nice and cozy spot for your breakfast! I'll definitely be back :)
Great little coffee shop. It feels very much as a private house that opened its doors for customers to serve them some great coffee. Super cosy. There are a few chairs in front and a few more under the roof. But also open towards the street. Very quiet area. Great for people watching and to chill.
This café is super cute, spread over two floors, with a nice air-conditioned space upstairs. They also serve food, including smoothie bowls and tartines. The tartines aren’t very elaborate, but they’re super affordable, which makes this a great spot for a casual break
Small cafe in a little alley in Thao Dien. Very kind and lovely. Coffee and food were good. I will visit there again in the morning.
This image depicts an outdoor seating area of a cafe or restaurant in Thao Dien, Saigon. The space is adorned with various potted plants and climbing
The image shows a cozy interior setting of what appears to be a café or restaurant with two glasses on the table containing cold beverages, likely cof
