L'Usine, The Workshop and Ciao are just right for informal meetings over coffee and low-commitment lunches with colleagues or prospects.

Here’s a look at all three:

L'Usine

The café has been designed as a Panini bar, serving all-day hot Panini’s fresh from the grill and a host of refreshing hot and cold beverages, and of course, their famous cupcakes.

Located at 151 Dong Khoi Street in District 1 it is well-known among western tourists.

The menu also lists traditional offerings, including open-faced sandwiches (VND45,000-195,000). There are platters of cheese, charcuterie and vegetarian dips and salads, and a full menu of coffee, tea, juices, wine and craft beer.

The Workshop

Touting itself as Vietnam’s first speciality coffee bar, The Workshop takes Saigon’s favourite tipple to new heights, blending science, art and passion in pursuit of the ultimate brew.

Entering this airy loft-space, with its industrial light fittings, exposed girders and contemporary artworks, one could easily imagine the skyline of Manhattan appearing through the panorama of windows.

It is located at 27 Ngo Duc Ke Street in District 1 with menu offerings running from VND35,000 to VND75,000.

Ciao

With all the dark, strong coffee brewing these days, it's good to remember that the drink doesn't have to knock you off your pins to be satisfying. Ciao serves its mellow, complex brews along with savoury foods and pastries at four locations in Saigon.

With just a few tables, it's comfortable. That goes for the menu, too offerings run VND50,000-165,000. Free wireless internet ('Wi-Fi').  

People can easily find the workshop at 40 Ngo Duc Ke Street in District 1.

VOV