Ponita Cafe occupies a spacious compound on Nguyễn Văn Hưởng where the central courtyard doubles as both a children's playground and a small animal sanctuary. Rabbits, birds, turtles, and leopard geckos share the space with guests, and staff sell fresh produce at the counter so kids can feed them directly. It is one of the few spots in Thao Dien where a parent can sit with a drink while a child is meaningfully occupied — the playground sits in clear sightlines from most seating, which regulars consistently flag as the practical draw. Inside seating is quieter, with a shelf of books that suits solo visitors looking to read through the slower morning hours.
The menu is straightforward: Arabica drip and espresso drinks, Vietnamese standards including bac xiu, raspberry smoothies, sweet coconut drinks, and a beef soup that earns consistent praise. Egg coffee appeared on the menu in the past but seems to have rotated off. Pricing is local-friendly for the area. Coffee quality generates split opinions across reviews — the house black coffee works well for most, but expectations for specialty-grade espresso may not land here. The kitchen side fares better with reviewers.
Ponita Cafe draws a mix of expat families on weekend mornings and Vietnamese locals during the week. The animal-and-playground combination fills a specific gap in the Thao Dien cafe scene, which skews heavily toward aesthetic minimalism or co-working setups. For anyone bringing children under ten, the trade-off — a casual but not coffee-focused menu against genuine activity for kids — is clearly worthwhile based on the volume of repeat visitors the reviews reflect.
This is a really nice Cafe! The hospitality, prices, and atmosphere is on point. They have a playground in the center of court yard for kids to play, and they have fresh produce available for purchase to let the kids feed the rabbits, birds, and turtles. They even let us hold their Leopard Geckos which was certainly kind of them. The black coffee is made with Arabica beans and my wife said the Beef Soup was really tasty and my daughter enjoyed her sweet coconut. We will definitley be back!
Perfect with kids, they can feed the animals, it's not hot at all, food is good 👍
Ponita Cafe, 198b Nguyễn Văn Hưởng, Thảo Điền, Thủ Đức, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Atmosphere and Concept: Ponita Cafe, located in the heart of Thảo Điền, Thủ Đức, is more than just a coffee shop—it's a delightful escape for animal lovers and coffee aficionados alike. This charming cafe doubles as a cozy animal sanctuary, creating a unique and heartwarming experience for its visitors. The moment you step into Ponita Cafe, you're greeted by a welcoming atmosphere filled with the cheerful sounds of animals and the rich aroma of freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee. The decor is a delightful mix of rustic and modern elements, with comfortable seating arrangements that encourage relaxation and interaction with the animals. The presence of plants and natural light enhances the tranquil ambiance, making it a perfect spot to unwind. Coffee and Drinks: Ponita Cafe takes pride in its selection of Vietnamese coffee, offering a range of traditional and contemporary beverages that cater to diverse tastes. Vietnamese Coffee: The cafe's Vietnamese drip coffee is a standout, featuring robust and aromatic flavors that capture the essence of local coffee culture. Whether you prefer it hot or iced, with condensed milk or black, the quality of the brew is consistently excellent. Specialty Drinks: The coconut coffee is a must-try, blending rich coffee with creamy coconut for a refreshing and unique twist. The egg coffee, a traditional Vietnamese treat, is another highlight, offering a velvety texture and sweet, custard-like flavor. Other Beverages: For those who prefer non-coffee options, Ponita Cafe offers a variety of teas, smoothies, and fresh juices. The passion fruit tea is particularly refreshing, while the mango smoothie is a delightful tropical indulgence. Animal Sanctuary: The true charm of Ponita Cafe lies in its role as an animal sanctuary. The cafe is home to a variety animals, including exotic birds, rabbits, and other creatures, all of whom are well-cared-for and friendly. Visitors have the opportunity to interact with these adorable creatures, making for a joyful and therapeutic experience. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable about the animals, ensuring that both the guests and the furry residents have a safe and enjoyable time. The animals are free to roam around certain areas of the cafe, adding to the lively and homey atmosphere. Service: The service at Ponita Cafe is exceptional, with friendly and attentive staff who are passionate about both coffee and animal welfare. They are always ready to offer recommendations, share the stories of the rescued animals, and ensure that guests have a pleasant experience. Conclusion: Ponita Cafe at 198b Nguyễn Văn Hưởng in Thảo Điền, Thủ Đức, is a delightful haven for coffee lovers and animal enthusiasts. With its great Vietnamese coffee, a variety of other delightful drinks, and the charming presence of rescued animals, it offers a unique and heartwarming experience. Whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a quality cup of coffee or to spend time with some adorable animals, Ponita Cafe is a must-visit destination in Ho Chi Minh City.
Good place for small family/person with kids.local coffee taste great too. You can sit inside if you want more quite space and read books.
Such a nice place, ruined by the absolute WORST coffee in Saigon. My kids like it here, but i always have to buy coffee somewhere else beforehand. Today my wife got a bac xiu. It tasted wrong... Spoiled milk? Horrible coffee. Sent it back because this was next level bad. New coffee exactly the same. Has been this way for years. GET DECENT COFFEE.
Breakfast available: Opens by 7 AM — a viable breakfast stop in Saigon.
Reservations: Call +84 918 283 323 to book — recommended for weekend dining.
Best for: families with young kids, casual daytime hangout, weekend mornings, kids birthday outings.
The image depicts an outdoor seating area of a restaurant or café in Thao Dien, Saigon. The setting is vibrant and colorful with various tables and ch
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