Highlands Coffee, Hanoi

It was our first night in Hanoi city, strolling, when Jeffrey pointed to us the Highlands Coffee located just next to the Hoan Kiem Lake.

That's Vietnam's version of Starbucks, he told us.

We merely nodded, we were busy absorbing the scenery; enjoying the lovely breeze, cooling our faces. We didn't think much of coffee after dinner, in fact, we've totally forgotten about it.

We had dinner with Jeffrey again on another night..and we were so very full from dinner (shall write about that soon) that we could not think of doing anything or going anywhere else. It was a cold night, the wind was strong, it was drizzling...

What about some local coffee? and in a few minutes, we were standing in front of Highlands Coffee, the branch located at West Lake, Hanoi. It looks so pretty, the 'ship'-like cafe nestled cozily next to the breathtaking, calm West Lake. We went in and were happy with the warm interior and cozy setting. It was, surprisingly, rather noisy though. Highlands Coffee was founded by an overseas viet, who decided to start a coffee chain akin to Starbucks, Coffee Bean..you get the drift. Jeffrey noted that usually, Highlands Coffee always managed to find a fabulous location for it's branches..in Hanoi's case, it's usually by the lake :)

Though I would love, love to have a cup of coffee that night, i was just too full to have that. Decided to have a piping cuppa instead..at least it settles a near-bursting stomach. Hahaha Dragon girl had juice..

Though we did not have the coffees, I did scour through the menu. Highlands Coffee obviously had quite a large range of coffees (local roasted coffee)..from norm long, flats, black, whites; to ice blended and frappucinos. And also a range of teas (cold and hot) and juices. Hungry? No worries..they serve sandwiches, burgers, pasta and rice(i think) too :)

Guess you can give Highlands Coffee a visit if you just want to chill and sip a cup of aromatic coffee at a fraction of Starbucks' price :)