Cafe Vinh Long
2230 S 7th St, Philadelphia, PA
Crema's Take
“This no-frills Vietnamese spot in Philadelphia delivers authentic banh mi and silky Vietnamese iced coffee that keep locals coming back, though the cash-only policy and limited banh mi varieties mean you get one thing done really well rather than endless options. The cozy interior belies its modest storefront, and prices are remarkably affordable for a quick lunch or leisurely sit, though be prepared for brisk service and a straightforward approach to hospitality. If you're looking for genuine Vietnamese flavors and don't mind a tight, honest neighborhood spot, this is worth seeking out—just come hungry and with cash.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
Still open but only had banh mi and ice coffee. Got 3 banh mi and ice coffee was $23. Banh mi is really simple and not something I would come back for.
Food are extremely Good, but the Owner is extremely RUDE, if you are not Vietnamese, she treats you very badly and differently. I was there in the morning to buy food, I mean everyone is in RUSH, and HURRY up back to work, and I was waiting in line to buy food, and I told her what I wanted, and she is getting it ready, then I just step aside, and let the lady behind me order, and she is Vietnamese, then the Owner sold food to her before me, and I had to wait extra longer to get my food. WHY IS THAT? that's very RUDE, in this SPECIAL condition you suppose to keep your customer, but the owner didnt do that, and of course the Owner lost about $20 worth food money because I was so Angry and left without taking the food with me. Its just a shame that The Owner pick and choose the customer, I mean if she only welcome Vietnamese, Please put a sign out there said "Vietnamese only" then I will understand she will serve the Vietnamese first then me. Very and extremely Disappointment. Plus I drove 20 mins to get there to buy food from her, and thats what she treats me. Unbelieveable.
CASH ONLY - delicious bahn mi but only offered one option (traditional) unlike many places that have as many as 5 or 6. Vietnamese iced coffee was very good but portion sizes were on the small side
Doesn't look like much from the outside, but inside is clean and cozy. Very affordable - I had a lunch of banh xeo & iced coffee, and got a steamed bun (meat and egg filled) and sticky rice to go, it came to $12
We always come for the hoagie and coffee, grab and go. Don't be fooled by the lackluster neighborhood and surrounding area, Vinh Long Cafe is an amazing Vietnamese cafe and restaurant that is surely overlooked and underrated. It is a secret gem in South Philly. The Vietnamese iced coffee is made perfectly and the Vietnamese hoagie is unbelievably fresh and authentic. One reason it doesn't get the visits and accolades it deserves is probably due to its environment. Often the cafe seems to be filled with only local friends or family just hanging out. Sometimes the place is completely empty and they play traditional news or music. It doesn't seem too welcoming to those who don't speak the language, but don't be intimidated as this is just the traditional ways of the people there. Just walk up to the owner - who is always at counter - and ask for a Vietnamese hoagie and coffee. They make the hoagie on order right there in front of you. It's fresh and as authentic as it gets. Eat there or take it to go. It's worth the try.
Crema Reviews
You might also like
Brown Street Coffee & Bánhery
★ 4.5 (469)
This Philadelphia spot brilliantly bridges two worlds: a serious espresso…
Cherry Cafe
★ 5.0 (226)
Tucked inconspicuously inside a Center City lobby, Cherry Cafe punches well…
Artisan Boulanger Patissier
★ 4.8 (444)
This French-Vietnamese bakery in Philadelphia is a genuine neighborhood gem…
Downtime Bakery
★ 4.9 (133)
Downtime Bakery is a sun-filled neighborhood gem on Germantown Avenue where the…