Jando S.
Yelp
As the only Vietnamese dedicated coffee shop in Flushing, Caphe Den (#1) is definitely capitalizing on a niche and one that is on the rise in demand. However, given the sub-standard Viet options throughout NYC, my expectations couldn't be smaller, They surprised me in some areas and disappointed in others, but ultimately I'm happy for their presence in the neighborhood.
The place is small and only offers counter seating with a small lover's seat in the corner. It is handicap accessible with the ramp and gives off a pseudo-trendy vibe with a bit of modern aesthetic. I could totally see this being a great date friendly spot when it's quiet or a remote work destination.
While counter ordering is available, a majority of folks are doing it through a self-serve touch screen station. My large group of Vietnamese visitors ordered practically every drink from the coffee and milk tea section, so I got to sample a good amount. Overall the fruit drinks and milk tea got the most thumbs up, where as the coffee had mixed reviews.
Personally, the signature ca phe sua da was just average. They went a bit heavy with the ice and I felt the condensed milk ratio was also a little disappointing. I felt the same with the black coffee equivalent, which was better. I thought their bac xiu (creamy Saigon style latte) was pretty solid and the cream coffee was the overwhelming favorite in the group. There are few food options, but I dig the cookies from btr bakes (#2) and the sometimes-free bananas.
Service is a lot like the coffee: hot and cold. The first time was cold, since the counter folks seemed stressed with our Viet group that had crowded up half the store and struggled to communicate in Viet. The last time on just my own was significantly better, but it might also be because they were slower than usual.
I am looking forward to coming back and indulging on their other drinks. I'm hoping for improvement on the coffee side and certainly wouldn't mind additional food options down the line.
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(#1) "Black Coffee" in Vietnamese
(#2) Despite the near $5 price tag.