Beauty of Mockingbird in gloomy surroundings
By Kieu Giang in HCMC
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| A balcony seat at Mockingbird Cafe in District 1 - Photo: Kieu Giang |
I find experiencing new coffee shops in town my great desire and the long list of cafes arranged carefully by criteria in my cellphone are my pride and joy.
It’s not because of the drinks or foods at those cafes but their views. This time I was lucky enough to discover Mockingbird on the top of an old building near my office in District 1 overlooking the river and Vo Van Kiet Boulevard on the left - and the State Bank of Vietnam with beautiful architecture at the front.
After being exhausted and nervous climbing up four floors of a gloomy building that is like something out of a scary movie, I was relieved to see a small sign stating Mockingbird on the left side of a long, dark corridor as I rushed for the door looking over my shoulder.
Once entering inside I was lost in a vintage style space with old furniture, a rough cement floor and wooden windows receiving warm light to the whole room.
It is not an overstatement to say a balcony seat, which is shaped like a mockingbird nest, has the best view to see the rain and beautiful surrounding view and let the cool wind from the river in the distance kiss my face and hair.
Guests sitting here in the morning can enjoy the sunlight sparkling through a big tree hanging on the wall, while those who visit in the late afternoon can watch the sunset glow reflecting on the grey walls of the bank on the opposite side. Recommended treats are Mocks lemon tea with aromatic smell and steamed pear with red wine served with a scoop of ice cream.
Food and drinks are priced from VND40,000 to VND60,000.
Mockingbird is located on level 4 of a building at 14 Ton That Dam Street in District 1. It opens daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Guests should park their vehicles at the foot of the building for VND5,000 for a scooter or VND3,000 for small bikes.