Philadelphia’s first Vietnamese specialty coffee roaster serves more than just exceptional drinks.
The Kensington cafe combines authentic Vietnamese coffee culture with inventive breakfast sandwiches that have locals lining up before the 8am opening.
Their mission goes beyond great coffee—they’re revitalizing the neighborhood one cup at a time.
Why Vietnamese Coffee This Good Doesn’t Exist Anywhere Else in Philly
Càphê Roasters sources beans directly from smallholder farmers in Lam Dong’s Central Highlands at 1,400 meters elevation.
The volcanic red basalt soil creates coffee with nutty, black tea, and floral notes that shine through their signature drinks.
They roast everything in-house, which means you’re tasting coffee at peak freshness every single visit.
How Càphê Roasters Became Philadelphia’s Vietnamese Coffee Destination
Founded in 2018 by Raymond John and Vietnamese American Thu Pham, the cafe won Shift Capital’s Kensington Avenue Storefront Challenge.
The name reflects the Vietnamese phrase “đi uống cà phê”—let’s get coffee—which captures their community-first philosophy.
A portion of profits supports 12 Plus, a Philadelphia education nonprofit, while employing students from partner schools across the city.
Food Highlights
- Sunny’s Hot Sando: Fluffy scrambled eggs meet lap xuong (Vietnamese sausage) on crispy baguette with cheese, sauce, and their house chili oil from Vientiane Bistro. 🥖
- Vietnamese Egg Coffee: Rich, smooth whipped egg foam floats over strong Vietnamese coffee for a drink that tastes like liquid dessert. ☕
- Tofu Banh Mi: Crispy tofu gets the full banh mi treatment with perfectly seasoned vegetables and aioli on bread that stays crunchy from first bite to last. 🥖
- Salted Brûlée Ca Phe: Salt balances the sweetness of condensed milk and coffee’s bitterness in their most popular permanent menu drink. 🧈
- Jasmine Matcha Latte: Sweet jasmine notes complement nutty matcha in this fall specialty that customers call the best matcha they’ve ever had. 🍵
- Mixed Porridge: Savory ginger-forward comfort in a bowl that regulars order again and again. 🍜
Atmosphere
The bright, airy space features plants, books, and vintage family photos that create an inviting living room vibe.
Natural light floods through large windows onto a mix of intimate two-tops, communal tables, and cozy couches.
It fills up fast with students studying, friends catching up, and remote workers—all drawn to the café’s welcoming energy.
Bottom Line
Càphê Roasters proves exceptional Vietnamese coffee and creative sandwiches can anchor real community change.
The Sunny’s Hot Sando and salted brûlée ca phe alone justify the trip to Kensington.
This is coffee culture with purpose, and every visit supports both your caffeine habit and Philadelphia students. 🌟
Address: Càphê Roasters 3400 J St, G1 Philadelphia, PA 19134
📞 (215) 690-1268
🕐 Wed-Mon 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Closed Tuesdays Dogs allowed | Limited street parking available