In a surprising cultural crossover, a slice of Birmingham has been planted on Vietnam's scenic east coast. The discovery of a Birmingham-themed cafe and spa in the popular resort city of Nha Trang has sparked curiosity and a touch of hometown pride for Brummies abroad.
A Brummie Oasis in a Vietnamese Paradise
The establishment, aptly named Birmingham Cafe and Spa, is located at 60 Yersin, Phường Tây, Nha Trang. It sits on the road leading to the picturesque Sunrise Beach, offering patrons a potential taste of the West Midlands before or after a seaside stroll. While Birmingham is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, from Vietnamese cafes to Chinese tea shops, the reverse scenario—a Brummie-named venue in Vietnam—is a novel twist.
What's Inside the Birmingham Cafe?
Upon closer inspection, the cafe's connection to its namesake city is charmingly selective. A clear nod comes in the form of a portrait of Peaky Blinders icon Tommy Shelby, accompanied by the phrase 'Let's go back to Birmingham'. However, the search for other classic Brummie signifiers largely draws a blank.
The walls feature Freddie Mercury rather than Ozzy Osbourne or Joe Lycett, and there's a distinct lack of tributes to the city's rival football clubs, Aston Villa and Birmingham City. The menu also takes a local turn, forgoing expected staples like Birds Custard, HP Sauce, or a balti. Instead, it caters to Vietnamese tastes with an array of speciality coffees, milk teas, yoghurts, and pastries. An upstairs spa area provides a space for relaxation.
What Do the Reviews Say?
The venue has garnered an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. The feedback, perhaps unintentionally, echoes sentiments often heard about Birmingham itself. Patrons praise the 'good vibes with good music', while one review by Huy Le noted, "The atmosphere had potential - a charming layout, but it felt underloved"—a comment the article's original author wryly suggests could apply to parts of Birmingham's city centre.
The most succinct and relatable review for any thirsty Brummie came from An Nhiên Nguyễn Thái, who simply stated: "Delicious water." A sentiment that fans of the region's own Elan Valley water would surely endorse.
This unique find proves that Birmingham's global influence extends in unexpected ways. For any travellers journeying through Vietnam, a visit to this curious cafe might just offer a brief, if slightly eclectic, reminder of home.
