[Behind the Beans - The Series #1] Khám phá một BEL thật khác!

As Nopees, we’ve journeyed through many coffee spots across the city, but BEL left an impression we simply can’t shake. BEL doesn’t try to dazzle or put on airs – instead, to us Nopees, BEL feels like a warm little haven tucked into the heart of Saigon, delightfully rustic yet somehow deeply familiar.

From the moment we stepped inside BEL, we felt a genuine sense of warmth. In our conversation with the owners, Will & Kel, we discovered that Kel herself designed every nook and cranny. And through these spaces, we felt her affection for her late grandmother, honored in the name “BEL” – her grandmother’s endearing nickname and the very inspiration behind Kel’s love for refined aesthetics.

As Nopees, we’ve journeyed through many coffee spots across the city, but BEL left an impression we simply can’t shake. BEL doesn’t try to dazzle or put on airs – instead, to us Nopees, BEL feels like a warm little haven tucked into the heart of Saigon, delightfully rustic yet somehow deeply familiar.

From the moment we stepped inside BEL, we felt a genuine sense of warmth. In our conversation with the owners, Will & Kel, we discovered that Kel herself designed every nook and cranny. And through these spaces, we felt her affection for her late grandmother, honored in the name “BEL” – her grandmother’s endearing nickname and the very inspiration behind Kel’s love for refined aesthetics.

This little detail makes BEL feel truly unique, like stepping into a place filled with soul, with quiet stories hidden in every wall and every lush, green plant. One of our favorite experiences at BEL is the outdoor terrace – where anyone can sit down, breathe in the fresh air, and watch the world go by. On sunny days, shaded by the trees and with a gentle breeze in the air, it’s easy to forget the busy pace of life just beyond. This space, like a precious pause, lets each visitor unwind over a warm cup of coffee and savor small, peaceful moments.

At BEL, every drink is a crafted delight. We tried the Pandan Latte – their signature drink, with pandan leaves infused with a hint of creamy almond milk – light yet full-flavored. But perhaps the biggest surprise was the Moonbeam Latte, inspired by the traditional Vietnamese dessert bánh da lợn. With a layer of smooth mung bean, this drink brought us back to childhood flavors but with a twist that felt innovative and fresh. At BEL, it’s not just a drink; it’s like rediscovering memories you didn’t know you had.

With a smile, Will shared, “I wasn't sure about it at first, but I drank it so quickly that I thought it must be worth a try.”

Kel, Will, and the BEL team greet every guest with a warm, open spirit. When we asked Will about their customers, he cheerfully replied, “What they all have in common is that they're respectful, kind, and a bit adventurous - willing to try menu items that our baristas suggest.”

What struck us most is that BEL isn’t part of a chain with expansion ambitions – it’s a single, heartfelt space where they pour their entire focus into creating the best experience possible. We believe this is exactly why BEL has become a destination not to be missed for anyone seeking a bit of tranquility in the city.

After our time at BEL, we can’t help but think back on it as a space that offers peaceful moments amid the bustling pace of life. A café with a story, with passion, and with memories worth cherishing.

And Nopees, here’s a little bonus for you: BEL offers a 15k discount for anyone bringing along their Nopa Move bottle when ordering! A great way to save a bit and be kind to the environment at the same time.

Don’t miss out – give BEL a visit and see what it’s all about!

📌 40/8 Pham Viet Chanh, Ward 19, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam