Go for coffee and enjoy the "flavor" of Tet.

Amidst the bustling streets of spring, there are quiet moments that evoke the charm of Tet (Vietnamese New Year) of yesteryear, making many people want to pause. Just a hint of coffee aroma, a few flowers, a simple setting are enough to recall memories of family reunions, warming hearts before the new year.

During Tet (Vietnamese New Year), besides drinking coffee with friends, young people also take souvenir photos at the cafe. Photo: Phuong Lan

There's no need for ostentatious displays of lights and extravagant displays; sometimes, just a small corner steeped in history, adorned with details that evoke the spirit of Tet (Vietnamese New Year) of yesteryear, is enough to stir the heart. The song "This spring, I remember springs of the past" resonates, gently touching memories. Because, no matter how far adulthood takes us, the flavor of traditional Tet remains a cherished memory, a peaceful haven that everyone longs to return to.

For Ms. Phuong Thuy, a resident of Long Xuyen ward, stepping into a coffee shop during Tet (Lunar New Year) is like wandering into a sweet realm of memories. The meticulously decorated space, with the red of lanterns and golden apricot blossoms, creates a perfect backdrop for those who love Tet. She humorously shared that she just wants to "pack up" all the characteristic flavors of Tet and take them home. This is also an opportunity for people to get closer, capturing warm moments of family reunion before the New Year.

Beyond just visual appeal, the Tet atmosphere is awakened through all the senses, with the rich aroma of cinnamon essential oil blended with the fragrance of roasted coffee, creating a distinctive blend of scents characteristic of the holiday. In the midst of a digitally driven world, finding a quiet moment reminiscent of Tet of yesteryear is no longer difficult. For Mr. Phan Tan Loc, residing in Binh Duc ward, a few search keywords or a status update asking friends on social media instantly brings up a plethora of addresses filled with illustrative images. Mr. Loc shared: “Putting aside the hustle and bustle of work, I enjoy immersing myself in cafes with a nostalgic feel. There, I feel time slow down, and my soul is at peace.”

Besides the bustling, vibrant "mazes of red" in the city center, there are still those who choose their own path, seeking the tranquility and simplicity of Tet (Vietnamese New Year) of the past. For Ms. Nguyen Phuong Linh, a resident of An Chau commune, the true essence of Tet lies in being close to nature, where people can breathe the fresh air of the first days of the year. Ms. Linh shared that to find a suitable cafe with a nature-inspired setting, she and her friends chose cafes located a little further from the city center. Although the journey was a bit long, the reward was absolute satisfaction. "I prefer cafes with open spaces, greenery, and natural sunlight rather than enclosed studios. It makes me and my friends feel very relaxed, and all the fatigue of the old year seems to disappear," Ms. Linh confided.

In these suburban cafes, instead of vibrant artificial colors, the owners focus on clusters of bright yellow daisies on the patio, rustic wooden tables and chairs, and shady garden corners. This is where Linh and her friends find connection – not just through conversations about work and family, but also through reconnecting with themselves after a long, busy year.

In the joyful atmosphere of the New Year, the slight extra cost of going to a cafe is no longer a concern for diners. Ms. Phuong Linh shared: "A little extra is fine, it's Tet after all!" This simple thought, "It's Tet after all," has become a bridge connecting hearts, helping people to be more considerate, understanding, and tolerant of each other. When setting aside everyday worries, people suddenly realize they love the vibrant colors of spring even more and want to dedicate their minds to enjoying the invigorating breath of nature on this auspicious day.

PHUONG LAN

Source: https://baoangiang.com.vn/di-ca-phe-tan-huong-vi-tet-a477566.html