A local Vietnamese coffee cart is putting down roots in downtown Sacramento.
Cà Phê Diễm is preparing to open its first brick-and-mortar at 1102 Q St, Suite 110, according to a recently filed commercial remodel permit. Plans for the space include an accessible service counter, updated appliances, and the installation of a grease interceptor.
Owner Diễm Le told What Now Sacramento that Cà Phê Diễm was founded as a personal project grounded in culture and community. “Cà Phê Diễm began as a small mobile coffee cart rooted in my desire to reconnect with my Vietnamese culture and share that experience with the Sacramento community,” she explained.
The idea took shape at the end of 2023, when she began hosting intimate coffee pop-ups from her garage—complete with plastic chairs and Vinahouse music—inviting friends and neighbors to gather and experience Vietnamese coffee culture together.
But the homegrown shop quickly gained traction. Within a year, the business made its way to the Midtown Farmers Market, building a loyal following along the way. “What started as a small idea has grown into something much bigger, and opening our first brick-and-mortar café feels like a true full-circle moment,” Le said.
The concept treats Vietnamese coffee as both a daily ritual and a cultural experience, with the menu spotlighting traditional robusta-based coffee brewed using the slow-drip phin method, as well as more creative offerings. The brand has become especially known for its house-made cream toppings, with flavors like ube, pandan, pistachio, and cookie butter adding a modern twist.
At the upcoming café, guests can expect an expanded menu including espresso drinks, matcha, refreshers, and a selection of Vietnamese-inspired pastries and light lunch items. Vegan, non-dairy, and caffeine-free options will also be available.
The space itself is designed to reflect the brand’s ethos, complete with a “moodier, art gallery-inspired aesthetic.” Additionally, Le plans to feature rotating work from local artists, further cementing the café as a fixture in Sacramento’s creative scene.
Cà Phê Diễm is targeting an early Summer 2026 debut, pending final permits and construction. For the latest updates and sneak peeks, be sure to follow the café on Facebook and Instagram.
UPDATE: This article has been updated to include additional information from owner Diễm Le.
