They arrived at Hidden Gem Coffee on Hang Tre Street around 2 p.m.

The owner, Nguyen Van Tho, said they were informed a week in advance about welcoming the King and Queen of Belgium.

Before their arrival, security forces came to check but did not set up barriers, allowing the cafe to continue welcoming guests as the King wanted the experience to be authentic.

Queen Mathilde wore an ao dai when she visited the cafe. Both chose egg coffee, a specialty in Hanoi, and made no special requests.

They drank coffee for about 20 minutes.

Tho said that both praised the drinks and took souvenir photos with the shop’s staff before leaving.

Cups of egg coffee that Belgian King Philippe and Queen Mathilde enjoy at Hidden Gem Coffee shop in Hanoi. Photo by Nguyen Van Tho

“I was also surprised that my shop was chosen,” said Tho.

Hidden Gem Coffee has been in operation for six years and stands out with its decoration made from discarded items such as glass bottles. The menu includes coffee, tea, and cocktails priced between VND30,000-85,000 (US$1.16-3.31). Egg coffee costs from VND45,000.

Egg coffee has been a staple of Hanoi cuisine for nearly a century, tracing its roots back to the 1940s. It comprises a blend of egg yolks, condensed milk, sugar, and butter, all whipped together to a smooth consistency and served with hot coffee.

Before drinking, patrons are encouraged to savor the foam atop their coffee with a teaspoon.

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde arrived in Hanoi on Monday, beginning their state visit to Vietnam, which will last until April 4, at the invitation of President Luong Cuong and his wife.