M- Village The Visionary Behind the Spaces: Why I Bet on People, Not Just Businesses
Every Half Coffee Roasters recently raised $3 million in its Pre-Series A round from Openspace Ventures and DSG Consumer Partners. While the headlines focus on the numbers, I find myself looking at the man behind the brand: Nguyen Hai Ninh, the founder of The Coffee House.
A Track Record of “Community-First” Thinking
Launched in 2014, The Coffee House quickly stood out with its “community coffee” model—a place for connection, not just caffeine. This was the golden age of “tech startups” in Vietnam, and Nguyen Hai Ninh didn’t miss the wave. He invested heavily in technology, from management software to loyalty apps, building a massive loyal community. By 2019, with nearly 150 stores and 800 billion VND in revenue, he was named in the Forbes Under 30 Asia list.
In 2020, after reaching 175 stores, he stepped down from management to prepare for a bold new direction: M Village. Carrying the soul of a tech startup—light operations, fast iteration, and customer-centricity—M Village focused on minimalist design and tech-driven management, successfully raising over $20 million from major funds like VinaCapital Ventures and East Ventures.
The Soul Behind the Brand
To me, a business is simply a reflection of its founder. I don’t just look at the enterprise; I look at the human being. The story of a young founder born in 1987 is incredibly compelling, and I believe these business ventures accurately reflect his personality.
The success of M Village proves this. It started without heavy PR or advertising but won over the youth with its unique “Gu” (aesthetic). I remember first knowing the brand through a viral post about an ancient house.
My Connection to History: I have a profound love for history and heritage architecture. For me, old houses are not just structures; they are vessels of memory and cultural identity. This is exactly why those specific images of preserved spaces caught my attention so intensely—they represent a rare respect for the past in a modern world.
In a context where greed often prevails, it’s heartbreaking to see historic villas demolished for new commercial centers. I grieve for the lost beauty and the historical memories that vanish with them. I despise the narrow-mindedness of those who only see material value; a “golden” location makes them crave destruction. I believe M Village is a vibrant brand led by young people who truly carry the “Saigon spirit.”
My Recommendations: Where Soul Meets Space
M Village has reached 50 branches, but these are the locations I personally love:
1. Savvy by M Village – Hai Ba Trung
27-33 Hai Ba Trung, Ben Nghe Ward, HCMC
This is Saigon’s first “non-traditional” luxury hotel. It features a prime location near the Opera House and uses premium Rituals products.
- The Experience: Every room is curated with a pillow menu, high-end speakers, and premium bath sets for total enjoyment.
- The Vibe: Common spaces designed for connecting, entertainment, and creative work, plus a 24/7 Gamezone.
Personal Tip: You can visit Alley 74/7 Hai Ba Trung just 300m away—a fascinating historical site. This alley was the site of a French opium factory built in 1881. Inside, you’ll find Hoa Tuc, Taco Rico, The Refinery, and Fume (Japanese Sake). I’ve tried them all, and the food is excellent. It’s right opposite the Park Hyatt, very convenient for sightseeing.
2. M Village Ton That Dam
Located in the heart of one of the oldest traditional markets in District 1. It is right next to the 1-star Michelin restaurant Anan Saigon and the 2-year Michelin Bib Gourmand winner Com Tho Chuyen Ky (2024–2025).
3. Staycation Wishlist
- M Village The Garden: I have a soft spot for this one. I met a client here who gave me a 5-star review in October 2025; they even gave me a tour of the whole place.
- M village Signature Lê Thánh Tôn – Premium experience, priced around 4 million VND.
- President Maison Signature by M Village Good value, I like this place.
- On budget’s choice: 1 milion/night
- M Village Living Tran Nao: A large house with vintage, pastel designs and plenty of light (though the rooms are actually quite small).
- M Village Living Cao Thắng: I’ll try some specific rooms; the windowless ones can feel a bit cramped.
- M Village Living Tran Quoc Thao: A beautiful sage and white palette—perfect for the “aesthetic” taste of the younger generation.
