Coffee with Tuan Nguyen (Larry's Ca Phe)

My name is Tuan Nguyen. I was adopted from Vietnam by a single father, Larry Hilton, who worked as a high school math teacher, and I was raised right here in Brooklyn. I opened my first coffee shop, Larry’s Cà Phê, to honor him and his legacy. Two years later, I opened a second location in the very neighborhood where I grew up. It was the absolute fulfillment of my dream and vision, but after a powerful journey, I closed both locations in May of 2026.

It’s the feeling of a fresh start. You can choose any morning to begin again or to be better than you were yesterday. I deeply love the mornings—the quiet, the clean air, the soft, early sunlight, morning runs, and that first cup of coffee or tea. In a city as fast-paced as New York, these small moments are actually huge. It’s a beautiful way to spend time with yourself before the business, your friends, or your loved ones need your attention.

I used to think about the work constantly—always focusing on my team and the community. I notice the tiniest details and want to improve them daily, whether that means making a shift smoother for my staff or finding ways to make our guests feel more comfortable, connected, and seen. I always hoped we made their day just a little bit better. A lot of time, energy, and care goes into running an independent space so guests can return regularly and the business can thrive. Your daily visits truly matter. Don’t choose a massive corporation; choose a small business, because we actually want to be there with you and for you.

I don’t eat out very often, but I recently went to a soft opening for the new Vietnamese restaurant, Ngon. We ordered a few dishes to try, and my absolute favorites were their bún riêu and their yogurt with sticky rice for dessert. Closer to home, I recently made a delicious burger for my girlfriend and me. We bought the meat fresh from the market, seasoned it well, cooked it medium with blue cheese, and served it on toasted brioche with a side of half-sour pickles. Burgers are one of my favorite American comfort foods. I don’t drink anymore, but I used to love pairing a meal like that with a cold draft beer!

My dad. He was a teacher, and during his summer breaks, we used to walk down to a local coffee shop together. We would sit out front, chat, and just watch the cars and people pass by. He passed away before my dream of becoming a coffee shop owner came true. I would give anything to have coffee with him just one more time and let him try all my specialty drinks on Larry’s Cà Phê menu.

My craft is about serving the community I’m a part of with the best possible intentions and quality, while providing a warm, public space where everyone feels at home.

Follow Tuan and his substack here!