Introduced by the French in the mid-19th century, coffee in Vietnam has endured through history, evolving into a cherished part of Vietnamese culinary culture. Today, “going for coffee” is more than just enjoying a cup—it’s an experience of connection, whether meeting friends or getting work done.
Contents
1. Iced Milk Coffee
Vietnam’s iced milk coffee (cà phê sữa đá) is a star among the country’s coffee creations. This classic beverage is made by letting coffee slowly drip through a filter into a glass of sweetened condensed milk and ice. The fusion of strong, bold coffee with the rich, sugary flavor of condensed milk has won the hearts of coffee lovers worldwide.
Originating from the lively streets of Saigon, this beloved drink has moved beyond roadside stalls, finding its way onto the menus of top-tier restaurants. Today, you can savor this iconic drink in esteemed Vietnamese restaurants worldwide, where it accompanies the nation’s rich culinary heritage. When in Vietnam, enjoy iced milk coffee at places like Rice Field, Vietnam House, Senté (Nguyen Quang Bich Street), or Ngon Garden.
2. Bac Xiu
Bac xiu (bạc xỉu) is a unique coffee blend that highlights the cultural fusion of Chinese, Vietnamese, and French influences in Saigon’s Chinatown during the early 20th century. According to legend, Chinese residents created bac xiu to cater to women and children who found the bitterness of traditional milk coffee too strong. By adjusting the ratio of coffee to milk, they crafted a smoother, more palatable drink.
The key to a perfect bac xiu is balance. Too much milk, and it’s overly sweet; too much coffee, and it’s too bitter. For an authentic taste of bac xiu, book breakfast at Backstage in Capella Hanoi or Fashionista Cafe in Ho Chi Minh City.
3. Egg Coffee: Hanoi’s Coffee Marvel
Egg coffee (cà phê trứng) is a remarkable creation born from wartime ingenuity. In the 1940s, when sugar and milk became scarce, Mr. Giang, the founder of Giang Cafe in Hanoi, drew inspiration from his time at the Metropole Hotel. He replaced milk with whisked egg yolks, creating a creamy, rich foam atop a strong coffee base.
Vietnamese egg coffee is served in small cups, kept warm in a bowl of hot water. The careful combination of coffee, egg yolks, and a touch of honey results in a luxurious drink that tones down the eggy taste and offers a deliciously sweet, smooth experience. In Hanoi, you can enjoy this iconic drink at Ngon Garden or Cau Go.
4. Salt Coffee
Salt coffee (cà phê muối) is a relatively new innovation that reflects Vietnam’s ever-evolving coffee culture. Originating from Hue, this intriguing combination of robusta coffee with a hint of salt strikes a delicate balance between bitterness and sweetness, reminiscent of salted caramel.
With layers of condensed milk, coffee, and a creamy foam top, Vietnamese salt coffee offers a unique adventure for the taste buds. The salt enhances the coffee’s rich flavor while mellowing out its bitterness. For a taste of this creation, visit Hoa Tuc in Ho Chi Minh City or Cau Go in Hanoi.
5. Coconut Coffee: A Tropical Twist
Coconut coffee (cà phê dừa) is a testament to Vietnam’s love for coconut-infused dishes. This drink blends strong coffee with sweetened coconut milk and condensed milk, offering a tropical flavor profile that is both refreshing and indulgent.
To create coconut coffee, coconut milk is blended with condensed milk and ice until smooth. The coffee is shaken until frothy, then combined with the coconut mixture for a visually appealing and delicious drink. You can try coconut coffee at Fashionista Cafe or Hua Tuc in Ho Chi Minh City.
6. Fruity Cold Brew
Fruity cold brew brings a fresh twist to Vietnam’s coffee culture. This modern adaptation infuses 100% Arabica coffee with fruit flavors like orange, lychee, or apricot, creating a refreshing and vibrant drink that’s especially popular among young urbanites in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
7. Coffee Museum in Buon Ma Thuot: A Global Tribute to Coffee Culture
The World Coffee Museum in Buon Ma Thuot showcases over 10,000 coffee-related artifacts, many collected by Dang Le Nguyen Vu, founder of Trung Nguyen Legend. Spanning 45 hectares, the museum includes exhibition spaces and coffee-tasting areas. It regularly hosts cultural events promoting coffee traditions from around the world.
Visitors can explore interactive 3D displays, touch historical artifacts, and even sample different types of coffee. This unique, open-concept space has become a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists, offering an immersive dive into the global history and culture of coffee.
Vietnam’s coffee culture is a rich blend of tradition and innovation created by many talented cafe lovers. From iced milk coffee to egg and salt coffee, each cup offers a taste of the country’s history and creativity. Wherever you go, enjoying these iconic drinks is a memorable part of the Vietnamese experience.