Vietnamese coffee culture is a fascinating blend of history, tradition, and innovation. Unlike Western coffee, which often leans towards espresso-based drinks, Vietnam has developed a distinct and diverse coffee scene. From the rich and creamy Egg Coffee to the refreshing Coconut Coffee, Vietnamese coffee is an experience that captivates locals and visitors alike. For those embarking on a journey through this vibrant country, indulging in its coffee culture is an essential experience. Many Vietnam holiday packages offer curated coffee tours, allowing travellers to explore Vietnam’s unique brewing techniques and flavours firsthand.
The Rise of Vietnamese Coffee
Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, and its coffee culture has deep roots dating back to the French colonial period in the 19th century. The French introduced coffee to Vietnam, but over time, the Vietnamese adapted it to their tastes, using ingredients like sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream to create unique variations. Today, coffee is an integral part of daily life, with street vendors, traditional cafés, and modern coffee chains serving an array of coffee-based drinks. Whether you opt for a self-guided coffee tour or choose from Vietnam holiday packages including flights, you’ll find no shortage of opportunities to experience the country’s coffee culture firsthand.
Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)
One of Vietnam’s most famous coffee creations is Egg Coffee or Cà Phê Trứng. This indulgent beverage was invented in the 1940s in Hanoi when milk was scarce, leading a resourceful bartender to experiment with egg yolk as a replacement. The result? A rich, velvety drink with a sweet, custard-like froth that perfectly complements the bitterness of Vietnamese coffee. The preparation involves whipping egg yolk with sweetened condensed milk and sugar before pouring it over strong, dark coffee. Best enjoyed in a traditional café in Hanoi, Egg Coffee is a must-try for coffee lovers exploring the country on Vietnam family holidays.
Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Dừa)
For a tropical twist on traditional coffee, Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Dừa) is a refreshing choice. This creamy, ice-blended drink combines Vietnamese coffee with coconut milk or coconut cream, often sweetened with condensed milk. The result is a delightful mix of strong coffee, natural coconut sweetness, and a slushy texture that’s perfect for Vietnam’s warm climate. Originating from the southern regions, Coconut Coffee has gained immense popularity and can be found in cafés across the country. For travellers looking for cheap holidays to Vietnam, this budget-friendly drink is a luxurious treat that won’t break the bank.
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Traditional Vietnamese Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)
No exploration of Vietnamese coffee culture is complete without experiencing Cà Phê Sữa Đá, the traditional iced coffee. Made using robusta coffee beans, this drink is brewed using a Phin filter, a slow-drip metal filter that allows for a strong and bold flavour. The coffee is then poured over ice and mixed with sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a perfectly balanced beverage—strong, sweet, and refreshing. Served in almost every café, roadside stall, and home across Vietnam, Cà Phê Sữa Đá remains a daily staple for locals and visitors alike.
Innovative Variations & Fusion Drinks
While traditional coffee styles remain popular, Vietnam’s coffee scene continues to evolve with exciting new variations. Some creative blends include:
- Yogurt Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Chua) – A unique combination of Vietnamese coffee and creamy yogurt, offering a slightly tangy yet sweet taste.
- Avocado Coffee (Cà Phê Bơ) – A rich and smooth blend where ripe avocado is mixed with coffee and condensed milk.
- Salt Coffee (Cà Phê Muối) – Originating from Hue, this lesser-known drink combines coffee with salted cream, enhancing its sweetness and depth.
These innovative drinks showcase Vietnam’s ability to reinvent its coffee traditions while maintaining its strong cultural identity.
The Coffee Experience in Vietnam
Beyond the drinks themselves, Vietnam’s café culture plays a crucial role in the coffee experience. Traditional coffee shops range from historic establishments in Hanoi’s Old Quarter to modern, Instagram-worthy cafés in Ho Chi Minh City. Many of these cafés still use the Phin filter, allowing customers to enjoy the slow, meditative process of coffee brewing. Sidewalk cafés, where locals sit on tiny plastic stools sipping their coffee while watching the bustling streets, reflect the country’s deep-rooted love for coffee.
For those keen to explore Vietnam’s vibrant coffee scene, numerous guided coffee tours are available, often included in Vietnam holiday packages. These tours provide a deep dive into the coffee-making process, from bean selection to brewing techniques, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
Vietnam’s coffee culture is a unique blend of tradition and innovation, offering an array of distinctive coffee drinks that cater to every palate. Whether you’re indulging in a cup of creamy Egg Coffee in Hanoi, sipping on Coconut Coffee by the beach, or enjoying a traditional Cà Phê Sữa Đá at a local café, Vietnamese coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a cultural experience. For travellers eager to immerse themselves in this rich coffee heritage, many Vietnam holiday packages, including flights, provide opportunities to explore and savour the country’s remarkable coffee culture. So, on your next visit, don’t just drink coffee—experience it, one cup at a time.
How to Make Vietnamese Coffee: Step-by-Step Guide
Brewing Vietnamese coffee at home is easier than you think — and the result is rich, bold, and deeply satisfying. Here’s how to do it right.
What you’ll need:
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2 tbsp Vietnamese ground coffee (like Trung Nguyên or Cafe Du Monde)
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2–3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
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Hot water (just off the boil)
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A phin filter (Vietnamese drip filter)
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A glass or heatproof cup
Step 1: Add the sweetened condensed milk
Start by adding 2 to 3 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into your glass. Adjust the amount depending on how sweet you like it.
Step 2: Load the phin filter
Place your phin filter on top of the glass. Add 2 tablespoons of ground coffee to the filter and level it gently with the press. Don’t tamp it down too hard.
Step 3: Bloom the coffee
Pour a small splash (around 20ml) of hot water into the filter. Let it sit for 30 seconds to bloom the coffee and release its aroma.
Step 4: Fill and drip
Top up the filter with hot water (about 150–200ml). Cover with the phin lid and let it drip. This part takes 4–5 minutes — slow and steady.
Step 5: Stir and sip
Once the dripping stops, remove the filter. Stir the condensed milk into the coffee until it’s fully blended.
Want it iced?
Pour your freshly brewed coffee over a tall glass filled with ice for a chilled version known as Cà Phê Sữa Đá.
That’s it!
Now you’ve got an authentic Vietnamese coffee that’s strong, sweet, and creamy — just like the locals enjoy it.
