Travelling through Vietnam, you quickly realise that coffee is more than a drink. Though coffee may have been brought to Vietnam by French colonists, Vietnamese people promptly adopted this morning ritual.
What Makes Vietnamese Coffee So Popular?
Vietnamese coffee is distinct from the historic streets of Hanoi to the bustling markets of the Mekong Delta. The most distinctive feature of Vietnamese coffee is its brewing method, often using a “phin,” a traditional Vietnamese drip filter. Some may claim that the taste comes from filter dripping, but the Vietnamese have a unique, deep flavour that comes from roasting it with rice wine, butter, and a dash of salt. This final component accounts for the slightly greasy feel of Vietnamese slow-drip coffee. Certain roasteries incorporate flavours like chocolate or caramel, catering largely to the preferences of regional coffee consumers.
In urban areas like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, coffee shops often reflect a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. You’ll find classic settings with low wooden tables and stools, as well as trendy spots with modern décor and creative coffee variations. Regardless of the setting, the essence of Vietnamese coffee culture remains the same: enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee in good company.
The Popular Types
From bustling cities to serene countryside, here are the various types of Vietnamese coffee:
- Cà Phê Sữa Đá (Iced Coffee with Sweetened Condensed Milk)
Perhaps the most iconic type of Vietnamese coffee, Cà Phê Sữa Đá is made by mixing strong, dark coffee with sweetened condensed milk and pouring it over ice. The result is a rich, creamy, and refreshing drink perfect for hot weather. - Cà Phê Đen (Black Coffee)
This is the simplest form of Vietnamese coffee, brewed using the phin and served black. It’s intensely strong and bitter. - Cà Phê Trứng (Egg Coffee)
Invented in Hanoi in the 1940s, Cà Phê Trứng is a unique and indulgent coffee. The coffee contains egg yolks whipped with sugar and sweetened condensed milk to create a frothy, custard-like topping. - Cà Phê Muối (Salt Coffee)
Originating from the ancient city of Hue, Cà Phê Muối is a unique variant where a small pinch of salt is added to the coffee. - Cà Phê Dừa (Coconut Coffee)
Cà Phê Dừa is a tropical twist on traditional Vietnamese coffee, blending strong coffee with coconut milk or cream and ice.
Whether you’re savouring a rich egg coffee in Hanoi, enjoying a refreshing iced coffee in Saigon, or exploring the coffee plantations of the Central Highlands, every cup tells a story.
Cover image credits: Canva