What is Vietnamese Coffee ?

Vietnamese coffee (or iced coffee) delivers a strong, bold flavor that captures the essence of Vietnam’s rich coffee culture. Locals and travelers alike typically brew this dark roast using a unique phin filter and enjoy it with sweetened condensed milk for a smooth, balanced taste. Moreover, they savor this iconic drink daily across Vietnam—from busy street stalls to trendy cafés.

A Surprised Guide to Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnamese coffee delivers intense flavor and exceptional taste, as the French introduced it before it gained global fame. The “Vietnamese iced coffee” (cà phê sữa đá in Saigon – cà phê nâu đá in Hanoi ) are among the top variation of Coffees you find while visiting Vietnam.

Coffee is not just a drink but an important part of the daily life & the culture. In the diverse global coffee landscape, Vietnam is particularly distinguished by its signature coffee varieties, such as Robusta and Arabica. Additionally, there are numerous other unique types of coffee beans that contribute to the country’s distinct coffee identity. From the bold flavours of Vietnamese Robusta to the smooth taste of Vietnamese Arabica, the country offers a wide range of coffee experiences that continue to capture the attention of coffee enthusiasts around the world.

Vietnamese, however, have been added different variation to the coffee and convert it into something unique and flavorful. Egg-Coffee, yogurt or fruity coffee, and today, the country climbed up as the second largest coffee exporter in the world and the largest exporter of Robusta.

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8 Types of Coffee in Vietnam You Should Know about

One fact: Vietnamese been added different variation to the original coffee and convert it into something unique and flavorful. Egg-Coffee, yogurt or fruity coffee, with, or without ice, or even plain drink (cà phê đen) and today, Vietnam climbed up as the second largest coffee exporter in the world and the largest exporter of Robusta.

The local coffee refers to both the unique brewing method and the distinctive style of traditional Vietnamese roasting. Robusta beans are often roasted dark and seasoned with a touch of salt, butter, and whiskey to enhance the flavour. Additions like soybeans and corn help create a thicker, sweeter taste, making Vietnamese coffee, truly a unique drink.

1: Vietnamese Iced Coffee with Condensed Milk

One of the most popular types of coffee drinks is  “cà phê sữa đá or the iced coffee. Brewed using a traditional drip filter, the strong Robusta coffee is combined with sweetened condensed milk before being poured over ice. This classic drink offers a perfect balance of rich bitterness and creamy sweetness, making it refreshing yet bold. The iced coffee is the perfect choice at anytime, showcasing the unique flavors that define Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture.

To get straight to the point, people in Vietnam call this iced coffee by two different names. In Ho Chi Minh City, it’s known as Cà phê sữa đá, while in Hanoi and the north, it’s called Cà phê nâu đá. Translated into, milk coffee and brown coffee.

• Cost of a cup of Iced Coffee: ~25-45k VND (1-2 USD)

2: The “Egg Coffee” – Cà phê trứng

No, this isn’t an egg mixed with coffee. Egg coffee (cà phê trứng), originated in Hanoi in the 1940s when milk was scarce and egg yolks were used as a substitute. This rich and creamy drink is made by whipping egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk into a frothy foam, then combining it with dark Robusta coffee.

Often described as a local version of tiramisu, Vietnamese egg coffee offers a unique blend of textures and flavours. Although Café Giang in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is where egg coffee was first created, today many cafes offer their own take on this classic Hanoi invented drink, with some even improving on the original recipe.

• Cost of egg-coffee: 40-80k VND (2-3.5 USD)

3: Bạc xỉu: The mild milk coffee

If you want your morning coffee mild and milky, then, milk Coffee (Cà phê Bạc Xỉu) is surely on the menu. This is a popular Southern Vietnamese milk coffee known for its sweeter & creamier flavour. It’s made by mixing more milk than coffee, creating a milder, less intense coffee taste. The term “bạc xỉu” comes from Cantonese, used by the Chinese community in Saigon’s Chợ Lớn district. The milk coffee Bạc Xỉu is a surely the choice for those seeking a less bitter, more mild coffee taste.

• The milk coffee price: 30-50k VND (1.5-2.5 USD)

4: Iced Black Coffee: Cà Phê Đen Đá

Cà Phê Đen Đá is how local name this Vietnamese iced black coffee, a strong, refreshing coffee served over ice without milk or sugar. Made from robusta beans, it’s a bold, bitter flavoured coffee that appeals to purists to those who prefer their coffee in its most authentic taste and aroma. A cup of iced black coffee introduces the simple life-style of Vietnamese. This simple yet potent cup of coffee is perfect for those who enjoy a robust, no-frills coffee experience.

• Cost of a cup of iced black coffee: 20-30k VND (1 USD)

5: Coconut Coffee: Cà Phê Cốt Dừa

The coconut coffee is a newly invented take on traditional coffee, blending robusta coffee with creamy coconut milk and ice. This indulgent drink known as the Cà Phê Cốt Dừa is both refreshing and aromatic, and has become especially popular among younger generations in Vietnam. Typically made with a touch of condensed milk, coconut milk, and ice, some variations also incorporate brown coffee mixed with fresh milk and coconut milk. The Coconut coffee is a unique fusion of rich coffee and tropical coconut, creating a aromtic, creamy coffee that is now enjoyed by many in Vietnam.

• Cost of a cup of Coconut coffee: 50-70 VND (2-3 USD)

6: Hot Coffee Condensed Milk: Cà phê sữa nóng

Cà Phê Sữa Nóng is a hot coffee with condensed milk, this is a comforting variation of the popular iced coffee with condensed milk. This rich, velvety drink combines strong Vietnamese coffee with sweetened condensed milk and is served hot. Perfect for cooler weather, it offers a warm yet tasty experience with a perfect balance of bitterness and sweetness. The Vietnamese hot coffee with condensed milk is another classic choice for those who enjoy a creamy, smooth coffee specially during the cold winter days.

• Cost of a cup of hot milk coffee: 35-55k VND (1.5-2 USD)

7: Yogurt coffee: Cà Phê Sữa Chua

Well, the yogurt coffee, or cà phê sữa chua, is a refreshing drink that combines the creamy richness of yogurt with the boldness of coffee. This unique blend delivers a delightful taste, with yogurt for better digestion while coffee provides an energy boost and helps slow the aging process. Yogurt was brought to Vietnam during the French colonial era, this drink is often served with toppings like fresh fruit, fermented rice, or sweetened condensed milk.

• Price of a cup of Yogurt coffee: 50-60k VND (~2 USD)

8: The Weasel coffee: Cà phê chồn

Weasel coffee (Cà phê chồn) stands out as one of the most unique and luxurious coffees in the world. Civet cats (also known as weasels) eat the coffee cherries, and their digestive enzymes break down the proteins in the beans, creating a smoother, less bitter taste. Farmers collect the beans from the feces, clean them thoroughly, roast them, and turn them into a rich, earthy coffee with a smooth, complex flavor. Because the process requires significant time and care, weasel coffee ranks among the rarest and most expensive delicacies, highly sought after by coffee connoisseurs in Vietnam and beyond.

This type of coffee also known as the Civet coffee, Mink Coffee or Kopi luwak in different part of the world.

How much is the Weasel coffee?

Although not very common to see a cafe offer the expensive weasel coffee in Vietnam, however, the price of this type of coffee is not very different from any other place. A cup of weasel coffee costs from USD30 to USD (700-1200k VND), and to purchase a 100 grams of powdered  weasel coffee, it is approximately around USD150-200.

How To Make The Best Vietnamese Coffee At Home

Not too complicated, follow few easy steps to get yourself an authentic flavorful cup of Vietnamese coffee. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 tablespoons Vietnamese ground coffee

• 1-3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk, to taste

• 6-8 ounces nearly boiling water, to adjust coffee strength

1: Add boiled water into the Phin filter

Rinse the entire coffee filter with boiling water. This will clean the filter and preheat it, preventing heat loss during brewing.

2: Measure 3 tablespoons of ground coffee

Add up around 20-25 grams of ground coffee into the filter and use the lid to press it firmly. Do not shake the filter or compress the coffee, since doing so blocks the grounds, slows the drip, or completely clogs the filter. Carefully place the metal filter on top of the coffee powders.

3: Cover the filter & add 1/4 water

Cover the coffee filter and let is stay for awhile, then, add a gentle amount of boiled water on top of the ground coffee and allow to soak for about over 1 minute.

Place the Phin filter over a glass. Brewing in a glass rather than a mug allows you to observe the brewing process.

• A local tip: Boil the water, then allow it to cool for about half-a-minute, before pouring it over the coffee.

4: Add 3/4 water on top of the coffees

Your coffee is now ready to brew. Slowly, pour the hot water into the Phin filter, allowing it to drip through for 8 to 10 minutes. If the water flows too quickly, try pushing the top filter. If the coffee flows too slowly, the grind may be too fine or the filter too tightly screwed in, so adjust it accordingly.

5: Add condensed milk (optional)

This step is optional and it’s all based on your preference. Keep the coffee dark with ice (Cafe Đen Đá), or add your preferred amount of condensed milk (cà phê nâu đá). Enjoy your flavoured, authentic, aromatic Vietnamese coffee

13 of the Best Vietnamese coffee brands to buy as a souvenir

The range of Vietnamese coffee brands has expanded rapidly over the years, offering everything from traditional samples to exciting new brands that captivate coffee lovers around the world. These brands reflect Vietnam’s rich coffee culture, delivering an aromatic experience that appeals to enthusiasts.

• The coffee grounds usually cost around 90,000VND to 200.000VND for a pack of 300 to 500 grams.

1: Trung Nguyen Legend

Vietnam’s most iconic premium brand, founded by Dang Le Nguyen Vu in 1996, Trung Nguyen Legend has played a key role in promoting Vietnamese coffee both locally and internationally. Known for its high-quality, locally sourced beans and traditional roasting methods, the brand offers a variety of premium coffee products, including blends and single-origin coffees. The Trung Nguyen coffee is particularly famous for its distinctive aromas of the cheap local coffee.

2: Vina-Cafe

Known for its mild taste, Vina cafe is a renowned Vietnamese coffee brand, known for its high-quality products and significant contribution to the country’s coffee industry. Focused on using locally sourced beans and traditional roasting methods, the brand captures the authentic flavours of Vietnamese coffee. Vina-cafe offers a range of products, including instant coffee, ground coffee, and 3-in-1 mixes, with its instant coffee being particularly popular.

3: Viet Coffee

Viet Coffee offers premium specialty coffees and stands as a classic brand in Vietnam’s coffee culture. Offering a range of expertly crafted blends made from carefully sourced beans, it provides a superior coffee experience. In addition to its speciality coffees, the brand Viet Coffee offers convenient instant options and various brewing tools, including steepers, pour-overs, and pressure vacuums, catering to all types of coffee enthusiasts.

4: Chestbrew

ChestBrew brings the authentic taste local coffee to the consumers, specially in the United States. Specialising in whole bean coffee, the brand offers a high-quality experience that honours Vietnam’s rich coffee heritage. Founded by Minh Tran and Teresa Ma, the brand ChestBrew combines their personal connection to Vietnam with a deep understanding of the American market to deliver premium Vietnamese coffee beans.

5: Highlands Coffee

Founded in 1998 by David Thai, Highlands Coffee, is a popular Vietnamese coffeehouse chain with both domestic and international reach. The brand focuses on providing high-quality coffee in a welcoming setting, blending modern and traditional elements. Its menu includes Vietnamese coffee, espresso drinks, iced coffee, and seasonal offerings, even though not offered with competitive prices, but keep the value for customers, specially locals.

6: Phuc Long Coffee

Phuc Long Coffee & Tea House, established in 1968 in Bao Loc, in central highlands, began as a small tea and coffee shop and has since grown into a popular brand. Known for its high-quality Vietnamese tea and coffee, it focuses on traditional brewing methods and locally sourced ingredients. Its menu features both classic and innovative beverages, served in coffee shops with a comfortable, modern-traditional atmosphere.

7: King Coffee

Le Hoang Diep Thao founded King Coffee, a local brand known for its strong focus on quality and innovation. With a philosophy centred on providing a unique coffee experience, the brand has expanded internationally. King Coffee brand offers a wide range of products, including instant coffee, roasted beans, milk tea, and gift sets, sharing Vietnamese coffee culture with a global audience.

8: Cong Ca phe

Cong Caphe is a popular coffee-house chain started in 2007. Renowned for preserving Vietnam’s war theme in their coffee-shops across the country, its shops feature vintage decor that reflects the country’s history through photos and shades of the Vietnam war decorated around it’s shop. The menu includes traditional Vietnamese coffee, coconut iced coffee, and a selection of Vietnamese snacks and desserts, offering a unique and nostalgic coffee experience.

9: Vietnam Coffee Republic

Phong Lam founded the brand Coffee Republic, which stands out in the growing local coffee scene. Committed to connecting consumers with Vietnam’s rich coffee heritage, the brand offers exceptional coffee that reflects the essence of Vietnamese identity. In addition to ground coffee, it provides ready-to-drink options and coffee classes, promoting appreciation of Vietnamese coffee culture and its unique terroir.

10: Long thanh Coffee

This one, sources its beans from the Central Highlands and processes them in Ho Chi Minh City. Their signature blend combines Robusta, Peaberry, Arabica, and soybeans, creating a distinctive coffee experience. This blend showcases the rich flavours of Vietnamese coffee, offering a unique taste that reflects the country’s diverse coffee-growing regions.

11: La Viet Coffee

La Viet Coffee, founded in 2013 in Dalat, dedicates itself to elevating Vietnamese coffee to international standards. Committed to quality from seed to cup, the brand aims to position Vietnamese beans among the best globally. Beyond exceptional coffee, they also supports the coffee industry with consulting services, including menu development, equipment selection, and bar operation solutions.

12: The Married Beans

This Dalat-based coffee brand, Married Beans, embodies more than just a name—it reflects a passion for quality and sustainability. Committed to ethical production, the brand offers a diverse range of coffees, from specialty blends to classic filtered options. With a focus on craftsmanship and sustainability, The Married Beans delivers an exceptional coffee experience for discerning enthusiasts.

13: Cafe Mai

The Mai Cafe offers a variety of authentic coffees from renowned coffee regions like Buon Me Thuot and Dak Lak. The owner, Mr. Duy Anh, emphasises the importance of selecting high-quality beans and using unique roasting and grinding techniques. Each coffee variety grows in its ideal location, with Robusta thriving in Buon Me Thuot and Arabica flourishing in Nghe An.

FAQ: Coffee in Vietnam