Ranked as the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, Vietnamese coffee is hard to miss for coffee lovers around the globe. Beyond its international popularity, coffee is an essence of Vietnam’s culture and it’s much more a way of life than just a beverage. In fact, kicking the day off with a cup of ca phe den (black coffee) or ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) is an everyday routine here! Without further ado, in this blog, we’ll be your local friends, sharing stories about Vietnamese coffee culture and showing you how to enjoy it just like a local.
The history of Vietnamese coffee
With nearly 200 years of engagement in the everyday lives of many Vietnamese, it’s no wonder that Vietnamese coffee has a rich and storied history. It traces back to the mid-19th century when French missionaries first introduced Arabica coffee in 1857, initially planting it near churches in the north. However, the climate in these areas proved unfavorable for cultivation, prompting a shift to the highland regions, particularly the Central Highlands, such as Đắk Lắk and Tây Nguyên, where the climate and soil provide optimal conditions for coffee growing.
And later in 1908, the French continued to bring Robusta and Excelsa coffee. Over the coming decades, the ‘Doi Moi’ economic renovation era of 1987 significantly opened the country to trade, marking the time that truly launched Vietnamese coffee onto the global stage.
After the economic recovery, the coffee development program was encouraged to expand in the Central Highlands and southeastern provinces. The variety chosen for expansion was Robusta coffee, which thrives in hot and humid climates—just like much of Vietnam’s weather. Not only did the focus remain on boosting Robusta, but Arabica also found ways to flourish despite less-than-ideal planting conditions. Vietnamese farmers drew on their traditional techniques and expertise to create innovative methods for growing and processing coffee beans that are tailored to local conditions.
Soon after, Vietnam surpassed Colombia to become the world’s second-largest coffee producer, trailing only Brazil by the end of the 1990s.
Different types of coffee in Vietnam
Cà phê đen – Black coffee
As the most traditional form of Vietnamese coffee, black iced-coffee represents a strong, aromatic flavor that appeals to true coffee aficionados.(1) Brewed using a traditional filter known as “phin”, it showcases the rich characteristics of robusta beans, delivering a dark, bitter taste complemented by a distinctive sour note that lingers pleasantly on the palate. For most Vietnamese seniors, this is their go-to cup in the morning as they sit at sidewalk cafes, slowly sipping and enjoying the beauty of life.
Cà phê sữa đá – Condensed milk iced coffee
If you find “cà phê đen” too bitter and difficult to drink, a better option is to indulge in the sweeter and creamier version—condensed milk iced coffee. Crafted with the same brewing method as black coffee but enriched with condensed milk, this drink strikes a perfect harmony of flavors, combining the bold bitterness of the coffee with the rich sweetness of the milk. Generally, this ‘Brown Ice’ drink is often favored by those who appreciate a more balanced taste, making it a delightful choice for anyone looking to enjoy a smoother coffee experience.
Bạc xỉu – White coffee
The term “Bạc xỉu” is originated from Chinese community in Saigon’s historic Cho Lon district. In Cantonese, ‘Bạc’ means white, and ‘xỉu’ means coffee, the name also reflected in the way they made this drink – more milk than coffee. In the past, white coffee was served hot, accompanied by a bowl of hot water to keep it warm throughout. To fully appreciate its flavor, people would gently stir the milk from the bottom to blend it evenly, then savor it sip by sip, allowing the rich, sweetened taste to unfold gradually.
Cà phê trứng – Egg coffee
Is there a way to craft a wonderful cup of coffee without milk? For a Vietnamese man in Hanoi, the simple answer was egg. During the French war, when milk was scarce, he came up with this ingenious idea and seemingly rescued coffee lovers across the country. Egg coffee became a perfect blend, with creamy, dense, frothy foam floating on top, creating a rich and velvety experience that captured the hearts of many. Today, it remains a favorite drink among expats and Vietnamese.
Cà phê cốt dừa – Coconut coffee
Believed to have originated in Southern Vietnam, coconut coffee is a delightful blend of four key ingredients: condensed milk, coconut milk, fresh milk, and, of course, robust Vietnamese coffee. This coffee concoction represents the Vietnamese people’s love for coconut-based delicacies, showcasing that there are no limits to their creativity with coffee—their beloved drink. If you’re curious about the taste, coconut coffee offers a slight bitterness from the pure coffee, beautifully balanced by the luscious sweetness of coconut milk and condensed milk; it’s a symphony of flavors that captivates the senses.
Cà phê muối – Salted coffee
One of the most beloved beverages in Vietnam is Cà phê muối, or salt coffee, which originated in a quaint, simply decorated coffee shop in Hue city, located in central Vietnam. It features a strange but unique combination of condensed milk, salt, and black coffee. Once you try salt coffee for the first time, you’ll quickly understand why it has maintained its enduring popularity in Vietnam. It’s not just sweet; you’ll notice a subtle salty finish that might surprise you at first. Trust me, it’s not strange—it’s precisely what makes this drink stand out!
For your wonder, these are ways to enjoy like a local
Unwind at sit-down coffee shops – an iconic way to enjoy a coffee
In Vietnam, coffee is more than just a quick refreshment; it’s an opportunity for friends to connect and socialize. It’s not uncommon to see young people gathering at sidewalk or park vendors, enjoying each other’s presence and sharing stories of their lives as they sip their favorite drinks.
Try our traditional basket coffee
If you come to Saigon, you should try coffee brewed using a traditional method with a cloth filter to extract its rich flavors. The art of basket coffee is all about patience and precision, allowing the water to slowly seep through the grounds, resulting in a cup that’s both robust and aromatic.
Savor the delight of dipping bread in condensed milk coffee
Though it may sound peculiar, many Vietnamese believe this pairing goes beyond deliciousness. The crispiness of bánh mì dipped in sweet coffee is a culinary adventure you should definitely experience.
Discover hidden cafes in Saigon old apartments
Enjoying a cup of coffee is a beloved pastime for many around the globe. However, in Vietnam, there’s an exciting twist—exploring new, hidden coffee spots. Many old apartments in Saigon have been transformed into charming cafes, each with its own unique character. As you wander through these converted spaces, you’ll discover warming atmospheres and intriguing decor that offer a refreshing break from the ordinary café experience.
What a missing out if you haven’t tried Vietnamese beer! Check out our Vietnamese Beer: The Essence of Endless Stories to dive deeper into the vibrant culture of Vietnamese beer. And for recommendations on must-visit drinking spots, check out Vietnam’s Craft Beer Evolution: An Insider’s Guide to Local Brands & Breweries.