Vietnam is a sought-after travel destination known for its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. One of its most fascinating aspects is the vibrant coffee culture deeply embedded in Vietnamese daily life. Coffee has become an essential part of social gatherings and hospitality, with coffee shops serving as popular meeting spots for both locals and tourists.
This article will delve into the captivating world of Vietnamese coffee and its various types, showcasing what makes Vietnam famous for its distinct coffee offerings. Understanding Vietnamese coffee culture will provide valuable insights into the nation’s history, traditions, and flavors!
Table of Contents
A Glimpse Into Vietnamese Coffee Culture
The culture of Vietnamese coffee has a rich historical foundation, originating from the French colonial period in the 19th century. Coffee was introduced to Vietnam by the French in 1857. According to recorded documents, Arabica was the first coffee variety brought to the Vietnamese market in 1887.
In 1908, the French introduced two more coffee types to Vietnam that were better suited to the local soil conditions: Robusta (Coffea canephora) and Excelsa (Coffea excelsa). The French continued experimenting with various other varieties.
During the French colonial period, large coffee plantations were established, which helped improve both the productivity and quality of the coffee. After 1975, the plantations were nationalized, and the government encouraged farmers to cultivate coffee. Thanks to the Đổi Mới (Renovation) policy in 1986, the coffee industry experienced significant growth, positioning Vietnam as the second-largest coffee producer in the world.
Today, coffee is not just a drink, it plays a significant role in social gatherings and daily routines. Drinking coffee in Vietnam is a sociable pastime. Coffee shops serve as vibrant meeting spots for friends, families, locals, and tourists, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie.
The traditional art of preparing and serving Vietnamese coffee is a fascinating experience in itself. The iconic Vietnamese iced coffee, known as “ca phe sua da,” is a must-try. It is made by combining strong drip coffee with sweetened condensed milk, resulting in a delightful blend of bitterness and sweetness.
Another unique offering is “ca phe trung,” or egg coffee, where egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk are whipped together to create a velvety and flavorful topping for a hot cup of coffee. These traditional methods, along with innovative variations like “ca phe cot dua” (coconut coffee) and customizable options for “ca phe den” (black coffee), exemplify the diversity and ingenuity of Vietnam coffee culture.
Coffee bean varieties
Currently, Vietnam has three main types of coffee:
1. Arabica coffee beans (Cà phê chè)
Arabica coffee accounts for 61% of total coffee exports worldwide. Because this is a plant that likes to grow in highlands and cold climates, the planted area is only about 10% of the total coffee cultivation area, mainly concentrated in the northern highlands and some small areas in Lam Dong, Dak Lak, Kontum, Pleiku (Gia Lai), and Son La are the main growing places, thanks to the high terrain, cool climate, lots of rain and fog.
This coffee tree has a small stem and canopy, slightly long beans, a slightly bitter, slightly sour flavor,and a gentle aroma, and when brewed, it has a light brown color. Vietnamese Arabica includes two main types: Catimor with a strong aroma and mild sour taste, and Moka with a light aroma and bland taste.
2. Robusta coffee beans (Cà phê vối)
Vietnam is the world’s leading exporter of Robusta coffee. This achievement is due to the climatic characteristics, rainfall, and altitude of the Central Highlands, especially the basalt soil of Gia Lai and Đắk Lắk, with an altitude of below 600 meters, which are very suitable for growing Robusta.
Robusta coffee beans are smaller than Arabica coffee beans and are dried directly instead of fermented, so the taste is more bitter, leading to lower prices. Additionally, the caffeine content in Robusta beans is around 2-4%, higher than that of Arabica coffee (also known as coffee cherries), which is only about 1-2%. Robusta coffee beans have a mild aroma of earth, wood, and nuts, and the brewed coffee has a rich brown color and thick consistency, which suits the strong flavor preference of Vietnamese people.
The cultivation of Robusta coffee has helped Vietnam become a major coffee-exporting country, significantly contributing to the national economy and creating millions of jobs for people, especially in the rural areas of the Central Highlands. Coffee is not only an economic product but also an important part of Vietnam’s culinary culture.
3. Cherry coffee beans (Cà phê mít)
Cherry Coffee, also known as jackfruit coffee, stands out with its distinct characteristics, differentiating it from the two more popular types of coffee, Arabica and Robusta. Cherry coffee is primarily grown in the highlands of Vietnam, such as Gia Lai, Kon Tum, and Lâm Đồng, while in well-known areas like Đắk Lắk and Buôn Ma Thuột, the cultivation area for this type of coffee is relatively insignificant. This coffee plant is renowned for its good resistance to pests and high yield, allowing farmers to cultivate it with peace of mind, free from concerns about pests or climate issues.
Cherry coffee includes two main types, Liberica and Excelsa, both of which have yellow, glossy beans and a mild aroma when brewed. The taste of Cherry coffee is unique, with a combination of light acidity and a captivating aroma, providing a pleasant and relaxing sensation for the drinker. What makes Cherry coffee particularly appealing is its lack of bitterness, making it a preferred choice for many, especially women who appreciate a lighter and more delicate flavor in their cup of coffee.
When brewed, Cherry coffee beans reveal a symphony of enchanting aromas, including hints of jackfruit and cherry, followed by a gentle blend of chocolate, ripe fruit, and spice. With these distinctive characteristics, Cherry Coffee not only offers a unique tasting experience but also solidifies its place in the hearts of coffee lovers, particularly in the Vietnamese market.
Most Popular Types Of Coffee In Vietnam
Learn about the diversified coffee culture of Vietnam, including its enjoyable experiences and distinctive preparation techniques. We’ll explore some of the most well-liked and well-known varieties of Vietnamese coffee here!
Traditional Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da)
One of the most iconic and refreshing choices, traditional Vietnamese iced coffee, or Ca Phe Sua Da, is a must-try for any coffee enthusiast. To prepare this delicious beverage, coarsely ground dark roasted robusta coffee beans are brewed using a drip filter (phin) directly over a glass filled with a layer of sweetened condensed milk.
As the hot coffee drips down into the milk, it creates a perfect balance of intense coffee flavor and creamy sweetness. The coffee is then stirred with ice, resulting in a cold and invigorating drink, perfect for the warm Vietnamese climate.
Bac Xiu
Bạc xỉu, a renowned beverage originating from Southern Vietnam, is a unique blend of condensed milk, hot fresh milk, and coffee. Introduced by the Chinese community in Saigon in the 1950s, bạc xỉu initially emerged during a period of hardship when fresh milk was scarce and expensive.
People creatively mixed condensed milk with hot water and a bit of coffee to reduce sweetness and create a more palatable flavor. Over time, hot fresh milk replaced hot water to enhance richness. Bạc xỉu boasts a mild, lightly bitter flavor, ideal for those who enjoy coffee’s aroma without its strong intensity.
Simple yet familiar, bạc xỉu can be easily found in any coffee shop, from sidewalk stalls to upscale cafes, and it is a part of Saigon’s rich culinary heritage blending Chinese, Vietnamese, and French influences.
Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)
Considered a true Vietnamese specialty, egg coffee, or Ca Phe Trung, offers a uniquely decadent and velvety experience. The preparation involves beating egg yolks with sugar and sweetened condensed milk to create a creamy, frothy mixture.
Robusta coffee is brewed separately and poured into a cup, followed by the delicate egg mixture on top, creating a delightful contrast of textures for this creamy coffee. The result is a rich, smooth, and slightly sweet concoction reminiscent of a coffee-infused custard. Egg coffee is a beloved treat that showcases the creativity and inventiveness of Vietnamese coffee culture.
Related Article: Some best place to get egg coffee in Hanoi
Coconut Coffee (Ca Phe Cot Dua)
For those seeking a tropical twist to their coffee, Vietnamese coconut coffee, or Ca Phe Cot Dua, provides a delightful fusion of flavors. This unique creation combines Vietnamese robusta coffee with fresh milk, coconut milk, and condensed milk offering a harmonious blend of nutty and earthy undertones.
The coffee is served over ice, creating a refreshing and energizing drink perfect for cooling down during hot days. Coconut coffee embodies the exotic essence of Vietnam and showcases the country’s ability to innovate while honoring its traditional coffee roots.
Iced Black Coffee (Ca Phe Den)
For purists who prefer a straightforward coffee experience, Ca Phe Den, or black coffee, is the way to go. Made simply with freshly brewed robusta coffee and water, this bold and robust drink highlights the true essence of Vietnamese coffee beans.
The strength and richness of the coffee can be customized by adding sugar or condensed milk, allowing coffee enthusiasts to enjoy it according to their preference. Ca Phe Den is a staple choice for locals and a great way to savor the authentic flavors of Vietnam’s coffee culture.
Salted Coffee
Salt coffee, a unique specialty from Huế, is an exquisite combination of coffee, milk, and a touch of salt. Adding salt to coffee releases sodium ions, reducing the bitterness and enhancing the flavor, resulting in a more aromatic and enticing brew.
Despite the unusual pairing of salt with coffee, it accentuates the robust flavor and enriches the sweet aroma of milk. Salt coffee not only offers a distinctive and refreshing taste but also provides a worthwhile experience for coffee enthusiasts to try.
Yoghurt Coffee
Other than the strange and curious egg coffee, Vietnamese yogurt coffee, or yogurt coffee, is no less delicious. This refreshing drink features a blend of crushed ice, slightly sweetened creamy yogurt, and bold Vietnamese black coffee, creating a perfect remedy for hot days. While some may initially find the combination unusual, trying a glass of yogurt coffee in Vietnam is a must.
The harmonious fusion of flavors and textures offers a unique experience that is sure to captivate the taste buds and leave a lasting impression on coffee enthusiasts and adventurous travelers alike.
Coffee Farming In Vietnam
Coffee cultivation has deep roots in Vietnam and has emerged as a vital industry in the country. The favorable climate, fertile soil, and suitable altitude in certain regions create ideal conditions for coffee farming. While coffee was introduced to Vietnam by the French in the 19th century, it wasn’t until the 20th century that coffee production took off, and it has since grown exponentially.
Vietnam’s coffee industry centers on Robusta coffee beans, flourishing in the tropical climate, constituting the majority of the country’s coffee production, and infusing Vietnamese coffee with its distinctive and robust flavor profile. The Central Highlands, particularly the provinces of Daklak and Lam Dong, are the main coffee-growing regions, producing a significant portion of the nation’s coffee.
Daklak
Daklak, located in the Central Highlands, is often referred to as the “capital of Vietnamese coffee.” This province boasts vast coffee plantations and is home to some of the country’s oldest and most traditional coffee farms. One prominent coffee farming destination in Daklak is Buon Me Thuoc, a charming town surrounded by rolling hills adorned with coffee plantations. Buon Me Thuoc offers a glimpse into the authentic and time-honored coffee cultivation techniques that have been passed down through generations of coffee farmers.
Lam Dong
Lam Dong, another prominent province in the Vietnam’s Central Highlands, is recognized for its stunning landscapes and flourishing coffee plantations. The picturesque hill town of Dalat in Lam Dong is a popular tourist destination and a great starting point for visitors interested in exploring the coffee farms of the region. The farms in Lam Dong often embrace sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, making them a prime destination for eco-conscious travelers.
Coffee farming in Daklak and Lam Dong not only showcases the agricultural expertise of Vietnamese farmers but also offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with the heart of Vietnamese coffee culture. Understanding the journey from Vietnamese coffee beans bean to cup enriches the overall appreciation of the country’s beloved beverage and its impact on Vietnam’s economy and communities.
Must-Visit Coffee Farms
When exploring Vietnam’s coffee culture, visiting coffee farms provides a unique and immersive experience for travelers. Two prominent coffee farms worth considering are Aeroco Coffee and K’ho Coffee:
Aeroco Coffee
Nestled beside the serene Eakao Lake, 12km southeast of Buon Ma Thuot city in the Central Highlands, Aeroco Coffee farm offers a picturesque setting that complements the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. Passion, enthusiasm, and precision go into creating premium quality coffee at Aeroco Farm, utilizing sustainable processes throughout the production lifecycle. The coffee beans are hand-selected from organically grown coffee cherries, ensuring that only the finest and specialty coffee is produced.
Aeroco Coffee’s commitment to preserving the natural flavors of the coffee is evident in their fully enclosed end-to-end processes, from planting seeds to selective harvesting, processing, storage, roasting, and packaging. As a result, every cup of Aeroco Coffee is rich in flavor and boasts its own unique aroma. The farm’s impressive accolades, including Arabica Champion (in 2020 and 2022) and recognition at the Vietnam Amazing Cup, further underscore the dedication to producing exceptional coffee.
K’ho Coffee
K’ho Coffee, located on Langbiang Mountain in Dalat, Vietnam, is a cooperative of families dedicated to growing high-quality Arabica coffee. With a focus on environmentally friendly practices and direct trade, K’ho Coffee aims to create more value at the origin and support the local farming economy. The farm carefully follows each step of the coffee-making process, from harvest selection to roasting, to ensure the best possible quality.
Embracing sustainability, K’ho Coffee continuously plants and preserves old-world heirloom Arabica coffee varieties, passed down through generations, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking a responsible and authentic coffee experience in the heart of Vietnam!
Both Aeroco Coffee and K’ho Coffee offer distinctive experiences that showcase the dedication and innovation within Vietnam’s coffee farming community. A visit to these coffee farms not only allows travelers to savor the flavors of their exceptional brews but also to gain an appreciation for the sustainable practices and cultural significance of coffee in Vietnam.
Best place to get coffee in Ho Chi Minh City
GrandMUM Cafe
A café deeply imbued with Vietnamese culture in every decorative detail. Here, you can practice making coffee and learn about its origins. With a cozy atmosphere reflecting the colors of Tet and the countryside, it offers a wonderful experience.
- 67B Dinh Cong Trang Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, HCMC
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:00
EveryHalf Coffee Roasters
A café with a modern, cool style that is close to nature. Every month, there are coffee-related activities that you can check out.
- 6E Tu Xuong Street, District 3, HCMC, or any of their branches
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 22:00
The Hummingbird Café & Roastery
The Hummingbird Café & Roastery makes its mark with coffee drinks mixed with ice cream scoops and a variety of pastries. The café’s design resembles old houses from the 2000s.
- 103BIS Vo Thi Sau Street, Ward 6, District 3, HCMC
- Opening hours: Everyday: 8:00 – 19:00, Weekend: 8:00 – 21:00
Saigon Coffee Roastery
The coffee here is a combination of the quality of green beans from Da Lat and around the world such as Kenya, Ethiopia, and Elsalvado… and the skillful art of roasting along with modern machinery through the skill of the Baristas will bring you interesting cups of coffee.
- 232/13 Vo Thi Sau Street, Vo Thi Sau Ward, District 3, HCMC
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 22:00
Thaiyen Cafe
No. 79/2/1 Phan Ke Binh Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC (or No. 8 Tran Quy Khoach, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, HCMC)
Love hidden gem things? Explore the top 10 charming ‘Cafe Apartment’ coffee shops in Ho Chi Minh City!
Best place to get coffee in Dalat
S Coffee Roastery
Where you can relax, listen to Trinh’s music and look at the classic space. The drinks at S Coffee are not only delicious dishes from Da Lat but also the flavors of coffee blends in Southeast Asian countries.
- No. 38 Luong The Vinh Street, Ward 3, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 20:00
Anna’s Coffee House
Anna’s Coffee House leaves a lasting impression, mainly because of its beautiful setting, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal or a hot cup of wonderfully brewed coffee.
- B Dong Da, Ward 3 At Robin Hill, near the cable car, opposite the motorbike parking, Da Lat Vietnam
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 17:30
Best place to get coffee in Danang City
Ala Cafe
You can visit Àla to drink coffee and watch the hot, fragrant batches of roasted beans being born. With the desire to introduce to everyone how delicious Vietnamese coffee is, coffee is not only bitter and black. It is also a world of scent and taste.
- K113/27 Nguyen Chi Thanh Street, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 22:00
XLIII Coffee
XLIII Coffee Hoi An Ancient Town is designed in the familiar black-white tone with the highlight of balanced green trees and creates a simple but not boring space. The shop space is divided according to the needs: chatting, working, and discovering the process of creating a cup of coffee.
- Lot 422 Ngo Thi Si My An, Ngu Hanh Son, My An, Da Nang
- Opening hours: 6:30 – 22:30
Best place to get coffee in Hanoi
3C Roastery
Spreading a message of drinking clean, healthy coffee, creative coffee with different experiences to Vietnamese people, towards a clean, high-quality coffee-drinking community.
- No. 21 Alley 30, Mai Anh Tuan Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 6:30 – 19:00
Phin Bar by Refined
Until now, Refined. one of the pioneering coffee shops in Hanoi is testing the Pour Over model – brewing coffee using the drip method through filter paper. Tu Vu – the shop owner used a Vietnamese filter, something imbued with traditional culture.
- 43 Van Mieu Street, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 18:30.
Giang Cafe
Café Giảng, headquartered in Hanoi, Vietnam, is the birthplace of egg coffee, invented by Mr. Nguyễn Văn Giảng, the father of the current owner, in 1946. Therefore, here you can enjoy the authentic flavor of egg coffee.
- No. 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 22:00
Dinh Cafe
Đinh Café, which boasts some of the best coffee in Hanoi. Welcoming visitors since the 1990s, this cafe is located on the second floor of an old house with French architecture, with a small balcony offering a view of Hoan Kiem Lake.
- 2nd Floor, No. 13 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Bac Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 22:00
Experts Recommendation
Tips For A Delightful Vietnamese Coffee Experience
When trying to drink Vietnamese coffee, there are a few tips to enhance your coffee experience.
Firstly, be prepared for its robust flavor, as Vietnamese coffee is typically brewed using robusta beans. If you prefer a milder taste, opt for Arabica coffee options.
Secondly, explore the various coffee types like traditional iced coffee, egg coffee, and coconut coffee to discover your favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize your coffee by adjusting sugar and milk levels to suit your taste.
Thirdly, cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City boast an array of captivating, exquisitely designed specialty coffee havens. Don’t miss out on the chance to try some of the best coffee shops in these vibrant cities!
Lastly, venture into local coffee shops and interact with the barista to gain insights into the coffee culture and learn about different coffee names and options.
Ready For Your Coffee In Vietnam?
In a nutshell, Vietnamese coffee culture offers a captivating journey into the heart of this nation. From the bustling coffee shops to the serene coffee farms in Daklak and Lam Dong, coffee has become an integral part of Vietnamese life.
Exploring local coffee shops and farm visits provide travelers with a deeper understanding of the rich social culture and sustainable practices behind Vietnam’s beloved beverage. Each cup of Vietnamese coffee carries a story, making this journey through flavors and traditions an authentic and unforgettable experience!
Frequently Asked Question
Vietnam is indeed famous for coffee. As the second-largest coffee producer in the world, Vietnam accounts for over 18% of global coffee exports, second only to rice in terms of the country’s exported commodities. Vietnamese coffee, particularly robusta beans, is known for its rich and strong flavor, often brewed using a unique drip filter called a “phin.”
The coffee culture in Vietnam is vibrant, with traditional coffeehouses, known as “cà phê,” being popular among both locals and tourists. The coffee industry plays a significant role in Vietnam’s economy and cultural identity. Recently, Vietnam’s iced milk coffee, “cà phê sữa đá,” was ranked second in the top 10 best-rated coffee drinks in the world by the famous culinary website Taste Atlas, further cementing its reputation on the global stage.
Vietnamese coffee is considered exceptional for several reasons. Many coffee enthusiasts regard Vietnam’s iced milk coffee, made with robusta beans and condensed milk, as the best in the world. Vietnamese coffee is celebrated for its rich and distinctive flavor. Robusta beans, one of the two primary types of coffee beans used in Vietnamese coffee, tend to be more bitter and robust than Arabica beans.
This strong flavor makes robusta beans the preferred choice for traditional Vietnamese drip coffee, known as “phin.” Additionally, the astringency of Vietnamese coffee allows for the creation of various beverages that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The unique brewing methods and the characteristic bitter taste have made Vietnamese coffee a renowned drink worldwide, appreciated for its flavor and the cultural authenticity and innovation of Vietnamese preparation techniques.
A prominent aspect is the “cà phê cóc” or sidewalk coffee culture, where simple, unassuming coffee stalls with small plastic chairs and tables draw numerous locals. Whether on a quiet street corner or a bustling boulevard, these spots provide a space for people to relax, reflect, and engage in conversations while savoring their coffee.
Vietnamese coffee is typically brewed using a drip filter known as “phin,” which allows the coffee to drip slowly into the cup, reminiscent of a ticking clock. This slow process encourages a leisurely pace, contrasting with the quick consumption often seen in Western coffee culture. People might add condensed milk for sweetness or enjoy the coffee black to appreciate its bold, bitter flavor.
Vietnamese coffee stands out for its unique and diverse preparation methods, which extend beyond just adding milk and sugar. There are five distinctive types of Vietnamese coffee: salt coffee, egg coffee, coconut coffee, fruit coffee, and yogurt coffee. Notably, egg coffee, made with egg yolk, sugar, condensed milk, and robusta coffee, is renowned globally for its uniqueness and rich, creamy flavor.
This variety and creativity in preparation set Vietnamese coffee apart, offering a wide range of flavors and experiences that are not commonly found in other coffee cultures.
Vietnamese people drink so much coffee because it has become an integral part of their daily routine and social culture. This evolution turned coffee drinking into a cultural experience rather than just a way to quench thirst. Approximately 80% of Vietnamese people regularly enjoy coffee, with many having a deep passion for it.
Coffee shops are central to the social fabric of Vietnamese cities and towns, serving as popular venues for meeting friends, conducting business, or simply people-watching, which encourages frequent visits. For many, a strong cup of coffee is the essential start to their day, providing the needed energy boost.
Vietnamese coffee is typically made using robusta beans, which are known for their strong flavor and high caffeine content. The coffee is often brewed using a drip filter called a “phin,” which ensures a clean and rich brew. As with any food or drink, it’s important to consume it in moderation, especially given the high caffeine levels in robusta coffee.
Additionally, purchasing coffee from reputable sources and well-known coffee shops ensures quality and safety. In recent years, Vietnam has made significant strides in regulating its coffee production to meet international standards, ensuring that both locally consumed and exported coffee is safe to drink.
