9 Best Vietnamese Coffee Drinks to Try
Looking to try authentic Vietnamese coffee? Explore this guide to the must-try coffee drinks in Vietnam, from cà phê đen to coconut coffee.
Vietnamese coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a whole experience, and one that I think you’re going to love.
Imagine sipping on a cup of strong, bold coffee, brewed slowly in a traditional phin filter, while you watch the world go by.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene beaches of Da Nang, Vietnamese coffee culture is something truly special.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best Vietnamese coffee to try, from the classic black coffee to unique creations like egg coffee and coconut coffee.
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just looking to try something new, this guide has got you covered.
9 Must-Try Vietnamese Coffee
1. Black Coffee (Cà Phê Đen)
If you’re into strong, bold coffee, then cà phê đen is a must-try. It’s the backbone of Vietnamese coffee culture, and it’s not for the faint-hearted.
Brewed with a traditional Phin dripper, this coffee is all about that rich, bitter flavor.
Locals usually add a bit of sugar, which I think really brings out those deep chocolatey notes in the beans.
I’ve tried it both ways—sugar and no sugar—and trust me, a little sweetness makes a big difference.
You can find cà phê đen pretty much everywhere in Vietnam, from tiny street stalls to hip cafés. Just ask for it without sugar (“không đường”) if you want the full, unfiltered experience.
2. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa)
Cà phê sữa đá is the perfect pick-me-up on a hot day.
This Vietnamese iced coffee is a mix of strong, dark brew and sweetened condensed milk, poured over ice to make a refreshing, creamy drink.
It’s a drink you can’t miss when you’re in Vietnam, and you’ll find it everywhere, from local vendors to fancy coffee shops.
Plus, it’s usually served with a side of people-watching, which is just as good as the coffee itself!
3. Coffee with Fresh Milk (Cà Phê Sữa Tươi)
If you’re not into the super sweet condensed milk, then cà phê sữa tươi is the way to go.
It’s basically black coffee with fresh milk instead of the usual condensed stuff.
This coffee has a smoother, more mellow taste compared to the traditional cà phê sữa đá.
It’s not as common in Vietnam, so you might have to do a bit of searching, but it’s becoming more popular as people look for lighter, less sweet options.
I found a great spot in Saigon that served it perfectly—just the right balance of rich coffee and creamy milk.
Give it a try if you’re looking for something a bit different!
4. Cà Phê Bạc Xỉu
If you like your coffee on the milky side, then cà phê bạc xỉu is right up your alley.
This drink is mostly milk with just a splash of coffee, making it super creamy and light on the caffeine.
It’s perfect for those mornings when you want something comforting without the full jolt of a strong coffee.
I was surprised at how much I enjoyed this, especially when I needed a break from the intense brews.
You can find it at most cafes, and it’s usually made with either condensed or fresh milk.
Just ask if you’re not sure which one they’re using—you might end up with a new favorite!
5. Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng)
Egg coffee might sound a little strange at first, but it’s a must-try when you’re in Vietnam.
This drink is like dessert in a cup—a rich, velvety mix of strong coffee topped with whipped egg yolk and sweetened condensed milk.
I had cà phê trứng in Hanoi, and it totally blew my mind. The creamy, almost custard-like layer on top blends perfectly with the bold coffee underneath.
It’s usually served hot, with the cup nestled in a bowl of hot water to keep it warm, but you can also find iced versions if that’s more your style.
You’ll find this unique coffee in cafes all over Hanoi, but Café Giảng is a great spot to start.
6. Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Cốt Dừa)
Coconut coffee, or cà phê cốt dừa, is like a tropical vacation in a cup.
This drink combines the rich taste of Vietnamese coffee with creamy coconut milk and sometimes even a bit of whipped cream on top.
The coconut adds a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold coffee, making it feel almost like a dessert.
Most places serve it iced, but you can find hot versions if that’s your thing.
It’s a popular choice in coastal areas like Da Nang and Nha Trang, but you’ll find it all over the country. Don’t miss out on this one!
7. Vietnamese Salted Coffee (Cà Phê Muối)
Salted coffee, or cà phê muối, might sound unusual, but it’s one of those drinks that really surprises you.
Imagine a rich, sweetened black coffee topped with a layer of salted cream—sounds different, right?
The first time I had it was in Huế, where this drink supposedly originated, and I was instantly hooked.
The combination of the salty cream with the sweet coffee creates this incredible balance of flavors that’s hard to resist.
It’s not as widely available as some other Vietnamese coffee drinks, but you’ll find it in certain cafes, especially in Central Vietnam.
If you spot it on a menu, definitely give it a try—it’s like nothing else you’ve had before.
8. Yogurt Coffee (Sữa Chua Cà Phê)
Yogurt coffee, or sữa chua cà phê, is one of those drinks that you wouldn’t expect to work, but it totally does.
It’s a mix of tart yogurt and bold Vietnamese coffee, and somehow, the combination is just perfect.
The first time I tried it, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the creamy yogurt balances the coffee’s bitterness in a way that’s refreshing and surprisingly addictive.
You can have it hot or cold, depending on your mood, but I prefer it cold on a hot day—it’s like having dessert and coffee all in one.
You’ll find yogurt coffee in cafes all over Vietnam, especially in Hanoi, where it’s really taken off.
If you’re into trying new things, this is definitely one to add to your list.
9. Blended Coffee (Cà Phê Đá Xay)
If you’re in the mood for something icy and indulgent, cà phê đá xay, or blended coffee, is a great choice.
It’s like a Vietnamese take on a frappé, blending strong coffee with ice and sometimes adding things like chocolate or caramel for extra flavor.
The result is a cold, slushy drink that’s perfect for cooling down on a hot day.
You’ll find it on the menu at many cafes across Vietnam, especially those that cater to a younger crowd.
FAQs about Vietnamese Coffee
What is the most popular type of coffee in Vietnam?
The most popular type of coffee in Vietnam is cà phê sữa đá, or iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk. It’s a refreshing drink that balances the strong flavor of Vietnamese coffee with the sweetness of condensed milk.
How is Vietnamese coffee different from other types of coffee?
Vietnamese coffee is typically brewed using a phin filter, which makes for a slow, drip-style coffee that’s strong and bold. It’s often combined with sweetened condensed milk or other ingredients like egg yolk or coconut milk for a unique taste.
Is Vietnamese coffee stronger than regular coffee?
Yes, Vietnamese coffee is generally stronger than regular coffee due to the use of robusta beans, which have a higher caffeine content and a more bitter taste compared to arabica beans commonly used in other countries.
Where can I find the best Vietnamese coffee?
You can find great Vietnamese coffee at local street vendors, cafes, and even high-end coffee shops across the country.
Before you go
I hope this guide helps you navigate the world of Vietnamese coffee and inspires you to try something new.
If you’re curious about more Vietnamese cuisine, check out my other guides and explore Vietnam. Happy sipping!
