Vietnamese coffee culture explained: What’s the buzz about?

Vietnam is one of the most exciting coffee cultures in the world. But what makes it so unique? Let's dive into the heart of Vietnam's love affair with coffee—its traditions, flavours, and the places where it all comes to life.

What is Vietnamese coffee culture?

A unique journey

Coffee arrived in Vietnam during the 19th century, introduced by the French. Since then, the Vietnamese have transformed it into something uniquely their own.

Today, Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter (right behind Brazil), and coffee isn’t just a crop—it’s part of daily life. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet village, you’ll find coffee everywhere: street-side carts, bustling cafés, and trendy shops.

Coffee as a way of life

For the Vietnamese, coffee is more than a drink; it’s a ritual. It’s a chance to connect, unwind, and observe life as it happens. Phrases like “Đi cà phê không?” (“Shall we have coffee?”) are an invitation to pause and share moments with friends, family, or even strangers.

In Vietnam, coffee isn’t rushed. Many cafés are open-air, with small plastic stools scattered along the streets. These setups encourage casual conversations—or what locals call “bà tám,” loosely translated as “gossip.” It’s a way to catch up on local news while sipping a strong cup of cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk).

And then there’s the phin filter. This humble metal drip brewer is the soul of Vietnamese coffee-making. Watching the coffee drip slowly, bit by bit, encourages you to take a breather. It’s a practice of patience and appreciation, mirroring the unhurried pace of life in Vietnam.

Fun fact: Whether it’s 5 am, pre-work, or after dinner, coffee is an all-day affair in Vietnam.

Types of Vietnamese coffee

Vietnamese coffee is renowned for its rich flavours and inventive twists. Here are some must-try options:

• Iced coffee with condensed milk (cà phê sữa đá): The iconic combination of robusta coffee and sweet condensed milk served over ice. Perfect for hot Vietnamese afternoons.

• Egg coffee: A creamy, dessert-like treat made with whipped egg yolks, sugar, and robust coffee. First crafted in Hanoi, it’s now a national treasure.

• Coconut coffee: A tropical delight blending strong coffee with sweet coconut milk and ice.

• Salted coffee (cà phê muối): A newer addition to the scene, this drink pairs a savoury salt foam with sweetened coffee for a surprisingly delicious balance.

Must-visit coffee spots in Vietnam

To truly experience Vietnamese coffee culture, check out these standout spots:

• Cà Phê Giảng, Hanoi: The birthplace of egg coffee. A must-visit for anyone in the capital.

• Cộng Cà Phê, Nationwide: Known for its vintage décor and classic Vietnamese drinks, this chain is both cosy and nostalgic.

• The Workshop, Ho Chi Minh City: The city's first speciality coffee roaster, offers a stylish space and diverse brews like V60, siphon, and cold drip, using beans from Da Lat and Colombia.

• Soul Speciality Coffee, Ho Chi Minh City: Began in the Buon Ma Thuot Highlands, driven by a passion for doing what’s right and a vision for a better future for our children. With originality and enthusiasm at its core, Soul creates coffee experiences that truly stand out.

How Vietnamese coffee blends with Middle Eastern coffee culture

Vietnamese and Middle Eastern coffee cultures share a common love for connection and hospitality. In the UAE, gahwa (Arabic coffee) symbolises warmth and respect, much like how a cup of cà phê sữa đá invites moments of connection in Vietnam.

While the brewing styles differ—phin filter versus ceremonial pots—both cultures value the art of slow coffee. The bold, rich flavours of Vietnamese coffee, from creamy egg coffee to inventive salted coffee, bring a fresh twist that perfectly complements the UAE’s traditional gahwa rituals. Together, they celebrate coffee as a way to bring people closer.