Discover the Coffee Culture of Vietnam – Where to Find The Best Brews!

Vietnam is a land of striking landscapes, bustling cities, and a unique cultural charm that draws tourists from across the globe. From the green waters of Ha Long Bay to the ancient architecture of Hoi An, every part of Vietnam shares a unique story. Along with its beautiful views, Vietnam has something special that many travellers love — its amazing food. Vietnamese food is a tasty part of discovering this interesting country. Among these culinary experiences, coffee holds a special place. Coffee has a prominent role in these food experiences.

Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, and its coffee culture is unique. Having a cup of Vietnamese coffee is not just like any other drink—it is a way to discover and enjoy Vietnamese culture.

Also Read: Top 5 Reasons Indian Tourists Love Traveling to Vietnam and Thailand

Ready to discover more about the coffee culture in Vietnam?

Understanding Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Vietnamese coffee uses beans grown in Vietnam, mostly Robusta beans, which have twice as much caffeine as Arabica beans. It means you get a stronger energy boost. Vietnam is the biggest producer of Robusta beans, making up more than 90% of its coffee. Authentic Vietnamese coffee, like iced coffee, traditionally uses these beans, so check where the beans come from when ordering. Vietnamese coffee is low in acidity and has more antioxidants, thanks to the Robusta beans. It is often brewed with a Phin filter, giving it a strong flavour. Vietnamese coffee is known for its bold and smooth flavor, and it can be enjoyed either warm or chilled. No matter if you prefer the classic style or a quick choice, there is a type of Vietnamese coffee for everyone.

Why is Vietnamese Coffee so special?

Vietnamese coffee offers an experience different from anywhere else in the world. Find out why so, as below.

• Vietnamese coffee is known for its bold, strong flavour and unique way of making it. It is different from other coffee styles.
• The magic lies in its slow-drip brewing method using the Phin filter, with a rich, intense flavour that is unforgettable.
• The special brewing method uses a Phin filter. It lets the coffee drip slowly to create a strong brew that many call Vietnamese espresso.
• Vietnamese coffee is mostly made from Robusta beans. It has more caffeine and a richer taste than Arabica beans, giving it a strong flavour.
• Adding sweetened condensed milk turns the strong coffee into a perfect mix of bold and sweet flavours.
• What makes it special is its strong cultural background. It is often roasted with butter and flavours like vanilla or chocolate, which gives it a unique caramel taste.
• The climate and soil of Vietnam, especially in the Central Highlands, help grow beans that have a unique flavour.
• Coffee culture in Vietnam is more than just about caffeine; it is a part of daily life. People enjoy morning routines and social gatherings around small plastic stools and hot cups of cà phê.

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Types of Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnamese coffee has many different kinds, each with its own style and flavour. You can enjoy it hot or cold, showing how flexible Robusta beans can be and reflecting local traditions.  The list below is the popular types of Vietnamese Coffee. 

• Vietnamese drip coffee – Phin cà phê 
• Vietnamese white coffee with condensed milk – Cà phê sữa 
• Black coffee – Cà phê đen
• Vietnamese coconut coffee – Cà phê dừa
• Vietnamese milk coffee  – Bạc xỉu 
• Vietnamese salt coffee – Cà phê muối
• Vietnamese egg coffee – Cà phê trứng 

Best Coffee Farms to Check Out

The best way to learn about where Vietnamese coffee comes from is by visiting coffee plantations in Vietnam.  Coffee farm tours and Agritourism let you experience how coffee is grown, picked, and prepared in person. Meeting farmers and exploring plantations will let you see and appreciate how Vietnamese coffee is made from the plant to the cup. Visiting a coffee farm connects you to the coffee roots of Vietnam and shows how local farmers support the industry.

You will experience a range of activities while exploring the coffee farms as below.

• Walk through the farm and explore the plants involved in coffee production.
• Enjoy fresh, hand-brewed coffee behind with rich flavours.
• See the main steps of coffee processing up close.
• Discover the science and art and different roasting methods.
• Taste and evaluate different coffee types.
• Learn hands-on brewing techniques for making coffee manually.
  

For anyone who loves coffee, these farms are a must-visit to see how much Vietnam cares about quality.

• K’ho Coffee
• Aeraco Coffee 
• Bich Thao Coffee Farm
• Pun Coffee Farm
• Sơn Pacamara Farm 
• Tam Trinh Coffee Farm

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Top Spots to Enjoy Authentic Vietnamese Coffee

In Vietnam, enjoying coffee is more than a drink—it is an experience. The best places to enjoy Vietnamese coffee are spots where you can fully soak in the local culture. From cozy street-side cafes to scenic spots with a view, these places offer an authentic taste of the coffee traditions of Vietnam. Each sip brings you closer to the rich coffee heritage of the country. Below are a few popular place to enjoy a cup of Vietnamese Coffee.

• EveryHalf Coffee Roasters in Ho Chi Minh City
• Cafe Giang in Hanoi
• Saigon Coffee Roastery in Ho Chi Minh City
• S Coffee Roastery in Dalat
• Ala Café in Danang
• 3C Roastery in Hanoi
• Phin Bar by Refined in Hanoi

Tips for Savoring Coffee Like a Local

Here are a few tips to make the most of your Vietnamese coffee experience.

• First, be ready for a strong flavour, as Vietnamese coffee is often made with Robusta beans. If you like a milder taste, look for Arabica coffee instead.
• Vietnamese coffee is strong and best enjoyed slowly to savour its deep flavours.
• Do not drink Vietnamese coffee on an empty stomach; it is strong! Enjoy it with snacks or treats, as many coffee shops serve food too.
• Try different types, like iced coffee, egg coffee, or coconut coffee to find your favourite. Adjust the sugar and milk to match your taste.
• Take your time with Vietnamese coffee. It brews slowly in 5–10 minutes, offering a rich, velvety taste to sip and savour. You can make it mild by adding hot water.
• Experience authentic Vietnamese coffee with a Phin filter, as it gives a unique, bold taste.
• To enjoy Vietnamese egg coffee, drink it fresh and hot. Gently stir to mix the frothy layer before sipping this delicious treat.
• To enjoy Vietnamese drip coffee, take warm sips while chatting with friends or relaxing with a book. You can have it with or without ice for a refreshing taste.
• Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City offer many charming coffee spots. Be sure to try the top cafes in these lively cities!
• Visit local coffee shops and chat with the staff to learn about the coffee culture and different coffee options.

Also Read: 5 Famous Cities of Vietnam to Explore On Your Next Vietnam Tour!

Conclusion

When travelling in Vietnam, trying a cup of real Vietnamese coffee is a must. Drinking Vietnamese coffee is a cultural experience that engages all your senses. With its special brewing styles, range of coffee options, lively café vibe, and rich cultural importance, coffee in Vietnam offers a unique and enjoyable experience. As Vietnam Tourism continues to grow, coffee tourism emerges as a unique way to experience the rich heritage of this country. If you are planning a trip, include café-hopping experiences with your Vietnam tour packages. It will give you the chance to sip your way through the finest brews of the country.