Vietnamese coffee culture: Where to find the best brews

1. The Essence of Vietnamese Coffee

History and Origins:

Coffee was introduced to Vietnam by French colonialists in the late 19th century. Vietnamese farmers took to growing robusta coffee beans, which are stronger and more acidic than arabica varieties. This led to the development of Vietnam's unique coffee culture. The traditional Vietnamese method of percolating coffee grounds directly onto crushed boiled eggs or condensed milk helps cut the acidity and create a smooth, sweet drink.

Traditional Vietnamese Coffee-Making Process:

Robusta coffee beans are roasted and then boiled with water and condensed milk or eggs in a small phin filter. As the liquid drips down through the fine mesh filter, the grounds settle and the rich extract emerges. Skilled coffee makers diligently control the brewing temperature to create the perfect balance of flavors.

Key Characteristics:

Vietnamese coffee plays to the country's strengths - it uses robusta beans grown domestically, which produce a thick, intense brew. Popular styles include cà phê sữa đá (cold, sweetened coffee over condensed milk) and cà phê trứng (coffee dripped onto an egg and mixed tableside). Both rely on the robusta's thick body to stand up to additions like sugar and creamy milk or egg. The result is a strongly caffeinated drink that's comforting and smooth enough to sip all day.

2. Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Coffee as a Cultural Staple

Coffee in Vietnam is ubiquitous, it is a part of the Vietnamese people’s culture and lifestyle. It is not just a drink, it is a way of easing social relations, a relief, and a practice. From main business districts to the countryside, the smell of coffee fills the air and calls everyone to take a break and enjoy. Sitting in a café and enjoying coffee is a part of people’s everyday routine; one can have a cup of coffee in the morning at the start of a working day or after lunch as a break.

Social Aspects of Vietnamese Coffee Shops (Café Culture)

Vietnamese coffee shops are known as “ quàn cà phê “ and it’s not only a place for drinking coffee. They play a major role in social life as people walk in to chill, socialize, and transact business among other activities. Since most of the cafés have an outdoor setting, this makes the place very welcoming to the eyes and customers can watch street life while sipping their drinks.
One interesting feature of Vietnamese Coffee shops is this so-called ‘bà tám’ characteristic, which can be translated as ‘gossip.’ These are loosely based gatherings where people can share stories, and news and thus, improve relationships. People talk animatedly and laugh and the sound of coffee glass clinking is always familiar to anyone who has been to a coffee shop.

Traditional Coffee Preparation

Vietnamese coffee is usually brewed using a small metal dish called phin that has a base with many tiny holes. This specific brewing process results in denser coffee and typically more powerful in terms of flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Classic Vietnamese Iced Coffee:

• Grind the coffee: Coarsely grind enough coffee for one serving (about 30 grams).
• Prepare the phin: Place the phin on top of a glass. Add the ground coffee to the phin, and press down lightly to create an even layer.
• Pour hot water: Slowly pour boiling water over the coffee grounds, filling the phin to just below the top.
• Add condensed milk: While the coffee is dripping, fill a glass with sweetened condensed milk.
• Complete the brewing: Allow the coffee to drip slowly into the glass. This process can take several minutes.
• Add ice: Once the coffee has finished dripping, fill the glass with ice.
• Stir and serve: Gently stir the coffee and condensed milk to combine. Serve immediately.

The result is a deliciously sweet and strong iced coffee, a quintessential Vietnamese treat.

Note: For those who prefer a less sweet coffee, the amount of condensed milk can be adjusted to taste. Additionally, Vietnamese coffee can also be enjoyed hot by skipping the ice and serving the coffee directly from the phin.

3. Best Places to Enjoy Vietnamese Coffee in Vietnam Tours

Best Vietnamese Coffee in Hanoi:

• Café Giảng: This historic café is famous for its egg coffee, a unique and delicious drink made with egg yolks, condensed milk, and coffee. It's a must-try for any coffee lover in Hanoi.
• Cong Caphe: This popular chain offers a variety of coffee drinks in a cozy and trendy setting. They're known for their use of high-quality beans and creative flavor combinations.

Best Vietnamese Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City:

• L'usine: This stylish café is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee while browsing the boutique's selection of clothing and accessories. They offer a wide range of coffee drinks, including some unique and creative options.
• The Workshop: This modern café is a popular spot for coffee lovers in Ho Chi Minh City. They offer a variety of high-quality brews, including single-origin coffees and specialty drinks.

Best Vietnamese Coffee in Hoi An:

• Reaching Out Teahouse: This tranquil spot offers more than just tea. Their Vietnamese coffee is a must-try, served in a serene relaxing environment.
• Rosie's Café: A hidden gem with a strong local following, Rosie's Café boasts a diverse coffee menu. Expect high-quality brews and a cozy atmosphere.

Best Vietnamese Coffee in Da Nang:

• The 59 Café: For an authentic Vietnamese coffee experience, look no further than The 59 Café. This local favorite offers traditional brewing methods and a taste of local life.
• Six on Six Café: A popular choice among locals and tourists alike, Six on Six Café offers a modern take on Vietnamese coffee. Their stylish ambiance and diverse menu make it a great spot to unwind.

These are just a few suggestions to get you started. With its growing coffee culture, Vietnam offers countless charming cafés that are waiting to be discovered.

4. Tips for Coffee Enthusiasts

If you are visiting Vietnam and want to enjoy a cup of coffee, it's helpful to know how to order it in Vietnamese.

• Cà phê - coffee
• Cà phê sữa đá - iced coffee with condensed milk (the most common)
• Cà phê đen đá - iced black coffee
• Cà phê nóng - hot coffee
• Không đường - no sugar
• Ít đường - less sugar
• Thêm đường - more sugar
• Nước đá - ice

Understanding the menu at a Vietnamese café can be challenging but rewarding once you know a few key terms:

• Look for some Vietnamese coffee types like đen (black), sữa (milk), đá (ice), and nóng (hot) to decipher the coffee offerings.
• Many cafés offer variations like cà phê sữa đặc (coffee with sweetened condensed milk), cà phê trứng (egg coffee), and cà phê muối (salty coffee).
• Feel free to ask the staff for recommendations or explanations.

Experiencing local coffee traditions in Vietnam is a must for any coffee enthusiast:

• Join locals passing their time at cafes, people-watching, and chatting over refills of coffee.
• When served, it's polite to add sugar and/or sweetened condensed milk to taste before drinking, following Vietnamese customs.
• Stir gently with a small spoon to blend the additions rather than shaking, which is considered rude.
• Lingering over leisurely cafe stops is encouraged versus rushing your coffee like a morning coffee on the go. Immersing in the act of cafe-going is part of the cultural experience.

5. Bringing Vietnamese Coffee Home

To capture the authentic taste of Vietnam in your cup, consider these reputable best vietnamese coffee brand:

• Trung Nguyen: This is arguably the most famous Vietnamese coffee brand, known for its strong flavor and aroma.
• Vinacafe: Offering a wider range of products, including instant coffee, Vinacafe is a popular choice for those seeking convenience.
• G7: This instant coffee is widely available and offers a quick and easy way to enjoy Vietnamese coffee.
• Chestbrew: For coffee enthusiasts, Chestbrew provides high-quality whole-bean coffee with a focus on flavor.
• Highland Coffee: A popular chain in Vietnam, Highland Coffee offers a variety of coffee products, including instant coffee and ground coffee.

Essential Brewing Equipment

To recreate the authentic Vietnamese coffee experience at home, you'll need a few key items:

• Phin filter: This is the iconic Vietnamese coffee filter that produces a strong, concentrated brew.
• Coffee grinder: A burr grinder is ideal for grinding coffee beans to the correct consistency for a phin filter.
• Glass for serving: A tall glass is perfect for iced coffee with condensed milk.
• Sweetened condensed milk: This is a key ingredient for traditional Vietnamese iced coffee.
• Ice: Essential for making iced coffee.

With these essentials, you can experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios and brewing times to find your perfect cup of Vietnamese coffee.

6. The Experience of Vietnamese Coffee

Some Tasting Notes From Travelers

Vietnamese coffee is a bold and robust brew, often described as having a strong, earthy flavor with a hint of bitterness. The use of Robusta beans contributes to its high caffeine content, providing a powerful energy boost. When combined with sweetened condensed milk, the coffee takes on a rich, creamy sweetness that balances the bitterness.
The slow drip method used in the phin filter allows for a concentrated coffee extract, resulting in a complex flavor profile. You might detect notes of chocolate, caramel, and nuts in addition to the coffee's natural character.

Pairing Suggestions

Vietnamese coffee pairs beautifully with the country's sweet and savory treats. Here are a few suggestions:

• Bánh mì: The classic Vietnamese baguette sandwich is a savory complement to the coffee's richness.
• Bánh bao: These steamed buns, often filled with pork and vegetables, offer a delightful contrast to the coffee's strong flavor.
• Xôi vò: Sticky rice with various toppings is a sweet option that harmonizes well with the coffee's bitterness.
• Traditional Vietnamese pastries: Many local pastries, such as bánh flan (caramel custard) or bánh bò (sponge cake), provide a sweet counterpoint to the coffee's intensity.

7. Conclusion

Vietnamese coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural experience. From the rich aroma to the perfect balance of sweet and strong, it's a taste of Vietnam you won't forget.

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