Coffee culture runs deep in Vietnam, and it’s no surprise that it has been ranked among the top places in the world for a truly unforgettable cup. Writer Jo Lane, reporter at AsianCorrespondent.com, shared her five favorite places globally for coffee, and Vietnam was right at the top of her list. You can read her full article here.
A Ritual, Not Just a Drink
Drinking coffee in Vietnam is an experience that blends patience, tradition, and rich flavors. Unlike the quick espresso shots in the West, Vietnamese coffee is all about the slow drip of single-cup phin filters, allowing the deep, robust flavors to emerge. The combination of strong brew and condensed milk, a staple due to its long shelf life in tropical climates, creates a silky, sweet, and bold coffee that is both refreshing and indulgent.
For those who prefer their coffee iced, cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) is the go-to choice, while cà phê đen đá (black iced coffee) provides an intense caffeine kick. Whether you’re in a bustling Vietnamese restaurant or at a roadside café, you’ll find locals and visitors alike savoring every drop.
Savoring Coffee in Vietnam
One of the most enchanting parts of drinking coffee in Vietnam is the setting. Jo Lane reflects on her own experience, reminiscing about her motorbike travels through Vietnam. She describes the blissful moments of pulling over, escaping the city traffic, and watching life unfold while waiting for the coffee to filter. She fondly recalls the shuttered old-school coffee saloons in Ho Chi Minh City, which added an extra layer of charm to her experience. You can read more about her Vietnam motorbike travels here.
Exploring Vietnam’s Coffee Scene on a Vespa Tour
For those looking to dive deeper into Vietnam’s coffee culture, experiencing it on a Vespa tour is one of the most immersive ways to do it. The Streets and Eats of Hoi An tour by Vespa Adventures offers a guided journey through the city's most authentic food and drink spots, including some of the best hidden coffee shops.
From sipping freshly brewed cà phê trứng (Vietnamese egg coffee) in a tucked-away café to exploring Hoi An’s vibrant coffeehouses, this tour allows travelers to experience Vietnamese coffee as the locals do. It’s an unmissable experience for any coffee lover visiting Vietnam.
The Coffee Culture That Keeps Calling You Back
Vietnamese coffee isn’t just about the drink; it’s about the atmosphere, the unhurried pace, and the connection to local culture. Whether you're savoring it in a tiny corner shop in Hoi An or enjoying it with a view of Saigon’s bustling streets, it leaves a lasting impression. It’s a ritual that invites you to slow down, appreciate the craft, and immerse yourself in the moment.
For anyone visiting Vietnam, making time to explore its coffee culture is a must. Whether through solo café hopping or joining a guided Vespa food tour, discovering Vietnamese coffee firsthand is one of the best things to do in Hoi An and beyond.