Introduced by the French in the mid-19th century, coffee in Vietnam has evolved into a Vietnamese culinary heritage. Today, “going for coffee” is not just about enjoying a cup but also about connecting with people, meeting friends, or conducting business. Below are six ways to enjoy coffee in Vietnam as recommended by The Michelin Guide, the world’s leading culinary guide.

Iced Milk Coffee: The Symbol of Vietnamese Coffee

This traditional drink is made with coffee grounds brewed in a filter, poured over with boiling water, and allowed to drip slowly through the filter into a glass already containing condensed milk and ice, which is added last to blend the coffee and milk. The fusion of flavors, the bitterness of the coffee, and the sweetness of the milk leave a lasting impression on those who love this beverage.

Vietnamese iced milk coffee

Vietnamese iced milk coffee

Bạc Xỉu: A Coffee Blend from Three Cultures

Invented by the Chinese in Saigon at the beginning of the 20th century, Bạc Xỉu is a testament to the rich culture and cuisine of Saigon, influenced by Chinese, Vietnamese, and French styles.

 

Vietnamese bac xiu

Egg Coffee: The Masterpiece of Hanoi Coffee

Egg coffee is a brilliant creation from the wartime period. In the 1940s, when sugar and milk prices soared, Mr. Nguyễn Văn Giảng, the founder of Giảng Café in Hanoi, used egg yolks, inspired by his experiences working at the Metropole Hotel (Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi), combined with cappuccino coffee. This clever substitution created a rich yellow cream atop the coffee, intermingling the bitterness of the coffee with the richness of the egg. The final drink is sweetened with honey.

Vietnamese egg coffee

Vietnamese egg coffee

Salt Coffee: A Fusion in Coffee

True to its name, salt coffee has a salty taste from the salt. This beverage reflects the creative spirit of Vietnamese cuisine in recent years, blending the tradition of long-standing coffee with the creativity of the new century. Originating from Huế, salt coffee delicately combines robusta coffee beans with cream and salt. The salty taste balances the bitterness and sweetness, creating a harmonious and impressive sensation when enjoyed.

Vietnamese salt coffee

Vietnamese salt coffee

Coconut Coffee: A Tropical Tradition

This beverage reflects the Vietnamese love for tropical fruit. With a clever recipe, the aroma and bitterness of pure coffee, combined with the sweet creaminess of coconut milk and condensed milk, create a symphony of flavors that enchant the senses.

Vietnamese salt coffee

Vietnamese coconut coffee

Fruit Cold Brew Coffee: A Modern Coffee Experience

Having emerged about a decade ago, fruit cold brew coffee has brought a fresh twist to the Vietnamese coffee culture, quickly endearing itself to the residents of bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnamese fruit cold brew coffee

Vietnamese fruit cold brew coffee

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