Vietnam is not only famous for its vibrant street food and breathtaking landscapes but also for its unique and bold coffee culture. Vietnamese Coffee is an essential part of daily life, offering a variety of drinks that reflect the country’s creativity and love for strong brews. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee lover or a curious traveler, read on True Indochina Tours to explore some interesting kinds of coffee below.

Here are the top 5 Vietnamese coffee drinks you must try

1. Cà Phê Sữa Đá – The National Favorite

Arguably the most famous type of Vietnamese Coffee, Cà Phê Sữa Đá is a simple yet addictive drink. It consists of dark roasted coffee brewed through a phin and mixed with sweetened condensed milk, then poured over ice. The balance of bitterness and sweetness makes it a go-to drink for locals and tourists alike. You’ll find it everywhere – from roadside stalls in Ho Chi Minh City to chic cafes in Hanoi.

Vietnamese Coffee with condensed milk and ice, known as Cà Phê Sữa Đá
This drink also reflects the resourcefulness of Vietnamese cuisine, as condensed milk was originally used due to the limited availability of fresh milk during the colonial era. Today, it remains a beloved classic.

2. Cà Phê Trứng – Egg Coffee, Hanoi’s Creamy Secret

Egg coffee might sound unusual, but Cà Phê Trứng has won over even the most skeptical coffee drinkers. Invented in Hanoi in the 1940s, this Vietnamese Coffee combines egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk whipped into a creamy foam and gently layered over hot coffee. The result is a silky, dessert-like drink that tastes like tiramisu in a cup.

Cà Phê Trứng, the signature Vietnamese Egg Coffee

Served either hot or cold, egg coffee is best enjoyed slowly, in a quiet café tucked away in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where it all began. It’s more than just a drink—it’s a piece of Vietnamese history in every sip.

3. Cà Phê Đen Đá – For True Coffee Purists

Prefer your coffee bold and undiluted? Cà Phê Đen Đá, or iced black coffee, is a no-frills Vietnamese Coffee that delivers intense flavor. Brewed strong using the phin method and served over ice without milk or sugar (unless you ask), this drink showcases the full-bodied character of Vietnamese robusta beans.

Cà Phê Đen Đá, Vietnamese Iced Black Coffe

It’s the perfect pick-me-up for a hot day and a great way to appreciate the depth and richness of Vietnamese coffee beans.

4. Bạc Xỉu – Saigon’s Sweet Take on Coffee

Often referred to as “coffee for beginners,” Bạc Xỉu is a sweet, creamy beverage popular in Southern Vietnam. While it looks like a coffee drink, it actually contains more milk than coffee, making it ideal for those who prefer a milder taste. The name comes from Cantonese and literally means “white coffee with a little bit of coffee.”

Bạc Xỉu, a milk-forward Vietnamese Coffee drink

Bạc Xỉu is especially favored by young Vietnamese and women looking for a light afternoon treat. You’ll often see it served alongside snacks in modern coffee chains or traditional cafes in Ho Chi Minh City.

5. Cà Phê Cốt Dừa – Coconut Coffee Delight

For a tropical twist, try Cà Phê Cốt Dừa, or coconut coffee. This Vietnamese Coffee drink blends robusta coffee with coconut milk and condensed milk, often blended with ice to create a creamy, semi-frozen drink. It originated in the northern city of Hai Phong but has quickly become a favorite across Vietnam.

Cà Phê Cốt Dừa, a Vietnamese Coffee drink blended with coconut milk

Coconut coffee is both refreshing and indulgent, offering a perfect balance between bold coffee flavor and tropical sweetness. It’s especially satisfying during Vietnam’s hot and humid afternoons.