TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. THE HISTORY OF VIETNAM COFFEE
Vietnamese culture considers coffee an essential part of everyday life, but few people realize that its history in Vietnam dates back to the French colonial period. In the late 19th century, the French introduced coffee trees to Vietnam and began cultivating them in the Central provinces, where the climate and soil conditions were favorable.
Initially, coffee trees were primarily grown in colonial territories such as Da Lat, Buon Ma Thuot, and Lam Dong. By the 1920s, the French had established large coffee plantations. Robusta coffee beans, known for their drought resistance and ease of cultivation compared to Arabica, quickly became a popular variety in Vietnam.
Following Vietnam’s independence in 1954, the government took over the management of the coffee industry. However, substantial growth in the industry didn’t occur until the 1980s when innovation policies were implemented. The state incentivized farmers to expand coffee cultivation, leading to a remarkable increase in coffee production.
Nowadays, Vietnam stands as the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, second only to Brazil. Vietnamese coffee, particularly Robusta, is renowned worldwide for its rich flavor.
The coffee culture in Vietnam is rapidly expanding, with distinctive cafes and a unique way of enjoying filtered coffee. Coffee is not just a drink, but also a significant aspect of Vietnam’s social and cultural life. From starting the day with a cup of iced black coffee to gathering with friends at coffee shops, coffee has brought people together and contributed to the unique cultural characteristics of Vietnam.
2. TOP 6 TYPES OF POPULAR VIETNAMESE COFFEE
These are 6 types of the most well-known Vietnamese Coffee that you must try when you arrive in Vietnam.
2.1. Black Coffee
Black coffee is prepared using roasted and ground coffee beans and boiling water, without any additional ingredients. It possesses a rich, bitter taste and strong aroma, making it ideal for those who appreciate the pure essence of coffee.
2.2. Milk Coffee
Milk coffee is the perfect combination of black coffee and condensed milk. To make milk coffee, people brew a cup of strong black coffee, then add a moderate amount of condensed milk to create a sweet and creamy taste. The flavor of milk coffee balances the bitterness of coffee and the sweetness of milk, creating a drink loved by many people.
2.3. Vietnamese white coffee
Vietnamese white coffee (Bac Xiu) is a special type of coffee originating from Southern Vietnam and is beloved by Chinese people in Saigon. “Bạc tẩy xỉu phé” in Cantonese translates to “a little coffee.” This drink contains a higher proportion of condensed milk than coffee, resulting in a light, sweet, and rich flavor. White Coffee (Bac Xiu) is often served over ice and is a delightful and refreshing beverage for hot summer days.
2.4. Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Egg coffee is a famous specialty of Hanoi. This drink is made from rich black coffee, egg yolks, condensed milk, and sugar. The egg yolks are whipped to create a smooth and creamy layer to cover the hot coffee. The flavor of egg coffee is unique, blending the bitterness of coffee with the rich sweetness of eggs and milk, creating a distinctive culinary experience. Egg coffee is typically enjoyed hot, and the cup of coffee is placed in a bowl of hot water to retain its heat.
2.5. Vietnamese Coconut Coffee
Coconut coffee is a delightful blend of strong black coffee, coconut milk, and sugar, served over ice. This unique drink offers a rich flavor with a hint of aromatic coconut, creating an appealing and delicious beverage. It is a popular choice among tourists and is considered one of the most beloved types of Vietnamese coffee.
2.6. Vietnamese Yogurt Coffee
Yogurt Coffee is a dessert that combines cool yogurt and black coffee. This dish consists of a layer of yogurt placed at the bottom of the glass; then, black coffee is poured on top. The mild sourness of yogurt blends with the bitterness of coffee to create a refreshing, cool, and pleasant drink. Coffee yogurt is very suitable to enjoy on hot summer days. Each type of coffee brings a unique flavor and experience, contributing to enriching the diverse and unique coffee culture of Vietnam.
3. HOW TO ENJOY VIETNAMESE COFFEE LIKE A NATIVE?
Enjoying Vietnamese coffee is not just about savoring a delicious beverage; it’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s culture. Here are some tips for savoring Vietnamese coffee like a local.
3.1. Chose Vietnamese Drip Coffee
Drip coffee provides a unique experience with its rich flavors and traditional brewing methods. Give it a try at least once to understand why Vietnamese people adore this type of coffee.
3.2. Enjoy Your Coffee Slowly
Enjoying Vietnamese coffee requires patience and savoring every moment. It is a relaxing experience that suits a slow-paced lifestyle. When drinking coffee, take small sips instead of consuming it quickly. This allows you to fully appreciate the rich flavor of the coffee and also helps you avoid the unpleasant effects of consuming too much caffeine.
3.3. Ask For Some Condensed Milk
Vietnamese Drip Coffee is usually strong and bitter, you if you are not used to this strong taste, ask for more condensed milk or sugar. All Vietnamese cafes have milk and sugar available for you. In addition, you can also enjoy easier-to-drink coffees such as coconut coffee, green bean coffee, egg coffee,…
3.4. Keep A Full Stomach When Enjoying Black Coffee
Vietnamese black coffee is potent and can be harsh on an empty stomach. It’s recommended to have a hearty breakfast before indulging in this flavorsome beverage.
Vietnamese people typically pair their coffee with breakfast dishes like pho, bread, or sticky rice. Additionally, it’s common to enjoy coffee with a snack such as cakes and cookies.
4. WORLD-FAMOUS VIETNAMESE CAFE BRANDS
Many Vietnamese coffee brands have become symbolic and are well-known among international tourists. Here are some renowned cafes that you should visit when you have the opportunity to come to Vietnam.
4.1. Trung Nguyên Legend
Trung Nguyen Legend is one of Vietnam’s largest and most famous coffee brands. Established in 1996, Trung Nguyen Legend not only provides high-quality coffee products but also operates a chain of luxury coffee shops, which attract many international tourists.
- Outstanding products include G7 coffee (instant coffee) and Trung Nguyen drip coffee.
- These products are characterized by their rich and full flavor, making them suitable for a wide range of palates.
4.2. Cộng Cà phê
Cong Coffee offers a unique experience with its retro-style shop design, inspired by the subsidy period in Vietnam. Established in 2007, Cong Coffee quickly became a beloved brand for both Vietnamese and international visitors.
- Featured products: Coconut milk coffee, iced milk coffee.
- Characteristics: Impressive restaurant space reminiscent of a special period in Vietnam, creating a new feeling for visitors.
4.3. Café Giảng
Café Giang, established in 1946 in Hanoi, is the birthplace of the famous egg coffee. A visit to Café Giang offers a unique and unforgettable coffee experience, making it a destination not to be missed when in Hanoi.
- Featured product: Egg coffee.
- Characteristics: Unique flavor and cozy restaurant space.
4.4. Highlands Coffee
Highlands Coffee was founded in 1999 by an American Vietnamese and quickly became one of the most famous coffee shop chains in Vietnam. Highlands Coffee combines traditional Vietnamese coffee flavors and modern style, creating a special appeal for visitors.
- Featured products: Iced milk coffee, roasted and ground coffee, and teas.
- Characteristics: The space is modern, comfortable, and suitable for meeting friends or working.
4.5. Phúc Long Coffee & Tea
Phuc Long is a well-established brand known for its high-quality coffee and tea. Established in 1968, Phuc Long offers a wide range of products with unique flavors that appeal to both Vietnamese locals and international tourists.
- Featured products: Filter coffee, milk tea, black tea.
- Characteristics: Perfect blend of traditional and modern flavors, along with comfortable restaurant spaces.
If you have the chance to visit Vietnam, be sure to try Vietnamese coffee. This drink’s rich aroma and delightful flavor will undoubtedly captivate you.