Discovering Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City
Aromatic Delights
For those seeking an authentic, immersive coffee e

xperience, Ho Chi Minh City offers a caffeinated adventure like no other. With its vibrant atmosphere, this destination promises to satisfy every taste
Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City is a rich tapestry of flavors, blending tradition with innovation. Its bustling street corners and elegant artisanal cafés create a symphony for the senses, captivating both locals and travelers alike.
At the intersection of tradition and modernity, the city presents a charming fusion of Vietnam’s coffee heritage and contemporary barista creations. A journey into its coffee culture reveals a spectrum of options, each with its own story, waiting to be savored.
Café with Milk, Salted Coffee
Embarking on a coffee expedition without encountering “cà phê sữa đá” -the iconic iced coffee with milk – would be like missing out on one of the city’s greatest pleasures. The metallic clinking of spoons against glass reverberates through the streets, alleyways, and markets, luring you in. This drink has become a timeless classic in Vietnam.
Robusta beans, grown in the misty highlands of central Vietnam, are ground and brewed, producing a potent infusion filtered through a drip. It’s a relic of the colonial past, giving it a rich intensity that will leave you alert and alive.
But the transformation doesn’t stop there. The bold brew is then swirled with sweet condensed milk and shards of ice, creating a delightful contrast of flavors. The robust bitterness effortlessly dances alongside the creamy sweetness in a sensory revelation that awakens the taste buds, making the rest of the world fade away.
For those on a quest for something extraordinary, there’s “cà phê trứng” -Vietnam’s famous egg coffee. This indulgent concoction combines creamy egg yolks, sugar, and coffee into a velvety, frothy masterpiece. Born during a time when milk was scarce in Hanoi, this drink now reigns as a symbol of ingenuity, turning scarcity into pure magic on the palate.
And if you’re seeking another unique experience in Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than “Cà phê Muối Chú Long” – Uncle Long’s Salted Coffee. Mr. Long has mastered the art of crafting drinks like no other. Salted coffee offers an intriguing balance between bitterness and a subtle brininess for those adventurous enough to try something different. Originating from Hue, the former feudal capital of Vietnam, this preparation reflects the deep connection between tradition and modern innovation.
The juxtaposition of these flavors mirrors the way the city embraces change while remaining rooted in its past -a taste that embodies what makes it unique.
Modern Enclaves, Artisan Infusions
In the heart of the city, modernity reigns supreme. Amidst the hustle and bustle, names like “Cộng,” “Phúc Long,” and “Katinat” beckon, their interiors blending industrial chic with cozy comfort. These cafés become sanctuaries for those seeking a refined coffee experience right in the heart of the metropolis.
Arabica beans from Vietnam’s Central Highlands take center stage in these establishments. Baristas turn the brewing process into an art form, carefully orchestrating each pour to craft something special. The result? A cup that exudes craftsmanship in every sip.
But coffee shops here are not just about grabbing a drink.
Street corners and market stalls adorned with espresso machines that hum and whir, creating rich, aromatic shots in an enchanting symphony of sights and sounds. The experience lingers in the memory long after the cup is emptied.
The fusion of Italian coffee culture with the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City adds another vibrant layer to the local scene. Over time, the espresso method—borrowed from Italy—has become firmly entrenched in the city’s coffee culture.
For as little as 15,000 dong per cup, these street stalls and coffee carts make coffee experience accessible to everyone. The blend of global culinary influences and local preferences showcases Ho Chi Minh City’s adaptability in its ever-evolving food landscape.
This robust brew, often enjoyed as a quick energizer, mirrors the city’s fast-paced rhythm. It’s perfect for those days when you need a pick-me-up while on the go.
Whether exploring the city’s historic quarters or its modern boulevards, you’ll find plenty of coffee options along the way. And no matter where you are, there’s always room for a rich, fragrant cup. Even with arabica beans, just like in Europe and beyond.
By Ngoc Tran