Coffee in Vietnam

Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter behind Brazil. Coffee is everywhere in Vietnam, from busy street stalls to unassuming little cafes hidden around the corner. Discover the country’s vibrant coffee culture and explore the different drink styles that are most popular. Coffee was introduced in Vietnam by the French, during the 19th century. The primary way of making coffee here — through a phin — is also a French creation. The preference for condensed milk over regular milk is yet another French legacy. Back in the 19th century, it was much harder to carry milk over long distances without it spoiling. Condensed milk was a simple solution, and its sweetness caught on among the general population.

Egg coffee is my favorite. I literally said when I saw it on the menu that I would not order it, and lucky for me, my spouse did, and then I proceeded to drink all of his, and to order it every chance that I had. This weird combination may sound slightly crazy at first, but coffee served with whipped-up egg and condensed milk is a sweet delight. Overall the taste is akin to an egg custard, or an extravagantly-creamy mousse.

The other coffee that I found delicious is coconut coffee. There are a few different styles of coconut coffee you can try. The best version is a whipped-up lump of coconut cream delicately placed into an iced black coffee, into which it scrumptiously melts, of course! Vegans should note that this is usually served with a drop of condensed milk also. Most places will have no problem serving it without milk, or will even offer a non-dairy alternative upon request.