As the owner of Tonkin Coffee, my insatiable curiosity for all things coffee drives me to constantly explore and innovate. My latest creation, the salt coffee, is born from this passion. Inspired by the traditional flavors of Vietnam and a desire to push the boundaries of coffee culture, I meticulously studied and experimented with various ingredients and techniques.
The result is a unique recipe that harmonizes the rich, bold essence of our finest Vietnamese coffee beans with the subtle, unexpected twist of sea salt. This delicate balance enhances the natural sweetness of the coffee, offering a smooth, complex flavor that surprises and delights the palate. Every cup of our salt coffee reflects my dedication to craftsmanship and my unwavering quest to elevate the coffee experience for our cherished patrons.

Discover the Coffee Menu at Tonkin
At Tonkin Coffee, our menu is a celebration of Vietnamese coffee heritage, infused with innovative twists. From the iconic egg coffee, with its creamy, rich texture, to the intriguing salt coffee that balances robust flavors with a hint of sea salt, each cup is crafted with precision and passion. Our selection also includes traditional favorites like Ca Phe Sua Da, alongside modern creations that push the boundaries of flavor. Every drink at Tonkin is a testament to our commitment to quality and our love for coffee. Join us and embark on a sensory journey through the diverse and vibrant world of Vietnamese coffee.
Vietnamese Coffee Culture – a vibrant landscape
Vietnam’s coffee culture is a rich tapestry woven with history, tradition, and innovation. In the bustling streets and serene cafes of Ho Chi Minh City, coffee is more than just a beverage—it’s a ritual, a social experience, and a testament to the country’s agricultural heritage. Among the myriad of coffee offerings, Tonkin stands out, not only for its famous egg coffee but also for its introduction of salt coffee—a unique and remarkable addition to Vietnamese coffee culture.
Tonkin, with its deep respect for tradition and flair for creativity, has become a beacon for coffee lovers seeking both classic and novel experiences. While its egg coffee has long captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike, Tonkin’s salt coffee is swiftly gaining recognition for its distinctive taste and cultural resonance.
Coffee & Vietnamese culture experience – The Essence of Tonkin Specialty Coffee
In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s lively streets lies Tonkin Specialty Coffee—a sanctuary where time slows, and the soul of Vietnam awakens. Within our cozy confines, coffee transcends mere refreshment—it becomes a journey, an odyssey into the very essence of Vietnamese culture.

The Legacy of Egg Coffee
Egg coffee, with its origins tracing back to the 1940s in Hanoi, is a delightful concoction that marries robust Vietnamese coffee with the creamy richness of egg yolk. This beverage, born out of necessity during a milk shortage, has since become an iconic symbol of Vietnamese ingenuity. The smooth, velvety texture and sweet, aromatic flavor of egg coffee offer a sensory journey that is both nostalgic and comforting.
The creation of egg coffee is attributed to Nguyen Van Giang, a bartender at the Metropole Hotel in Hanoi. His innovative spirit led to the blending of egg yolks with coffee, sugar, and condensed milk, resulting in a drink that is as rich in history as it is in flavor. This traditional beverage is a beloved staple in Vietnamese cafes, reflecting the resourcefulness and creativity inherent in the nation’s culinary practices.
Curious about the best cafes in Ho Chi Minh city? Check out 3 coffee shops of Tonkin and read all reviews about it!
Tonkin Specialty Coffee

Tonkin Specialty Coffee is more than just a café; it is a haven for coffee connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike. Nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, we pride ourselves on honoring the rich tapestry of Vietnamese coffee culture while pioneering new and exciting flavors. Our menu features a blend of traditional favorites, like the renowned egg coffee, and innovative creations, such as our signature salt coffee. Each cup is a testament to our dedication to quality, authenticity, and the art of coffee making. Step into Tonkin Specialty Coffee and embark on a journey through the vibrant and diverse world of Vietnamese coffee.
Tonkin Garden Cafe

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life at Tonkin Garden Café, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Surrounded by lush greenery and fragrant blooms, our café offers a serene retreat where you can unwind and recharge. Enjoy the calming ambiance as you savor our carefully curated selection of traditional and innovative coffee drinks, each crafted with passion and precision. Whether you’re catching up with friends, delving into a book, or simply enjoying a moment of peace, Tonkin Garden Café provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Tonkin Egg Coffee & Vietnamese Delights

Indulge in the culinary artistry of Vietnam at Tonkin Egg Coffee & Vietnamese Delights. Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City, our café is renowned for its signature egg coffee—a creamy, velvety blend that epitomizes Vietnamese innovation and tradition. Alongside this iconic beverage, we offer a diverse menu of Vietnamese delights that celebrate the rich flavors and heritage of our cuisine. Each dish and drink is crafted with meticulous care, using the finest ingredients to ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience. Join us at Tonkin Egg Coffee & Vietnamese Delights for a taste of Vietnam’s culinary treasures.
The Emergence of Salt Coffee
In contrast to the time-honored egg coffee, salt coffee is a relatively new entrant in the Vietnamese coffee scene. Yet, it has quickly carved out its own niche, captivating coffee enthusiasts with its unique taste profile. At Tonkin, salt coffee is celebrated for its harmonious blend of flavors, offering a refreshing departure from the usual sweet and bitter notes of traditional coffee.
The best Salt Coffee in Saigon?
Salt coffee’s origin is less documented, but its rise to popularity is undeniable. The idea of adding salt to coffee might seem unconventional, yet this practice enhances the natural sweetness of the coffee, balancing its bitterness and creating a smooth, nuanced flavor. This innovative approach reflects Tonkin’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of coffee-making.


The best cafes in Saigon – Reviews about us
Mikael Sado.
@TonkinSpecialtyCoffee
“The best coffee I have ever had in my life! And I drink a lot of coffee! So clean, so tasty and so nice people working there. So cheap!”
Doğu Erdener.
@TonkinSpecialtyCoffee
“It’s more like a hidden gem and, literally, it is because of the very narrow shop front and entry. Climbing up the two floors is a little bit of an eerie experience but it is worth it and they have immaculate coffee and pretty good croissants. The staff are very nice, polite and hard-working young fellas. When looking for the cafe, it’s easier to locate Thai Chili. It’s a couple of shops to the left of it.”
Edwin Tay.
@TonkinGardenCafe
“Tried the Egg Coffee and I was pleasantly surprise! It is creamy and foamy and the taste of coffee is very rich and aromatic. Highly recommended 👍🏻”
Camilla Thomassen.
@TonkinEggCoffee&VietnameseDelights
“Best egg coffee in Vietnam! Vinh made coffee for us, and made sure that we were satisfied and never had an empty glass. Really nice service, barista coffee and atmosphere!!!”
Salt Coffee at Tonkin
Tonkin has embraced salt coffee with enthusiasm, perfecting the technique to ensure a memorable experience for its patrons. The café’s version of salt coffee is crafted with precision, highlighting the subtle interplay of salt and coffee to deliver a drink that is both intriguing and satisfying.
The art of making salt coffee at Tonkin involves meticulous attention to detail. High-quality Vietnamese coffee beans are carefully selected and brewed to perfection. A pinch of sea salt is then added, a seemingly simple step that transforms the entire flavor profile of the coffee.
The Intricate Process of Making Salt Coffee
The process begins with brewing a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee using a traditional drip filter. The addition of sea salt, often sourced from coastal regions of Vietnam, is done with a delicate hand, ensuring just the right amount to enhance the coffee’s natural flavors without overpowering them. The result is a cup of coffee that is both robust and smooth, with a subtle saltiness that elevates the overall taste.
Salt coffee offers a unique sensory experience, where the initial sip reveals a complex interplay of flavors. The salt enhances the sweetness of the coffee, creating a balanced and harmonious taste that lingers on the palate. This distinctive profile sets salt coffee apart from other beverages, making it a must-try for coffee aficionados.
Egg coffee: 5 facts & best hidden gems in HCMC
The Fascinating Origin Story of Egg Coffee Vietnamese egg coffee was born out of necessity and creative ingenuity during a challenging period in Vietnam’s history. In 1946, during the French War (also known as the First Indochina War), milk was extremely scarce in Hanoi. Nguyen Van Giang, a talented bartender working at the prestigious Sofitel…
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Tonkin Garden Egg Coffee & Eatery: A Hidden Gem in Saigon
Experience authentic Vietnamese egg coffee at Tonkin Garden Café in Ho Chi Minh City. Indulge in this creamy, rich drink while enjoying a peaceful oasis in the bustling city.
The Cultural Resonance of Salt Coffee
Salt coffee is more than just a novel drink; it is a reflection of Vietnamese culture and traditions. The use of salt, a staple ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine, underscores the importance of balance and harmony in Vietnamese culinary philosophy. This innovative coffee beverage embodies the essence of Vietnamese creativity and adaptability.
In Vietnamese culture, the combination of contrasting flavors is a common theme in many dishes and beverages. Salt coffee exemplifies this tradition, merging the bitterness of coffee with the subtle saltiness to create a harmonious blend. This practice of balancing flavors is a testament to the depth and sophistication of Vietnamese culinary arts.

Salt Coffee – Phin or Espresso?
Unbound by Tradition: The Evolution of Vietnamese Coffee from Phin to Espresso
The advent of the espresso machine has transformed the role of Vietnamese baristas, infusing their craft with a new wave of innovation and sophistication. No longer confined to the traditional realm of phin brewing, baristas now wield the power of precision and consistency afforded by espresso machines.
As word spreads about the unique taste of salt coffee, its popularity continues to grow, not just in Vietnam but globally. Coffee enthusiasts from around the world are drawn to Tonkin to experience this innovative beverage. Salt coffee’s rising prominence is a testament to Tonkin’s influence and the global appeal of Vietnamese coffee culture.
Beyond a Specialty Coffee shop: Fostering Community Support for a Sustainable Future
Our commitment goes beyond just serving great coffee; we are deeply invested in fostering a sense of community, supporting local farmers, and enriching the lives of our patrons through genuine connections.

Tonkin’s introduction of salt coffee has added a new dimension to Vietnamese coffee culture, offering a fresh and exciting option for coffee lovers. By embracing innovation while honoring tradition, Tonkin continues to enrich the coffee landscape in Vietnam, providing unique and memorable experiences for its patrons.
In the ever-evolving world of coffee, Tonkin remains a beacon of innovation and tradition. Its offerings, from the beloved egg coffee to the intriguing salt coffee, reflect a deep respect for Vietnamese heritage and a bold vision for the future. As Tonkin continues to delight and inspire, it solidifies its place as a cherished part of Vietnam’s vibrant coffee culture.

Nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Tonkin Specialty Coffee is one of the best coffee shops to experience authentic Vietnamese flavors. From the iconic egg coffee and refreshing coconut coffee to bold Vietnamese coffee and the unique salt coffee, every sip is a journey into tradition. For non-coffee lovers, our Vietnamese matcha offers a gentle alternative. Pair your drink with a freshly baked banh mi or a buttery croissant, and savor the true taste of Vietnam in a setting inspired by folk culture and Indochine charm.