Vietnam is famous for its rich coffee culture, offering a variety of unique flavors. At Tonkin Coffee, you can explore the diverse types of coffee in Vietnam, all crafted from high-quality Robusta beans, showcasing the bold and distinctive taste that defines Vietnamese coffee.
Brewing methods commonly used in Vietnam
How coffee is brewed plays a crucial role in defining its flavor and character. In Vietnam, traditional methods coexist with modern techniques, creating a diverse landscape of coffee experiences.
Phin filter brewing
The phin filter is a traditional metal drip filter used throughout Vietnam. Hot water slowly passes through ground coffee, dripping into a cup below. This method produces a concentrated, rich brew with noticeable bitterness. Because extraction is slow, the flavor develops gradually, making it ideal for coffee drinks mixed with condensed milk or served over ice.
Phin brewing is widely used in homes, street cafés, and small coffee shops. It represents a slower, more relaxed approach to coffee, encouraging people to enjoy the preparation process and savor each sip.
Espresso machines and modern brewing
Alongside phin filters, espresso machines are increasingly used in contemporary cafés. These machines apply pressure to extract coffee quickly, resulting in a cleaner and more balanced cup. Espresso-based methods allow baristas to control flavor extraction precisely and consistently.
Modern brewing techniques do not replace traditional styles but complement them. They highlight subtle flavors in high-quality Robusta beans, offering a smoother, more nuanced experience while preserving the bold character that defines Vietnamese coffee.
Popular Vietnamese coffee drinks
Vietnam’s coffee culture is diverse, ranging from traditional drip preparations to unique dessert-like beverages. The country primarily produces Robusta beans, known for their high caffeine content and bold, bitter profile, which forms the base of most local drinks.
Iced Milk Coffee
The most iconic Vietnamese coffee. It is made by brewing dark-roasted coffee through a metal filter (phin) into a cup containing sweetened condensed milk, then served over ice. The condensed milk softens the bitterness while adding creaminess, making it a favorite across all age groups.
Black Coffee
Served hot or iced, this strong coffee is typically brewed with a phin. It is often enjoyed with a small amount of sugar to balance the natural bitterness of Robusta beans. Cà phê đen emphasizes the pure flavor of coffee and is especially popular among those who prefer a bold, direct taste.
Egg Coffee
Originating in Hanoi, egg coffee features a creamy, custard-like topping made from whipped egg yolks and condensed milk poured over hot black coffee. The combination of bitter coffee and rich, frothy cream creates a layered taste experience reminiscent of a dessert in a cup.
Salt Coffee
Salt coffee includes a layer of salted cream on top of the coffee.
The subtle saltiness enhances sweetness and softens bitterness, creating a unique balance. This drink reflects regional innovation and is gaining popularity beyond its birthplace.
Coconut Coffee
Coconut coffee blends strong coffee with coconut milk or coconut cream and is often served cold. Sometimes it is topped with dried coconut shavings for added texture. This tropical variation is especially refreshing in southern regions where warm weather makes iced drinks popular.
White Coffee
Vietnamese White coffee often described as a “Vietnamese latte,” Bạc Xỉu contains a higher proportion of condensed and fresh milk than a standard cà phê sữa, resulting in a lighter and sweeter flavor. It is a gentle introduction to Vietnamese coffee for those who prefer milder drinks.
Coffee bean varieties in Vietnam
Vietnam produces a rich variety of coffee beans, each with its own unique flavor profile and characteristics. While Robusta dominates the market with its bold and robust taste, other varieties such as Arabica, Culi, Moka, and Weasel Coffee offer distinctive aromas, textures, and experiences. Exploring these beans provides insight into the diversity and depth of Vietnam’s coffee culture.
Robusta
Accounting for over 90% of Vietnam’s coffee production, Robusta beans deliver the bold, nutty, and chocolatey flavors that form the backbone of most local drinks. These beans are a cornerstone of specialty coffee in Vietnam, offering a distinctive taste that showcases the country’s rich coffee heritage.
Arabica
Grown at higher altitudes, such as in Da Lat and Son La, Arabica has a milder, more acidic profile. It is increasingly featured in specialty cafés that emphasize nuanced flavors.
Culi (Peaberry)
Culi beans are single, round beans that develop inside a coffee cherry instead of the usual two flat beans. They are prized for having a more intense flavor and higher caffeine content.
Moka (Bourbon)
A rare, high-quality Arabica variety cultivated in the Da Lat region. Moka beans are known for their exquisite aroma and mild bitterness.
Weasel Coffee (Cà Phê Chồn)
A premium variety processed through the digestive system of civets, which reduces bitterness and enhances sweetness. It is considered one of the most luxurious coffee types in Vietnam.
Savoring fine robusta at Tonkin Coffee
Tonkin Coffee provides a unique opportunity to explore Fine Robusta, blending traditional Vietnamese coffee styles with high-quality beans and expert brewing techniques. From phin filter brewing to modern espresso methods, every cup highlights the rich, bold character of Robusta while balancing smoothness and flavor clarity.
Tonkin Coffee Branches
- Tonkin Specialty Coffee (91 Lý Tự Trọng): The original branch, bringing Hanoi’s famous egg coffee to Saigon. This location mixes classic and modern styles, creating a lively yet cozy atmosphere in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a popular spot for friends to gather, enjoy a creamy egg coffee, and share conversation in a welcoming environment.
- Tonkin Garden Café (135/50 Trần Hưng Đạo): This branch offers a peaceful garden setting with fresh air and greenery. It is perfect for those seeking a calm space to relax, read, or enjoy coffee surrounded by nature. The outdoor environment enhances the sensory experience of each drink, making it ideal for a slow, mindful coffee break.
- Tonkin Egg Coffee (1 Lê Thị Riêng): Featuring a warm, inviting décor with red and yellow tones, this branch creates a friendly and comfortable atmosphere. It is designed for casual visits, allowing customers to take a break, sip their favorite coffee, and enjoy a moment of tranquility in the bustling city center.
Signature drinks at Tonkin Coffee
Tonkin Coffee’s menu celebrates Vietnamese classics while offering options for every taste:
- Egg Coffee (Cà Phê Trứng): Creamy egg yolk foam combined with bold coffee. A must-try for first-time visitors.
- Salt Coffee (Cà Phê Muối): A hint of sea salt adds a smooth, savory twist to robust coffee.
- Vietnamese Coffee – Nâu Tonkin: A traditional milk coffee, elevated with careful preparation.
- Black Coffee (Cà Phê Đen) & White Coffee (Bạc Xỉu): Strong, aromatic Robusta served hot or iced, or blended with milk for a milder taste.
- Coconut Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Dừa): A tropical delight combining robust coffee and silky coconut milk.
- Espresso-based Drinks (Espresso, Americano, Latte, Mocha, Cappuccino): Crafted with precision to balance boldness and creaminess.
- Vegan Options (Oatmilk Coffee & Oatmilk White Coffee): Plant-based variations offering smooth, rich flavors for those preferring non-dairy beverages.
A complete coffee experience
Visiting Tonkin Coffee is more than just drinking coffee—it is about experiencing the culture, aroma, and craftsmanship behind each cup. Customers can enjoy traditional Vietnamese favorites while exploring the nuances of Fine Robusta in a modern café setting. The combination of skilled baristas, quality beans, and thoughtfully designed spaces across three branches ensures a consistent, enjoyable coffee experience every time.
Whether you want to taste the iconic egg coffee, try a refreshing coconut coffee, or enjoy a carefully crafted espresso-based drink, Tonkin Coffee provides a variety of options to suit different moods and preferences. Each branch offers its own unique atmosphere, ensuring a memorable visit for every coffee enthusiast.
With a focus on quality, flavor, and a welcoming environment, Tonkin Coffee invites you to explore the depth and richness of Vietnamese coffee in a way that blends tradition with contemporary enjoyment. The menu caters to classic tastes as well as modern preferences, making it the perfect destination for locals and visitors alike.
Visit Tonkin Coffee Today!
Tonkin Specialty Coffee
- Add: 91 Ly Tu Trong St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Hotline: 086 799 0125
Tonkin Garden Cafe
- Add: 135/50 Tran Hung Dao St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Hotline: 087 992 4691
Tonkin Egg Coffee
- Add: 1 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Hotline: 0815 841 909
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.