There’s something about coffee in Vietnam that feels different. Maybe it’s the rhythm of daily life that begins with a cup in hand, or maybe it’s the bold, aromatic Robusta beans that define the country’s unique flavor. But among all the ways Vietnamese people enjoy their coffee, one stands out as truly unforgettable — Vietnamese egg coffee, or cà phê trứng.
If you’ve ever wondered what Vietnamese egg coffee is called, that’s it — a blend of tradition, flavor, and craft And if you want to taste this tradition in its most delicate, soulful form, Tonkin Coffee is the perfect place to begin.
What Is Vietnamese Egg Coffee Called?
Vietnamese egg coffee is called cà phê trứng — a unique drink that brings together strong Vietnamese coffee and a silky layer of whipped eggs and condensed milk. At first, the idea of mixing coffee with eggs might sound unusual, but one sip is all it takes to understand why it has captured so many hearts.
Vietnamese egg coffee combines rich, dark coffee with a smooth, creamy foam made from whisked egg yolks and condensed milk. The result is a silky, dessert-like drink that’s both strong and comforting. It’s often compared to tiramisu or crème brûlée, but really, it has a character all its own.
The origins of this iconic drink go back to Hanoi in the 1940s, when a resourceful hotel bartender came up with a clever solution during a milk shortage. By whisking eggs into the coffee, he created a creamy, velvety texture that surprised everyone — and in doing so, he became the one who invented egg coffee in Vietnam, turning a simple idea into a national treasure.
Over the years, egg coffee has evolved from a humble improvisation into one of Vietnam’s most beloved beverages, a drink that beautifully blends tradition, flavor, and artistry.
The Unique Taste and Texture
If you’ve never tried it, imagine this: a layer of thick, frothy cream on top — smooth, glossy, and lightly sweet. Beneath it lies a pool of strong, freshly brewed coffee. You start by tasting the foam, which melts like silk on your tongue, then gently stir to blend the two layers together.
The magic happens in that first mix — where the bold bitterness of the coffee meets the soft sweetness of the foam, creating a silky, balanced flavor that’s unlike any other. This is exactly what Vietnamese egg coffee tastes like: smooth yet rich, sweet yet strong, creamy yet light.
It’s not too heavy, not too sugary — just the perfect harmony of texture and taste. It’s the kind of drink that doesn’t rush you. You sip slowly, watch the foam swirl, and somehow feel the world slow down with you.
Why You Should Try Egg Coffee at Least Once
There are drinks that wake you up, and drinks that make you pause. Egg coffee is the latter.
It’s a simple yet memorable pleasure — comforting like a warm dessert but as energizing as your morning espresso. What makes it special is the contrast: the boldness of Vietnamese Robusta coffee balanced by the creamy sweetness of whipped eggs and milk.
It’s also deeply cultural. Each cup tells a story about Vietnam’s ingenuity — how something so basic could turn into something beautiful. And beyond its comforting flavor, many people also wonder: is Vietnamese egg coffee good for you? While it’s a treat rather than a health drink, its ingredients — fresh eggs, condensed milk, and coffee — offer a rich, satisfying boost when enjoyed in moderation.
And once you’ve tasted it, you might just find yourself craving it again.
Your Perfect Egg Coffee Moment Awaits at Tonkin Coffee
If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and wondering where to drink egg coffee in Vietnam, one name should be at the top of your list — Tonkin Coffee.
Tucked away at 91 Lý Tự Trọng, District 1, this café isn’t just a place to grab a drink; it’s an experience that captures the soul of Vietnamese coffee culture. The interior blends Indochine architecture with soft lighting, warm wooden details, and folk-inspired art, creating a space that feels timeless and full of character.
Perfect for anyone seeking egg coffee in Saigon’s District 1, Tonkin Coffee also has two other charming branches: Tonkin Garden Cafe on Trần Hưng Đạo and Tonkin Egg Coffee on Lê Thị Riêng. Each location shares the same warm ambiance but with its own unique touch — making every visit feel a little different, yet always familiar and inviting.
The Tonkin Coffee Experience
At Tonkin Coffee, egg coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s an experience.
Unlike the traditional phin brewing method, Tonkin uses a professional espresso machine to extract a clean, aromatic shot that brings out the bold, chocolatey depth of Vietnamese Robusta beans. The baristas here focus on precision: from the grind size to the espresso pull, every cup is brewed to highlight the natural strength and smoothness of the coffee.
But the true highlight — and what makes Tonkin’s signature unforgettable — is its white, silky egg foam. It’s airy, delicate, and beautifully layered like a soft cloud sitting in your cup. Instead of serving it pre-mixed, the experience is handed to you. The barista places a small glass of espresso alongside a separate cup topped with the cloud-like foam.
Then, it’s your turn. Slowly pour the hot coffee over the foam, let the layers swirl together, and gently stir. As the coffee seeps through, it warms the egg foam, creating a luxurious texture that’s light, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic. The contrast between the strong espresso and the creamy foam is what makes Tonkin’s egg coffee special — elegant yet comforting, modern yet nostalgic.
That first spoonful captures everything: the warmth, the fragrance, the smooth foam, and the lingering Robusta finish. It’s not just about drinking coffee; it’s about pausing, savoring, and feeling.
Whether it’s your first time trying egg coffee or your tenth, Tonkin turns a simple cup into a quiet moment worth remembering.
The Flavor of Quality
Tonkin Coffee is committed to using high-quality Robusta beans, carefully selected and roasted to achieve the ideal balance of aroma and depth. Vietnamese Robusta is known for its strong body and rich character — and here, it’s treated with respect.
Each cup carries the boldness of Vietnam’s coffee culture but is refined through careful preparation. The foam doesn’t overpower the coffee; it complements it, creating harmony in taste and texture.
A Space That Feels Like Home
Beyond the drink itself, Tonkin Coffee is loved for its ambience. The café feels like a bridge between past and present — traditional yet modern, warm yet elegant. The décor draws from Vietnamese folk paintings, vintage tiles, and rustic wooden furniture, creating an atmosphere that feels intimate and inspiring.
Soft music plays in the background, natural light filters through large windows, and the scent of roasted coffee fills the air. Whether you come alone for a quiet morning or with friends in the evening, the place feels equally inviting.
It’s the kind of café where conversations flow easily, where you can slow down, breathe, and simply enjoy the moment.
Service That Comes From the Heart
A good coffee shop isn’t just about drinks — it’s also about people.
At Tonkin Coffee, the staff embody the gentle hospitality Vietnam is known for. They’re attentive but never intrusive, always ready to recommend a drink or share the story behind a recipe. The service feels natural — warm smiles, soft voices, genuine care.
That combination of good coffee, thoughtful service, and inviting space is what makes Tonkin Coffee memorable.
More Than a Café
Tonkin Coffee isn’t just a stop for caffeine; it’s a place where you can experience Vietnam’s culture in a cup. It’s a reminder of how simplicity, when treated with love and skill, can become something extraordinary.
Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or someone looking for a meaningful local experience, Tonkin’s Vietnamese egg coffee is a must-try. It’s not loud or extravagant — it’s gentle, balanced, and deeply satisfying.
So next time you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, take a break from the busy streets, step into Tonkin Coffee, and let yourself slow down for a while. Order their signature egg coffee, pour the espresso into that soft white foam, give it a slow stir, and take a sip.
You might find, as many others have, that it’s the kind of simple pleasure you’ll always remember.
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.