If you’ve ever heard of Vietnamese egg coffee but haven’t tried it yet, you’re in for something extraordinary.
This unique drink — silky, rich, and beautifully balanced — is one of Vietnam’s proudest creations. And if you’re wondering where to buy Vietnamese egg coffee, there’s one name that keeps coming up among locals and travelers alike: Tonkin Coffee.
In the heart of Saigon, Tonkin Coffee brings the essence of Hanoi’s original egg coffee into a refined, modern experience — where every sip tells a story.
The Heart of Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Long before it became the renowned global specialty that answers the question of “what is Vietnamese Egg Coffee called?” (Cà phê trứng), this concoction was born in Hanoi during the 1940s. A brilliant bartender, adapting to the scarcity of milk, substituted it with whipped egg yolk and condensed milk, thereby crafting an accidental masterpiece.
The result was a drink unlike any other: smooth, thick, and delicately sweet, floating over strong Vietnamese coffee.
This simple yet brilliant invention became an icon of Vietnamese coffee culture — a drink that represents both ingenuity and warmth.
What Makes Egg Coffee Special
Rich espresso base — brewed from bold Vietnamese Robusta beans.
Creamy, sweet foam — made by whisking fresh egg yolk with condensed milk until light and velvety.
Balanced flavor — strong yet gentle, comforting yet energizing.
The first sip feels like dessert in a cup. Some say it reminds them of tiramisu; others call it a “liquid crème brûlée.” But in the end, everyone agrees — nothing else tastes quite like Vietnamese egg coffee.
The Tonkin Coffee Experience in Saigon
While egg coffee was born in Hanoi, Tonkin Coffee has given it a new life in Ho Chi Minh City.
This isn’t just a café — it’s an experience designed around tradition, creativity, and slow living.
At Tonkin Coffee, you’ll notice a distinctive presentation: the espresso and the creamy egg foam are served separately. The thick, white layer of foam sits elegantly in a glass cup, while a smaller glass holds the freshly brewed coffee.
Pour, Watch, and Savor
One of the most delightful parts of enjoying egg coffee at Tonkin is the ritual itself.
Customers are invited to pour the espresso over the egg cream by hand — a small, mindful act that turns the drink into an experience.
As you pour, the dark espresso slowly blends with the golden foam, creating a swirl of colors and aromas. The layers meet, melt, and form a silky surface topped with a gentle dusting of cocoa powder.
The texture changes with every sip — from light and airy on top to rich and robust at the bottom. It’s the kind of sensory experience that lingers long after the last drop.
Why Everyone Falls in Love with Tonkin’s Egg Coffee
Tonkin Coffee isn’t trying to reinvent egg cream coffee — it’s refining it with care, warmth, and a touch of Vietnamese artistry.
Every cup tells a story — from the aroma of freshly brewed espresso to the comforting creaminess of the egg foam. It’s not just about how it looks, but how it makes you feel.
Here’s why Tonkin has become a must-visit destination for anyone searching for where to buy Vietnamese egg coffee in HCM City:
- Authentic Northern Flavor – Tonkin stays true to the original Hanoi recipe, balancing the richness of egg yolk with the deep, aromatic tones of Vietnamese coffee. The flavor is bold yet smooth — sweet, creamy, and slightly bitter all at once.
- A Touch of Indochine Elegance – Step inside Tonkin and you’ll be greeted by a charming blend of vintage Saigon and Hanoi nostalgia. The warm wooden interiors, Indochine-inspired décor, and hand-painted folk masks on the walls bring a quiet sense of culture and heritage to the space.
- Thoughtful, Heartfelt Service – Tonkin’s team is known for their gentle hospitality. Each cup is served with care, and guests are guided to pour the coffee over the creamy egg foam themselves — creating a personal, hands-on experience that feels both intimate and memorable.
- Comfort in Every Corner – Whether you’re sitting alone with a book or chatting with friends, the calm lighting and soft music make you feel right at home. It’s a cozy escape from the busy streets outside — a little pocket of peace in the middle of Saigon.
- Taste That Lingers – Beyond the first sip, Tonkin’s egg coffee leaves a velvety aftertaste that stays with you — rich, aromatic, and perfectly balanced. It’s the kind of drink that makes you pause, smile, and remember.
Where to Find Tonkin Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City
Each Tonkin location offers its own ambiance — from stylish city spots to peaceful garden corners — but they all share the same dedication to perfecting egg coffee.
Below are the three main branches where you can enjoy this signature drink in the heart of District 1.
Tonkin Specialty Coffee
Address: 91 Ly Tu Trong St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
This is Tonkin’s flagship store — modern, vibrant, and right in the center of the city.
The space blends nostalgic Northern elements with Saigon’s contemporary spirit. It’s a favorite among both locals and tourists looking for an authentic experience.
Here, you’ll find the signature egg coffee ritual: pour, watch, and sip. The baristas are friendly and often share stories about the origin of the drink, making the experience even more personal.
Pro tip: Pair your hot egg coffee with a freshly baked croissant — the creamy texture and buttery pastry are a match made in heaven.
Tonkin Garden Cafe
Address: 135/50 Tran Hung Dao St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Hidden away from the noise, Tonkin Garden Cafe is a calm retreat wrapped in greenery.
The natural light, soft music, and cozy seating make it an ideal place to unwind.
Enjoy your egg coffee here with the peaceful sound of leaves rustling in the background. Whether you’re reading, working, or catching up with a friend, this is the kind of spot that lets time slow down.
Checklist for your visit:
Order the signature hot egg coffee.
Try a light pastry or croissant to go with it.
Take a moment to enjoy the calm atmosphere — a small escape right in the heart of the city.
Tonkin Egg Coffee
Address: 1 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Tonkin Egg Coffee is where the story of this signature drink comes to life. Tucked away in a quiet corner of District 1, the café carries an intimate charm — cozy, welcoming, and deeply rooted in Vietnamese tradition.
The walls are adorned with folk paintings that capture the soul of local culture, while the soft aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air. Every element here — from the gentle lighting to the rhythmic whisking behind the counter — invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
Guests often describe this place as the heart of Tonkin’s spirit, where each cup feels like a small celebration of craftsmanship and nostalgia. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a devoted fan of egg coffee, Tonkin Egg Coffee offers a warm, unforgettable experience that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
So whether you’re new to Vietnam or a Saigon local, Tonkin Coffee is where you’ll find that perfect balance — nostalgia in a cup, beauty in every detail, and warmth in every sip.
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.