Have you ever wondered who invented egg coffee in Vietnam? Behind this beloved drink lies more than just a recipe — it’s a story of creativity, history, and a clever solution to a simple problem. The journey began in Hanoi in the 1940s, when one man’s idea transformed the way people enjoyed coffee in the country. Today, that legacy continues to inspire many modern cafés, including TonKin Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can enjoy this timeless drink in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Story Behind Vietnamese Egg Coffee
Egg coffee isn’t just a drink — it’s a warm, flavorful story that carries the spirit of Vietnamese creativity and tradition. To truly understand why it’s loved by so many, we need to look back at its beginnings. The egg coffee Vietnam history is a tale of turning scarcity into something unforgettable.
A creative solution in difficult times
The story of what is an egg coffee in Vietnam begins in Hanoi during the 1940s, shortly after World War II. At that time, fresh milk was scarce and expensive. Many cafés in Vietnam struggled to serve their usual coffee with milk. In the capital city, a man named Nguyễn Văn Giảng, who worked as a bartender at the iconic Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, came up with an ingenious solution: replace fresh milk with a mixture of egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk.
When whisked together, the mixture created a thick, smooth foam that could be layered over strong Vietnamese coffee. It was rich, sweet, and surprisingly delicious. What started as a simple substitute quickly became something special on its own.
The birth of a local favorite
In 1946, Giảng began serving this drink to hotel guests. It didn’t take long for people to fall in love with its taste. Encouraged by its popularity, he opened his own café — Café Giảng — where he continued to refine the recipe. Over time, the drink became known as cà phê trứng and earned a special place in the hearts of Hanoi residents.
The original recipe remains simple:
- Fresh egg yolks
- Sugar
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Hot Vietnamese coffee (usually Robusta)
The egg mixture is whipped until fluffy and then poured over a cup of hot coffee. The two layers blend together as you drink, giving you a smooth and balanced flavor.
From a hidden gem to a national drink
What began in one small café in Hanoi slowly spread throughout the country. Visitors came to taste the famous egg coffee, and word traveled far. Today, it’s not just a Hanoi specialty anymore — you can find it in coffee shops across Vietnam, from the old streets of the capital to the bustling avenues of Ho Chi Minh City.
A Unique Taste That Blends Tradition and Modernity
What makes egg coffee special isn’t only its taste but the way it connects the past and present. Over the years, this simple yet elegant drink has evolved, finding its place in both traditional coffee corners and modern cafés. It reflects how Vietnamese coffee culture continues to grow—honoring its roots while welcoming new ideas and flavors.
More than just a drink
Egg coffee is loved not just for its flavor but also for the story it carries. Every cup is a reminder of a time when resourcefulness created something truly memorable. The combination of bitter, strong coffee and creamy egg foam brings a special balance — warm, comforting, and a little bit indulgent.
Many cafés keep the traditional recipe alive, while others give it a modern twist. Some add chocolate, cheese, or even ice to create new variations. No matter the version, the heart of egg coffee remains the same: a smooth foam on top of aromatic Vietnamese coffee.
From Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City
Although Hanoi is the birthplace of egg coffee, Ho Chi Minh City has embraced it with open arms. The city’s lively café scene offers everything from classic recipes to inventive twists. For coffee lovers and curious travelers, this is one of the best answers to the question: where to drink egg coffee in Vietnam.
Experience Authentic Egg Coffee at TonKin Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City
If you want to enjoy a cup of egg coffee that stays true to its origins while offering a touch of modern creativity, TonKin Coffee is a wonderful place to visit. This homegrown brand is loved by locals and travelers alike for its cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and carefully crafted drinks.
Each branch of TonKin Coffee in District 1 offers its own ambiance and story — but they all share the same dedication to quality. Here’s where you can find them:
TonKin Specialty Coffee
TonKin Specialty Coffee
Address: 91 Ly Tu Trong St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
This location is perfect for those who love a modern, airy café space in the heart of the city. Here, you can watch the baristas prepare your egg coffee with care and enjoy it slowly — just as it should be.
TonKin Garden Cafe
TonKin Garden Cafe
Address: 135/50 Tran Hung Dao St, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Nestled in a quiet alley, this branch brings a calm, nature-inspired vibe. It’s a great place to escape the busy streets and relax with a cup of rich, creamy egg coffee. Many guests say it feels like discovering a small hidden garden in the middle of the city.
TonKin Egg Coffee
TonKin Egg Coffee
Address: 1 Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Located right in the vibrant heart of District 1, this branch welcomes guests with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s an easy stop for anyone exploring the city and looking to unwind with a thoughtfully prepared cup of coffee. Just like the other TonKin locations, this spot offers a warm space to sit back, enjoy your drink, and soak in the charm of Saigon’s café culture.
Why TonKin Coffee is worth a visit
- Authentic taste: Their recipe respects the original Hanoi style — creamy but not too sweet, perfectly paired with bold coffee.
- Comfortable spaces: Each branch has its own character, from modern design to garden-inspired corners.
- Local charm: TonKin Coffee is proud to share Vietnamese coffee culture with both locals and travelers.
Today, egg coffee has traveled far beyond its original home in Hanoi. In Ho Chi Minh City, TonKin Coffee is one of the places keeping that tradition alive while adding its own touch. Whether you prefer a lively café in the city center or a quiet corner to relax, TonKin’s three District 1 locations offer the perfect spot to enjoy a warm cup of egg coffee — where each sip connects past and present.
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.