Vietnamese Coffee Culture

Published August 07, 2025
Vietnam is famous for its strong, flavorful coffee and unique coffee culture. If you’re learning Vietnamese and living in Vietnam, especially in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) visiting local coffee shops is a great way to experience the culture, meet people, and even practice the language.

Coffee Culture in Vietnam
Vietnamese people don’t just drink coffee – they live it. From street-side stalls to stylish cafés, you’ll see people sipping coffee at all hours of the day. Whether they’re catching up with friends or working on their laptops, coffee shops are an essential part of modern life.

The most popular drinks include:
 • Cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk)
 • Cà phê đen đá (iced black coffee)
 • Bạc xỉu (a milkier version of coffee, popular with those who like it light)
 • Cà phê trứng (egg coffee) – sweet, creamy, and rich
 • Cà phê muối (salt coffee) – a unique and growing trend

Popular Coffee Chains in Saigon
Here are some of the most famous and popular coffee spots you can find around the city:

1. Trung Nguyên Legend
One of the most iconic Vietnamese coffee brands. Their coffee is strong, bold, and aromatic. Trung Nguyên coffee often have a traditional, elegant vibe and are perfect if you want to enjoy authentic Vietnamese-style coffee.

Try: Cà phê phin truyền thống số 4, 5(traditional drip coffee number 4 or 5), bạc xỉu, trà đào cam sả(peach orange lemongrass tea)

2.  Katinat Saigon Kafé
A fast-growing Vietnamese coffee chain that blends modern style with classic Saigon vibes. Katinat cafés often have beautiful decor, great lighting, and are popular among students and young people.

Try: Cà phê sữa đá, bạc xỉu đá 

3. Cheese Coffee
Trendy and stylish, Cheese Coffee is a favorite among the younger crowd. The interior is often sleek and monochrome – great for Instagram! Their drinks are creative, and many locations are laptop-friendly.

Try: Bạc xỉu đá 

4.  Highlands Coffee
A very popular local chain with a modern, casual feel. You’ll find Highlands Coffee in malls, near office buildings, and on busy corners. Their drinks are consistent and the shops are great for working or meeting friends.

Try:  Trà đào cam sả(peach orange lemongrass tea), Trà sen vàng (Golden lotus tea) 

5.  Phúc Long Coffee & Tea
Famous for both coffee and strong, flavorful teas. Phúc Long has a more premium feel and is loved by young professionals. Many locations have quick service and good take-away options.

Try: Lucky tea – it’s super refreshing!

6. Passio Coffee
Smaller but convenient chain with many take-away-friendly stores. Passio is known for its affordable prices and efficient service. Great for grabbing a quick drink on a busy day.

Try: Cà phê sữa tươi (fresh milk coffee), Ice blended cookies

Practice Your Vietnamese
Ordering coffee in Vietnamese is a fun way to practice real-life language. Here are some helpful phrases:
 • Cho em một ly cà phê sữa đá.
One iced coffee with milk, please.
 • Không đường, ít đá nha.
No sugar, less ice, please.
 • Tôi ngồi đây được không?
Can I sit here?
 • Cho tôi mang về nha.
I’d like it to-go.

Whether you prefer a quiet traditional café or a trendy modern space, Saigon has something for every coffee lover. Next time you go café-hopping, bring your Vietnamese notebook – you might learn more than just vocabulary!