Vietnam’s love for tea and coffee is deeply woven into its cultural fabric, reflecting both a long-standing heritage and a modern flair. In Hanoi, the art of drinking these two beloved beverages transcends the simple act of quenching thirst—it is a way of life, a ritual steeped in tradition and social connection.
A Tale of Two Beverages
Tea, or trà, has been part of Vietnamese culture for centuries, introduced through Chinese influence and evolving into a unique tradition of its own. Coffee, on the other hand, is a relatively newer addition, brought by the French during the colonial era in the 19th century. Despite their different origins, tea and coffee have both become integral to Vietnamese life, each with its distinct roles and flavors.
The Vietnamese Tea Tradition
Tea drinking in Vietnam is a symbol of hospitality and respect. In Hanoi, you’ll often see locals sipping hot green tea or jasmine tea in the morning or after meals. Tea is a staple in family gatherings, social events, and even business meetings, serving as a bridge for conversation and connection.
Traditional Vietnamese tea is simple yet elegant. Green tea leaves, often grown in the northern provinces, are brewed in small clay teapots and poured into tiny cups. The tea’s taste is earthy, slightly bitter, and refreshing—a reflection of Vietnam’s appreciation for natural, unadulterated flavors.
For a deeper dive into tea culture, you can visit streets like Hang Bac or Ngu Xa, where tea houses offer an intimate setting to enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea paired with local snacks.
Coffee: A Modern Icon
Coffee, or cà phê, is arguably the more globally recognized of Vietnam’s beverages. Hanoi is famous for its robust coffee culture, characterized by unique brewing methods and distinctive flavors.
One of the most iconic coffee styles is cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk). Made with dark-roasted Vietnamese coffee beans and sweetened condensed milk, this drink is both bold and creamy—a perfect pick-me-up on a hot day. For a hot alternative, cà phê sữa nóng (hot coffee with condensed milk) delivers the same richness in a warming form.
Another local favorite is cà phê trứng (egg coffee), a creamy concoction of coffee topped with a frothy egg yolk mixture. It’s a must-try for visitors and a prime example of Hanoi’s innovative approach to coffee-making.
Tea and Coffee as Social Anchors
Both tea and coffee serve as anchors of social life in Hanoi. Tea is the drink of choice for traditional family gatherings and reflective moments, while coffee is the centerpiece of the city’s modern café culture.
Hanoi’s café scene is diverse, ranging from charming, vintage tea shops in the Old Quarter to hip coffee bars along streets like Nguyen Du and Hoang Hoa Tham. These spots not only serve excellent drinks but also provide spaces for people to work, relax, and connect.
How to Experience Hanoi’s Tea and Coffee Culture
Visit a traditional tea house: Experience the quiet elegance of tea drinking in Hanoi’s serene tea houses.
Try local coffee specialties: Don’t miss out on egg coffee, coconut coffee, or the classic iced coffee with condensed milk.
Explore the café scene: Spend a morning or afternoon hopping between Hanoi’s eclectic cafés, each with its unique charm and menu.
Join a tea or coffee workshop: Learn about the brewing process and the stories behind these beverages.
A Blend of Tradition and Modernity
Tea and coffee in Vietnam are more than just drinks—they’re cultural expressions that connect the past with the present. Whether you’re savoring a traditional cup of green tea or enjoying a bold Vietnamese coffee, each sip offers a glimpse into the heart of Hanoi’s rich heritage and vibrant lifestyle.
Take the time to explore this dual culture, and you’ll find that it’s as much about the people and their stories as it is about the beverages themselves.