A slow sip through Vietnam’s coffee culture

As I was brewing my cup of Vietnamese coffee this morning—as I always do—I found myself reflecting on just how much this drink has become a part of my life. It’s more than just a daily ritual. Vietnamese coffee, with its bold flavour and slow drip, feels like a pause button in a fast-paced world. So I thought, why not take this moment to rewind? To explore the roots of our Vietnamese coffee culture and the vibrant street life that has grown around it. How did we get here? And how has our culture helped shape one of the most unique coffee scenes in the world?

But before diving into the coffee shops of Vietnam today, let’s go all the way back—how was coffee discovered, and how did it even end up in Vietnam?

The Goat That Started It All

There are many legends about how coffee was first discovered—some mythical, some exaggerated—but all of them leave an aftertaste as memorable as the drink itself. One of my favourites is the story of goats in Ethiopia’s Kaffa region (yep, that’s actually how “coffee” got its name). The tale goes that a goatherd noticed his goats becoming unusually energetic after munching on branches with white flowers and red cherries. Curious, he tried the cherries himself and experienced the same buzz.

Eventually, the local priests caught wind of this “forbidden fruit.” They burned the beans—only to be enchanted by the irresistible aroma. What was once feared became celebrated, as the roasted beans were ground and brewed into the very first cup of coffee—a beverage that kept the monks awake through long nights of prayer.

The Arrival of Coffee in Vietnam

Coffee first arrived in Vietnam in 1857, brought by French colonists who introduced the Arabica bean from Bourbon. It was grown in the North and branded “Arabica du Tonkin,” and exported back to France. Arabica was initially favoured for its value in European markets, but low productivity led to the introduction of Robusta and Liberica (locally known as Cherry) beans in 1908.

After years of soil studies and experimentation, the French realized the Central Highlands—places like Buôn Ma Thuột—were ideal for growing Robusta. With support from foreign investors and agricultural reforms, coffee plantations flourished. By the 20th century, Vietnam had become one of the world’s largest coffee producers. Today, Vietnam is the second-largest coffee exporter globally, accounting for over 17% of the world’s coffee production—primarily Robusta.

Vietnam’s Coffee: Global Praise, Local Love

In recent years, the world has started waking up to the charm of Vietnamese coffee. From bold Robusta blends to creamy cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced milk coffee), our coffee has made its way into international headlines.

In 2023, TasteAtlas ranked Vietnamese coffee second in the world for highest-rated coffee experiences. CNN once named Vietnam as one of the best places for coffee lovers, praising our unique recipes and street-side coffee culture. What’s more, egg coffee and coconut coffee have become Instagram-famous, making waves across the global.

But for me, Vietnamese coffee isn’t about trends or rankings—it’s about moments. It’s been a quiet companion during early mornings, rainy afternoons, or long conversations with friends. Brewing a cup of coffee at home—from grinding the beans to listening to the gentle drip—has a way of slowing down time, grounding you.

Coffee Shops: Where Life Happens

In Vietnam, cafes is THE destination rather than just a place to get a quick coffee on the go. With over 500,000 coffee shops across the country, from humble sidewalk stalls to stylish, air-conditioned cafes, there’s always a seat (and a strong brew) waiting for you.

Need a meeting spot? Let's grab coffee. Going on a date? How about a cute cafe? Too hot? Cold brew, please. Too tired? Definitely a hot cà phê sữa đá.

It’s normal for Vietnamese people to drink two or three cups a day. Our love for coffee is deeply cultural. And as demand continues to grow, so does our taste. Younger generations are embracing both traditional drinks and global favourites like lattes, flat whites, and espresso.

One reason Vietnamese cafes are so popular is the diversity of their spaces. Some have rustic charm with wooden furniture and old vibes. Others are sleek, modern, and filled with plants and soft lighting. Some feel like art galleries, while others are perfect hideaways to work, read, or relax. Each one reflects a different personality, and gives us a different reason to stay.

The Plastic Chair: A Symbol of Sidewalk Life

Now, let’s talk about another iconic part of Vietnamese street coffee: the humble plastic chair.

You’ll find these colorful, low-to-the-ground chairs lining every sidewalk, outside street vendors and old coffee stalls. They’re not fancy, but they’re full of meaning. A plastic chair means a quick coffee break, a heart-to-heart conversation, or a place to simply sit and watch the city move.

For many Vietnamese people, these chairs are woven into everyday life. They remind us that rest doesn’t have to be luxurious. Sometimes, it’s just a hot drink on a street corner, shared with a friend.

A Final Sip

I hope this week’s blog gave you a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese coffee—not just as a beverage, but as a reflection of our culture, community, and creativity. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or sipping your second cup of the day, may it remind you to slow down, breathe, and be present.

And next time you sit on a plastic chair with a cup of cà phê in hand, think of it not as something ordinary, but as something quietly magical.

Thanks for spending this moment with me.