Hanoi Egg Coffee: A Must-Try Specialty & Top Cafes to Visit

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is not only famous for its rich history and cultural attractions but also for its unique culinary offerings. Among these, one beverage stands out: Egg Coffee, known locally as “ca phe trung.” This iconic drink is a must-try when visiting Hanoi. Combining bold Vietnamese coffee with sweet, creamy egg yolk foam, it’s a true embodiment of Hanoi’s vibrant cafe culture. Discover how Vietnam Discovery Travel introduces you to the finest coffee spots across the city, where you can indulge in this delicious creation.

1. The Origins and History of Hanoi Egg Coffee

Egg Coffee, or “ca phe trung,” was invented in the 1940s by a Hanoian named Nguyen Giang, during a time when milk was scarce in Vietnam. In an attempt to replace milk, whisked egg yolk was used, creating a frothy, creamy texture that has since become a staple in Hanoi’s coffee culture. The balance of rich coffee and sweet egg custard makes this a popular treat for both locals and tourists alike.

2. What Makes Egg Coffee Unique?

The secret to egg coffee lies in its layers. At the base is the dense, bold flavor of Vietnamese coffee, known for its robust taste and slow-drip preparation. On top is a layer of whipped egg yolk mixed with sugar, sometimes even condensed milk, to create a thick foam. This intriguing mix offers a delightful combination of sweet and bitter. Egg coffee is served hot or cold, with the cold version resembling a coffee-flavored ice cream, perfect for warmer days.

3. Where to Try the Best Egg Coffee in Hanoi

• Cafe Giang
  Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  Price: 25,000 – 35,000 VND ($1.10 – $1.50)
  Cafe Giang is the birthplace of egg coffee, founded by the inventor of this iconic drink. With its cozy atmosphere and nostalgic decor, you can experience the original egg coffee recipe here.
• Cafe Lam
  Address: 91 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  Price: 30,000 – 40,000 VND ($1.25 – $1.75)
  Cafe Lam is one of the oldest coffee shops in Hanoi and a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Known for its strong coffee and friendly ambiance, this is a great place to enjoy egg coffee.
• All Day Coffee
  Address: 37 Quang Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  Price: 40,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.75 – $2.15)
  A modern twist on the traditional coffee scene, All Day Coffee offers an upscale vibe and an excellent rendition of egg coffee. Whether you’re looking for a comfortable space to relax or work, this cafe provides a chic setting.
• Blackbird Coffee
  Address: 5 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
  Price: 40,000 – 50,000 VND ($1.75 – $2.15)
  Tucked in a quiet street in the Old Quarter, Blackbird Coffee is known for its specialty coffee. The egg coffee here has a well-balanced sweetness and a smooth finish, making it a must-visit for coffee enthusiasts.

4. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Egg Coffee at Home

If you can’t make it to Hanoi just yet, you can try making this unique coffee drink at home. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons of sugar
• 3 tablespoons of condensed milk
• 2 tablespoons of brewed Vietnamese coffee

Instructions:

1. Brew a strong cup of Vietnamese coffee using a traditional phin filter.
2. While the coffee is brewing, whisk the egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk until it becomes thick and frothy.
3. Pour the brewed coffee into a small cup.
4. Carefully spoon the whipped egg mixture over the coffee.
5. Serve hot or cold, depending on your preference.

5. More Than Coffee – Exploring Hanoi’s Café Culture

Hanoi is home to a vibrant café culture that offers much more than just egg coffee. From traditional sidewalk cafes with small plastic stools to modern, stylish coffee shops, the city is a coffee lover’s paradise. Cafes such as The Note Coffee, where you’ll be surrounded by colorful sticky notes from customers, and Loading T Café, set in a colonial French villa, are just a couple of examples of the unique coffee experiences you can enjoy.

6. Conclusion 

Hanoi’s egg coffee is not just a drink, but a symbol of the city’s creativity and tradition. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to relive old memories, enjoying a cup of egg coffee is a must-do experience in Hanoi. To discover more hidden gems like this and plan your perfect trip, consider reaching out to Vietnam Discovery Tours. They offer curated itineraries that showcase the best of Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and history. You can easily contact them via WhatsApp to begin your travel journey today!