When it comes to unique beverages in Vietnam, egg coffee easily tops the list. This delightful creation, known as cà phê trứng in Vietnamese, combines the rich bitterness of strong coffee with the silky sweetness of whipped egg yolks. Today, egg coffee in Hanoi has become a must-try for both locals and visitors looking to explore authentic Vietnamese flavors.
🍮 What Is Egg Coffee?
Egg coffee is made by whipping egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk into a light, creamy foam, then gently layering it over a shot of hot Vietnamese Robusta coffee. The result? A rich, velvety drink with a flavor profile similar to a dessert – some say it tastes like liquid tiramisu!
It’s usually served in a small cup placed inside a warm bowl of water to keep the temperature perfect. Some cafés offer it iced, but the traditional version is hot.
☕ Pro tip: Stir gently and sip slowly to enjoy the perfect balance of creamy and strong.
🧭 A Brief History
Egg coffee was invented in 1946 by Mr. Nguyen Van Giang, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. At the time, milk was scarce, so he used egg yolks as a substitute – creating a drink that quickly became a local favorite.
His family still runs the legendary Giang Café, one of the best places to try authentic egg coffee in Hanoi today.
📍 Where to Try Egg Coffee in Hanoi
If you’re in the Old Quarter or near Hoan Kiem Lake, here are a few must-visit cafés:
Café Giang – The original spot where egg coffee was born
Đinh Café – Located above an old bookstore with views of Hoan Kiem Lake
The Note Coffee – A cozy place with colorful messages and good coffee
Loading T Café – Beautiful French-style setting and excellent egg coffee
👉 Explore more Hanoi drinks on our Hanoi Food & Drink Guide.
👉 Learn more about egg coffee and its history on Vietnam.Travel.
🎯 Why You Should Try It
Unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else
A true Hanoi invention with decades of history
Perfect mix of strong and sweet, especially for dessert lovers
Budget-friendly – most cups cost between $1–$2
Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply curious, egg coffee Hanoi is an experience worth adding to your travel bucket list.
✅ Final Thoughts
From humble wartime origins to international fame, egg coffee reflects the creativity and resilience of Vietnamese culture. So next time you’re wandering the streets of Hanoi, make time to stop at a local café and sip this warm, comforting delight.
It’s not just a drink – it’s a taste of Hanoi’s soul.
