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If you’re starting your journey to explore Vietnamese coffee culture, there’s one drink you absolutely can’t miss — egg coffee. This iconic beverage isn’t just coffee; it’s a story, a taste of history, and a symbol of Vietnamese creativity. With its rich aroma and creamy top layer, egg coffee represents both the warmth and the depth of Vietnam’s culinary identity.

Egg coffee first appeared in Hanoi in the 1940s, during a time when milk was hard to find. A resourceful local bartender came up with a simple but brilliant idea: replace milk with whisked egg yolks. The result was a smooth, golden cream that floated on top of a strong, aromatic cup of Vietnamese coffee. It was comforting, unique, and distinctly local — and it quickly became a beloved tradition.

Unlike most modern coffee drinks, egg coffee is not about speed or convenience. It’s about slowing down and enjoying the moment. The drink is made by carefully whisking egg yolks with sugar to create a light, velvety foam. This creamy layer sits atop a base of robust Vietnamese coffee — usually made from local robusta beans, known for their bold flavor and rich caffeine content. The two parts blend harmoniously, creating a flavor profile that’s both strong and smooth, bitter and sweet, familiar yet new.

Egg coffee isn’t something you’d drink every day; it’s indulgent, like a dessert in a cup. But for anyone visiting Vietnam, it’s the perfect introduction to the country’s coffee culture. It tells you everything about Vietnamese ingenuity — how people turned a lack of ingredients into a national treasure. Every sip carries the warmth of home, the creativity of the people, and the deep connection between coffee and daily life here.

Over the years, this drink has traveled from the quiet streets of Hanoi to the vibrant heart of Saigon. In the South, you’ll find new versions — some lighter, some stronger, each reflecting the city’s dynamic and modern vibe. But no matter where you try it, a good cup of egg coffee will always have one unmistakable feature: a creamy, golden foam that holds its shape and delivers a luxurious texture with every spoonful.

So if you’re planning to experience Vietnam through its coffee, start with egg coffee. It’s more than just a drink — it’s a cultural ritual, a warm welcome into the soul of this country.

And if your journey brings you to Saigon, there’s one place where this iconic drink comes to life: Tonkin Garden Café. Nestled in the heart of the city, Tonkin Garden is known for serving authentic Vietnamese egg coffee made with passion and care. Here, every cup is crafted by hand — from whisking the egg cream to brewing the strong coffee beneath — creating a balance of flavor that captures both the spirit of Hanoi and the charm of Saigon. It’s the perfect place to begin your Vietnamese coffee story.