Make 3 Regions Iconic Vietnamese coffees: Brown, Salted, Egg

Vietnam’s coffee culture is as diverse as its landscape. For travelers eager to understand how regional differences shape lifestyles and tastes, this 1.5-hour workshop offers a practical and flavorful introduction. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply curious about Vietnam’s beloved brew, this experience combines education, authentic taste, and a touch of fun.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its interactive nature, the informative commentary from an experienced host, and the chance to craft three iconic regional coffees yourself. However, keep in mind that the session is quite caffeine-heavy, so it might not suit those sensitive to coffee or with medical restrictions. It’s perfect for curious travelers who enjoy cultural insights and hands-on experiences in a compact format.

The experience is well-suited for those wanting a memorable, authentic activity that’s conveniently located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re after a small-group vibe with personalized attention, this class is a smart choice.

Key Points

• Authentic regional focus: Learn about the distinct coffee styles from South, Central, and North Vietnam.
• Hands-on brewing: Make your own three signature drinks with expert guidance.
• Cultural insights: Understand how coffee is woven into Vietnamese daily life and traditions.
• Local snack included: Enjoy a traditional plain Bánh mì with condensed milk for a perfect pairing.
• Expert host: A guide with over 16 years of F&B experience ensures smooth, engaging instruction.
• Convenient location: Central, air-conditioned venue suitable for all small groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Vietnam’s Coffee Heritage

Vietnam’s reputation for coffee isn’t just about the caffeine—it’s about the stories, regional identities, and personal habits embedded in every cup. On this tour, you’ll get to see how each part of Vietnam puts its unique stamp on coffee, from the lively streets of Saigon to the cooler climes of Hanoi.

The journey begins with a brief overview of Vietnamese coffee history. You learn how coffee is deeply integrated into daily routines, social gatherings, and even business meetings. The host, with over 16 years of experience in F&B, shares engaging tales that add context to the tasting and making process.

What’s especially impressive is the focus on traditional brewing methods. The class emphasizes the proper use of the Phin, Vietnam’s classic drip filter, which is crucial for authentic flavor. This not only gives you a chance to understand how Vietnamese coffee is brewed but also equips you with practical tips you can use back home.

The Regional Coffees Explained

The South: Brown Coffee

Starting with the southern style, you’ll learn how the rich, robust “Brown” coffee is brewed. Known for its bold flavor, it’s often enjoyed black or with sweetened condensed milk. The host explains how the humid climate influences the coffee’s strength and how locals prefer their coffee to be both strong and sweet.

Central Vietnam: Salted Coffee

Moving to the central region, the Salted Coffee offers a surprising twist. This version features a salted cream topping, which balances bitterness with a savory hint. It’s a unique style that reflects the region’s culinary contrasts and history of coastal flavors. You’ll make this coffee from scratch, learning how the salted cream is prepared and layered.

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The North: Egg Coffee

Finally, the iconic Egg Coffee from Hanoi is a highlight. Creamy, velvety, and topped with a frothy egg yolk mixture, it’s a true Hanoi specialty. The guide shares fun anecdotes about its origins—supposedly invented during French colonial times when fresh milk was scarce, leading baristas to replace it with whipped egg yolks.

What It’s Like to Make Your Own Coffee

The best part of this experience is the opportunity to craft each drink yourself. You’ll receive step-by-step guidance on how to use the Phin, ensuring you fully grasp the traditional brewing process. The host provides personalized tips on how to adjust strength, sweetness, and creaminess.

Participants appreciated the well-structured nature of the session. One reviewer mentioned, “Everything was perfectly prepared and explained,” which makes the learning curve gentle for beginners. Plus, all ingredients and tools are included, so there’s no hidden fee—making it excellent value at just $20 per person.

You’ll also get to taste four different coffees during the session, including the three regional styles and one more, giving you a broader understanding of Vietnam’s coffee palette.

The Local Snack & Additional Tips

Complementing the coffees, a plain Bánh mì with condensed milk is served—a simple yet delicious snack that pairs perfectly with the drinks. The host also shares tips for brewing and interesting background stories about each style, enriching the tasting experience.

Practical Details and Experience Logistics

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it ideal for a quick yet meaningful cultural activity. It’s conducted in an air-conditioned, comfortable space in the city center, which is especially welcome after a day of sightseeing.

Group sizes are limited to six, ensuring a personalized experience and plenty of interaction with the guide. The activity is conducted in English, and its wheelchair accessibility makes it inclusive for most travelers.

The cost is $20 per person, which covers all ingredients, your drinks, and the snack. Considering the quality of instruction, the authenticity of the drinks, and the cultural insights gained, this is a great value.

Authentic Experiences Backed by Rave Reviews

Reviewers have praised the activity highly. One shared, “This activity was recommended as a must-do in Ho Chi Minh, and I totally agree.” The host’s friendly demeanor, fluency in English, and deep knowledge of coffee and Vietnamese culture stood out. Another noted, “We learned a lot about coffee in Vietnam, and it was explained really well,” emphasizing the educational aspect.

Participants also appreciated that the experience was well-organized, fun, and packed with tips they could use later. The fact that the coffee was described as “super tasty” and “perfectly prepared” underscores the quality of the drinks and the expertise of the instructor.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This class is ideal for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and curious travelers interested in authentic Vietnamese traditions. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy hands-on activities, small-group environments, and immersive learning.

Since it’s a caffeine-heavy activity, it may not be suitable for children under 14, people with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities (though vegan and coeliac options are available—just remember to specify when booking). Also, travelers sensitive to caffeine should plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Vietnamese Coffee Tour offers more than just drink-making; it’s an accessible window into regional identities and daily rituals. For a modest price, you gain practical skills, tasting experiences, and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s coffee culture—all in a friendly, well-organized setting.

If you’re after a memorable activity that combines cultural insight, delicious flavors, and expert guidance, this class is a smart pick. It’s perfect for those who want to bring a piece of Vietnam home in both their cup and their understanding.

This experience is a winner for small groups, coffee lovers, and anyone keen to explore Vietnam beyond the usual sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegan, coeliac, and lactose-free options are available—just be sure to specify when booking.

How long does the class last?
It runs approximately 1.5 hours, including making and tasting the coffees.

What is included in the price?
All ingredients, four coffee tastings, and a local snack are included, with no additional charges.

Is the location easy to access?
Yes, it’s situated in a central, air-conditioned space in the city, making it convenient for travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need prior coffee-making experience?
Not at all. The instructor guides you step-by-step, making it suitable for beginners.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, groups are limited to six participants for a more personalized experience.

This Vietnam Coffee Journey isn’t just about brewing coffee—it’s about tasting, learning, and connecting with Vietnam’s vibrant regional cultures through its most iconic drinks. Perfect for curious, social travelers looking for an authentic experience in the city center.

You can check availability for your dates here: