Saigon: Hands-On Vegan Vietnamese Coffee Workshop & Tasting

If you’re a coffee lover visiting Ho Chi Minh City and interested in exploring vegan options, this workshop promises a new take on a beloved local tradition. It’s a one-hour, interactive experience where you’ll learn how to craft authentic Vietnamese coffee using vegan condensed milk and creamer—a first in Vietnam.

Our review highlights three things we really appreciate about this experience: the chance to see and taste vegan Vietnamese coffee, the focus on premium Robusta beans not roasted in butter, and the intimate, small-group setting that makes the learning feel personal. One consideration is that, at just one hour, it’s definitely a quick intro rather than an in-depth barista course—so if you’re after a comprehensive coffee tour, this might be more of a flavorful snack than a full feast.

This experience is ideal for coffee enthusiasts, especially those seeking vegan-friendly options or curious to see how traditional Vietnamese drinks can be adapted for different diets. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a hands-on activity that adds a local flavor to their trip without taking up a whole day.

Key Points

• Unique Vegan Twist: First-of-its-kind Vietnamese coffee experience using vegan condensed milk and creamer.
• Authentic Flavors: Made with 100% Robusta beans, not roasted in butter, ensuring a genuine taste.
• Interactive Learning: You’ll make your own coffee drinks, including classic and salted versions.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Convenient Location: Held at MamaPho’s Saigon Social, easily reachable on the 2nd floor.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience

The Venue and Meeting Point

The workshop takes place on the 2nd floor of MamaPho restaurant, specifically at a store called ‘Saigon Social’. Located at 10.772361755371094, 106.70426177978516, the spot is easy to find with clear directions. The setting is casual yet welcoming, perfect for an interactive class, and the space is designed for small groups, enhancing the personal vibe.

What You’ll Learn

In just 60 minutes, you’ll be shown how to create Vietnamese coffee using vegan condensed milk. This is a pioneering effort in Vietnam, making it stand out as a truly innovative experience. The instructor, who speaks English, guides you through every step, from grinding the beans to pouring and tasting.

One of the highlights is making Coconut Coffee, which combines coconut milk and vegan condensed milk, offering a dairy-free alternative that’s just as rich and satisfying. Expect to learn about the ingredients that make up traditional Vietnamese coffee but with a vegan twist. You’ll also discover how to prepare Vietnamese Salted Coffee, using non-dairy creamer, for a more complex flavor profile.

The Coffee: Quality and Authenticity

Participants will work with premium 100% Robusta beans. The fact that they are not roasted in butter or other animal fats means you can enjoy an authentic Vietnamese flavor without compromising your vegan diet. We loved the clarity of the taste, which highlights the strong, bold profile typical of Robusta beans.

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The Making Process

During the class, you will:
– Grind the Robusta beans to the right consistency
– Brew your coffee using traditional Vietnamese drip filters
– Mix in vegan condensed milk or coconut milk, depending on your choice
– Try your hand at making Salted Coffee, balancing sweet and salty flavors
– Taste your creations freshly brewed, on-site

One reviewer, blessed with a keen palate, mentioned, “Learning how to make vegan Vietnamese coffee was surprisingly simple and incredibly satisfying—I never thought I could enjoy traditional flavors without dairy.”

The Experience Atmosphere

The instructor, who is fluent in English, keeps things friendly and informative. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) means you can ask plenty of questions and get personalized tips. The pace is relaxed enough to absorb the process, but fast enough to keep it engaging.

Practical Details and Value

At around 1 hour, this workshop offers a compact yet comprehensive peek into Vietnamese coffee culture. The ticket price may seem modest considering it includes hands-on preparation, a taste of multiple coffee styles, and the opportunity to learn a new skill—especially one tailored for vegans.

Cancellation and Booking: You can reserve your spot with flexibility, paying later if needed, and cancel up to 24 hours beforehand for a full refund—a helpful feature if your plans change unexpectedly.

Why This Experience Matters

What sets this workshop apart is its focus on vegan-friendly Vietnamese coffee, filling a niche for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. It makes traditional drinks accessible and inclusive without sacrificing authenticity. The emphasis on high-quality, ethically sourced beans and non-dairy ingredients ensures that you’re not just tasting but also learning how to replicate these drinks at home.

Participants often comment on how approachable and fun the class is. It’s not just about drinking coffee; it’s about understanding its cultural significance, the brewing techniques, and the options for vegan adaptation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for coffee lovers, vegans, or anyone wanting a local, interactive activity that’s quick and meaningful. It’s a great choice if you’re passing through Saigon and want an authentic yet modern twist on Vietnamese coffee. It also works well for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to pick up a new skill in a relaxed environment.

FAQs

Is this workshop suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The instructor guides you step-by-step, making it accessible for all skill levels, whether you’re a seasoned barista or new to coffee.

Can I choose between different types of drinks?
Yes. You’ll learn to make traditional Vietnamese coffee, coconut coffee with coconut milk, and Vietnamese Salted Coffee with non-dairy creamer or vegan condensed milk.

How much coffee will I get to make myself?
While the experience is about learning and tasting, you’ll prepare multiple drinks during the session, enough to enjoy fresh on-site.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended since you’ll be actively involved in grinding, brewing, and mixing.

Is the location easy to find?
Yes. The meeting point is well-defined at Saigon Social, on the 2nd floor of MamaPho restaurant, with clear coordinates provided.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel schedule.

Final Thoughts

This vegan Vietnamese coffee workshop is a delightful way to dive into Saigon’s vibrant coffee culture with a modern, inclusive twist. It balances practical skills with cultural insights, all within a cozy, small-group setting. The focus on vegan ingredients makes it especially relevant today, catering to diverse dietary needs while still delivering authentic flavors.

Whether you’re a dedicated coffee fanatic, a vegan traveler, or simply curious about Vietnam’s coffee traditions, this experience offers genuine value. It’s ideal for those who want a quick, engaging activity that’s both educational and tasty, leaving you with new skills and a memorable story to tell.

Enjoy your coffee journey in Saigon—one cup at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: