Shake & Savor: Coffee-Themed Cocktails from Vit Nam

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your evenings in Ho Chi Minh City, the Shake & Savor: Coffee-Themed Cocktails experience promises a delightful blend of local flavor, expert guided instruction, and a bit of fun. While it’s not a traditional sightseeing tour, this 1.5-hour session offers a unique peek into Vietnam’s vibrant coffee scene intertwined with creative mixology.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides make learning about Vietnamese coffee both fun and informative. Second, the stunning visual setup — with a cozy cafe environment upstairs — creates a relaxed, intimate vibe perfect for socializing. Third, the innovative cocktails like the Jackfruit Coffee Cocktail introduce unexpected flavor combinations that keep your palate intrigued.

One thing to consider: the activity is limited to just 4 participants per session, which means it’s more personalized but also needs early booking. It’s best suited for those who love trying new drinks, enjoy cultural insights, or want an offbeat activity to cap off an evening in Saigon.

Key Points

• Authentic Vietnamese flavors meet modern mixology techniques.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate vibe.
• Expert guides share stories and techniques in English and Vietnamese.
• Tasty, creative cocktails like Lacàph Phin Blend and Cascara Tea are included.
• Low caffeine content makes it a fun, light experience rather than a caffeine overload.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Engaging Exploration of Vietnamese Coffee Culture

This workshop offers more than just cocktail shaking; it’s a window into Vietnam’s beloved coffee traditions infused with modern flair. Set in a cozy space on the first floor of a lively venue in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s an experience crafted for curious travelers eager to learn and taste. You’ll spend about 90 minutes with a small, focused group, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized tips from your guides.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Start your evening upstairs in a clean, welcoming workshop area, where the guides will introduce you to the essentials of Vietnamese coffee and spirits. The session kicks off with a brief overview of local coffee culture, including stories behind iconic drinks like the famous egg coffee and locally loved blends.

Your hands-on portion involves creating two signature cocktails: the Cà Phê Mít Jackfruit Coffee Cocktail and the Ph Fizz Cascara Cocktail. The first combines Lacàph Phin Blend with the sweet, tropical flavor of jackfruit, combined with a splash of Vit Nam Sampan Rhum and topped with house-made ginger soda. It’s an inventive mix that balances the robustness of coffee with fruity and spicy notes.

The second, the Cascara cocktail, captures the essence of Vietnam’s coffee cherry husks—Lacàph Cascara Tea—infused with Lacàph Raw Coffee Blossom Honey and complemented by the dry gin. The guide, often named as friendly and knowledgeable, walks you through each step, sharing tips on how to balance flavors and achieve the perfect mix.

What Makes the Experience Special

The guides, like the highly praised instructors whose friendly demeanor and fluent English help demystify the process, share secret techniques that elevate your cocktail game. As one reviewer quipped, “The course was fun and informative, with cool videos in between tutorials and a welcome drink to start.” This approach keeps the session lively, educational, and enjoyable.

Additional Highlights

Beyond the drinks, the workshop provides insight into Vietnamese culture. The ingredients, stories, and techniques reveal much about local traditions and modern innovations. It’s not simply about making cocktails; it’s about understanding the cultural significance behind each ingredient and sip.

Why the Small Group and Price Matter

With only four participants per session, the experience feels personalized, allowing the guides to focus on your questions and taste preferences. At $30 per person, considering the quality of instruction, the inclusion of premium ingredients, and the convivial atmosphere, it’s excellent value. Unlike larger classes where you might feel lost in the crowd, this setup makes sure everyone has a chance to participate actively.

Note: The activity is suitable for adults, but not for children or pregnant women. It’s also advised for those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or mobility issues to check suitability beforehand, as the experience involves alcohol and some physical activity.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Venue and Atmosphere

The workshop takes place in a clean, stylish space on the first floor of a reputable venue. The upstairs workshop area is well-organized, with a relaxed ambiance that encourages mingling and conversation. The entire environment caters to a sense of discovery and enjoyment, with the added bonus of watching engaging videos during the session.

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The Guides and Their Expertise

Guests consistently highlight the guides’ friendly attitude and extensive knowledge. They not only explain the technical aspects but also share interesting anecdotes about Vietnamese coffee culture. One reviewer mentioned, “The instructors and staff are really nice,” making the entire experience feel warm and welcoming.

The Cocktails

The drinks are designed to showcase local flavors innovatively. The Jackfruit Coffee Cocktail, for instance, blends the tropical sweetness of jackfruit with the boldness of Vietnamese coffee, topped with house-made ginger soda — a surprising yet delightful combo. Meanwhile, the Cascara cocktail uses coffee cherry husks, which adds complexity and a hint of fruitiness unique to Vietnam.

The Learning Curve

Even if you’re new to cocktail making, guides are patient and clear. The tutorials are supplemented with videos and tips, making it easy to recreate or adapt the drinks later. Plus, the taste testing at different stages helps you understand flavor balancing, a valuable skill for any home bartender.

Authenticity and Cultural Insights

Unlike typical bars or touristy events, this experience emphasizes local ingredients and stories. You’ll learn about Lacàph’s unique blends and the significance of coffee in Vietnamese daily life, making it a deeply authentic experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

This workshop is perfect for foodies and culture enthusiasts who want a taste of local tradition combined with modern mixology. It suits small groups or couples looking for an intimate, educational, and tasty night out. If you’re interested in developing new skills, exploring Vietnam’s coffee culture, or simply relaxing with a drink or two, this experience offers genuine value.

It’s also ideal for travelers who enjoy personalized experiences and want to avoid large crowds. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and engaging format make it a memorable addition to your Saigon itinerary.

FAQs

Is this activity suitable for someone who doesn’t drink alcohol?
While the workshop involves spirits, you might find the focus on flavor and technique interesting even if you prefer non-alcoholic options. However, it’s primarily an alcohol-based activity.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for about 1.5 hours, making it an easy addition to an evening in Ho Chi Minh City.

What’s included in the price?
All ingredients for the cocktails are included. You only need to bring your interest and curiosity—everything else, from coffee to spirits, is curated for you.

Can I book last-minute?
Availability depends on the schedule, but you can check and reserve via the website. Since groups are small, early booking is recommended.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, participants should be 18 or older, and the activity isn’t suitable for children under 18.

Is the venue accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information suggests it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, based on the general details provided.

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

Will guides speak English?
Absolutely. Guides speak both English and Vietnamese, ensuring clear communication.

What about dietary restrictions or allergies?
The experience involves alcohol and specific ingredients; it’s best to mention any dietary concerns when booking to ensure safety.

Final Words

For those curious about Vietnam’s coffee scene but seeking a fun, social activity that also elevates your skills, Shake & Savor offers a thoughtfully curated experience. It combines expert guidance, authentic ingredients, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a worthwhile addition to your Saigon adventures. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a curious traveler, or simply in search of a memorable night out, this workshop serves up a flavorful mix that’s hard to forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: