In Vietnam, tea plays a vital role in the social culture. Small, strong cups of green tea are often served to guests or visitors. The water is boiled well and safe to drink, as long as the cup is clean. It’s considered impolite to refuse the tea entirely, so it’s customary to take at least a sip. If you don’t wish to continue drinking, simply covering the cup with your hand signals that you don’t want a refill. In many restaurants, especially in the southern regions, green tea is served free of charge, either during or after a meal, as a gesture of hospitality.

The Vietnamese are passionate about their coffee, which has seen a surge in production in recent years, largely for export. However, this rapid growth has raised concerns over environmental and social impacts. Coffee in Vietnam is typically very strong and consumed in small amounts. Traditionally, coffee is filtered at the table using a small dripper placed over the cup or glass, a process you can experience at local cafés for as low as 15,000đ. If you want to recreate this experience at home, you can find these traditional coffee-making tools in local markets.

Vietnamese coffee is most commonly enjoyed with condensed milk, creating a rich, sweet flavor. However, for tourists, many cafes offer fresh (pasteurized) milk as an alternative. Across Vietnam, you’ll find modern Western-style cafes offering popular beverages like lattes and cappuccinos. Prices vary widely, ranging from 20,000đ to 90,000đ depending on the place. Highland Coffee, Vietnam’s version of Starbucks, has become a nationwide chain, while Cong Coffee offers a unique atmosphere with a Vietnam War-era theme.

In addition to these chains, both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City boast many delightful independent cafés, often serving high-quality coffee. Even in rural areas, you’ll likely find charming local cafés that are worth visiting for a cozy coffee experience.