Vietnamese Drinks – Popular & Traditional Beverages of Vietnam

Vietnam is a country rich in culture, history, and culinary traditions, and Vietnamese drinks are a perfect reflection of this vibrant heritage. From street-side vendors to modern cafes, these beverages are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Whether you are looking for something refreshing, sweet, or strong, there is a diverse range of flavors and experiences. This guide will explore popular Vietnamese drinks, traditional Vietnamese drinks, and Vietnamese drinks alcohol, giving you everything you need to know about Vietnam’s drinking culture.

1. Popular Vietnamese Drinks

Popular Vietnamese drinks are not only delicious but also part of daily life. They range from sweet smoothies to aromatic coffee and refreshing teas. Locals often enjoy these beverages at cafes, markets, or at home.

1.1 Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnamese coffee is among the most famous drinks, recognized globally for its strong aroma and unique brewing methods. Coffee culture in Vietnam dates back to the French colonial era, and over time, it has evolved into a unique local tradition.

Some of the most beloved types include:

• Cà phê sữa đá (Iced milk coffee): Strong coffee mixed with sweetened condensed milk and ice. It’s commonly served in small cafes or street-side stalls.
• Cà phê trứng (Egg coffee): A creamy drink made with egg yolk and sugar whipped into a velvety foam on top of black coffee. Originated in Hanoi during a milk shortage in the 1940s.
• Cà phê đen (Black coffee): Served hot or iced, strong, and often sweetened with sugar.

Regional variations:

• Hanoi: Egg coffee is most famous here.
• Saigon: Iced milk coffee is more popular due to the warmer climate.
• Hue: Coffee is often lighter and served with local condensed milk brands.

Fun Fact: In Vietnam, iced coffee is a favorite during the hot summer months, while egg coffee is considered a luxurious treat for special occasions.

Want to experience authentic Vietnamese coffee? Join our Hanoi Coffee Making and Tasting Tour to learn, taste, and enjoy local coffee culture!

1.2 Vietnamese Tea – Popular Vietnamese drink

Tea is another cornerstone of popular drinks, often served both hot and iced. Tea drinking in Vietnam is not only for refreshment but also holds cultural significance, symbolizing hospitality and relaxation.

Common tea varieties include:

• Lotus tea: Green tea scented with lotus flowers, offering a delicate, floral aroma.
• Artichoke tea (vietnamese artichoke drink): Known for its slightly bitter yet sweet taste, often consumed for liver health.
• Jasmine and green teas: Served daily, sometimes with added herbs for flavor.

Tea is traditionally consumed in small cups and is commonly offered to guests as a gesture of welcome. These popular Vietnamese drinks are closely linked to traditional Vietnamese drinks, showcasing a blend of flavor, wellness, and culture.

Curious about Vietnam’s traditional drinks and healthy pairings? Learn more in our guide on Vietnam Nuts and Seeds to complement your tea experience.

1.3 Fresh Fruit Drinks & Smoothies

Vietnam’s tropical climate has made fresh fruit drinks and smoothies extremely popular. Street vendors and cafes serve a variety of combinations that are both healthy and flavorful.

• Avocado smoothie (vietnamese avocado drink): Creamy, sweet, and often paired with condensed milk and ice.
• Mango smoothie: Naturally sweet and refreshing, ideal for hot weather.
• Watermelon juice: Light, hydrating, and easy to drink.
• Passion fruit juice: Tart and aromatic, sometimes combined with sugar syrup.
• Pineapple, papaya, and coconut smoothies: Seasonal options enjoyed throughout the year.

These beverages are a modern take on popular Vietnamese drinks, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients and natural sweetness.

Tip: Street vendors often customize sweetness and ice levels based on customer preference, making the experience interactive.

Want to taste Vietnam’s fresh fruit drinks and smoothies like a local? Explore our Vietnamese Local Market Tours for an authentic culinary experience.

1.4 Non-Alcoholic Drinks

For those avoiding alcohol, Vietnamese drinks non-alcoholic options abound. They range from refreshing juices to traditional plant-based drinks:

• Sugarcane juice
• Soy milk (sữa đậu nành)
• Coconut water
• Lemongrass tea
• Passion fruit juice

These drinks are often enjoyed daily and are considered healthier alternatives. In summer, non-alcoholic drinks provide essential hydration while offering a taste of Vietnam’s natural flavors.

Regional insights:

• Northern Vietnam favors hot teas and herbal drinks.
• Southern Vietnam prefers iced beverages and fresh fruit juices.

2. Traditional Vietnamese Drinks

Traditional Vietnamese drinks have a long history and are often associated with festivals, family gatherings, and local rituals. They reflect the deep cultural roots of Vietnamese cuisine.

2.1 Preserved Fruit Drinks

Vietnamese people often use preserved fruits to create traditional beverages. Examples include:

• Plum juice (nước mơ), sweet and tangy.
• Dracontomelon juice (nước sấu), a slightly sour traditional refreshment.
• Various sweet soups (chè truyền thống), combining beans, fruits, and coconut milk.

These drinks are an integral part of traditional Vietnamese drinks and are commonly consumed in summer.

Want to try traditional Vietnamese beverages like plum and dracontomelon juice? Discover them on our Hanoi Street Food Tour in the Old Quarter!

2.2 Soy Milk & Other Plant-Based Milks

Plant-based milks are a staple in traditional Vietnamese drinks:

• Soy milk (sữa đậu nành): High in protein, served hot or iced.
• Peanut milk: Sweet and creamy.
• Black sesame milk: Nutritious and fragrant.

These drinks are often homemade and reflect the simplicity and creativity of Vietnamese culinary tradition.

2.3 Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are considered healthy and medicinal. Popular options include:

• Artichoke tea (vietnamese artichoke drink), which helps with liver health.
• Lotus leaf tea: Traditionally believed to aid digestion.
• Lemongrass tea: Refreshing and aromatic.

Herbal teas are a classic example of traditional Vietnamese drinks that continue to be widely appreciated today.

3. Vietnamese Alcoholic Drinks

Vietnamese drinks alcohol are diverse, ranging from rice wines to modern cocktails. Drinking alcohol in Vietnam is often social and culturally significant.

3.1 Sticky Rice Wine

Sticky rice wine (rượu nếp) is a traditional Vietnamese drinks alcohol, loved for its slightly sweet and warming taste. Made from glutinous rice and natural yeast, it is fermented over several days, producing a mild alcoholic beverage enjoyed during festivals, family gatherings, and Lunar New Year (Tet).

Key features:

• Ingredients: Glutinous rice, water, natural yeast.
• Fermentation: Several days for sweetness and mild alcohol.
• Serving: Small cups, sipped slowly to enjoy aroma and flavor.
• Regional differences: Northern Vietnam – lighter and sweeter; Central Vietnam – stronger and more aromatic.
• Optional: Herbs or flower extracts for added flavor.

Tips:

• Sip slowly to appreciate smooth texture.
• Pair with fruits or light snacks for traditional enjoyment.
• Homemade versions often taste richer than store-bought.

Drinking rượu nếp is not just about taste; it is a social and cultural ritual. Offering it to guests symbolizes hospitality, while sharing it during celebrations strengthens family and community bonds. As one of the most iconic Vietnamese drinks alcohol, sticky rice wine reflects both tradition and the warm, communal spirit of Vietnam.

Interested in experiencing traditional Vietnamese sticky rice wine? Learn more on our Sin Chai Village in Sapa, Vietnam guide for cultural insights and tasting tips.

3.2 Village-Distilled Spirits

Local distilled liquors (rượu làng nghề, rượu đế) are traditional alcoholic beverages in Vietnam:

• Typically produced in small villages.
• Made from rice, corn, or cassava.
• Often served during traditional ceremonies.

These spirits are an essential part of Vietnamese drinks alcohol culture and are celebrated for their strong flavor and authenticity.

3.3 Beer & Modern Cocktails

Modern Vietnamese drinks alcohol include a variety of beers and cocktails that are popular in urban areas. Beers are a central part of Vietnamese drinking culture, enjoyed casually with meals, snacks, or street food. Vietnam’s cities, like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, feature a vibrant bar scene where locals and travelers alike can experience both local and international beverages.

Popular beers in Vietnam:

• Bia Hanoi: A classic northern Vietnamese beer, light and crisp, perfect for casual drinking.
• Bia Saigon: One of the most popular beers nationwide, with a slightly stronger taste and smooth finish.
• Bia 333: Known for its distinctive flavor and affordable price, commonly served in bars and street-side restaurants.
• Bia Hơi: Fresh draft beer, brewed daily and served very cold, often enjoyed on the streets of Hanoi and other cities.
• International beers: Heineken, Tiger, and other imported brands are widely available in urban bars and restaurants.

In addition to beers, modern Vietnamese drinks alcohol also include a growing variety of cocktails. Local bars in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang increasingly offer creative mixes made with tropical fruits, local spirits, and unique flavor combinations, appealing especially to younger consumers and tourists seeking a modern twist on traditional tastes. Travelers should note Vietnam drink age regulations: 18 years for beer and wine, and 20 years for stronger spirits, and it’s recommended to carry identification when ordering alcoholic beverages.

Tips for travelers:

• Try Bia Hơi for a truly local experience.
• Pair beers with street food like fried spring rolls or grilled seafood.
• Sample cocktails with passion fruit or mango for a unique urban twist.

Beers and cocktails represent the modern side of Vietnamese drinks alcohol, combining tradition, local flavor, and contemporary drinking trends.

4. Famous Vietnamese Drink Brands

Vietnam is home to many recognizable Vietnamese drink brands. Some are traditional, while others embrace modern trends:

4.1 Coffee Brands

Vietnamese coffee culture is strongly shaped by well-known coffee brands that are popular both locally and internationally.

• Highlands Coffee: One of the most recognized chains nationwide, famous for its classic Vietnamese coffee, iced milk coffee, and cozy café atmosphere.
• Trung Nguyên: Known internationally for premium coffee blends, offering rich and aromatic coffees that highlight the depth of Vietnamese coffee culture.
• Vinacafe: Affordable and widely available instant coffee, making it easy for locals and tourists to enjoy Vietnamese coffee anywhere.

These brands play a central role in popular Vietnamese drinks culture, bridging traditional flavors with modern café experiences. They have helped elevate Vietnamese coffee into a globally recognized beverage.

Curious about Vietnam’s coffee culture and famous brands? Discover more in our guide on Vietnamese Coffee Culture to explore traditional and modern coffee experiences.

4.2 Soft Drink Brands

Vietnam’s soft drink market features several iconic brands that have become part of everyday life:

• Number One: A legendary energy drink that has been widely consumed in Vietnam for decades.
• Revive: A popular isotonic drink, perfect for hydration, especially in the country’s hot and humid climate.
• Sappe: Known for fruit-based beverages, combining tropical flavors with modern packaging to appeal to younger consumers.

These soft drink brands are integral to Vietnamese drinks, offering refreshing alternatives to traditional beverages while reflecting modern tastes.

4.3 Trendy & Health-Focused Brand.

In recent years, Vietnam has seen a rise in trendy and health-focused beverage brands catering to young and health-conscious consumers:

• Organic teas and fresh juices made from locally sourced ingredients.
• Low-sugar, plant-based drinks designed for nutrition-conscious consumers.
• Innovative blends combining traditional flavors with modern trends, such as herbal-infused smoothies or antioxidant-rich teas.

These modern brands represent the evolution of Vietnamese drinks, successfully blending tradition with contemporary tastes and offering healthier options without compromising on flavor.

Have questions about Vietnamese drinks or want personalized recommendations? Contact Sun Getaways Travel directly on WhatsApp for quick support!

5. Tips & Fun Facts About Vietnamese Drinks

Enjoying Vietnamese drinks is an experience in itself. Here are some tips and interesting facts:

• Always try drinks at local vendors for authenticity.
• Hot or iced: Many drinks can be enjoyed both ways.
• Must-try beverages for travelers: vietnamese avocado drink, artichoke tea, and iced milk coffee.
• Drinking age in Vietnam: Beer and wine at 18, stronger spirits at 20.
• Many traditional Vietnamese drinks have medicinal or health benefits, like herbal teas and artichoke beverages.

6. Conclusion

Vietnam offers a stunning array of Vietnamese drinks, from popular Vietnamese drinks enjoyed daily to traditional Vietnamese drinks steeped in cultural history. Whether you prefer non-alcoholic options, fresh fruit smoothies, or Vietnamese drinks alcohol, there is something for everyone. Exploring these beverages is not just about taste but also about understanding Vietnam’s rich heritage. Next time you visit, be sure to try a variety of Vietnamese drinks and immerse yourself in the flavors and traditions of this beautiful country.