Top 10 Must-Try Vietnamese Drinks for First-Time Visitors

Introduction

Vietnam is a paradise not only for food lovers but also for those who enjoy unique beverages. Each Vietnamese drink reflects a blend of culture, climate, and local ingredients, offering visitors a refreshing way to experience the country. If you’re visiting for the first time, here are 10 Vietnamese drinks you shouldn’t miss—and yes, you can find many of them at Dai Viet Restaurant in District 1.

1. Egg Coffee (Ca Phe Trung)

Egg coffee has a fascinating history that began in Hanoi in the 1940s. During milk shortages, a barista experimented by whipping egg yolks and sugar to replace milk, creating a creamy foam topping for the robust coffee below. This innovation quickly became beloved.

When sipping egg coffee, start with the frothy egg cream and then mix it slowly with the strong coffee beneath. The combination is rich, sweet, and smooth—like drinking a dessert.

At Dai Viet Restaurant, the egg coffee is carefully crafted with fresh ingredients, making it a standout experience. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant complements the warm, velvety drink.

Tips: Egg coffee is traditionally served hot, but many places offer it iced, especially in Saigon’s warmer climate.

Creamy and iconic – Vietnamese egg coffee at Dai Viet Restaurant

SEE MORE: Where to Try Vietnamese Egg Coffee in Ho Chi Minh City

2. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da)

Vietnamese iced coffee is an essential daily pick-me-up for millions of locals. Made with dark roasted robusta beans, the coffee’s bold bitterness balances the sweetness of condensed milk, and ice cools it to perfection.

The traditional brewing method uses a phin filter, a slow drip process that takes several minutes but ensures a full-bodied flavor. This process is part of the charm and cultural ritual of Vietnamese coffee.

If you want to try authentic iced coffee, look for cafes with a phin filter on each table or visit Dai Viet Restaurant, where the quality is consistent and refreshing.

Cool down with traditional Vietnamese iced coffee

SEE MORE: 10 Must-Try Local Coffee Shops in Ho Chi Minh City

3. Coconut Coffee (Ca Phe Dua)

Coconut coffee has grown popular among young locals and tourists alike. It combines the boldness of coffee with the sweetness and creaminess of coconut milk or coconut ice cream.

This drink often comes frozen or blended, making it a perfect tropical treat after a day exploring Ho Chi Minh City.

At Dai Viet Restaurant, the coconut coffee is served with toasted coconut flakes that add a delightful texture and aroma. It’s an Instagram favorite for many visitors!

A tropical twist on Vietnamese coffee - coconut coffee

4. Banana Smoothie (Sinh To Chuoi)

Banana smoothies are a common street drink, beloved for their natural sweetness and creamy texture. Made with ripe bananas, ice, and condensed milk, this drink is both a dessert and a source of energy.

Because fresh bananas are widely available in Vietnam, the smoothies taste especially sweet and fresh.

At Dai Viet Restaurant, banana smoothies are a great choice for a light dessert or an afternoon refresher after spicy food.

Banana smoothie is a healthy and tasty choice in Vietnam

5. Sugarcane Juice (Nuoc Mia)

ugarcane juice is a natural, healthy drink that has been consumed in Vietnam for generations. Vendors press fresh sugarcane stalks and serve the juice over ice, sometimes with added ginger or kumquat for extra flavor.

Its natural sugars provide an immediate energy boost, perfect for the tropical climate.

You can find sugarcane juice at street stalls all over Vietnam, but it’s especially refreshing in busy areas like Ben Thanh Market near Dai Viet Restaurant.

Refresh yourself with fresh-pressed sugarcane juice

6. Salted Lemonade (Chanh Muoi)

Salted lemonade, made from preserved salted limes, offers a unique salty and sour flavor. This beverage is perfect for quenching thirst on hot days and is believed to aid digestion.

Locals often enjoy this drink with meals or as a refreshing break during the afternoon heat.

A surprising twist – Vietnam's salted lemonade

SEE MORE: Top 10 Vietnamese Fruits You Must Try: A Tropical Treat for Travelers

7. Herbal Tea (Nuoc Sam)

Herbal teas in Vietnam are made from various leaves, roots, and flowers and are often consumed for their health benefits. One popular ingredient is pennywort (rau má), known for cooling properties.

Herbal teas can be served hot or iced and are mildly sweetened to enhance flavor without overpowering the natural tastes.

Try herbal tea at local herbal markets for an authentic experience.

Herbal tea is Vietnam’s go-to drink for cooling the body

8. Passion Fruit Juice (Nuoc Chanh Day)

Passion fruit juice is widely loved for its vibrant taste and high vitamin C content. Often served with basil or chia seeds, it offers a refreshing texture and a tangy twist.

You can enjoy fresh passion fruit juice at many Vietnamese cafes, including Dai Viet Restaurant.

Passion fruit juice - a flavorful tropical treat

9. Artichoke Tea (Tra Atiso)

Artichoke tea originates from the Central Highlands of Vietnam and is prized for its liver detox benefits.

Brewed from dried artichoke leaves or flowers, this tea has a mild bitterness balanced with a subtle sweetness.

Many cafes and restaurants also offer artichoke tea.

A Vietnamese herbal classic - artichoke tea

10. Soy Milk (Sua Dau Nanh)

Soy milk is a traditional, nutritious beverage in Vietnam. It is often served warm for breakfast or chilled with ice for a cooling drink.

Natural and slightly sweet, soy milk is enjoyed by people of all ages and is widely available at street stalls.

Smooth and nutritious – Vietnamese soy milk

Conclusion

Trying a local Vietnamese drink is more than just quenching your thirst—it’s a cultural experience. Whether you prefer strong coffee, sweet smoothies, or herbal teas, there’s something on this list for every taste. Visit Dai Viet Restaurant to explore some of these authentic Vietnamese drinks in the heart of District 1.