Egg Coffee

Egg coffee, or "cà phê trứng," is a must-try delicacy in Hanoi, Vietnam. This unique drink is a testament to the creativity of Vietnamese coffee culture, blending robust flavors with a rich, creamy texture

LOCAL CUISINE

12/20/20242 min read

Origin

Egg coffee was invented in the 1940s by Nguyễn Văn Giảng, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel in Hanoi. Due to a shortage of fresh milk, he experimented with whisked egg yolks as a substitute, creating a smooth and frothy layer that complemented the strong Vietnamese coffee. This invention led him to open his own café, Café Giảng, which remains a favorite spot for egg coffee enthusiasts.

Ingredients

The traditional recipe includes:

Egg yolks
Sugar
Sweetened condensed milk
Vietnamese robusta coffee

The yolks are whisked until creamy, combined with sugar and condensed milk, and poured over freshly brewed robusta coffee. The result is a drink with a luxurious foam that resembles a dessert more than a beverage.

Flavor Profile

Egg coffee has a distinctive flavor—rich, sweet, and slightly bitter. The egg foam adds a custard-like texture, perfectly balancing the intense, slightly nutty taste of robusta coffee.

How It’s Served

It’s typically served in a small cup, nestled in a bowl of hot water to maintain its warmth. Variations include:

Hot Egg Coffee: The classic version.
Iced Egg Coffee: Perfect for warmer days.
Egg Cocoa or Egg Matcha: Modern twists featuring chocolate or matcha.

Where to Try It in Hanoi

While Café Giảng is the birthplace of egg coffee, other popular spots include:

Cafe Đinh: A cozy café with a view of Hoan Kiem Lake. Add: 13 P. Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Việt Nam
Loading T Café: Known for its colonial ambiance. Add: 8 P. Chân Cầm, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Việt Nam
Hanoi Egg Coffee: A newer option offering creative takes on the classic drink. Add: 8 P. Gia Ngư, Hàng Bạc, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Việt Nam

Cultural Significance

Egg coffee embodies Hanoi's resourcefulness and hospitality. Whether enjoyed in a bustling café or a quiet corner, it provides an authentic taste of Vietnam's vibrant coffee culture.

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