Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
1. What makes Vietnamese coffee different from regular coffee?
Vietnamese coffee is known for its bold, smooth flavor and high caffeine content. Unlike most coffee, it’s traditionally brewed using a phin filter, which creates a stronger, richer extraction. It’s often paired with sweetened condensed milk, giving it a signature creamy, indulgent taste.
2. Is Vietnamese coffee stronger than regular coffee?
Yes! Vietnamese Robusta beans contain nearly twice the caffeine of standard Arabica beans, making it naturally stronger and more energizing. Even when brewed with milk or ice, it retains its intense character.
3. What is the traditional brewing method for Vietnamese coffee?
The most authentic way to brew Vietnamese coffee is with a phin filter, a small metal dripper that slowly brews the coffee directly into your cup. This slow-drip method extracts deep, bold flavors without the need for high-pressure espresso machines.
4. What is a phin filter, and how does it work?
A phin filter is a simple yet effective brewing tool. It consists of a metal chamber, a perforated press, and a lid. Coffee grounds are placed inside, hot water is poured over them, and the slow drip process allows for a full-bodied, robust cup with zero waste.
5. Is Vietnamese coffee always sweetened with condensed milk?
No! While cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk) is popular, there are many other variations. You can enjoy it black (cà phê đen), with fresh milk, egg cream, coconut milk, or even whipped mascarpone.
Taste & Ingredients
6. What does Vietnamese coffee taste like?
Vietnamese coffee has a naturally bold, chocolatey, nutty flavor with a smooth finish. Robusta beans give it an earthy, deep intensity, while slow-dripping ensures it’s full-bodied and never weak.
7. What’s the difference between Robusta and Arabica beans?
- Robusta – Higher in caffeine, bolder, slightly bitter, rich crema, and naturally more intense.
- Arabica – Lower in caffeine, smoother, fruitier, and often more acidic.
FifthSip offers both Robusta and Arabica blends sourced directly from Vietnam, so you get the best of both worlds.
8. Why is Vietnamese coffee naturally bolder and smoother?
Vietnamese coffee is bolder due to its high Robusta content and slow-drip brewing process, which enhances its natural richness and depth. It’s also roasted low and slow, creating a smooth, balanced taste without bitterness.
9. Do you offer Vietnamese coffee without condensed milk?
Yes! We offer black coffee, fresh milk alternatives, and dairy-free versions for those who prefer a less sweet or lighter option. Just ask!
10. Is your coffee bitter?
Nope! While Vietnamese coffee is naturally bold, our beans are expertly roasted to ensure a smooth, chocolatey finish without harsh bitterness.
Drink-Specific Questions
11. What is Hanoi Egg Coffee, and does it actually contain egg?
Yes! Hanoi Egg Coffee (cà phê trứng) is made by whipping egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk into a creamy, meringue-like foam, which is then poured over rich coffee. The result? A sweet, custardy coffee experience that tastes like liquid tiramisu.
12. What is Saigon Drip, and how is it different from regular iced coffee?
Saigon Drip is Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) made using the traditional phin filter. Unlike American iced coffee, which is often brewed hot and poured over ice, Saigon Drip is slow-brewed directly into the cup, making it more intense and full-bodied.
13. Do you have dairy-free or vegan options?
Yes! We offer oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk alternatives for most drinks.
14. What’s the caffeine content like compared to regular coffee?
Vietnamese Robusta coffee contains up to twice the caffeine of regular coffee, making it a stronger, longer-lasting energy boost compared to standard Arabica-based drinks.
15. Do you offer decaf Vietnamese coffee?
Not at the moment—our focus is on high-caffeine, bold coffee. However, we do offer lighter caffeine options with our Arabica-based drinks.
Brewing & Take-Home Options
16. Can I buy your coffee beans to make at home?
Absolutely! We offer whole beans and pre-ground Vietnamese coffee with the same premium quality we serve in-store.
17. What’s the best way to brew Vietnamese coffee at home?
We recommend using a phin filter for the most authentic experience, but you can also use a French press or espresso machine for a strong, rich cup.
18. Do I need a phin filter to make Vietnamese coffee?
While a phin filter is the traditional method, you can still brew our beans with a French press, AeroPress, or espresso machine and get great results.
19. What grind size should I use for Vietnamese coffee?
For a phin filter, use a medium-coarse grind—similar to sea salt. If you’re using a French press, a coarse grind works best.
20. Do you offer pre-ground coffee, or only whole beans?
We offer both! Whether you prefer whole beans for fresh grinding or pre-ground for convenience, we’ve got you covered.
Experience & Culture
21. Is Vietnamese coffee traditionally served hot or iced?
Both! In the hot climate of Vietnam, iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá) is the go-to, but hot brews like egg coffee and phin-brewed black coffee are also widely enjoyed.
22. How did Vietnamese coffee culture develop?
Introduced by the French in the 1800s, coffee became deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture. Due to limited dairy access, condensed milk became the go-to sweetener, shaping the unique flavors we love today.
23. What’s the history behind Vietnamese coffee?
Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, and its coffee culture is built around strong Robusta beans, slow-brewing techniques, and innovative drinks like egg coffee and coconut coffee.
24. Are your drinks authentic or modern takes on Vietnamese coffee?
Both! We respect tradition while also pushing boundaries with unique, inspired twists. You’ll find classic Saigon Drip alongside modern takes like Tiramisu Latte and Ube Coffee.
25. Do you offer traditional street-style Vietnamese coffee?
Yes! Our Saigon Drip and Black Coffee are made just like you’d find at a Vietnamese street vendor—strong, sweet, and unapologetically bold.
