Hanoi’s Cà Phê Trứng: Hoan Kiem Ward Egg Coffee Guide & Eco Tours

A Creamy Hanoian Coffee Delight

Cà Phê Trứng, Hanoi’s iconic egg coffee, is a velvety beverage that epitomizes the capital’s innovative coffee culture. Pronounced “cah-fay trung” (egg coffee), this northern Vietnamese specialty is a star in Hoan Kiem Ward’s vibrant Old Quarter, where cozy cafés serve it for $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND). Invented in the 1940s, it features strong Vietnamese coffee topped with a frothy, custard-like foam made from whipped egg yolks, sweetened condensed milk, and sugar, creating a rich, dessert-like treat. Served hot or iced, often in a small cup nestled in warm water to retain heat, Cà Phê Trứng balances coffee’s bitterness with creamy sweetness, making it a winter favorite or a year-round indulgence.

Born from wartime milk scarcity, Cà Phê Trứng has endured as a Hanoian classic, reflecting the city’s resourcefulness and love for bold flavors. In Hoan Kiem Ward, cafés source robusta beans from Vietnam’s Central Highlands and use eco-friendly reusable cups, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike standard cà phê sữa đá, this egg-topped brew offers a unique texture, savored in Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly coffee tours guide travelers to savor Cà Phê Trứng in its authentic setting, ensuring a sustainable, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines navigation to Cà Phê Trứng hotspots using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly coffee and food tours in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos or walking routes, led by English-speaking guides who share Cà Phê Trứng’s history, preparation secrets, and sustainable practices, ensuring a safe, enriching adventure. Supporting local cafés, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and savor Cà Phê Trứng responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Cà Phê Trứng, born in Hanoi during the 1940s at Café Giang, emerged when milk shortages prompted owner Nguyễn Văn Giảng to whip egg yolks with condensed milk as a creamy substitute. This wartime innovation became a cultural icon, blending French coffee traditions with Vietnamese ingenuity. The preparation involves brewing strong robusta coffee using a phin (traditional drip filter), then topping it with a foam made by whisking egg yolks, condensed milk, sugar, and sometimes vanilla or butter until thick and frothy. The foam is spooned over the coffee, served hot in a cup kept warm in a water bath or chilled with ice, creating a custard-like texture.

A social ritual in Hanoi, Cà Phê Trứng is sipped slowly in cozy cafés, fostering conversation and warmth, especially on cooler days. In Hoan Kiem Ward, cafés use sustainably sourced beans and eco-friendly practices like reusable cups, reflecting Hanoi’s growing environmental consciousness. Compared to lighter cà phê sữa đá or bolder cà phê đen, Cà Phê Trứng’s rich, sweet profile makes it a unique indulgence, high in energy but best enjoyed in moderation due to its calorie content. Its enduring popularity underscores Hanoi’s vibrant coffee culture, a legacy of resilience and creativity.

Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter is a haven for Cà Phê Trứng, with cafés serving this creamy delight for $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND). Below are top spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, verified for accuracy:

1. Café Giang (39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hoan Kiem Ward)

The birthplace of Cà Phê Trứng, offering a creamy, frothy classic, best at 8:00 AM. Uses reusable cups and local beans.

• Cost: $1.20–$1.80 (30,000–45,000 VND); matcha trứng $1.50 (37,500 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; minimal waste.

• Tip: Try hot for authenticity; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

2. Café Đinh (13 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A hidden gem with lake views, serving robust Cà Phê Trứng, best at 9:00 AM. Reusable cups and sustainable beans.

• Cost: $1.20–$1.80 (30,000–45,000 VND); trà đào $1.50 (37,500 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local ingredients; minimal plastic.

• Tip: Climb to the rooftop; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

3. Café Phố Cổ (11 Hàng Gai, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A charming spot with Old Quarter views, offering silky egg coffee, best at 3:00 PM. Biodegradable cups and local sourcing.

• Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); coconut coffee $2 (50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable beans; eco-packaging.

• Tip: Enjoy iced for a twist; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

4. Cộng Cà Phê (116 Cầu Gỗ, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A retro-themed chain with balcony views, serving creamy Cà Phê Trứng, best at 10:00 AM. Reusable straws and local beans.

• Cost: $1.20–$1.80 (30,000–45,000 VND); coconut coffee $2 (50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports sustainable farms; minimal waste.

• Tip: Try the coconut variation; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

5. The Note Coffee (64 Lương Văn Can, Hoan Kiem Ward)

A quirky café with Post-it note walls, offering frothy egg coffee, best at 2:00 PM. Biodegradable cups and local sourcing.

• Cost: $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND); smoothies $2 (50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal plastic; local beans.

• Tip: Write a note to add to the décor; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

To savor Cà Phê Trứng authentically, follow these Hanoian practices:

1. Stir Gently: Use a small spoon to mix the frothy egg foam into the coffee, blending for a creamy texture.

2. Sip Slowly: Take small sips to enjoy the sweet-bitter balance, ideally over 10–15 minutes, savoring the warmth (hot) or chill (iced).

3. Customize: Request less sugar or extra foam if preferred; some cafés offer flavors like matcha or cocoa ($1.50 or 37,500 VND).

4. Sides: Pair with bánh ngọt (pastries, $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) for a sweet complement. Eco-Friendly Tip: Bring a reusable cup or straw for discounts at eco-conscious cafés, reducing waste.

Enhance your Cà Phê Trứng adventure with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:

1. Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour

Join a 2–3-hour walking or cyclo tour, sipping Cà Phê Trứng at Café Giang at 8:00 AM, learning its history.

• Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–9:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-impact transport; supports local cafés.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

2. Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake

Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (200 m from Nguyễn Hữu Huân) at 9:00 AM or 5:00 PM, a 30–60-minute low-impact activity.

• Cost: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-friendly; supports local culture.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

3. Visit Dong Xuan Market

Explore Dong Xuan Market (1 km from Hàng Gai) for local crafts at 11:00 AM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Local sourcing; reusable bags.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).

4. Coffee Brewing Workshop

Join a 2-hour eco-friendly workshop at 2:00 PM, learning to brew Cà Phê Trứng with a phin filter.

• Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable coffee sources.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).

5. Explore Old Quarter Night Market

Walk to the Weekend Night Market (500 m from Cầu Gỗ) at 7:00 PM, a 1–2-hour sustainable activity for souvenirs and street food.

• Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local vendors; walkable.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).

Cà Phê Trứng cafés in Hoan Kiem Ward are accessible in 5–10 minutes from central Hanoi, using sustainable options:

• By Bus: Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5 minutes. Buses run every 10–20 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

• By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Hoan Kiem Lake, hire a cyclo (5 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• By Bicycle or Walking: Rent a bicycle in Hoan Kiem Ward ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or walk 5–10 minutes from the Old Quarter.

• By Taxi or Grab: To Nguyễn Hữu Huân, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way. Round-trip: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND). Prestigious taxis: Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): Book a private car ($30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for eco-friendly travel with stopovers.

• By Air (to Hanoi): Arrive at Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 25 km away. Round-trip flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), international (e.g., Bangkok, $200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab to Nguyễn Hữu Huân ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hoan Kiem Ward”). English-speaking guides simplify navigation.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits for cultural respect; comfortable shoes for Old Quarter walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, cup, straw to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for café notes; cash, as some cafés are cash-only. Tip: Carry small VND notes for quick payments; request reusable cups at cafés.

Costs for Cà Phê Trứng Experience

Food and Drink Fees

• Cà Phê Trứng: $1.20–$2 (30,000–50,000 VND); variations (e.g., matcha) $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND).

• Sides (pastries, bánh mì): $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).

• Guided Coffee Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Market Purchases (souvenirs): $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Walking: Free.

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)

• Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Cà Phê Trứng, homestay).

• Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, coffee tour, hotel).

• Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Book early for Tet or dry season; carry VND for small purchases.

• Choose Your Timing: Dry season for outdoor café seating; rainy season for cozy indoor spots. Morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for quiet vibes; afternoon (2:00–4:00 PM) for lively scenes.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s coffee tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons to secure spots.

• Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) to reduce emissions; bring a reusable cup to cafés. Buy local souvenirs ($0.50–$3 or 12,500–75,000 VND) at Dong Xuan Market to support artisans.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses like “39 Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Hoan Kiem Ward.” English-speaking guides simplify navigation.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded Old Quarter cafés; keep valuables secure. Carry a first-aid kit.

• Weather Considerations: Dry season for open-air seating; rainy season requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; dress modestly for nearby temples like Ngoc Son. Tip baristas $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND) for great service.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) alongside Cà Phê Trứng to stay hydrated; apply mosquito repellent. Limit intake due to high sugar and caffeine.

Our sustainable tours showcase Hoan Kiem Ward’s Cà Phê Trứng culture:

• Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60/person, 1 day): Walking or cyclo tour to Café Giang at 8:00 AM, tasting Cà Phê Trứng, visiting Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market. Includes English-speaking guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120/person, 2 days): Cà Phê Trứng at Café Đinh, Old Quarter Night Market, coffee workshop, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($200–$350/person, 3 days): Cà Phê Trứng at Cộng Cà Phê, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Cà Phê Trứng, Hanoi’s creamy egg coffee, is a cultural gem in the Old Quarter, savored for $1.20–$2 at iconic cafés like Café Giang, where frothy foam and robust coffee create a dessert-like delight. Born from wartime ingenuity, it’s served with eco-friendly reusable cups and local beans, embodying Hanoi’s resilience and sustainability. Whether stirring the foam gently or exploring the Old Quarter’s vibrant cafés, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to Cà Phê Trứng’s rich heritage, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience filled with flavor and tradition. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to savor Hanoi’s iconic Cà Phê Trứng? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.