Learn how to make Cà Phê Sữa Đá, Vietnam’s iconic iced coffee, with an authentic recipe! Discover its culture, costs, top Hanoi spots, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group. Book now!
Capture the bold essence of Hoan Kiem’s Old Quarter coffee culture (Source: Internet)Cà Phê Sữa Đá, Vietnam’s beloved iced coffee, is a refreshing drink that captures the essence of the country’s vibrant coffee tradition. Pronounced “cah-fay sua dah” (coffee with milk and ice), this iconic beverage is a staple in Hoan Kiem Ward’s bustling Old Quarter, where street-side cafés and modern chains serve it for $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND). Made with strong robusta coffee brewed through a phin (traditional drip filter), sweetened condensed milk, and ice, it delivers a bold, sweet, and creamy flavor, perfect for cooling off in Vietnam’s tropical climate. Preparing it at home costs $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) for four servings, offering a taste of Vietnam’s coffee legacy.
Rooted in French colonial influences, Cà Phê Sữa Đá reflects Vietnam’s ingenuity in blending robusta beans—grown in the Central Highlands, where Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer—with condensed milk, a shelf-stable substitute for fresh milk in the past. In Hoan Kiem Ward, cafés use locally sourced beans and eco-friendly reusable straws, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Unlike Western iced coffee, which can be watery, Cà Phê Sữa Đá’s slow-drip method ensures intensity, making it a cultural icon sipped on low stools or in trendy cafés. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly coffee tours offer an authentic taste in Hanoi, ensuring a sustainable, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
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 Sữa Đá 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, led by English-speaking guides who share Cà Phê Sữa Đá’s history, brewing techniques, 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 Sữa Đá responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews
Photograph the authentic allure of Hanoi’s coffee scene (Source: Internet)Cà Phê Sữa Đá, introduced by French colonists in the 19th century, became a Vietnamese staple due to the country’s robusta coffee production and the use of condensed milk during times when fresh milk was scarce. Its slow-drip phin brewing, yielding a strong, dark coffee, contrasts with the sweet, creamy condensed milk, creating a refreshing drink ideal for Vietnam’s warm climate. In Hanoi, it’s a social ritual, sipped in bustling cafés or on sidewalk stools, fostering conversation among locals and travelers. In Hoan Kiem Ward, vendors source beans from sustainable farms in Đắk Lắk or Lâm Đồng, often serving the drink with reusable straws to reduce waste. Compared to lighter cà phê đen or creamy cà phê trứng, Cà Phê Sữa Đá’s bold yet balanced profile makes it Vietnam’s most iconic coffee, a must-try for coffee lovers.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable sipping (Source: Internet)Recreate Vietnam’s iconic Cà Phê Sữa Đá at home with this authentic recipe, designed for four servings (about 4–6 glasses). This method uses a traditional phin filter for a bold, Hanoi-style brew.
Ground Robusta Coffee: 8 tbsp (80g), medium-coarse grind, preferably Vietnamese brands like Trung Nguyên or Highlands Coffee ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND for 250g at Asian markets or Dong Xuan Market).
Sweetened Condensed Milk: 8 tbsp (120ml), e.g., Longevity or Vinamilk ($0.80 or 20,000 VND for a 380g can).
Hot Water: 400ml, just off the boil (95–100°C, free from tap or kettle).
Ice: 4 cups (about 800g), crushed or cubed (free from freezer or $0.20 or 5,000 VND at markets). Total Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) for 4 servings.
Phin Filter: Vietnamese drip filter, aluminum or stainless steel ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND, available at Trung Nguyên shops or online).
Heatproof Glasses: 4 small glasses (150–200ml capacity).
Spoon: For stirring and adjusting phin.
Kettle: For boiling water.
Reusable Measuring Spoon: For precision.
Prepare the Condensed Milk (1 minute):
Add 2 tbsp (30ml) sweetened condensed milk to each heatproof glass. Adjust to 1 tbsp for less sweetness or 3 tbsp for a richer taste.
Set Up the Phin (2 minutes):
Place 2 tbsp (20g) ground robusta coffee in the phin’s base. Gently shake to level the grounds.
Wet the grounds with 1 tsp (5ml) hot water to bloom, enhancing flavor. Wait 20 seconds.
Screw the press plate tightly to compact the coffee, ensuring a slow drip.
Brew the Coffee (5–7 minutes):
Place the phin over the glass with condensed milk. Pour 100ml hot water (95–100°C) into the phin, filling it.
Cover with the phin’s lid to retain heat. Allow the coffee to drip slowly (2–3 drops per second) for 5–7 minutes. If dripping too fast, tighten the press with a spoon (1 clockwise turn); if too slow, loosen (1 counterclockwise turn).
Once complete, remove the phin and set it on its overturned lid to prevent dripping.
Mix the Coffee (1 minute):
Stir the coffee and condensed milk vigorously until fully blended, creating a smooth, caramel-colored mixture.
Serve Over Ice (1 minute):
Fill a tall glass with ice (about 200g per serving). Pour the coffee mixture over the ice, stirring gently to chill.
Serve immediately with a reusable straw for an eco-friendly sip, enjoying the bold, sweet, and refreshing taste. Eco-Friendly Tip: Use reusable phins, straws, and glasses; compost coffee grounds for plants.
Coffee Choice: Use fresh, dark-roasted robusta for authentic flavor. Trung Nguyên’s Creative 1 or Highlands Coffee’s Phin blend are ideal. Check roast date to ensure freshness; store in an airtight container.
Phin Adjustment: A slow drip (5–7 minutes) ensures strong coffee. Adjust the press if the drip is too fast or slow.
Condensed Milk Ratio: Start with 2 tbsp; adjust to taste. For a lighter version, use 1 tbsp or mix with fresh milk (1:1 ratio).
Ice Quality: Use clean, filtered ice to avoid diluting the flavor. Crushed ice chills faster but melts quicker; cubes last longer.
Storage: Brew fresh for best taste. If preparing multiple servings, store brewed coffee (without ice) in a reusable container in the fridge for up to 24 hours; add ice before serving.
Eco-Friendly Prep: Reuse coffee grounds as fertilizer; clean phin with water to avoid soap residue affecting flavor.
Start your Hanoi Travel with a refreshing sip (Source: Internet)Making Cà Phê Sữa Đá at home is rewarding, but tasting it in Hoan Kiem Ward’s cafés offers an authentic Hanoi experience. Below are five top spots, selected for quality, eco-friendly practices, and recent reviews, serving drinks for $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND):
A quirky café with note-covered walls, offering smooth Cà Phê Sữa Đá with lake views, best at 10:00 AM. Uses biodegradable cups and local beans.
Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); smoothies $2 (50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal plastic; local sourcing.
Tip: Write a note for the walls; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A retro-themed chain with nostalgic décor, serving bold Cà Phê Sữa Đá, best at 9:00 AM. Reusable straws and sustainable beans.
Cost: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND); coconut coffee $1.50 (37,500 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports eco-farms; minimal waste.
Tip: Enjoy balcony seating; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A modern chain near Hoan Kiem Lake, offering consistent Cà Phê Sữa Đá, best at 8:00 AM. Biodegradable cups and local robusta.
Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); frappes $2 (50,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local beans; eco-packaging.
Tip: Great for people-watching; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A cozy spot with balcony views, serving fragrant Cà Phê Sữa Đá, best at 2:00 PM. Reusable cups and local sourcing.
Cost: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND); coconut coffee $1.50 (37,500 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal waste; local beans.
Tip: Relax on the top floor; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
A trendy local café with creative drinks, offering refreshing Cà Phê Sữa Đá, best at 11:00 AM. Biodegradable straws and local beans.
Cost: $1–$1.50 (25,000–37,500 VND); salted cream coffee $1.80 (45,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable sourcing; eco-friendly packaging.
Tip: Try the Black Sea variation; included in our Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60).
Learn Hoan Kiem’s Old Quarter heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)Whether at home or in Hanoi, savor Cà Phê Sữa Đá authentically with these practices:
Stir Thoroughly: Mix the coffee, condensed milk, and ice with a spoon or reusable straw for a creamy, even flavor.
Sip Slowly: Enjoy over 10–15 minutes to appreciate the sweet-bitter balance, refreshing in Hanoi’s heat.
Customize: Adjust condensed milk (1–3 tbsp) or add a splash of fresh milk for a lighter taste.
Sides: Pair with bánh mì ($1.50 or 37,500 VND) or bánh ngọt (pastries, $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND) for a snack. Eco-Friendly Tip: Use reusable straws at cafés; bring a reusable cup for potential discounts.
Seize the flavorful spirit of Hanoi Travel (Source: Internet)Enhance your Cà Phê Sữa Đá journey with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:
Join a 2–3-hour walking or cyclo tour, sipping Cà Phê Sữa Đá at The Note Coffee at 10:00 AM, learning phin brewing techniques.
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).
Explore Dong Xuan Market (1 km from Cầu Gỗ) for coffee beans and phins 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).
Learn Cà Phê Sữa Đá preparation in a 2-hour eco-friendly class at 2:00 PM, using local beans.
Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainable sourcing; compostable waste.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120).
Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake (500 m from Lý Thái Tổ) post-coffee at 3:00 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).
Visit the Weekend Night Market (500 m from Lương Văn Can) 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).
Capture the sustainable charm of Hanoi’s coffee culture (Source: Internet)Cà Phê Sữa Đá cafés in Hoan Kiem Ward are accessible in 5–10 minutes from central Hanoi:
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. Every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.
By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From Hoan Kiem Lake (5 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
By Bicycle or Walking: Bicycle rental ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND); walk 5–10 minutes.
By Taxi or Grab: To Lương Văn Can, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND). Mai Linh (0438,222,666), Hanoi Taxi (0438,535,353).
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people).
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. 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), Bangkok ($200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with addresses (e.g., “64 Lương Văn Can, Hoan Kiem Ward”).
Cà Phê Sữa Đá Experience (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit or home preparation:
Clothing: Lightweight, casual outfits; comfortable shoes. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Travel/Cooking Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), reusable phin ($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, straw, cup.
Extras: Notebook for recipe notes; cash for stalls. Tip: Carry small VND notes; compost coffee grounds.
Begin your Hanoi Tours with a bold adventure (Source: Internet)Food and Drink Fees (Home Preparation or Dining)
Cà Phê Sữa Đá (home, 4 servings): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Cà Phê Sữa Đá (cafés): $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND); variations $1.50–$2 (37,500–50,000 VND).
Sides (bánh mì, pastries): $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).
Guided Coffee Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Market Purchases: $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, Hanoi Visit)
Budget: $10–$25 (bus, Cà Phê Sữa Đá, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, coffee tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel). Tip: Buy coffee in bulk at markets; book tours early for Tet or dry season.
Timing: Brew or sip in the morning (8:00–11:00 AM) for freshness; dry season (November–April) for outdoor cafés, rainy season (May–October) for indoor spots.
Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.
Sustainability: Use reusable phins and straws; walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Buy local beans ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) at markets.
Navigation: Use offline maps with addresses like “64 Lương Văn Can, Hoan Kiem Ward.”
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded cafés; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.
Weather: Dry season for open-air seating; rainy season needs waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; tip baristas $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND). Respect café etiquette by not lingering during peak hours.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); limit intake due to caffeine and sugar. Apply mosquito repellent.
Our sustainable tours showcase Hoan Kiem Ward’s Cà Phê Sữa Đá culture:
Hanoi Coffee Eco-Tour ($40–$60/person, 1 day): Cyclo tour to The Note Coffee at 10:00 AM, Cà Phê Sữa Đá tasting, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Dong Xuan Market. Includes guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Cultural Coffee Tour ($80–$120/person, 2 days): Cà Phê Sữa Đá at Cộng Cà Phê, Night Market, coffee workshop, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($200–$350/person, 3 days): Cà Phê Sữa Đá at Highlands Coffee, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links! TripAdvisor Reviews
Cà Phê Sữa Đá, Vietnam’s iconic iced coffee, is a bold, sweet, and refreshing drink you can craft at home for $1–$2 or savor in Hoan Kiem’s Old Quarter for $0.80–$1.50 at cafés like The Note Coffee. Its slow-drip phin brew and creamy condensed milk embody Vietnam’s coffee culture, served with eco-friendly reusable straws and local beans. Whether mastering the 5–7-minute brew or sipping on Hanoi’s vibrant streets, Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to this beverage’s cultural heart, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience blending flavor, tradition, and sustainability. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your culinary journey today!
Ready to make or savor Vietnam’s iconic Cà Phê Sữa Đá? 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.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
