When exploring the vibrant coffee culture of Ho Chi Minh City, one cannot simply stick to a standard black coffee. The city offers unique, dessert-like coffee variations that have become legendary among travelers.

First and foremost is the famous Egg Coffee. According to multiple travelers, Little Hanoi Egg Coffee is the definitive spot to try this rich beverage. Visitors describe the experience as "healing," noting that the egg flavor is thick, rich, and aromatic. It is considered a signature drink that you simply must try, with one traveler noting that the egg aroma is profound and satisfying. It is often paired with a sourdough toast or consumed as part of a relaxing breakfast.

Another tropical favorite is Coconut Coffee. While many places serve it, iO Specialty Coffee (located at 230/12 Pasteur, D3) receives high praise for serving what some consider the "best coconut coffee" they have encountered.

• The Taste Profile: At iO Specialty Coffee, the espresso is slowly poured over a coconut slush. As the ice melts, the bitterness of the coffee perfectly blends with the sweetness of the coconut, creating a drink that is icy, smooth, and incredibly refreshing—perfect for Saigon's heat.
• Other Options: The famous chain Cộng Cà Phê is also recommended for its slushies. Their Green Rice Smoothie and Coconut Smoothie are standout items, with the green rice offering a unique texture with coconut chips.

For those looking for a nostalgic twist, Cafe Linh offers a "Salted Cream" coffee. Travelers compare the taste to a melted Vietnamese coffee candy from childhood—a rich, "child-like" coffee beverage that is creamy and delightful.

If you are exploring the city, you can find more details on local food spots here.

Saigon is not just about traditional robusta; it has a burgeoning specialty coffee scene that attracts connoisseurs from around Asia.

The Workshop Coffee is perhaps the most debated and discussed specialty cafe in the city. It has earned a spot on the "Asia's 50 Best Coffee" list (ranked #3 by some accounts) and sells its own beans.

• The Experience: Reviews are mixed, making it a must-visit to form your own opinion. Some travelers find the coffee "addictive" and get a "head rush" from the quality. Others feel the taste is merely "average" or that the food (specifically the pumpkin cake) is lackluster.
• Must-Try: Despite the mixed reviews on food, the coffee itself commands respect. One traveler specifically recommends their "Salt Coffee" as a must-drink.

For those seeking a modern, refined palate, Rang Rang Coffee is a top-tier recommendation. Their Cold Brew is described as having a very rich berry aroma, with flavors that are perfectly integrated—a 5-star experience for modern coffee lovers.

Another interesting spot is Grandmum Cafe, where the "Brown Coffee" is noted for being fragrant with a slight acidity, offering a different profile from the standard street coffee. Meanwhile, nearby options like La Viet Coffee and The Hummingbird Café & Roastery are located within walking distance of popular homestays in District 3, offering accessible specialty brews.

If you want to explore more about these specific cafes, check out this link.

• Rang Rang Coffee: Berry-noted Cold Brew.
• The Workshop: High-ranking, intense coffee.
• Grandmum Cafe: Fragrant Brown Coffee.

In Saigon, the coffee shop environment is just as important as the drink itself. The city is dotted with aesthetically pleasing venues perfect for relaxing or taking photos.

Ola Hale - Restaurant & Bar is a prime location for those visiting the famous Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church). Located directly opposite, it offers a great environment and a rooftop that is perfect for taking photos with the church in the background. It serves as a great rest stop after sightseeing.

For a more garden-like atmosphere, Dabao Concept offers a beautiful courtyard setting. It is described as having a "garden" vibe that is highly recommended for photography, alongside good drinks.

If you are willing to travel a bit further from the center (specifically near the airport or in Go Vap), Mê Coffee offers a "Teddy Bear" theme. The cafe is filled with teddy bears, making it a "girl's heart explosion" location. It changes themes according to festivals (like Christmas). However, be warned: travelers note that the coffee taste here is not particularly special, so come for the photos, not the brew.

Ngâm Cafe in District 3 (193/19 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa) is another spot noted for its location, offering a quiet respite. Additionally, Cafein & Nicotin and in nờ corner are listed among the "cool shops" to visit for those doing a cafe-hopping tour.

• Ola Hale: Best view of the Pink Church.
• Dabao Concept: Garden vibes.
• Mê Coffee: Themed decor for photos.

Plan your cafe hopping route here.

To truly understand Saigon's coffee culture, you must look where the locals go. It's not always about air-conditioning and expensive machines; sometimes it's about the plastic stools and the buzz of the street.

Lạc Café, located in District 3 (near M Village the Garden), is a prime example. It is described as a spot where "super many" local young people gather every day to drink coffee. It captures the authentic energy of Saigon's youth culture.

Cà phê Linh is another gem that strikes a balance between local grit and charm. It is described as having a nostalgic, retro vibe. It is located right next to the famous Pho Viet Nam, making it an easy stop after a meal. The atmosphere is distinctive, often filled with smoke and chatter, giving it a raw, authentic feel.

Even hotels in Saigon embrace the coffee culture. For instance, the Mùa Dalat Wellness Hotel (and its counterparts in Ho Chi Minh) offers a pleasant coffee experience, and even simple accommodations often have a cafe downstairs where residents work and chat, creating a "chill" vibe.

Whether you are sitting on a small stool at Lạc Café or enjoying the retro interior of Linh, these spots offer a glimpse into the daily life of the Vietnamese people.

• Lạc Café: Local youth hangout.
• Cà phê Linh: Retro, nostalgic, authentic.

Find these local gems here.