Tom's Notes

Every morning, my colleague grabs a cup of coffee on his way to the office. As for me, I stick to an espresso made with my office’s automatic machine. Being a coffee lover, I’m always sensitive to the distinct aroma of coffee. When I catch a glimpse of my friend’s iced milk coffee on the table, I can almost taste the sweet, creamy flavor blending perfectly with the ice.

Moments like this make me crave a cup of Saigon’s signature iced milk coffee. It’s not just the taste, but the entire experience of sitting on a street corner, sipping a cold coffee while watching the bustling life of the city unfold.

Coffee culture is deeply ingrained in the fabric of Saigon life. It’s more than just a drink; it’s a way of life. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or not, you’ll soon find yourself drawn into Saigon’s vibrant coffee scene. The bold, black coffee or the sweet, milky version, hot or cold, is the perfect morning wake-up call.

On busy mornings, people grab their coffee in a hurry, taking a few sips before heading out to work. But on leisurely days, you might find people lingering over a cup of coffee, reading the news or chatting with friends. The daily coffee ritual has become a common part of Saigon’s lifestyle.

Across Saigon, from narrow alleys to busy streets, coffee shops are everywhere. Often referred to as “street coffee,” these spots are simple – a few plastic chairs, a table, and a view of the street. It’s not about the decor; it’s about the experience. The noise, the traffic, and the ever-present dust add to the charm. People sit and enjoy their coffee, sharing stories or simply taking a pause from their busy lives.

The local coffee is typically brewed in a traditional Vietnamese filter, often served iced. For those who prefer a more intense brew, there’s coffee made with a special clay pot. The taste is rich, smooth, and slightly buttery with a hint of alcohol from the roast. Saigon’s iced milk coffee is unique, with a signature sweetness and creamy texture you won’t find anywhere else.

In recent years, takeaway coffee has become a convenient option for busy Saigonese. Small coffee carts are now a common sight, offering a quick cup of coffee for people on the go. These affordable drinks make it easy to grab a coffee without thinking twice – sometimes it’s all you need to power through the day.

Since the pandemic, takeaway coffee has become a staple of daily life. Many young entrepreneurs have embraced the trend, using mobile coffee carts to start their own businesses. Even some larger coffee shops have jumped on the bandwagon, offering takeaway options to meet demand.

The charm of these mobile coffee carts is in the convenience, but the quality often varies. While they typically serve espresso-style coffee made with machines, the beans used aren’t always the highest quality. Serious coffee drinkers may bypass these carts in favor of more refined options.

As competition grows, coffee shops are constantly evolving, introducing new drinks like cold brew, salted coffee, and more to cater to the younger crowd. Coffee in Saigon is no longer just a drink – it’s a culture, a lifestyle, and a part of the city’s identity.

In Saigon, a cup of iced milk coffee isn’t just a pick-me-up. It’s a moment of stillness in the hustle and bustle of life, a chance to pause, breathe, and take in the world around you. So, if life ever feels overwhelming, take a moment to savor a Saigon iced milk coffee – it’s the perfect way to recharge and reconnect with the rhythm of the city.

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