"Vietnamese Anti-Sleep Medicine for Every Morning: Iced Condensed Milk Coffee to Energize Your Walking Tour"

In the bustling streets of Vietnam, the clinking of ice and the rich aroma of coffee is a morning symphony that signals the start of a new day. This beloved beverage, known as cà phê sữa đá or iced condensed milk coffee, is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural ritual, a burst of energy, and the ultimate anti-sleep remedy that fuels the vibrant life of the Vietnamese people.

4 quán cafe vợt Sài Gòn tồn tại hơn nửa thế kỷ ai cũng nên đến — Source: Traveloka

The Making of iced condensed milk coffee

The preparation of iced condensed milk coffee is an art form in itself. It starts with Vietnamese coffee grounds, typically Robusta beans, known for their strong flavor and high caffeine content. The coffee is brewed using a phin filter, a traditional Vietnamese drip filter that slowly extracts the coffee’s intense flavors. Here’s a step-by-step look at how this iconic drink is made:

Brewing the Coffee: Place the phin filter over a glass containing a generous amount of sweetened condensed milk. Add the coffee grounds to the filter, press them down with the phin’s metal press, and pour hot water over the top. The coffee slowly drips into the glass, creating a rich, aromatic brew.
Mixing with Ice: Once the coffee has finished dripping, stir it well with the condensed milk until fully blended. Pour the mixture over a tall glass filled with ice cubes.
Enjoying the Beverage: The final result is a perfectly balanced iced coffee, ready to be savored. The first sip is an awakening—an explosion of flavors that instantly revitalizes the senses.

Source: Kingroti

A Cultural Staple

Iced condensed milk coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up; it’s an integral part of Vietnamese daily life and culture. You’ll find people enjoying this beverage at street-side cafes, in bustling markets, and during leisurely breakfasts. It’s a drink that brings people together, fostering conversation and connection.

Top 5 quán cà phê bệt là điểm hẹn của giới trẻ Sài Gòn — Source: MIA.vn

Street Cafés: In cities like Ho Chi Minh, street cafés are a common sight. These humble establishments, often consisting of small plastic stools and tables, serve some of the best iced condensed milk coffee. Locals and tourists alike gather here, sipping their coffee while watching the world go by.

Here are some popular coffee shops in Saigon that I recommend you visit during your walking tour: Highland Coffee, Trung Nguyên Coffee, and The Workshop Coffee. At these spots, you can enjoy the delicious cà phê sữa đá (iced condensed milk coffee). However, keep in mind that this drink can be quite strong and might upset your stomach if you're not used to it, so consider this before indulging.

See more: Slow Travel Guide: 1-Day Saigon Walking Tour - Where to Go, What to Eat, and Authentic Experiences

Morning Routine: For many Vietnamese, starting the day without iced condensed milk coffee is unimaginable. It’s the fuel that powers their busy lives, offering a moment of solace and energy before diving into the day’s activities.

Social Connection: Iced condensed milk coffee is also a social glue, bringing friends, families, and colleagues together. Whether it’s a quick chat before work or a leisurely weekend get-together, this coffee is always at the heart of these moments. I'll show you some places where locals in Vietnam love to drink Iced Condensed Milk Coffee. The most famous spots are at Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office. These two locations are just a few steps apart! When you visit these spots, you'll experience the communal culture as people gather together to enjoy their Iced Condensed Milk Coffee

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In conclusion, iced condensed milk coffee is more than just a coffee; it’s an experience, a tradition, and a way of life. Its unique blend of strong coffee and sweet condensed milk, combined with the refreshing chill of ice, makes it the perfect anti-sleep medicine for every morning. So, the next time you find yourself in Vietnam, make sure to indulge in a glass of iced condensed milk coffee and immerse yourself in this delightful aspect of Vietnamese culture.

If you're visiting Sai Gon for a short time, these nearby spots will provide you with an interesting and memorable experience. Whether you're interested in history, nature, culture, or just a relaxing day by the beach, the areas surrounding Sai Gon have something to offer. These destinations provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making them ideal for day trips or short getaways. So, the next time you're in Sai Gon, take the opportunity to explore these fantastic hangout spots and discover more of what Vietnam has to offer.

Guide 1 day in Sai Gon