Egg coffee – an unique culture of Hanoi
If you have chance to visit Ha Noi one day, remember to enjoy its egg coffee. Why so? You may hear a lot about egg coffee, and this kind of coffee may be found in other parts of Vietnam, and even in some parts around the world, but Hanoi is the place where it was born.
How this kind of coffee was born?
Egg coffee was born in late 1940s when condensed milk was not as abundant as today. It was originally made by Mr. Nguyen Giang who used to be a bartender at the 5-star Sofitel Legend Metropole hotel under French domination.
How egg coffee is prepared and served?
An egg coffee is traditionally prepared with egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk and Robusta coffee. The drink is made by beating egg yolks with sugar and coffee, then extracting the coffee into the half of the cup, followed by a similar amount of egg cream, which is prepared by heating and beating the yolks. The cup is served inside a bowl of hot water to retain its temperature. The marriage of the egg’s rich taste and aromatic coffee wafting through the air makes up specific flavor.
To drink egg coffee, people should slowly stir bobbed froth of whipped egg with the coffee below. Sweet and tasty of egg and milk are in harmony with bitterness of coffee and leaves behind the mesmerizing scent.
Where to find the best place for a cup of egg coffee?
Giang Café (39 Nguyen Huu Huan)
This is the place where egg coffee was born. Giang Café is humbly hidden on a small lane on Nguyen Huu Huan Street in the city’s old quarter. It may be difficult to find for visitors, but it is well worth the effort. It continues to be hugely popular among Hanoi’s coffee addicts with its special ca phe trung, or egg coffee.
Dinh Café (13 Đinh Tiên Hoàng)
Packed in a small space but offering a look over Hoan Kiem Lake, this is also a favorite place for egg coffee. It was founded by Ms. Bich, daugher of Mr. Quang – the father of egg coffee.
Tips: Hanoi has so many things to offer regarding food and drink in addition to egg coffee. However, before packing your things to Vietnam, remember to check your Vietnam Visa to make sure your entry will not be refused.
