What is Egg Coffee?
Egg coffee is a traditional Vietnamese drink made from robusta coffee, egg yolks, sugar, and condensed milk. The ingredients are combined to create a creamy, sweet, and richly textured beverage that is as much a dessert as it is a coffee. The egg yolks are whisked with sugar and condensed milk to form a custard-like cream, which is then placed on top of the coffee, creating a visually appealing and decadent treat.
History and Story Behind Egg Coffee
The origins of egg coffee date back to 1946, during the First Indochina War, when milk was scarce in Hanoi. Nguyen Van Giang, a resourceful bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, came up with an innovative solution to this problem. He began using egg yolks as a substitute for milk, whisking them with sugar and condensed milk to create a creamy topping for coffee. This clever hack not only solved the milk shortage issue but also resulted in a unique and delicious drink that quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike.
Giang's creation became so renowned that he eventually left his job at the hotel to open his own café, Café Giang, where he continued to serve his signature egg coffee. Today, Café Giang remains one of the most famous places to try this iconic drink, with Giang's son still maintaining the family tradition.
Best Places to Try Egg Coffee in Hanoi
Hanoi offers a plethora of cafes where you can indulge in egg coffee, each with its own unique atmosphere and twist on the classic recipe. Here are three must-visit spots:
1. Café Giang
Location: No. 39, Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Experience: This is the birthplace of egg coffee, and it still serves the original recipe. The café is nestled in a small alley, making it a bit challenging to find, but the authentic taste and rich history make it well worth the visit.
Variations: Café Giang offers a variety of egg coffee flavors, including versions with cinnamon, matcha, and even rum or beer for those looking for a unique twist.
2. Dinh Coffee
Location: No. 13, Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Experience: Owned by Nguyen Van Giang's daughter, Dinh Coffee is renowned for its delicious and aromatic egg coffee. The café offers a stunning view of Hoan Kiem Lake, providing a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxing.
Variations: Besides egg coffee, Dinh Coffee also serves egg cocoa, which is equally popular among visitors.
3. Cafe Pho Co
Location: 11 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Experience: This café is known for its cozy atmosphere and offers a unique view of Hoan Kiem Lake from its balcony. Cafe Pho Co serves a variety of coffee drinks, including egg coffee, making it a great spot to enjoy this iconic beverage while taking in the local scenery.
Experiencing Egg Coffee with Nom Nom Travel
For those interested in immersing themselves in Hanoi's culinary scene, Nom Nom Travel offers a fantastic opportunity to taste egg coffee as part of their street food tour. This tour allows you to explore the city's hidden gems, including local eateries and cafes, while enjoying a variety of traditional Vietnamese dishes and drinks, including the famous egg coffee. It's a great way to experience the authentic flavors of Hanoi while learning about the city's rich cultural heritage.
By joining Nom Nom Travel's street food tour, you'll not only get to try egg coffee at some of the best cafes in Hanoi, but you'll also gain a deeper understanding of the city's culinary traditions and history. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or just looking to explore the local culture, Hanoi's egg coffee is a must-try experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of this vibrant city.
