Viet Nam is not only famous for its rich cuisine but also for vibrant drink culture that reflects on their tropical climate, diverse regions, and dynamic lifestyle. In this guide, Jellyfish will share the best Vietnamese drinks, covering both popular and lesser-known options.
1. The ultimate Vietnamese drinks list
Let’s start with a curated Vietnamese drinks list that covers a wide range of tastes:
- Trà đá (iced tea) – Served free in restaurants, this refreshing green or jasmine tea is Vietnam’s unsung hero.
- Cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced coffee with milk) – Strong drip coffee with sweetened condensed milk, a signature street-side favorite.
- Nước mía (sugarcane juice) – Freshly pressed with kumquat or pineapple for added zest.
- Sữa đậu nành (soy milk) – A mild, nutritious choice available hot or cold.
- Trà tắc (kumquat iced tea) – Sweet, tangy, and loaded with vitamin C.
- Sinh tố (fruit smoothies) – Made with tropical fruits like avocado, custard apple, or mango.
Nước mía
These are just some of the popular Vietnamese drinks that you’ll find on every street corner.
2. Traditional Vietnamese drinks you should try
Some drinks have been enjoyed in Vietnamese homes for generations. These traditional Vietnamese drinks are not only delicious but also packed with cultural and health value.
- Chè đậu xanh (mung bean sweet drink) – Served warm or cold, often with coconut milk.
- Nước sâm (herbal tea) – A mix of cooling herbs believed to balance body heat.
- Nước vối & nước rau má (medicinal teas) – Used as daily detox beverages in many households.
- Rượu nếp (fermented sticky rice wine) – A lightly alcoholic drink enjoyed during festivals and family gatherings.
- Nước mơ (apricot syrup drink) – A northern specialty with sweet and sour flavors.
Many of these drinks are served during Tet (Lunar New Year), family dinners, or as part of wellness routines.
3. Vietnamese boba and modern drink trends
The Vietnamese have embraced boba culture, blending it with local creativity. Here are some Vietnamese drinks boba lovers should look out for:
- Trà sữa trân châu (milk tea with pearls) – Black tea with milk and chewy tapioca pearls.
- Trà đào cam sả (peach tea with orange and lemongrass) – A fragrant favorite among youth.
- Matcha sữa tươi trân châu đường đen – Matcha with fresh milk and brown sugar pearls, inspired by Korean-Japanese fusions.
- Yogurt-based drinks – Mixes of yogurt, fruit, and chewy toppings, unique to Vietnam.
Milk tea has become quite popular in Vietnam these days
These modern creations combine traditional Vietnamese ingredients with global trends, making them hits on Instagram and in cafes.
4. Healthy Vietnamese drinks
Many Vietnamese drinks are healthy by nature, made from plants, herbs, or fresh fruits. Here are a few to add to your wellness routine:
- Nước rau má (pennywort juice) – A detoxifying green drink with cooling properties.
- Nước nha đam (aloe vera juice) – Hydrating and great for skin.
- Sâm bí đao (winter melon tea) – Low in sugar and good for digestion.
- Trà gừng (ginger tea) – Helps soothe sore throats and nausea.
- Sinh tố bơ (avocado smoothie) – Creamy, rich in healthy fats, and often topped with condensed milk.
Vietnamese drinks are not only refreshing, many are also rooted in ancient wellness philosophies.
5. How to make best Vietnamese drinks at home
Want to enjoy these flavors in your kitchen? Here are Vietnamese drinks recipes that are easy and fun to try:
Vietnamese Iced Coffee: Cà Phê Sữa Đá
- Brew strong coffee using a drip filter (phin)
- Add 2–3 tablespoons of condensed milk
- Stir and pour over ice
Sugarcane Juice with Kumquat
- Use a juicer or buy frozen sugarcane sticks
- Add fresh kumquat juice or lime
- Serve chilled with ice
Three-color dessert drink: Chè ba màu
- Layer mung beans, red beans, and jelly
- Top with crushed ice and coconut milk
- Sweeten with palm sugar syrup
These Vietnamese drinks are easy to make and can bring tropical vibes to your home, wherever you are.
Explore our full list of traditional and modern Vietnamese alcoholic drinks
Conclusion
From ancient teas to trendy boba, the best Vietnamese drinks reflect a deep connection between nature, health, and flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a cold cà phê sữa đá on a hot street or sipping nước mía by the beach, every drink tells a story about the people and culture of Vietnam.
Learn Vietnamese Through Food and Drink with Jellyfish
Curious about how to order your favorite drinks in Vietnamese? At Jellyfish, we offer language and cultural programs that connect you with real-life conversations.
- Learn how to order like a local
- Understand ingredients and drink names in Vietnamese
- Explore cultural traditions through food and beverages
👉👉 Learning Vietnamese – Jellyfish Vietnam
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