The Ultimate Brew: CNN Explores the Phenomenon of Vietnam’s Salty Coffee Sensation

CNN cited a small, modest cafe in Hue, Vietnam’s historic city, as the birthplace of this now-famous beverage. The unique drink, created in 2010, combines sweetened condensed milk with traditional Vietnamese coffee, topped with salted cream. Served hot or cold, this innovative creation has captivated coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

The name itself, “ca phe muoi,” translates to “coffee with salt,” an intriguing combination that balances the bitterness of black coffee with the creamy sweetness of condensed milk, creating a harmonious flavor profile. The salt, a subtle yet crucial element, enhances the overall taste experience.

Word spread quickly about this specialty drink from Hue, and soon cafes across Vietnam embraced it. Post-pandemic, salt coffee surged in popularity, with CNN quoting its founders, who shared their journey from a local favorite to a nationwide sensation.

Today, the cafe bottles its signature salt coffee, sharing its unique flavor with other Vietnamese cities. Despite initial reservations about the name, the taste speaks for itself. The balanced interplay between sweet and bitter notes, accentuated by the salt, creates a captivating coffee experience that has captivated locals and travelers alike.

Maggie Hiufu Wong, the writer, confirms that salt coffee is just one of Vietnam’s many unique coffee creations that may surprise those unfamiliar with Vietnamese coffee culture. From egg coffee to coconut coffee, fruit shake coffee, and yogurt coffee, Vietnam offers a diverse range of coffee experiences that are worth exploring.

The article invites travelers to embark on a journey of discovery, encouraging them to try these unique coffee variations during their visit to Vietnam, immersing themselves in the rich coffee culture that has become an integral part of the country’s modern identity.