Calling all coffee lovers! If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering where to buy coffee beans in Ho Chi Minh, you’re in for a treat. Vietnam is a coffee paradise, and Saigon (as the locals call it) is the heart of it all. Get ready to embark on a caffeinated adventure through bustling markets, charming local shops, and hidden gems that will make your taste buds sing.

1. Where To Buy Coffee Beans in Ho Chi Minh City

Specialty Coffee Stores

If you’re a true coffee aficionado, then you absolutely must check out Ho Chi Minh City’s specialty coffee scene. These aren’t your average cafes – they’re where the magic happens! Here, you’ll find beans sourced from the most exotic corners of Vietnam and beyond, carefully roasted to perfection. Trust me, the flavors will blow your mind!

So, what makes specialty coffee shops so special?

• Top-notch beans: These beans are the VIPs of the coffee world, handpicked and pampered from farm to cup. You’ll taste the difference in every sip!
• Flavor adventure: Get ready to explore a world of taste with beans from all corners of the globe. From fruity Ethiopian varieties to rich Vietnamese Arabica, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy.
• Coffee gurus: The baristas here aren’t just coffee makers; they’re coffee whisperers! They’ll help you navigate the menu and find the perfect brew to match your mood and taste buds.
• Chic vibes: Forget about boring cafes. Specialty coffee shops are designed to be stylish and inviting, so you can relax and savor your coffee in style.

Specialty coffee can be a bit pricier than regular coffee. However, the exceptional quality and experience are definitely worth the splurge!

Where to buy coffee beans in Ho Chi Minh City?

Coffee Roasters

• Price for coffee beans: 84.000 – 115.000 VND
• Highlight: It’s not just a coffee shop; it’s a haven for remote workers, a hangout spot for friends, and a foodie’s delight with all-day breakfast, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks. Plus, it’s tucked away in a peaceful corner of Saigon, yet easily accessible from the city center.
• Rating: 4.2
• Address: 1D5, 92, Villa, Nguyen Huu Canh, Saigon Pearl, Binh Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Là Việt Coffee

• Price for coffee beans: 40.000 – 60.000
• Highlight: La Viet is a true gem for coffee lovers in Ho Chi Minh City! They grow their own Arabica beans in the picturesque Da Lat region and roast them in-house, ensuring the freshest and most flavorful coffee experience. You can choose from a variety of roast profiles, from light and delicate to bold and intense.
• Rating: 4.3 
• Address in Ho Chi Minh City:

     191 Hai Ba Trung, District 3

     6D Tran Quang Dieu, District 3

     57A Tu Xuong, District 3

     16 Ba Thanh Quan District, District 3

     Floor B2, Takashimaya, District 1 (09:30 – 22:00)

     60 Pho Duc Chinh, District 1

• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 21:00 PM

The Workshop Coffee

• Price for coffee beans: 65.000 -135.000 VND
• Highlight: The Workshop is a coffee lover’s paradise! They’ve got a menu that’ll make your head spin – local beans, imported beans, you name it! And the brewing methods? Oh boy, they’ve got it all: Siphon, Chemex, V60, Kalita Wave, Woodneck… you could spend a whole day here just trying different brews! It’s like a coffee playground for grown-ups.
• Rating: 4.5 
• Address: 27 Ngo Duc Ke, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1 (2nd floor), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

VCR Coffee Roastery (Vietnam Coffee Republic)

• Price for coffee beans: 68.000 – 220.000 VND
• Highlight: This place is a coffee lover’s dream! They’ve got a huge selection of Vietnamese coffee, from classic phin brews to modern espresso drinks. And get this – they’re always experimenting with new stuff like cold brew on tap and a rotating pour-over menu. It’s like a playground for your taste buds!
• Rating: 4.4 
• Address: 8A/8C2 Thai Van Lung, District 1 
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Local Coffee Shops

If you’re looking for a truly authentic coffee experience in Ho Chi Minh City, ditch the big chains and head straight for the local coffee shops. These hidden gems are where you’ll find the real heart and soul of Vietnamese coffee culture.

What makes local coffee shops so awesome?

• Unique flavors: These shops often roast their own beans in-house, creating signature blends you won’t find anywhere else. Get ready for a taste bud adventure!
• Support the locals: Buying coffee here means you’re directly supporting small businesses and the local community. It’s a win-win!
• Budget-friendly: Local coffee is often surprisingly affordable, even cheaper than fancy coffee chains. More coffee for your buck!
• Cozy vibes: These shops are all about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy your brew.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Quality can vary: Since these are smaller operations, the coffee quality might not always be perfectly consistent. But hey, that’s part of the fun!
• Limited selection: You might not find a huge variety of beans, but the ones they do have are sure to be delicious.
• Coffee expertise: The staff might not be coffee experts, but they’ll always greet you with a smile and a warm welcome.

Here are a few local favorites to get you started:

Trung Nguyen Legend Café

• Price for coffee beans: 29.000 – 77.000 VND
• Highlight: Trung Nguyen Legend Café is a must-visit for coffee lovers in Vietnam! This iconic chain is famous for its wide range of delicious coffee drinks, from traditional Vietnamese drip coffee to modern iced coffee and flavorful lattes. Their skilled baristas will make sure your coffee is perfect every time.
• Rating: 4.7
• Address: 219 Ly Tu Trong Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City (You can refer to other branches in Ho Chi Minh City here)
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Cong Ca Phe

• Price for coffee beans: 29.000 – 65.000 VND
• Highlight: Step back in time at Cong Ca Phe, where the decor and staff uniforms transport you to Vietnam’s wartime era. But don’t let the theme fool you – the coffee here is seriously delicious! Their coconut coffee is a must-try. It’s a creamy, refreshing blend of coconut milk, ice, and strong coffee that’ll leave you wanting more. Trust me, it’s my all-time favorite Vietnamese dessert!
• Rating: 4.1
• Address: Cong Ca Phe currently has 19 branches spread across Ho Chi Minh City. Here is the list for you
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM

After you’ve had your coffee fix, why not explore some of Ho Chi Minh City’s other culinary delights? Check out our guides to the best Pho in Vietnam and the best Banh Mi in Saigon for delicious food recommendations near these coffee shops.

Don’t forget to download our handy Vietnam travel apps for finding food and drinks. They’ll help you navigate the city’s vibrant food scene and discover even more local gem. 

Markets

Alright, bargain hunters and coffee aficionados, get ready to dive into the vibrant world of Ho Chi Minh City’s markets! These bustling hubs are not just for souvenirs and street food; they’re also a treasure trove of coffee beans waiting to be discovered.

Why explore the markets for coffee?

• Bargain hunter’s paradise: Market prices are often lower than specialty shops, so you can snag some great deals.
• Variety is the spice of life: You’ll find everything from everyday robusta beans to rare specialty varieties. It’s a coffee lover’s playground!
• Taste of the regions: Discover unique beans from different regions of Vietnam, each with its own distinct flavor profile.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Quality control: The quality of beans can vary, so be sure to inspect them carefully before buying.
• Ask for help: Vendors might not be coffee experts, but they’re usually happy to help you find what you’re looking for.
• Storage matters: Some beans might not be stored in ideal conditions, so check for freshness.

Here are two markets that are a must-visit for coffee lovers:

• Ben Thanh Market: This iconic market is a tourist hotspot, but don’t let that deter you. It’s also a treasure trove of coffee beans, spices, and other local goodies.
• Tan Dinh Market: This smaller market is a local favorite, offering a more authentic experience and a great selection of coffee beans at competitive prices.

Pro tip: Brush up on your bargaining skills in Vietnam before heading to the markets! Check out our guides on how to bargain in Vietnam and essential Vietnamese phrases for travelers when shopping and bargaining. It’ll help you score the best deals and have a more enjoyable shopping experience.

Supermarkets and Convenience Stores

If you’re short on time but still craving a taste of Vietnamese coffee, supermarkets and convenience stores are your best bet. They’re everywhere in Ho Chi Minh City, making it super easy to grab your caffeine fix on the go.

Why choose supermarkets & convenience stores for coffee?

• Convenience: These shops are everywhere, making it easy to grab your coffee on the go.
• Popular brands: You’ll find all the big names here, like Trung Nguyen, Nescafe, G7, Vinacafe, Wake Up, and even Starbucks. They also have a wide selection of canned and instant coffee options.
• Clear pricing: Prices are usually fixed and clearly marked, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
• Quality control: Products are generally checked for quality before being put on shelves, so you can be confident in your purchase.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Limited specialty options: You’ll mostly find popular brands and blends here, not so many unique or single-origin coffees.
• Freshness: The coffee might not be as fresh as beans from local roasters, as they’ve been sitting on the shelves for a while.
• Information gap: You might not find detailed information about the origin or roasting process of the beans.

Where to buy coffee beans in Ho Chi Minh City?

Here are a few popular options:

• Supermarkets: MM Mega Market, Lotte Mart, Co.opmart
• Convenience stores: Circle K, GS25, FamilyMart

2. Characteristics of Popular Coffee Beans in Vietnam

Robusta

Let’s talk about the powerhouse of Vietnamese coffee – Robusta! This bean is like the energetic friend who always gets the party started. It’s got a bold, full-bodied flavor with a hint of bitterness that’ll definitely wake you up. If you’re a fan of strong coffee, this one’s for you!

What makes Robusta coffee special?

• Caffeine kick: Robusta packs a serious punch, with almost double the caffeine of Arabica beans. It’s the perfect fuel for your Saigon adventures!
• Strong and bold: This coffee is not for the faint of heart. It’s got a strong, earthy flavor with a slightly bitter aftertaste.
• Perfect for Vietnamese classics: Robusta is the star of traditional Vietnamese coffee drinks like Ca Phe Sua Da  (iced milk coffee) and Ca Phe Phin (filter coffee). It’s the perfect way to experience authentic Vietnamese coffee culture.
• Vietnam’s coffee champ: Robusta accounts for a whopping 95% of Vietnam’s coffee production, making it the country’s most popular bean.

You can find Robusta coffee beans for about 150.000 to 300.000 VND per kilogram, while ground coffee usually goes for 80.000 to 200.000 VND per kilogram.

Arabica

While Robusta might be the king of Vietnamese coffee, don’t overlook the country’s hidden gem – Arabica! This bean is like the sophisticated friend who always knows the best places to go. It’s got a complex, nuanced flavor profile that’ll make your taste buds dance with joy. If you’re looking for a more delicate and aromatic coffee experience, Arabica is your perfect match!

What makes Vietnamese Arabica coffee special?

• Gentle caffeine: Arabica has less caffeine than Robusta, making it a smoother, more mellow choice for your morning cup.
• A symphony of flavors: Get ready to experience a wide range of aromas and tastes, from bright citrus notes to floral hints and a subtle sweetness.
• Brewing versatility: Arabica shines in various brewing methods, including traditional phin filters, pour-over, and even cold brew.
• Grown in the highlands: Vietnamese Arabica is mainly cultivated in the cool, misty highlands of Lam Dong province, where the ideal conditions create exceptional beans.
• Small but mighty: While Arabica only accounts for about 5% of Vietnam’s coffee production, it’s definitely gaining popularity among coffee lovers seeking a more refined experience.

You can expect to pay around 250,000 to 500,000 VND per kilogram for roasted Arabica beans, while ground coffee usually costs between 150,000 and 300,000 VND per kilogram.

Popular Arabica varieties in Vietnam:

• Moka: Known for its intense aroma, bright acidity, and sweet aftertaste, Moka is the priciest of the Vietnamese Arabica varieties.
• Catimor: This hybrid of Arabica and Robusta boasts disease resistance and a balanced flavor profile with both acidity and bitterness.
• Bourbon: With its fruity aroma, gentle acidity, and sweet finish, Bourbon is a crowd-pleaser.
• Typica: This variety offers a delicate aroma, bright acidity, and is often used in specialty coffee blends.

So, there you have it – a taste of the diverse coffee scene in Ho Chi Minh City! But the adventure doesn’t stop here. If you’re curious about what makes Vietnamese coffee culture so unique, get ready to dive deeper into the world of phin filters, egg coffee (yes, it’s a thing!), and the fascinating rituals that surround this beloved beverage.

3. Be Aware of Fake Coffee in Vietnam

Hey coffee enthusiasts! While Vietnam is a coffee paradise, it’s important to be a savvy shopper to avoid any “fake coffee” surprises. Don’t worry, I’m here to share some tips to help you spot the real deal and ensure your Vietnamese coffee experience is nothing short of amazing.

• Go for whole beans: Fake coffee is often sold pre-ground, making it harder to identify the ingredients. Opt for whole beans whenever possible, as this allows you to inspect them visually and smell their aroma.
• Sniff it out: Real coffee beans have a rich, distinct aroma. Fake coffee often smells burnt, overly sweet, or even chemical-like due to artificial flavorings and additives.
• Do the water test: Drop a few beans into a cup of water. Real coffee beans will initially float and then slowly sink, releasing a light brown color. Fake beans often sink immediately or release a dark, murky color.
• Buy from reputable sources: Purchase your coffee beans from trusted brands, specialty coffee shops, or directly from roasters. Avoid buying from street vendors or unknown shops with suspiciously low prices.
• Be wary of prices: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. High-quality coffee beans come at a higher price due to the care and effort put into their production.

So there you have it, coffee lovers! Your guide to finding the best coffee beans in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re a fan of specialty roasts, local brews, or quick supermarket finds, this city has something to satisfy every caffeine craving.

Now, grab your coffee, sit back, and enjoy the vibrant energy of Saigon. And if you’re looking for more exciting adventures in Vietnam, be sure to check out KissTour’s amazing travel experiences. We’ll take you on a journey through Vietnam’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and of course, its incredible coffee scene.

Happy sipping and safe travels!