Ca Phe Trung (Egg Coffee)
The creamy Hanoi coffee made with egg yolk, and how to enjoy it without surprises.
Ca phe trung is Hanoi’s egg coffee. A strong cup of Vietnamese coffee is topped with whipped egg yolk and sweet cream, so it tastes more like dessert than a morning pick-me-up.
How will you meet it on the trip?
You will find it at small cafes in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, served in a little cup set in a bowl of hot water to keep it warm. Sip slowly and use a spoon for the thick foam. One cup between two people is a fair start.
Cool winter afternoons suit it best. Hanoi is the coolest of the main stops, so check the weather by month guide when you plan.
What should you ask before ordering?
Ask how the yolk is prepared, particularly for children and for anyone who is pregnant. Ask for less sugar if you prefer. Some cafes serve a cold version, which is easier on a warm day.
Our north or central comparison shows whether Hanoi suits your trip.
Which related terms will you see?
- Ca phe sua da: iced coffee with condensed milk, the everyday order.
- Ca phe den: black coffee.
- Bac xiu: coffee with a lot of milk, a gentle option.
More food guidance sits in Food and daily travel.
If Hanoi is on your route, tell us your leave days and who is coming, and we will help you fit slow cafe stops around the rest of your plan.
Common questions
What does egg coffee taste like?
It tastes like a warm coffee dessert, thick and sweet like custard on top of a strong, bitter base. There is no strong egg taste. Stir gently or sip through the foam. Order a small cup first if you do not like sweet drinks.
Where does egg coffee come from?
It is a Hanoi drink, found in the Old Quarter's small cafes. It was made when fresh milk was hard to get, using whipped yolk as a substitute. It is a good reason to take an afternoon pause in the capital.
Is egg coffee safe for children or anyone pregnant?
The foam may use raw or lightly cooked yolk, so ask how it is prepared. Children and anyone pregnant can choose a different drink if unsure. Coffee also carries caffeine, so a hot chocolate or fresh juice is a gentler choice for little ones.
Keep planning
If Hanoi is on your route, tell us your leave days and who is coming, and we will help you fit slow cafe stops around the rest of your plan.