Egg Coffee Hanoi Old Quarter: Where to drink, eat & explore

Tucked away in the winding alleys of Hanoi Old Quarter, there’s a drink that captures the soul of the city - egg coffee. More than just a cup of caffeine, it’s a silky blend of strong Vietnamese coffee topped with a sweet, creamy foam of whipped egg yolk. First created in Hanoi decades ago, this unique treat has become a must-try for travelers seeking both flavor and culture. From hidden rooftop cafés to century-old coffee shops, exploring egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter is not just about taste, it’s about experiencing Hanoi’s heart in every sip.

What makes Egg Coffee in Hanoi Old Quarter so unique?

Egg coffee, or cà phê trứng, is more than just a drink, it’s a piece of Hanoi’s cultural identity. Created in the 1940s at the legendary Giang Café, this specialty was born out of necessity when milk was scarce. Whipped egg yolk, sugar, and condensed milk were blended to create a rich, velvety foam that crowned a cup of strong Vietnamese coffee. 

What makes Egg Coffee in Hanoi Old Quarter so unique?

The charm of egg coffee in Hanoi lies in its balance:: the bold bitterness of robusta beans meets the sweetness of the creamy egg topping, resulting in a dessert-like flavor unlike anywhere else in the world. What makes egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter truly special isn’t just the flavor, it’s the whole experience. And nowhere is this experience more authentic than in here, where narrow alleys hide traditional cafés, each serving their own version of this iconic drink. 

Trying egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter, where it is surrounded by the buzz of motorbikes and street vendors, and you’ll see why trying egg coffee in Hanoi is considered a must for every traveler.

Best Egg Coffee in Hanoi Old Quarter: 5 Coffee shops you can’t miss

The Old Quarter is filled with hidden gems, but if you’re looking for the best egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter has to offer, these five iconic spots should be at the top of your list:

1. Giang Café - The Original Egg Coffee

No journey to Hanoi Old Quarter is complete without a stop at Giang Café, the birthplace of cà phê trứng. Hidden in a narrow alley, this modest café doesn’t rely on fancy décor, its charm lies in history. In the 1940s, Mr. Nguyen Van Giang created egg coffee here as a clever solution when milk was scarce, blending whipped yolk, sugar, and condensed milk into a silky topping. Eight decades later, the recipe remains almost unchanged.

Giang Café - The Original Egg Coffee

What makes Giang special is not just its legacy, but the way each cup feels like a taste of Hanoi’s soul. The rich, frothy egg layer melts into the bold Vietnamese coffee beneath, creating a harmony of flavors that travelers often describe as “dessert in a cup.” Locals and visitors alike squeeze into the tiny space, proof that authenticity matters more than style.

• Address: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 10:30 PM daily
• Price range: 30,000 - 50,000 VND (≈ $1.20 - $1.60) per cup

Sipping a cup of egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter at Giang Café isn’t just a treat, it’s like traveling back in time, tasting the very origins of one of Vietnam’s most iconic drinks.

2. Đinh Café - Vintage Charm by Hoan Kiem Lake

If Giang Café is where egg coffee was born, then Đinh Café is where you fall in love with Hanoi’s timeless charm. Perched on the second floor of an old French colonial building right by Hoan Kiem Lake, this tiny café feels like stepping into the past. The wooden furniture, yellowed walls, and faded photographs transport visitors to a nostalgic Hanoi few places can capture.

Đinh Café - Vintage Charm by Hoan Kiem Lake

The egg coffee here is strong and slightly less sweet than other shops, making it perfect for those who love a bold kick beneath the creamy egg foam. What makes Đinh unforgettable is not just the drink, but the experience of sipping it while gazing out over Hoan Kiem Lake, watching the rhythm of the city unfold below.

• Address: 13 Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
• Price range: 25,000 - 40,000 VND (≈ $1 - $1.60) per cup

Here, every sip of egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter comes with a view into Hanoi’s everyday life framed by the calm waters of Hoan Kiem Lake.

3. Loading T Café - Cozy and Artistic

Nestled inside a century-old French villa, Loading T Café offers a cozy escape from the busy streets of Hanoi Old Quarter. With its rustic brick walls, vintage wooden furniture, and artistic touches, this café feels more like a creative hideout than a typical coffee shop. It’s the kind of place where you can linger for hours, soaking in the atmosphere as much as the drink.

Loading T Café - Cozy and Artistic

Their version of egg coffee in Hanoi is slightly sweeter and lighter than at Giang or Đinh, making it a great choice for those who prefer a smoother taste. Many travelers also love pairing their egg coffee with a quiet corner by the window, letting the soft light and calm vibe enhance the flavor.

• Address: 8 Chan Cam Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
• Price range: 35,000 - 50,000 VND (≈ $1.40 - $2.00) per cup

At Loading T, egg coffee is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and enjoy Hanoi at your own pace.

4. Café Phố Cổ - A Hidden Rooftop Gem

Finding Café Phố Cổ is an adventure in itself you’ll walk through a silk shop, climb a narrow staircase, and suddenly step into a hidden rooftop café overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake. This secret entrance is part of the charm, making the café feel like a true Old Quarter treasure.

Café Phố Cổ - A Hidden Rooftop Gem

Here, the egg coffee in Hanoi is rich and full-bodied, topped with a thick, creamy foam that pairs perfectly with the breezy rooftop view. Many visitors say it’s their favorite spot because the atmosphere is a blend of Hanoi’s bustling energy below and a peaceful escape above.

• Address: 11 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM daily
• Price range: 40,000 - 55,000 VND (≈ $1.60 - $2.20) per cup

Enjoying egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter here feels like uncovering a secret that rewards you with both unforgettable flavors and the best rooftop view in the city.

5. The Note Coffee - Colorful and quirky

If you’re looking for something playful and heartwarming, The Note Coffee is the place to be. Just steps away from Hoan Kiem Lake, this café is instantly recognizable thanks to its walls, tables, and even ceilings covered in thousands of colorful sticky notes. Each note carries a message left behind by travelers from all around the world, creating a cozy sense of community.

The Note Coffee - Colorful and quirky

Their egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter has a creamy, dessert-like flavor, rich enough to satisfy coffee lovers yet sweet enough for those new to the drink. The friendly baristas often strike up conversations, making it a welcoming spot whether you come alone or with friends.

• Address: 64 Luong Van Can Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 10:30 PM daily
• Price range: 40,000 - 55,000 VND (≈ $1.60 - $2.20) per cup

At The Note Coffee, every sip of egg coffee comes with a smile and perhaps a little handwritten memory to leave behind.

Read more: 8 Best Hanoi Restaurants in 2025 for Authentic Vietnamese Dining

How to drink Egg Coffee in Hanoi like a local

Drinking egg coffee in Hanoi Old Quarter is more than tasting a local specialty, it’s about embracing the rhythm of the city. From the way you stir the cup to where you sit and how you soak in the atmosphere, every detail shapes the experience. Here’s how to enjoy this iconic drink just like a Hanoian.

How to drink Egg Coffee in Hanoi like a local

Stir or Savor the Layers?

One of the most common questions first-time visitors ask is whether to stir egg coffee or not. Locals will tell you there’s no single “right way.” Some gently fold the creamy egg foam into the coffee, creating a silky, custard-like blend. 

Others prefer to scoop the froth first, enjoying its sweetness before letting the robust coffee underneath shine through. Whichever you choose, the key is to enjoy the contrast of flavors that make egg coffee in Hanoi so unique.

Slow Down and Soak in the Atmosphere

In the Hanoi Old Quarter, coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s a way of life. Hanoians don’t rush through their cup; they linger. To drink egg coffee like a local, settle into a tiny café, watch the swirl of motorbikes and street vendors outside, and let time slow down. Every sip tastes better when paired with the rhythm of the city.

Pair It with Local Snacks

Many cafés serve egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter with small side snacks, such as sunflower seeds or crunchy biscuits. While simple, these pairings balance the richness of the egg foam and enhance the experience. Don’t skip them, they’re part of the ritual that locals have enjoyed for decades.

Try More Than Just the Classic

The hot version is the traditional choice, but locals know egg coffee has evolved. On warmer days, try an iced version for a refreshing twist. Some cafés even offer egg cocoa or egg matcha, playful variations that still honor the original idea. It’s a fun way to explore beyond the classic without losing the authentic taste of egg coffee in Hanoi.

Blend in with the Locals

Part of the charm of egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter is the sense of community. Choose a low stool, sit shoulder to shoulder with locals, and don’t be afraid to strike up a friendly chat. The drink is best enjoyed not in isolation but as a shared moment, a small slice of everyday Hanoi life that you’ll remember long after the last sip.

Travel tips for Egg Coffee lovers in Hanoi Old Quarter

Hunting for the best egg coffee Hanoi Old Quarter can be as exciting as tasting it. To make the most of your coffee adventure, keep these practical tips in mind:

Travel tips for Egg Coffee lovers in Hanoi Old Quarter

• Visit at the Right Time: Morning is when locals sip their coffee before the day begins, while evenings offer a more relaxed, social vibe. Avoid peak tourist hours (10 AM - 2 PM) if you want a quieter seat in popular cafés like Giang or Đinh.
• Bring Cash, Not Just Cards: Most traditional cafés in Hanoi’s Old Quarter are family-run and only accept cash. Keep small bills (50,000 - 100,000 VND) handy to make payments quick and easy.
• Dress Light for Rooftop Spots: If you plan to visit rooftop gems like Café Phố Cổ, remember the climb involves narrow staircases. Comfortable shoes and light clothing make the journey much more enjoyable.
• Explore Beyond the Famous Names: While iconic cafés are must-tries, don’t hesitate to wander into lesser-known spots tucked in side alleys. Sometimes, you’ll stumble upon a hidden café where the egg coffee tastes just as good and without the crowds.

Read more: Hanoi weather by month: Everything you need to know before visiting

Where to stay near Hanoi Old Quarter for the perfect Egg Coffee experience

To fully enjoy egg coffee in Hanoi Old Quarter, starting your day from the right place makes all the difference. La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar offers the perfect combination of convenience, comfort, and luxury to make your Hanoi experience truly memorable.

Located at 62 Châu Long Street, just a short 10-minute walk from the bustling Old Quarter, the hotel allows you to reach iconic cafés like Giang, Đinh, or Café Phố Cổ within minutes. Its elegant rooms and suites, blending modern amenities with subtle Vietnamese cultural touches, provide a tranquil retreat after exploring the lively streets.

Where to stay near Hanoi Old Quarter for the perfect Egg Coffee experience

Guests can also enjoy some types of coffee without leaving the hotel at The Gourmet Corner Restaurant, or unwind with panoramic views of the city and Hồ Tây from Nón Skybar and the Infinity Pool. With this combination of location, service, and atmosphere, staying at La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar sets the stage for a seamless and unforgettable egg coffee adventure in Hanoi.

Hanoi Old Quarter comes alive with its vibrant streets, hidden cafés, and the unmistakable aroma of egg coffee. Each cup is a small adventure from the creamy, velvety topping to the bold Vietnamese coffee beneath, capturing the city’s unique flavor and charm.

Choosing to stay at La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar enhances this journey. With its prime location near the Old Quarter, elegant rooms, and thoughtful amenities, you can easily explore iconic coffee spots, relax in comfort, and immerse yourself in the heartbeat of Hanoi.

Book your stay at La Mejor Hotel & Sky Bar and let every cup of egg coffee become a memorable part of your trip!