Café Giảng is one of Hanoi’s most famous and historic coffeehouses, renowned as the birthplace of egg coffee (cà phê trứng), a unique and iconic Vietnamese beverage. Its story is intertwined with Vietnam’s history, culture, and culinary innovation.

Origins

Café Giảng was founded in 1946 by Nguyễn Văn Giảng, who worked as a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel in Hanoi during the French colonial period. Inspired by cappuccinos but constrained by the scarcity of milk during the difficult post-war years, he created a substitute using egg yolks. By whipping egg yolks with sugar and condensed milk, he crafted a creamy, frothy mixture that, when poured over hot Vietnamese coffee, resembled a rich, custard-like drink.

This innovation was not only practical but also became a symbol of Vietnamese creativity and resilience in times of adversity.

The Growth of Café Giảng

The café initially operated in Nguyễn Hữu Huân Street, in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Over time, Café Giảng gained popularity among locals and visitors alike, thanks to its signature egg coffee and a cozy, unpretentious ambiance. Today, the café remains family-run, with descendants of Nguyễn Văn Giảng maintaining the traditions and recipes.

Egg Coffee and Its Legacy

Egg coffee, the hallmark of Café Giảng, can be served either hot or cold:

• Hot egg coffee is served in a small cup placed in a bowl of hot water to keep it warm.
• Cold egg coffee is like a dessert, with a creamy, ice-cream-like texture.

The recipe has expanded over the years to include variations like egg beer, egg cocoa, and even egg green tea, but the classic egg coffee remains the most beloved.

Café Giảng Today

Café Giảng is now a cultural institution in Hanoi. It continues to attract both locals and tourists, preserving its charm and authenticity while contributing to Vietnam’s reputation as a coffee powerhouse. It is one of the must-visit destinations for anyone exploring Hanoi’s vibrant food and drink scene.

The legacy of Café Giảng and its egg coffee has transcended borders, inspiring cafés worldwide to replicate this iconic beverage, though its essence remains tied to its birthplace in Hanoi.