Mmm, bitter and sweet, Vietnamese coffee is.

Vietnamese coffee beans are predominantly Robusta, known for their strong bitterness and astringency, which is why they are often sweetened with condensed milk.

Knowing the history makes the coffee taste even better… but it’s still bitter and sweet. There must be an even better coffee out there.

Me: “Give me four.”
Store owner: “Two are enough!”

Me: “No, four. Two and two make four.”
Store owner: “Please understand!”

This kind of conversation did not happen in Vietnam.

(I came across the theory that the famous scene from Blade Runner is actually about pho and couldn’t resist trying it.)

A memorable cafe in Vietnam
Hồ Tây (West Lake) in Hanoi is rich in nature and peaceful. There are cafes scattered around where you can take a break while gazing at the lake, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and dates.

The Fountain cafe I visited had a decayed beauty, and the ice coffee had a powdery taste I’ll never forget

MAP

Hanoi beer made by a century-old establishment
It’s typically light but becomes even lighter with ice! Despite the lightness, the well-balanced flavor cannot be hidden. It’s easy to drink, has no peculiarities, and has a pleasant aroma, making it another beer I can gulp down like 333. Highly recommended for Japanese people!

The first sip of delicious beer inexplicably brings a smile to your face.

Me: “It doesn’t look appetizing.”
Mantis shrimp: “Just try it!”

Me: “But the punch scares me.”
Mantis shrimp: “One bite and you’ll understand!”

Me: “(Scared) Nom”
Mantis shrimp: “(One hit KO)”

Me: “It tastes like rich crab! Please accompany my drinks every night!”

Mantis shrimp: “This guy’s easy.”

Finally! I found an incredibly delicious place in Vietnam!
Wonton noodles (Mi Ban Tan) with a rich broth of shrimp and seafood stock. I slurp the noodles while drowning in a flood of umami! After eating, I feel like I’m in heaven. Did I die?
A river to the afterlife for less than 300 yen

Phuong Beo frank noodles

Hanoi’s representative beer, Trúc Bạch
First domestically produced beer in Vietnam, brewed in 1958. It sounds like “chup bai” to me, but in Japan, it’s called “chuck back”? This beer has a beautiful golden glow that you can’t help but admire. I remember it being elegant in flavor, but the details are hazy, as I was too distracted by the dog under my seat.

Grilled pork skewers in Vietnam, cooked over charcoal
Street food is cheap, delicious, and freshly made paradise! Just hearing the term “street food” excites my dangerous body. The sweet sauce tempts you to eat more rice, and the aroma of charcoal-grilled meat makes you weak. The meat is so tender that it makes you wonder if teeth are even necessary, leading to an internal debate.

If the representative dessert of the Philippines is halo-halo, then in Vietnam, it’s che!
Softly sweet coconut milk soaked with fruits and various sweet treats. This gradient of sweetness is worth experiencing. It’s visually pleasing with its colorful appearance. Crushed ice resets your palate, plunging you into an infinite hell of sweetness.

Ho Chi Minh City in the south of Vietnam was wonderful, so next, I’m heading to Hanoi in the north. I love the lively atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City, but I also can’t resist the calm ambiance of Hanoi.

Even when buying a sugarcane juice, the warm communication is delightful. This wonderful country makes me feel like I could live here despite the language barrier.