Are you a beer lover looking for an adventure? Look no further than Vietnam, a country where ever drunk beer is a way of life. From bustling bia hoi bars to local breweries, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy a cold brew while experiencing the vibrant culture of Vietnam. In this guide, we will take you through the ins and outs of drinking beer in Vietnam, from the most popular brands to the cheapest places to enjoy a pint.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction to Beers in Vietnam
Beer is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in Vietnam, and it has a rich history in the country. Introduced by the French in the late 1800s, beer quickly became a popular drink among the Vietnamese people. Today, there are many different types of beer available in Vietnam, from light lagers to dark stouts.
One of the best places to experience the local beer culture is in a bia hoi bar. These bars serve fresh beer that is brewed daily and delivered to the bar in barrels. They are a great place to relax and enjoy a beer while watching the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Vietnam. Especially during summer, lots of Vietnamese men like sitting in Beer bars with their friends after a long working day. Every traveler can easily find these bars to experience what the locals are enjoying.
2. Have You Ever Drunk Beer in Vietnam?
If you’re looking for local beer brands to try in Vietnam, there are plenty to choose from. Some of the most popular brands among the Vietnamese include Bia Saigon Special, Hanoi, Tiger, and 333. Bia Saigon is also available as a little stronger export version. Bière Larue is another good option, and tourists can find local brands in every larger city.
There are several famous places for beer, besides those around the Old Quarter, Lan Chin, and Hai Xom Restaurant chain in Hanoi or Pham Ngu Lao area in HCM City. It might be fun to join in with the locals but beware that waiters at these restaurants do not know English to communicate with foreigners. However, they will know if you want a beer.
3. How Much is the Beer?
One of the best things about drinking beer in Vietnam is how cheap it is. In bia hoi bars, the beer is from a small local brewery and varies in quality by the batch. At VND 5,000 (roughly 35 cents) a pint, it is really cheap (cheaper than water). When you order a beer, it will usually come with a plate of snacks, such as peanuts or fried tofu, which are perfect for pairing with your drink.
If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, you can find craft beer breweries in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. These breweries offer a wider range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and Belgian-style ales. The prices here are generally higher than in bia hoi bars, but still very reasonable compared to other countries.
Conclusion
Drinking beer in Vietnam is a unique experience that every beer lover should try. From the lively bia hoi bars to the local breweries, there is no shortage of options for enjoying a cold brew in this vibrant country. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for something more upscale, Vietnam has something for everyone when it comes to beer.
So what are you waiting for? Grab a pint and start exploring the world of Vietnamese beer today!