Vietnamese beer stands as a quintessential element, deeply ingrained within the nation’s cultural fabric. Widely available across the country, it enriches the local experience, offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese flavor. On your Vietnam travel journey, make sure to have a taste of the best Vietnamese beer brands, each a testament to the beloved essence of this cherished beverage.
1. Things to know about Vietnamese beer culture
Savoring Vietnamese beer can depict a vivid portrait of a unique and fascinating culture. It delivers unforgettable moments that will tantalize your taste buds and invigorate your senses.
1.1. Vietnamese beer-drinking etiquette
As one of the most beloved Vietnamese drinks, beer is best enjoyed in good company. Locals drinking solo is a rare sight. Vietnamese beer enthusiasts often add ice to their drinks for a refreshing chill. They also enjoy pairing this refreshing beverage with tasty snacks like boiled peanuts, grilled squid, and tangy fermented pork rolls. When you join in with the locals, you will often hear the cheerful “yo,” a sign of friendship. If someone says “100%,” they are expecting you to finish your glass. But don’t worry! You can always drink less if the whole glass feels like too much.
1.2. Places to drink Vietnamese beer
As a light alcoholic beverage with a delicate aroma and refreshing taste, beer is a favored option for social gatherings across Vietnam. Whether you are at street-side stalls in Ta Hien Street in Hanoi, Bui Vien Street in Saigon, or cozy eateries in Nha Trang or Hoi An, there is always an ideal spot to savor a cold one. Moreover, upscale bars, pubs, and restaurants offer an elevated experience for beer enthusiasts.
Discover: 12 facts about life in Vietnam that you need to know
2. How many types of Vietnamese beer are there?
The enchanting world of Vietnamese beer captivates guests with its myriad of varieties, each boasting distinctive flavors that create unforgettable experiences.
2.1. Vietnamese draft beer
Bia hoi, or draft beer, is regarded as the most authentic Vietnamese beer. Its refreshing taste is maintained as no preservatives are added during fermentation and brewing. Commonly served in sidewalk beer joints, a mug of draft beer in Vietnam is famously affordable, ranging from VND 10,000.
2.2. Vietnamese bottled/canned beer
Bottled or canned beer is the most consumed type in Vietnam due to its convenience. It undergoes a longer fermentation process and contains preservatives. There are various brands available, including domestic ones like Saigon Special, 333, and Hanoi Beer, as well as international brands like Heineken and Tiger. Prices for a can of beer start at VND 15,000, while a bottle typically costs VND 20,000 or more.
2.3. Vietnamese craft beer
Vietnamese craft beer is increasingly favored by consumers, particularly in Western-style eateries, where it presents distinctive flavors. Because of the sophistication of the brewing process and ingredients, a pint of craft beer typically costs around VND 100,000.
Don’t miss: Vietnamese street food: 15 good-tasting dishes that can be hardly ignored
3. The best beer brands in Vietnam
Beer is a staple drink for festivities in Vietnam, with beloved brands across regions. Let’s explore some famous beer brands in Vietnam together.
3.1. Vietnamese local brands
3.1.1. Bia Sai Gon (Sabeco)
Bia Sai Gon is a ubiquitous presence across Vietnam, taking the third spot in the nation’s top 5 most-consumed beverages. This beer brand is gaining recognition not only domestically but also globally. With a commitment to product excellence at its core, Bia Sai Gon continuously evolves its brand to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing market landscape.
3.1.2. Bia Ha Noi (Habeco)
With nearly 130 years of development history, Habeco has emerged as one of the most beloved Vietnamese beer brands. Well-loved product ranges like Bia Hoi Ha Noi, Bia Lon Ha Noi, Bia Truc Bach, and Bia Hanoi Premium have garnered consumer trust for their exceptional quality and style, captivating beer enthusiasts worldwide.
3.2. International brands in Vietnam
3.2.1. Heineken
Originating from the Netherlands, Heineken asserts its global dominance, extending beyond Vietnam. As a frontrunner, it constantly enhances not only the beer’s quality but also its aesthetics to meet the high demands of consumers. Heineken brings enthusiasts novel, exhilarating experiences, and limitless creativity, setting a standard few beer brands can match.
3.2.2. Tiger
Tiger Beer, a celebrated Singaporean brand, is beloved globally for its high-quality products at affordable prices. With modern production lines and carefully selected natural ingredients imported from abroad, Tiger Beer delivers a superb golden beverage, offering a uniquely refreshing sensation for consumers.
3.2.3. Larue
Larue is a popular beer brand positioned in the affordable segment but still maintains its presence in Vietnam. The product blends delicately with the traditional French beer’s characteristic taste, first produced in 1909. Larue beer has a deep yellow color and a rich flavor thanks to its high-quality ingredients.
3.2.4. Corona
Unlike many famous Vietnamese beer brands with strong flavors, Corona Beer boasts a light alcohol content of only 4.6%. With just a small sip, you will feel refreshed by its mild taste. As one of the world’s most consumed beers, Corona serves as the ultimate cooling companion for scorching summer days, promising you a refreshing experience like no other.
![Vietnamese beer Corona Vietnamese Beer](https://static.vinwonders.com/production/vietnamese-beer-6.jpg)
Unlike the bold flavors of many Vietnamese beer types, Corona offers a light and refreshing taste (Source: Collected)
3.2.5. Budweiser
Budweiser is a particularly favored beer for its light, refreshing aroma. Crafted from carefully selected ingredients like barley and hops, it is then aged in oak barrels to preserve its sweet, tropical fruit fragrance. Just pop the can open, and you can immediately experience this enticing flavor. Budweiser Budvar beer boasts a modern design, featuring appealing aesthetics with three primary colors: red, yellow, and white.
3.2.6. Sapporo
As a top-tier global beer brand, Sapporo is celebrated for its smooth, velvety taste and ultra-fine foam. Sapporo stands as one of Japan’s oldest and most renowned, boasting a rich history. For those who appreciate bold, invigorating barley flavors, Sapporo beer is unparalleled, earning its place among the top 10 famous Vietnamese beer brands.
3.2.7. Huda
After nearly 30 years in Vietnam, Huda beer has left a lasting impression on consumers as a symbol of consistently superior quality. This reputation is upheld through a blend of European-imported ingredients, modern production technology from Denmark, and brewing expertise from the Carlsberg Group, with nearly 170 years of tradition. This combination results in the delightful flavor and striking color of Huda beer.
3.2.8. Halida
Alongside other renowned Vietnamese beer brands, Halida is greatly cherished for its refreshing aroma and sweet aftertaste. The secret to its distinctive flavor lies in a special yeast strain, Saccharomyces Carlsbergensis, researched and developed at Carlsberg Group’s laboratory in Denmark. Halida beer is the perfect choice for gatherings, offering excellent quality at reasonable prices and contributing to moments of refreshing relaxation.
Explore: Best things to do in Vietnam: 35+ incredible activities for your itinerary
Vietnamese beer holds a special place in social life, cherished for its rich heritage, varied tastes, and accessible prices. It symbolizes unity and festivity, whether enjoyed with a glass of Bia Hoi on a lively street corner or savored as craft beers at chic bars. From casual sidewalk sips to indulgent craft beer ventures, Vietnam’s beer culture caters to all tastes and preferences. If you get the chance to visit Vietnam, sampling its diverse beer scene is a must-do activity to add to your bucket list.
In addition to experiencing the Vietnamese beer culture, you shouldn’t miss out on VinWonders, an entertainment paradise. It seamlessly blends the beauty of nature with unique entertainment activities, offering thrilling experiences from daring adventure games and fantastic performances to exciting water slides. After the exhilarating moments at VinWonders, indulge in a luxurious retreat at Vinpearl‘s high-end hotels and resorts, where you’ll be greeted with attentive service and modern amenities, providing an unforgettable vacation experience.
Book tickets of VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium, VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nam Hoi An, Nha Trang and Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc for your dream vacation in Vietnam!