Hue salted coffee: A taste of Hue’s unique coffee culture

Contents

1. Origins of Hue salted coffee

Salted coffee first appeared in Hue more than 10 years ago. It started at a small cafe at 10 Nguyen Luong Bang Street. As word spread, salted coffee became a must-try for both locals and tourists. Due to its growing fame, the cafe later opened a second branch at 142 Dang Thai Than Street, offering a more spacious and photogenic setting.

Hue salted coffee was introduced over a decade ago (Source: Collected)

Today, salted coffee is not only a Hue favorite but has also spread to other parts of Vietnam. However, the original taste of Hue salted coffee remains unmatched.

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2. What makes salted coffee in Hue special?

As its name suggests, Hue salted coffee is made from three main ingredients: coffee, condensed milk, and salt. Many cafes still use the traditional aluminum phin filter, allowing the coffee to drip slowly. This method preserves its rich aroma while offering a nostalgic, unhurried experience.

A cup of Hue salted coffee has three layers: a base of condensed milk, a smooth salted cream layer, and freshly brewed coffee dripping from the phin above. You will need a bit of patience as each drop falls into the creamy salt mixture. Once the brewing is complete, it is stirred well for a full harmony of flavors.

The salt enhances the sweetness of the milk and softens the bitterness of the coffee. This balance makes coffee in Hue a delightful treat, with its flavor lingering long after your first sip.

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3. How to make salted coffee from Hue

If you want to enjoy Hue salted coffee at home, here is a simple salted coffee recipe that you can follow:

• Step 1: Rinse the phin filter with boiling water. This helps stabilize the temperature and allows the coffee to bloom evenly, enhancing its aroma.
• Step 2: Add 30 grams of ground coffee and 6 grams of salt to the filter. You can adjust the salt to your taste. Stir well to blend the ingredients. Gently press the filter lid to ensure an even drip.
• Step 3: Slowly pour boiling water over the coffee. Let it drip naturally into your cup. 
• Step 4: Add sweetened condensed milk to the brewed coffee to balance the flavors. Stir well and enjoy your salted coffee.

The recipe to make salt coffee Hue lies in the balance of flavors (Source: Collected)

Tips for the best flavor:

• While there are no strict rules for choosing coffee, freshly roasted ground coffee works best.
• The key to great Hue salted coffee is balance. It should not be too sweet, salty, or bitter. Each ingredient should complement the others for a smooth yet bold taste.

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4. Where to enjoy salted coffee in Hue

4.1. Ca Phe Muoi

• Locations:
  • 10 Nguyen Luong Bang Street, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue
  • 142 Dang Thai Than Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue

Ca Phe Muoi is where Hue salted coffee was first created. With over a decade of history, this cafe continues to preserve its original recipe. Each cup offers a harmonious blend of bold coffee, creamy sweetness, and a subtle hint of salt.

The cafe itself adds to the experience. Its vintage charm, simple decor, and nostalgic ambiance make it a pleasant spot to enjoy coffee. You can sit in the garden area, where fresh air and lush greenery create a peaceful setting. If you prefer an indoor space, the cozy atmosphere with rustic details provides a quiet retreat. This cafe is a must-visit to enjoy one of Hue’s most unique drinks in its original form.

Ca Phe Muoi delivers the signature flavor of Hue salted coffee (Source: Collected)

4.2. Tan Cafe

• Locations:

• • 14 Pham Hong Thai Street, Vinh Ninh Ward, Hue
  • 25 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Phu Nhuan Ward, Hue
  • 86 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Phu Hau Ward, Hue

If you want to savor Hue salted coffee in a setting filled with vintage charm, Tan Cafe is a great choice. The tiled floors, leather chairs, and brick walls create a warm atmosphere. Stepping into this cafe feels like stepping back in time. It attracts people of all ages, from elderly patrons reminiscing about the past to students looking for a quiet corner.

4.3. PhinHolic

• Locations:
  • 65 Ben Nghe, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue
  • 38 Nguyen Tri Phuong, Phu Hoi Ward, Hue

PhinHolic is another well-known spot for Hue salted coffee. This cafe uses Robusta beans, which are known for their bold flavors. Each cup is brewed with a classic filter, ensuring the balance of brewing time and coffee-to-water ratio for a well-rounded taste. If you want to bring the taste of Hue salted coffee home, the cafe also provides bottled and packaged versions.

PhinHolic serves Hue-style salted coffee brewed with traditional methods (Source: Collected)

4.4. Nhien Coffee

• Location: 188 Phan Chu Trinh, Phuoc Vinh Ward, Hue

To savor the best Hue salted coffee, come to Nhien Coffee. This cafe offers a thoughtfully designed seating area that balances openness with a sense of privacy. The Hue salted coffee here is known for its smooth blend of flavors that are sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a perfect place to enjoy coffee whether you want a peaceful spot to unwind or a welcoming space to catch up with friends.

Hue salted coffee is more than just a drink, it is a reflection of the city’s rich culinary creativity. Whether you try it at a local cafe or make it at home, its rich, creamy, and slightly salty taste will create a memorable experience. Next time you are in Hue, don’t miss the chance to enjoy this one-of-a-kind coffee.

A trip to Hue is also a great opportunity to explore more of Central Vietnam. Just a few hours away, Hoi An offers a charming blend of history, culture, and relaxation. After experiencing Hue’s rich heritage, you can head south to discover the beauty of this ancient town.

For a fun-filled adventure in Hoi An, VinWonders Nam Hoi An is a great stop. This amusement park features thrilling games, cultural shows, and a semi-wildlife conservation area, perfect for families and solo travelers alike.

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