Vietnamese Beer Culture: Drink Like a Local

Vietnamese beer is more than just a drink. It’s part of daily life, street food nights, and friendly gatherings. When in Vietnam, you might want to try a local beer. Here’s how beer fits into Vietnamese culture and how people enjoy it.

1. Why Beer Is Part of Vietnamese Daily Life

Beer in Vietnam is more than something to drink. People sit on small stools by the street, share a cold beer, and enjoy easy dishes like seafood, grilled meat, or hotpot. It’s a moment to slow down and chat with friends, family, or coworkers.

When you sit with them, you’ll hear loud “yo!” all around, a quick cheer to welcome you in.

The fun isn’t just the beer. It’s the people, the jokes, and the lively street vibe that make it memorable.

2. The Most Popular Types of Beer in Vietnam

Vietnam offers a wide range of beers, each with its own flavor and drinking culture. From light, refreshing street-side bia hơi to creative craft brews served in restaurants and bars, there’s something for every taste. Here are the most popular types of beer you’ll find across the country.

2.1. Bia Hoi (Fresh draft beer)

Bia hơi, or fresh beer, is one of the most popular drinks in Vietnam. It’s a light draft beer served fresh every day, often in simple recycled glasses. You’ll find it on busy street corners, especially in Hanoi. It’s cheap, easy to drink, and best enjoyed while sitting on small chairs, talking and relaxing with friends.

2.2. Regional Beers

Many Vietnamese beer brands are tied to specific regions and have a long local history. In the north, you’ll often see Hanoi Beer; in the central area, Huda is a favorite; and in the south, Saigon Beer is the classic choice.

These beers are light, easy to drink, and usually cost around 15,000–25,000 VND per can. You’ll find them everywhere, from restaurants to street vendors. Trying local beers as you travel is one of the easiest ways to experience each region’s unique flavors and drinking culture.

2.3. Craft Beer 

Vietnam’s craft beer scene has expanded rapidly in recent years, especially in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Breweries often use tropical fruits, local herbs, and bold hops to create unique flavors. Most craft beers follow a Western-style approach and are commonly served in bars and restaurants, offering a creative drinking experience.

3. Tips for Enjoying Beer in Vietnam

3.1. How the Vietnamese enjoy beer 

In Vietnam, people don’t usually say “cheers.” Instead, they shout “một, hai, ba, dô!” which means “one, two, three, cheers!” The louder you shout, the more fun it is.

You’ll hear it when friends get together, when someone new joins the table, or even when strangers meet for the first time. It’s an easy way to join the moment and feel like part of the group.

3.2. Places to drink Vietnamese beer

• Street Vendors

The most common place to drink beer in Vietnam is right on the street. You sit on small plastic stools, order a cold beer, and snack on simple dishes. It’s cheap, lively, and great for watching people pass by.

• Beer Gardens

Larger beer gardens offer more space, with proper tables and chairs, usually outdoors. You can drink with friends in a relaxed setting, sometimes with live music or big screens showing football.

• Local bars and pubs: 

Found in bigger cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. A bit more comfortable and private.

In Vietnam, beer is part of daily life. It’s easy to drink, affordable, and comes with a long local tradition. You can sit on a busy street corner with a glass of bia hơi, or try craft beer in a small bar. Either way, beer brings people together and creates fun, relaxed moments. If you come to Vietnam, trying the local beer is a must.

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