The history of beer in Vietnam
Beer was introduced to Vietnam during the French colonial era in the late 19th century, when the French brought European brewing techniques to their colonies. The establishment of local breweries like Hanoi Beer (Habeco) in the north and Saigon Beer (Sabeco) in the south marked the beginning of Vietnam’s own brewing traditions.
The economic reforms of Đổi Mới in the 1980s fueled the growth of the beer industry, making beer widely available and affordable for the general population. Today, Vietnam is one of the largest beer consumers in Southeast Asia, with a thriving market that blends traditional lagers and modern craft beer innovations.
Vietnamese beer culture
Beer is more than just a beverage in Vietnam; it’s a social glue that brings people together in various settings. Whether it’s over meals at street-side eateries, family gatherings, death anniversaries, weddings, or even business meetings, beer plays a central role in fostering connections.
A quintessential tradition is the enthusiastic toast, “Một, hai, ba, dô!” (1, 2, 3, cheers!), which echoes through restaurants and beer halls across the country. Beer is often paired with local snacks like peanuts, dried squid, or seafood, creating a casual yet deeply cultural experience that reflects Vietnam’s love for both food and community.
How much does beer cost in Vietnam?
Beer in Vietnam caters to every budget, from the most affordable local options to premium imported brands.
Draft beer (Bia Hoi)
The cheapest option, costing just 5,000–10,000 VND per glass, served fresh at street-side stalls and beer halls.
Bottled/Canned local beer
Brands like Hanoi Beer and Saigon Beer are available for 10,000–25,000 VND in supermarkets, convenience stores, and casual restaurants.
Craft beer
Premium craft brews from breweries like Pasteur Street Brewing Co. cost between 80,000–150,000 VND per pint, reflecting their artisanal quality and unique flavors.
Imported beer
- Mainstream international brands like Tiger Beer and Heineken are priced at 20,000–50,000 VND for a bottle or can, depending on the venue.
- Specialty imported beers from Belgium, Germany, or Japan, such as Leffe or Hoegaarden, are more expensive, ranging from 80,000–200,000 VND in bars, beer-focused restaurants, or premium supermarkets like WinMart.
Vietnamese draft beer: Bia Hoi
Bia hoi is an iconic symbol of Vietnam’s beer culture and a must-try experience for any visitor. This light, unpasteurized draft beer is brewed daily and delivered fresh to local beer halls and street-side vendors, making it an incredibly affordable and authentic choice.
How it’s made
Bia hoi is brewed quickly using basic ingredients, resulting in a low-alcohol (around 3%) beer that is crisp, refreshing, and meant to be consumed the same day. Its unpasteurized nature gives it a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with Vietnam’s warm climate and casual dining culture.
Where to enjoy Bia Hoi
- Hanoi’s Old Quarter: Known for its bustling bia hoi corners where locals and tourists gather to enjoy cheap beer and lively conversations.
- Local Street-Side Beer Spots: Found across Vietnam, these informal venues serve bia hoi alongside small snacks like peanuts or dried squid.
Best local beers from Vietnam
Vietnam is home to a wide range of local beers, each with its own unique flavor and regional influence. These brews are a staple in Vietnam’s beer culture, enjoyed in casual street-side settings and fine dining alike.
Hanoi Beer (Habeco)
This Northern classic is a light and crisp lager that’s been a staple in Vietnam since 1890. Widely enjoyed in across northern vietnam, Hanoi Beer pairs perfectly with the laid-back vibe of the city and its simple, flavorful street food.
Saigon Beer (Sabeco)
A Southern favorite, Saigon Beer offers several varieties, including Saigon Red, Saigon Special, and Saigon Export. Known for its refreshing taste and affordability, it’s a popular choice in Ho Chi Minh City and beyond, making it an ideal accompaniment to a warm evening and delicious local snacks.
Huda Beer
Produced in Hue, Huda Beer is a Central Vietnamese gem with a smooth and refreshing profile. Its reputation as the “Pride of Central Vietnam” makes it a must-try when exploring the region, especially when paired with the spicy, flavorful cuisine Hue is famous for.
333 Beer
Commonly referred to as “Ba Ba Ba,” this stronger lager has a bold, malty flavor that stands out among Vietnam’s beer offerings. Its slightly higher alcohol content and rich taste make it a perfect match for grilled dishes and hearty meals.
Biere Larue
A favorite in Central Vietnam, Biere Larue offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood dishes. It’s a popular choice in cities like Da Nang, where enjoying a cold Biere Larue with fresh seafood by the beach is a quintessential experience.
Truc Bach Beer
Crafted in Hanoi, Truc Bach Beer is known for its premium quality and fuller, richer flavor. Often associated with more upscale settings, it’s a great choice for those looking to indulge in a refined beer experience while dining in Hanoi’s top restaurants.
Best craft beers in Vietnam
Vietnam’s craft beer scene has grown rapidly in recent years, offering unique brews that blend international techniques with local flavors. For traveling beer enthusiasts, these breweries provide not only excellent beers but also great venues to explore Vietnam’s evolving beer culture.
Pasteur Street Brewing Co.
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, this pioneer of Vietnam’s craft beer movement is famous for its innovative flavors, such as the Jasmine IPA and Passion Fruit Wheat Ale. With multiple locations across Vietnam, including Hanoi and Da Nang, Pasteur Street Brewing Co. is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. Their flagship taproom in Saigon’s District 1 provides a cozy atmosphere for sampling their diverse range of brews.
Heart of Darkness Brewery
Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Heart of Darkness is known for its bold and creative beer names, such as the Kurtz’s Insane IPA and Dream Alone Pale Ale. The brewery focuses on dark ales but offers a wide variety of styles to suit every palate. Their taproom, located in the vibrant District 1 area, is a great spot to relax with a flight of beers and some tasty bar bites.
East West Brewing Co.
Also in Ho Chi Minh City, East West Brewing Co. blends Eastern and Western brewing techniques to create unique craft beers. Popular choices include the Saigon IPA and the refreshing Summer Hefeweizen. Their spacious taproom in District 1 features an open brewing area and is a perfect venue for those wanting to see the craft beer process up close while enjoying a meal and a pint.
7 Bridges Brewing Co.
Located in Da Nang, 7 Bridges Brewing Co. is a coastal craft beer haven. Known for their IPA Bridge to Heaven and Sunset Weizen, the brewery offers a variety of beers that reflect the laid-back vibe of Vietnam’s central coast. Their rooftop taproom overlooking the Han River is a highlight for travelers seeking good beer and stunning views.
Fuzzy Logic Brewing Co.
Based in Vung Tau, Fuzzy Logic Brewing Co. is one of Vietnam’s smaller craft breweries but punches above its weight with excellent beers like the Tropical Pale Ale and Amber Ale. Their beers are also distributed to craft beer bars in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, making them accessible for travelers exploring Vietnam’s beer scene.
Most popular international beers in Vietnam
International beer brands have carved out a strong presence in Vietnam, with some becoming staples at social gatherings and others seen as premium choices for special occasions.
Tiger Beer
Tiger Beer, originally from Singapore, is one of the most widely consumed international beers in Vietnam. Known for its crisp and easy-drinking taste, it’s a favorite at casual gatherings, street-side eateries, and beer halls. Its affordability and wide availability make it a go-to choice for locals and tourists alike.
Heineken
Seen as a premium beer, Heineken is associated with status and often chosen for formal or celebratory occasions, such as weddings or business dinners. The Dutch brand is heavily marketed in Vietnam, with eye-catching advertisements and sponsorships of major events, reinforcing its image as a sophisticated option.
Other imported beer brands in Vietnam
In addition to popular international beers like Tiger and Heineken, Vietnam also offers a selection of specialty imported beers from countries like Belgium, Germany and Japan.
- Belgian Beers: Brands like Leffe and Hoegaarden are available in specialty beer bars and supermarkets like WinMart. These beers are prized for their rich flavors and are often enjoyed in more premium settings.
- Japanese Beers: Sapporo is a common choice, appreciated for its light and crisp profile. It’s particularly popular in Vietnamese-Japanese restaurants.
- German Beers: Occasionally, brands like Paulaner and Beck’s can be found, catering to those seeking traditional European lagers.
These imported beers are significantly more expensive than local options, with prices ranging from 80,000 to 200,000 VND per bottle, depending on the brand and venue. While they are less commonly consumed, they offer a taste of international brewing for those craving something different.
Best places for drinking beer in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a wide range of settings to enjoy a beer, each with its own unique charm and atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a casual street-side drink or a lively night out, there’s something for every beer lover.
Street-side beer joints
These simple, affordable venues are the heart of Vietnam’s beer culture, perfect for enjoying a refreshing glass of bia hoi. With locals sitting on low plastic stools and chatting over small plates of snacks, these joints offer an authentic, no-frills experience.
Local beer halls
For a more immersive local vibe, beer halls are a great choice. Often bustling with energy, they feature communal seating on steel or plastic stools and a menu of local dishes like grilled meats and fried seafood. These beer halls are where Vietnamese people gather for social occasions or to unwind after work.
Craft Beer Pubs
For a modern twist, craft beer pubs like Pasteur Street Brewing Co. in Ho Chi Minh City or Heart of Darkness in Hanoi are must-visits. These venues offer a wide selection of innovative brews and a more upscale atmosphere, perfect for travelers seeking unique flavors and a vibrant nightlife.
Beer Streets
Lively streets like Ta Hien Street in Hanoi and Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City are hotspots for beer lovers. Packed with bars, street food vendors, and a mix of locals and tourists, these areas are the go-to places for an energetic night out with affordable beer and great people-watching.
Beach Bars
Coastal cities like Nha Trang and Da Nang offer scenic beach bars where you can sip on a cold beer while enjoying stunning views of the ocean. These relaxed settings are ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring or soaking in the sun.
