The Drinking Culture of Vietnam

"What makes Vietnam's bar scene so special right now is its embrace of local ingredients, new craft spirits and innovative pairings with contemporary Vietnamese cuisine. Molecular mixology and no-alcohol options are also on the rise."

"Like coffee and bread, the French introduced beer to Vietnam in the late 1800s. Mostly consumed by French soldiers sweating in the Southeast Asian humidity, it has evolved over the decades from a status symbol to a cheap, afternoon go-to. Each city or region has its own beer brand, like Beer Hanoi, Huda and Saigon Special, but now, the country's craft beer scene is buzzing with brands like Heart of Darknes"

Drinking in Vietnam remains a social ritual once centered on gathering around a table with friends, colleagues or family, raising endless glasses of beer or rice wine and sharing dishes. Street-side drinking continues with karaoke and cigarette smoke, often tied to joyous occasions. A modern shift brings cocktail bars that emphasize design, storytelling and inventive pairings using local ingredients, new craft spirits, molecular mixology and no-alcohol options. Gin has grown popular for pairing with Vietnamese herbs and spices. Beer, introduced by the French in the late 1800s, evolved from a status symbol to an everyday, affordable drink while regional and craft brands emerge.

Read at InsideHook