The 5 Summer Coolers of Ho Chi Minh City

Coconut Juice

Coconut juice is a refreshing beverage that is especially popular during the hot weather in Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can enjoy coconut juice at cafes or from street vendors. At a cafe, a whole coconut typically costs around $3. One advantage of enjoying coconut juice in these settings is the cool, air-conditioned atmosphere, making for a relaxing experience while you sip the sweet, refreshing drink. Additionally, you can savor the fresh coconut flesh using a spoon.

In contrast, purchasing coconut juice from street vendors is significantly cheaper, often costing under $1 for a whole coconut. However, rather than sitting comfortably, you will likely find yourself standing while you drink, as there are often no seats available. Many people on motorbikes stop at these vendors to grab a coconut and drink the juice on the go, sometimes opting not to eat the coconut flesh. It’s advisable to bargain if the price seems higher than expected.

Coconut juice - Photo: @weightlossguideraktim

Sugar Cane Juice

Sugar cane juice is another beloved drink in Ho Chi Minh City. Shops selling sugar cane juice are often small and equipped with a blending machine, making them easy to spot as you stroll through the streets. Patrons typically sit on small stools and converse with friends while enjoying their drinks.

Known for its refreshing qualities, sugar cane juice can quench your thirst and temporarily curb hunger. It's also very affordable, usually costing no more than 75 cents for a glass. In recent years, variations have emerged, with some vendors mixing fruits like strawberries and oranges into their sugar cane juice, which can raise the price slightly to around $1. In bustling places like Ben Thanh Market, you can easily find vendors selling this delightful drink.

Sugar Cane Juice - Photo: @miaplusjuice

Smoothies

Smoothies have gained popularity as a deliciously refreshing option when you're thirsty. With Vietnam's abundant array of tropical fruits, many of which may be unfamiliar to visitors, smoothies are enjoyed for their health benefits, particularly for skin health.

The use of local fruits rich in vitamins contributes to their nutritious value. Unlike smoothies in other countries that might use yogurt or water, in Vietnam, fruits are often blended with condensed milk, making them taste richer and more indulgent. Depending on the season, certain fruits may only be available during specific months, adding a unique twist to your smoothie experience.

You can find smoothies at cafes and on the streets, with prices typically ranging from $1.50 to $2. For those with specific dietary needs, ordering from a cafe is advised, as street vendors may not have sugar-free options available.

Avocado & Custard Apple Smoothie - Photo: @cookat_vietnam

Iced Coffee

No mention of local drinks in Ho Chi Minh City would be complete without coffee. Vietnamese people often enjoy coffee to kickstart their day, whether at home, cafes, or from street vendors. The variety of coffee shops ranges from simple street vendors to sophisticated cafes.

Street coffee is the most affordable, costing around 30 cents for a cup. Conversely, prices at upscale cafes can range from $3 to $5 per cup. Despite the higher cost, the ambiance, often filled with soft music, makes it a worthwhile experience. Sipping coffee in a serene environment to begin your day can be truly delightful.

Vietnamese coffee is typically stronger than that of many other countries, so if you're not accustomed to robust coffee, it might be best to start with a small amount. On particularly hot days, a ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) can be the perfect refreshment.

Coffee Shop in Saigon - Photo: @cafeintownvn

Nuoc Sam

Herbal tea, known as Nuoc Sam, is a quintessential drink in Ho Chi Minh City. It is prepared by boiling specific herbal plants that help to cool the body and restore balance during hot weather. You can find the ingredients at herbal medicine shops throughout major streets like Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street in District 5.

If you prefer to brew it at home, simply boil the herbs for a few minutes, allow the mixture to cool, and then refrigerate it for later use.

For those with busy schedules, look for vendors on Cach Mang Thang Tam Street, just past the Cong Truong Dan Chu roundabout, where you can purchase Nuoc Sam for less than 30 cents. Many appreciate the refreshing taste, and it's common for customers to return for a second serving. These spots usually have limited seating, so they’re ideal for quick stops or take-away.

Nuoc Sam - Photo: @bo.kho.tron