Vietnam Beer Guide: Unveiling the Ultimate Top 10 Picks for Beer Enthusiasts

Welcome to our comprehensive Vietnam Beer Guide, where we dive deep into the dynamic world of Vietnamese local beers. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply curious about what beer to drink in Vietnam, you’re in for a treat. Join us as we explore the best beer in Vietnam, from beloved Vietnamese beer brands to hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the rich beer culture of this captivating country.

1. Huda Beer: Best Beer In Vietnam To Buy and Drink

Huda Beer, brewed by Hue Brewery in Vietnam, is a popular choice among beer enthusiasts, particularly in the central region of the country. Known for its crisp and refreshing taste, Huda Beer is enjoyed for its smoothness and balanced flavor profile. It’s a go-to option for locals and visitors alike, offering a satisfying drinking experience with its light body and subtle malt sweetness. I’m ranking this the best beer in Vietnam among commercial production. Huda Beer comes in various styles to cater to different preferences:

• Huda Gold: This premium variant offers a slightly richer taste with a touch of maltiness, perfect for those who prefer a bit more depth in their beer. Whether you’re relaxing with friends at a local pub or enjoying a meal at a restaurant, Huda Beer promises to elevate your drinking experience with its quality and flavor.

• Origin: Brewed and bottled in Huế, a city in Central Vietnam.
• Style: Light Lager
• Popularity: A favorite choice in Central Vietnam, particularly amongst locals. While not reaching the national sales heights of Saigon Beer or Hanoi Beer, it holds a strong regional presence.
• Taste: Huda Beer is known for its light and refreshing character. Compared to 333 Export, it has a touch more malt character, which some describe as a biscuity or bready flavor. This adds a bit more depth to the taste. Additionally,Huda has a hint of sweetness that some perceive as mildly honey-like. This sweetness balances the bitterness from the hops, making it an easy-drinking experience.
• Aroma: A light and grainy aroma with a touch of sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Huda Beer pairs well with lighter Vietnamese dishes like fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), and noodle soups (phở). It’s also a refreshing companion to spicy meals.
• Alcohol Content: 4.7% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), making it a moderate beer in terms of strength.
• Average Price in Mini Mart: 13.5K ($0.53) 330ml can.
  

2. Red Ruby Beer: A New Golden Gem from Vietnam

Red Ruby Beer might not be as widely known as some of the other Vietnamese beers on this list, but it deserves a mention Launched in 2020, it’s a newcomer compared to some of the established Vietnamese beers, yet it’s quickly gaining popularity for its refreshing taste and distinctive qualities. Widely available and competitively priced, it’s often favored over some of the more established names. With its crisp taste and affordability, Red Ruby Beer has become a favorite among beer enthusiasts looking for a satisfying and budget-friendly option.

• Origin: Red Ruby Beer is brewed by Masan Consumer Corporation, a major Vietnamese food and beverage company.
• Style: Golden Lager
• Popularity: While not topping national sales charts, Red Ruby enjoys a steady following in Vietnam, particularly in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang.
• Taste: Despite its name, Red Ruby Beer boasts a brilliant golden color. Don’t let the name mislead you! The taste profile is clean and crisp, characterized by a gentle bitterness from hops and a subtle sweetness from malt. Some describe it as having a hint of fruitiness as well. This balance makes it a refreshing and easy-drinking beer, perfect for hot Vietnamese days.
• Aroma: Light and malty with a hint of floral notes.
• Food Pairing: Red Ruby Beer’s refreshing taste makes it a versatile pairing option. It complements a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including spring rolls, grilled seafood, and stir-fries. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a thirst quencher.
• Alcohol Content: Around 4.7% ABV (Alcohol by Volume).
• Average Price In Mini Mart: 11k ($0.43) 330ml Can.
  

3. Bia Ha Noi Red Label: A Classic Taste of Vietnam’s Capital

Hanoi Beer, a beloved pilsner-style brew, holds a special place in the hearts of Northern Vietnam, particularly in the bustling streets of Hanoi. Its popularity stems from its distinct flavor profile, which sets it apart from its counterparts like Saigon Lager. Renowned for its easy-drinking nature, Hanoi Beer offers a slightly smoother taste with a more subtle hint of hoppiness, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Despite its subtlety, Hanoi Beer remains incredibly refreshing, serving as the perfect companion for hot, humid days or lively gatherings with friends. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with local delicacies, Hanoi Beer beautifully encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Hanoi and the rich brewing heritage of Vietnam.

• Origin: Brewed by various breweries in Hanoi, Vietnam. Unlike draft Bia Ha Noi, the red can version is pasteurized and bottled, allowing for wider distribution and a longer shelf life.
• Style: Pilsner
• Taste: Compared to the draft Bia Ha Noi, the red can version generally has a slightly more pronounced taste profile. You’ll still experience the characteristic light and crisp character, but with a touch more malt character that some describe as bready or biscuity. This adds a bit more depth to the flavor. Additionally, the yeasty notes might be less prominent due to the pasteurization process.
• Aroma: A light and grainy aroma with a hint of malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Bia Ha Noi (red can) pairs well with a variety of Vietnamese dishes due to its refreshing and balanced taste. It complements lighter fare like fresh spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), and noodle soups (phở).
• Alcohol Content: Around 4.6% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), making it a moderate beer in terms of strength.
• Average Price in Minimart: 14K ($0.55) 330ml can.

4. 333 Premium Export Beer: A Taste of Vietnam’s Brewing Excellence

333 Export is a crowd-pleaser among beer enthusiasts in Vietnam, cherished for its affordability and widespread availability across the country. This pale lager delights the palate with its clean, crisp taste, complemented by a very subtle malt character and a low bitterness level. Its easy-drinking nature makes it a perfect choice for those seeking a lighter beer option, whether they’re enjoying a casual evening with friends or cooling off on a hot day. With its refreshing qualities and accessibility, 333 Export has become a go-to beer for many, embodying the essence of Vietnam’s vibrant beer culture.

• Origin: Brewed by Sabeco Brewery, one of Vietnam’s largest brewers.
• Style: Pale Lager
• Popularity: A perennial favorite in Vietnam, especially for its affordability and widespread availability.
• Taste: Known for its clean, crisp taste with a very subtle malt character and a low bitterness level. Some describe it as having a slightly sweet finish. This easy-drinking profile makes it perfect for hot days and casual settings.
• Aroma: Light and grainy with a hint of malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: 333 Export’s versatility makes it a great companion to a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including spring rolls, grilled meats, and noodle soups. It also works well with spicy food.
• Alcohol Content: Around 5.3% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), making it a moderate beer in terms of strength.
• Average Price in Minimart: Highest Priced at 15k ($0.65) for a 330ml can.
  

5. Bia Saigon Green: A Refreshing Taste of Saigon’s Heritage

Saigon Beer, also known as Bia Saigon, holds a prestigious status in Vietnam, particularly in the Southern regions. Brewed by Heineken Vietnam, this lager offers a smooth and easy-drinking taste with a delightful balance of mild bitterness and a hint of malt sweetness. Saigon Beer is available in three main varieties, each catering to different preferences:

• Origin: Brewed by Heineken Vietnam, a subsidiary of the Dutch brewing giant Heineken.
• Style: Lager
• Popularity: The green label Saigon Lager is the most popular variant of Bia Saigon, especially in Southern Vietnam.It’s a familiar sight in restaurants, bars, and convenience stores.
• Taste: Known for its smooth, easy-drinking taste with a mild bitterness and a hint of malt sweetness. Some describe it as having a slightly grainy character. This balanced profile makes it perfect for hot days and casual settings.
• Aroma: Light and grainy with a touch of malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Bia Saigon Green Label’s versatility makes it a great companion to a variety of Vietnamese dishes,including spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), and noodle soups (phở).
• Alcohol Content: Around 4.7% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), making it a lighter beer in terms of strength.
• Average Price in Minimart: 14K ($0.55) 330ml can.

Klook.com

6. Lac Viet Beer: A Celebration of Vietnamese Heritage in a Can

Now this beer is a newcomer but I was only able to find it at one location. Was lower priced but tasted good. If I can readily find at more outlets, this would move up the list. Lac Viet Beer is a product steeped in Vietnamese history and brewed with a focus on showcasing local flavors. Here’s a closer look at this unique beer:

• Origin: Produced by Sabeco Brewery, one of Vietnam’s largest brewers. Launched in 2015, Lac Viet is a relatively new addition to the Vietnamese beer scene.
• Style: Lager
• Popularity: While not topping national sales charts, Lac Viet enjoys a steady following in Vietnam, particularly amongst those who appreciate its focus on Vietnamese ingredients and heritage.
• Taste: Described as a “Thuần Việt” (purely Vietnamese) beer, Lac Viet offers a slightly more bitter taste compared to other popular Vietnamese lagers. Some describe it as having a more pronounced hoppy character, making it a great choice for those who prefer a bit more complexity in their beer. Despite the bitterness, it remains refreshing and easy-drinking.
• Aroma: Light and malty with a hint of floral notes.
• Food Pairing: Lac Viet Beer’s balanced profile makes it a versatile pairing option. It complements a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), stir-fries, and noodle soups (phở). Its hoppy character might also cut through the richness of some Vietnamese dishes.
• Alcohol Content: Around 4.3% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), making it a moderate beer in terms of strength.
• Average Price in Minimart: Paid around 12k-13k.

7. Tiger Beer: A Familiar Asian Favorite in Vietnam

Tiger Beer, originating from Singapore, maintains its global reputation while being brewed under license in Vietnam by Heineken Vietnam. This local production ensures consistent quality while supporting the Vietnamese economy. Widely available across the country, Tiger Beer offers a range of options to suit different tastes, from classic lagers to more adventurous variants. Whether enjoyed in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or the serene landscapes of rural Vietnam, Tiger Beer promises a satisfying drinking experience that bridges global heritage with local flavor. This is a solid beer but since it’s a mass produced and more expensive, I’ve ranked it lower.

• Origin: Singapore (originally brewed in 1932)
• Production in Vietnam: Licensed and brewed by Heineken Vietnam.
• Style: Pale Lager
• Popularity: A popular choice throughout Vietnam, especially amongst those familiar with Asian lagers. Its widespread availability makes it a convenient option.
• Taste: Known for its smooth, easy-drinking taste with a slightly sweet and malty flavor. Some describe it as having a touch of bitterness and a crisp finish. This balanced profile makes it perfect for hot days and casual settings.
• Aroma: Light and grainy with a hint of malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Tiger Beer’s versatility makes it a great companion to a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including spring rolls, grilled meats, and noodle soups. It also works well with spicy food.
• Alcohol Content: Around 5% ABV (Alcohol by Volume).
• Average Price in Minimart: Expect to pay around ₫15k-18k (US$0.52-US$0.78) for a 330ml.

8. Truc Bach Beer: A Smooth Hanoi Delight

Truc Bach Beer, named after the picturesque Truc Bach Lake in Hanoi, is a premium lager hailing from Hanoi Beer Company (HABECO), a Vietnamese brewing powerhouse. While the exact launch year isn’t publicly available, Truc Bach has established itself as a favorite choice for its smooth taste and local connection. This is another beer I only seen at one location, so it needs better availability to move up on rankings.

• Origin: Hanoi, Vietnam (produced by HABECO)
• Style: Lager
• Popularity: A favorite in Hanoi and throughout Vietnam, Truc Bach offers a premium lager experience at an accessible price point.
• Taste: Known for its smooth, easy-drinking character. The flavor profile leans towards a slight sweetness and maltiness, with a hint of bitterness for a crisp finish. This balanced taste makes it perfect for enjoying on a hot day or in casual settings.
• Aroma: Light and grainy with a touch of malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Truc Bach Beer’s versatility makes it a great companion to Vietnamese cuisine. Pair it with spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), noodle soups (phở), or spicy dishes to experience its ability to complement various flavors.
• Alcohol Content: 5.1% ABV (Alcohol by Volume),
• Average Price in Minimart: Expect to pay around ₫15,000
  

9. Bia Hoi (Green Label): Exploring Vietnam’s Quintessential Beer

Ha Noi Green Label Beer, named after the vibrant city it calls home, is a premium lager crafted by the Hanoi Beer Company (HABECO), a leading player in Vietnam’s brewing industry. However, while widely enjoyed by many, it’s worth noting that personal preferences vary, and some individuals, like myself, may find the “Green Label” taste of Ha Noi Beer not to their liking, experiencing an unfavorable taste that detracts from the overall drinking experience.

• Origin: Hanoi, Vietnam (brewed by HABECO)
• Style: Lager
• Popularity: A beloved choice in Hanoi and across Vietnam, Ha Noi Green Label offers a premium lager experience at an affordable price point.
• Taste: Renowned for its smooth and refreshing character. Its flavor profile features a subtle sweetness and maltiness, balanced with a hint of bitterness for a crisp and satisfying finish. This well-rounded taste makes it ideal for enjoying on warm days or during laid-back gatherings.
• Aroma: Light and inviting, with hints of grains and malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Ha Noi Green Label Beer’s versatility pairs well with a variety of Vietnamese dishes. Whether it’s spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), noodle soups (phở), or spicy dishes, its ability to complement diverse flavors enhances the dining experience.
• Alcohol Content: Around 4.3% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), offering a moderate level of strength.
• Average Price at Minimarts: 14K ($0.55) 330ml can.

10. Larue Beer: A Taste of French Tradition in Vietnam

Larue Beer is a well-known Vietnamese beer brand that has been a favorite among locals for decades. Brewed with high-quality ingredients and a commitment to traditional brewing methods, With its distinct flavor profile and bitter finish, Larue Beer is not to my liking. Personally, I find the taste unpleasant and would not choose to drink it again. Taste preferences vary from person to person, and while some may enjoy the bold flavors of Larue Beer, it doesn’t align with my palate.

• Origin: First brewed in 1909 by a French master brewer named Victor Larue in Da Nang, Vietnam. Today, it’s produced by Heineken Vietnam.
• Style: Pilsner
• Popularity: A well-established brand, particularly in Central Vietnam. Larue offers a taste of Vietnamese brewing history with a focus on quality ingredients.
• Taste: Known for its clean, crisp taste with a balance of malt character and a touch of bitterness. Some describe it as having a slightly sweet finish. This easy-drinking profile makes it perfect for hot days and casual settings.
• Aroma: Light and grainy with a hint of malt sweetness.
• Food Pairing: Larue Beer’s versatility makes it a great companion to Vietnamese cuisine. Pair it with spring rolls (gỏi cuốn), grilled meats (especially chicken and pork), noodle soups (phở), or spicy dishes to experience its ability to complement various flavors.
• Alcohol Content: Around 4.2% ABV (Alcohol by Volume) for the original Larue Biere and 4.5% ABV for Larue Smooth, making them moderate beers in terms of strength.
• Average Price in Minimart:
  14K ($0.55) 330ml can.

Craft Beer Boom: Exploring Vietnam’s Hoppy Horizons

Vietnam’s beer scene is no longer just about ubiquitous lagers. In recent years, a craft beer revolution has been quietly bubbling away, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional options. While the microbrews offer a better tasting and quality product, that comes at a cost. Look to spend about 60k ($2.36) per 330ml can at minimart. If you’re a beer enthusiast visiting Vietnam, or a local looking to expand your palate, here’s a glimpse into the exciting world of Vietnamese craft beer:

Pioneering the Path:

• Pasteur Street Brewing Company: Arguably the godfather of Vietnamese craft beer, Pasteur Street has been at the forefront of the movement since 2012. With over 200 unique brews on rotation and several taprooms, they offer something for everyone, from fruity IPAs to rich stouts and even a durian beer for the adventurous!
• Heart of Darkness Craft Brewery: This award-winning brewery is known for its bold and flavorful beers, including their popular Black Saigon Lager and seasonal offerings like a strong Ginger Beer.
• East West Brewing Co.: A Saigon pioneer established in 2013, East West Brewing Co.played a pivotal role in changing the city’s beer landscape. They offer a welcoming atmosphere, delicious food options, and a diverse tap selection featuring over 20 beers, including Vietnamese-inspired brews like Coffee Vanilla Porter. (Consider adding a note about their location and opening hours here for readers who want to check it out).

Beyond the Big Cities:

The craft beer movement isn’t limited to metropolises. Here are some other spots to discover:

• 7 Bridges Brewery (Danang): Enjoy a craft beer with a view at this riverside brewery in Danang. Their selection includes award-winning IPAs and a focus on sustainable practices.
• Fuzzy Logic Brewing (Hoi An): Sample a diverse range of craft beers, from classic pale ales to unique passionfruit wheat beers, at this Hoi An brewery.
• King Rooster Brewery (Hanoi): Hanoi has its own craft beer haven! King Rooster boasts a welcoming atmosphere and a selection of house-brewed beers, including a popular Hanoi Pale Ale.

Conclusion of What Beer To Drink in Vietnam

In conclusion, our exploration of the beer landscape in Vietnam has been nothing short of enlightening. From uncovering the best beer in Vietnam to delving into the rich tapestry of Vietnamese beer brands, we’ve embarked on a journey that has tantalized the taste buds and expanded our horizons. As we raise our glasses to toast the diverse array of flavors and experiences that beer in Vietnam has to offer, it’s clear that the question of what beer to drink in Vietnam is one that invites endless discovery and enjoyment. Cheers to the vibrant beer culture of Vietnam, and may your future adventures be filled with delicious brews and unforgettable memories. View my full Vietnam Travel Guide here.