Tran Quang
Vietnam is known for its diverse and unique drinking culture, and one of the most popular drinking experiences in Hanoi is Bia Hoi. Bia Hoi is a light, refreshing beer that is brewed daily and served fresh from the keg. This unique drinking culture has become a staple of Hanoi’s social scene, and visitors to the city should not miss the opportunity to try it out for themselves.
>>> Read more: World’s cheapest draft? Where to try bia hoi, Hanoi’s 25 cent beer from CNN travel
The History of Bia Hoi
Bia Hoi has a long history in Vietnam, dating back to the French colonial period. The French introduced the concept of brewing beer in Vietnam, and Bia Hoi was born out of this influence. However, the beer was not widely available until the 1950s, when the Vietnamese government began to nationalize the brewing industry. Bia Hoi became a popular drink among locals due to its light and refreshing taste, and its affordability.
What is the alcohol content of Bia hoi?
The alcohol content of Bia hoi is typically quite low, around 3% to 4%. This is because the beer is brewed daily and served fresh from the keg without any preservatives. It’s a light and refreshing drink that is perfect for hot days and social gatherings.
→ Read more: Hanoi French Quarter – 21 Best Things to Do
Drinking Bia Hoi in Hanoi
Drinking Bia Hoi in Hanoi is a unique experience that is not to be missed. The beer is typically served in small, plastic cups, and is consumed on the street or in small, local bars. Bia Hoi is a social drink, and it is common to see groups of friends gathered together, laughing and chatting over a few glasses of beer. The atmosphere is lively and fun, and visitors to Hanoi are encouraged to join in and experience the local drinking culture for themselves.
📌 Just remember to bring some cash, as many of these establishments don’t accept credit cards. And be sure to raise your glass and say “Mot, Hai, Ba, Yo!” (One, two, three, cheers!) before taking your first sip.
Where can I find Bia Hoi in Hanoi’s Old Quarter?
There are many places to try Bia Hoi in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, including street stalls and small bars. Some popular spots include “Bia Hoi Junction” at the corner of Ta Hien and Luong Ngoc Quyen streets, as well as “Bia Hoi Corner” at the corner of Luong Ngoc Quyen and Hang Buom Streets.
One of my favorite bia hoi shops is located in the Cho Gioi area. The beer itself is not particularly special, but the owner is a Vietnamese veteran who fought in the border war of 1979. Upon returning home, he opened a beer shop to welcome his old veteran friends. He kept the beer prices low, at just 8,000 VND per glass, so that all of his friends could afford to enjoy it every day.
If you walk by in the morning, you will see a group of old men sitting and drinking one or two glasses of local bia hoi. They laugh, talk, and share stories with each other.
How much does Bia Hoi cost?
Bia Hoi is known for being an affordable drink, and it typically costs around 5,000 to 10,000 VND (less than 50 cents) per glass.
What is the best time to drink Bia Hoi?
Bia Hoi is best enjoyed fresh, so it’s recommended to drink it in the afternoon or early evening when it’s just been brewed.
Can I drink Bia Hoi if I’m a vegetarian?
Bia Hoi is typically made from malt, hops, yeast, and water, so it’s suitable for vegetarians. However, some vendors might add other ingredients to enhance the flavor, so it’s best to ask before ordering.
>>> Check out the top vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Hanoi
Is Bia Hoi safe to drink?
Bia Hoi is generally safe to drink, but it’s important to choose a reputable vendor and ensure that the beer is fresh to avoid any health risks.
Conclusion
Bia Hoi is a unique drinking culture that is deeply ingrained in the social fabric of Hanoi. It is a must-try experience for anyone visiting the city, and it offers a glimpse into the vibrant and lively culture of Vietnam. So, the next time you find yourself in Hanoi, be sure to grab a few glasses of Bia Hoi and join in the fun!
→ Read more: Top 7 BEST coffee shops in Hanoi
