The most popular beer in Vietnam is known as Bia Hoi. This traditional draft beer is unique to Vietnam and is not sold like any other beer in the world.
Bia Hoi, meaning “fresh beer,” is made by many of the approximately 300 breweries, both large and small, around the country. Bia Hoi is like a microbrew with no preservatives added, and it is generally consumed on the day it is made. Bia Hoi can be found all over the country in bars, cafes, and even with street vendors. It is collected from the brewery in 100-liter barrels and then either used in large bars or sold to smaller establishments in smaller plastic containers. Customers can expect to pay around 25 US cents per glass, often served with ice. It is estimated that 300,000 to 400,000 liters of Bia Hoi are sold in Hanoi each day.
Canned beer is starting to increase in popularity despite its higher price tag. Most major Asian-brewed labels are available, with two of the most popular local brews being 333 and Hue Beer.
333
A bitter-tasting rice-flavored beer made by the Saigon Beer Company, which also produces Saigon Lager and Saigon Export. 333 dates back to 1893 when it was developed in France. It was originally named 33 and was changed to 333 in 1975.
Hue Beer
A 5.0% pilsner made by the Hue Brewery, which is owned by Carlsberg. It has a golden color with a fast-disappearing head. The aroma has hints of rice, and it has a dry, watery taste. The Hue Brewery also makes Huda and Festival beer for the Vietnamese market.
Saigon Lager
Also made by the Saigon Beer Company, this 4.7% beer has the distinctive Asian rice flavor. It pours a clear gold color with a thin, soapy white head.
