Exploring The Cost Of Beer In Vietnam

Beer in Vietnam is relatively affordable, with prices varying according to the brand, location, and type of drinking establishment. On average, a bottle or can of beer in Vietnam can range from VND 5,000 to VND 25,000, which is roughly equivalent to USD 0.30 to USD 1.50. In neighbourhood pubs or cafes, a 500ml beer typically costs around VND 58,084. Well-known local brands such as Saigon Green, Saigon Red, Bia Hanoi, and Biere Larue can be purchased within the range of VND 10,000 to VND 25,000. Imported beers, such as Heineken, tend to be more expensive, with prices ranging from VND 15,000 to VND 25,000. The price of beer also depends on the type of venue, with nightclubs, hotel bars, and restaurants charging higher prices compared to local bars and street vendors.

Bia Hoi: the cheapest option, at 4,000VND per litre

Bia Hoi, or 'fresh beer', is a popular draft lager in Vietnam. It is often served in recycled glasses and is available primarily on the street, especially in the capital, Hanoi.

Bia Hoi is exceptionally cheap. A glass of Bia Hoi costs less than 50 US cents (11,500 VND), with some vendors offering it for as little as 20 cents (5,000 VND) or 4,000 VND per litre. It is often served in recycled glasses, delivered in steel kegs on motorbikes.

Bia Hoi is authentically packaged and delivered daily, with a quick turnover meaning few preservatives are needed. It is usually served by street vendors or in restaurants, and the quick turnover means that fresh batches are delivered promptly from the breweries.

The history of Bia Hoi is similar to that of Vietnamese coffee, beef noodle soup, and banh mi pate, all of which were introduced by French colonialists in the late 19th century. The first beer brewery in Hanoi was opened by the French in 1890, and after Vietnam gained independence in 1954, the country took over beer production and tried to make it widely accessible.

Bia Hoi is made from imported barley, with the regular malting process involving multiple steps: steeping, germinating, and kilning. The malt solution is then boiled while hops are added to create the aroma and bitterness of the beer. The beer wort is then cooled to a temperature where fermentation can begin, and yeast is added.

Bia Hoi is safe to drink, and while it is cheap and found mostly on the street, it is a beloved part of Vietnamese drinking culture.

Bia Hanoi: VND 5,000-8,000

Bia Hanoi, or 'fresh beer', is a popular and affordable beer choice in Vietnam, with a long history in the country. With an alcohol content of just 3%, it is a refreshing lager that can be purchased for as little as 5,000 to 8,000 VND (approximately 0.22 to 0.35 USD). This makes it a very affordable option for locals and tourists alike, and it is often consumed as a daily ritual, with people gathering on street corners or in small bars to socialise and drink together.

The history of Bia Hanoi dates back to the French colonial era in the late 19th century when the French first introduced beer to Vietnam. Initially, the drink was too expensive and bitter for the local population, and only the wealthy could afford it. However, after Vietnam gained independence in 1954, the beer-making process was adapted to create an instant draft beer that became known as Bia Hanoi. The beer quickly gained popularity, and the government even curbed the production of homemade rice wine, leaving the local population with "no choice" but to switch to Bia Hanoi.

Bia Hanoi is typically brewed daily and delivered fresh to bars and street vendors in steel kegs or barrels. Due to its quick turnover, there are few preservatives, and the beer is known for its purity and light, airy taste. It is said to have a rice content of up to 50%, which contributes to its golden colour.

The drinking of Bia Hanoi has become a unique cultural tradition in Vietnam, especially in the northern cities and towns. It is often served in recycled glasses on plastic stools, creating a casual and inviting atmosphere. People gather to sip the cold beer, enjoy local foods, and socialise with friends and neighbours. It is a beloved part of Vietnamese culture and a must-try experience for visitors to the country.

Saigon Green/Red Special: VND 14,000/17,000

Saigon Beer is one of the few companies that focuses on developing products for upmarket demand. The retail price of Saigon Beer varies, and you can expect to pay an extra charge in upscale restaurants. The bottled beer product line of SABECO includes four brands:

333 Premium: This is a high-standard product that is popular in Vietnam and some other countries. It is packaged in a 330ml glass bottle with a 5.3% alcohol level.

Saigon Lager (Green Saigon): This beer has a low alcohol content of 4.3%. It has a clear golden body with a thin white head. It has a refreshing citrus smell and a pungent malty taste. It is light-bodied with a sweet, slightly metallic aftertaste. You can find it for 14,000 VND at most reasonably priced restaurants.

Saigon Export (Red Saigon): This is the premium version of Saigon Lager, with a 4.9% alcohol content. It has a light golden body, an averagely carbonated distinct taste, and a hoppy bitter aftertaste. It is considered surprisingly good and refreshing. You can find it for 17,000 VND at most reasonably priced restaurants.

Saigon Special: This product is also called "Short Saigon" due to its short-necked bottle design. It has a retail price of around 14,000 – 15,000 VND (70 - 75 cents). It offers tasty and high-quality beer in a uniquely designed bottle.

Beer in neighbourhood pubs in Ho Chi Minh City: VND 58,084

If you're looking for a refreshing beer in the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh, head to the neighbourhood pubs where you can enjoy a cold one for as little as 58,084 VND. That's a great deal for a 500ml pint of beer!

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is a vibrant metropolis with a lively nightlife scene. The city boasts a variety of neighbourhood pubs, bars, and breweries offering a wide range of beer options. Whether you're a fan of craft beer, local brews, or imported brands, you're sure to find something to suit your taste.

When it comes to neighbourhood pubs, you'll typically find cozy and casual spots that offer a more intimate drinking experience. These pubs usually have a friendly atmosphere, making them perfect for unwinding after a long day or socialising with friends. The locals love their beer, and you'll often find a mix of both young and old patrons enjoying a drink together.

While the average price for a beer in a neighbourhood pub is around 58,084 VND, prices can vary depending on the specific location and brand of beer. Some pubs may offer happy hour deals or specials on certain days, so it's always a good idea to keep an eye out for those. Additionally, if you're looking for an even more affordable option, you can opt for a domestic beer from a local supermarket, which typically costs around 25,367 VND for a 500ml bottle.

One thing to keep in mind is that the cost of living in Ho Chi Minh City is generally lower than in many other major cities. So, even if you're on a tight budget, you'll still be able to afford a few beers without breaking the bank. Just be sure to have some Vietnamese Dong on hand, as it's the local currency and the preferred method of payment in most establishments.

So, whether you're a beer connoisseur or just looking for a casual drink, Ho Chi Minh City's neighbourhood pubs have you covered. With their affordable prices and welcoming atmosphere, you're sure to have a memorable drinking experience in this vibrant Vietnamese city.

Beer in nightclubs and hotel bars: up to VND 100,000

When it comes to beer prices in Vietnam, there can be a significant variation between different types of establishments. While you can find cheap beer in local Vietnamese bars, prices tend to increase in more upscale settings, such as nightclubs and hotel bars.

In this context, a bottle of beer can cost you up to VND 100,000. This price range is significantly higher than what you would typically find in other bars or restaurants. For instance, the average price of beer in a bar is around VND 15,000-30,000, and it can be even cheaper in some places.

The price of beer in Vietnam is influenced by various factors, including the location, type of venue, and time of year. Tourist areas, popular venues, and peak travel seasons tend to drive prices up. Additionally, certain types of drinks and dishes can be more expensive than others.

If you're looking to indulge in a beer or two while enjoying the vibrant nightlife that cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have to offer, be prepared to pay a premium. The lively atmosphere, convenient locations, and trendy settings of these nightlife hotspots come at a cost.

However, it's worth noting that Vietnam also offers a variety of affordable drinking options, especially in the suburban and countryside areas. So, whether you're on a tight budget or looking to splurge, Vietnam's diverse nightlife scene has something for everyone.

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