Shake & Savor: Coffee-Themed Cocktails from Vit Nam

If you’re visiting Saigon and craving a taste of local culture with a twist, the Shake & Savor: Coffee-Themed Cocktails tour offers a delightful 90-minute hands-on experience. Held in the lively heart of Ho Chi Minh City, this workshop is a lively fusion of Vietnamese coffee traditions and modern mixology. For $30 per person, you get a chance to learn how to craft unique cocktails, discover the stories behind Vietnam’s beloved coffee, and enjoy a relaxed, intimate setting with small groups limited to just four participants.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines authentic Vietnamese ingredients with creative bartending techniques. The guides are not only knowledgeable but also engaging, sharing stories and secrets that give you a real taste of local culture. Plus, tasting the Lacàph Phin Blend and the Cascara Tea—made from coffee cherry husks—adds a layer of flavor that’s both surprising and satisfying.

A possible consideration is that this activity isn’t suitable for everyone—it’s designed for adults over 18, with some restrictions for pregnant women, those with heart problems, or high blood pressure. It’s also not designed for wheelchair users or children, which might limit some visitors. Still, if you’re looking for a laid-back evening filled with friendly company and flavorful drinks, this workshop hits all the right notes.

This experience suits travelers who want more than a typical bar crawl. Whether you’re a coffee lover, an amateur mixologist, or someone seeking a memorable cultural activity in Saigon, you’ll find this workshop a perfect way to spend an evening. Plus, the small group size means plenty of personalized attention and a more relaxed, engaging atmosphere.

Key Points

• Cultural Fusion: Vietnamese coffee meets creative mixology in a fun, interactive setting.
• Authentic Ingredients: Use of local staples like Lacàph Phin Blend, cascara, and coffee blossom honey.
• Small Group: Limited to four participants for a personalized experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides share secrets and stories behind each cocktail.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later—and cancel with full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for Adults: Not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with certain health conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

The workshop is situated in the vibrant district of Ho Chi Minh City, starting on the first floor of a café, with the actual cocktail-making happening upstairs in a cozy, clean workshop space. The ambiance combines the lively energy of Saigon’s nightlife with a relaxed, intimate environment that’s perfect for learning and tasting.

The Itinerary

The session lasts about 90 minutes. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed into a well-organized setting where the focus is on fun and discovery. The activity kicks off with a brief introduction to Vietnamese coffee culture, followed by the guided preparation of two signature cocktails.

What makes this workshop stand out is the storytelling aspect. Guides share fascinating tidbits about each ingredient and its place in local culture, making the experience more than just mixing drinks. You’ll see videos and learn about the history behind Vietnamese coffee, which adds a layer of depth to the tasting.

Cocktail Highlights

The menu is curated to showcase innovative and traditional flavors:

• Cà Phê Mít Jackfruit Coffee Cocktail: This drink combines Lacàph Phin Blend with the sweet, tropical taste of jackfruit, mixed with Sampan Rhum and topped with a house-made ginger soda. It’s a bold, flavor-packed fusion that surprises the palate.

• Ph Fizz – Cascara Cocktail: Here, the cascara (coffee cherry husk tea) takes the spotlight, balanced with Lacàph Cascara Tea and Raw Coffee Blossom Honey. It’s a complex yet refreshing drink that highlights the versatility of Vietnamese coffee ingredients.

Participants get to prepare and taste these cocktails themselves, making the experience memorable—and directly engaging. The instructor’s guidance ensures you’ll come away with new skills, whether you’re a beginner or already familiar with bartending.

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The Guides and Atmosphere

Reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and friendly manner, with many emphasizing how they make the session informative yet relaxed. One reviewer raved about how the staff was “really nice” and praised the clean, well-maintained environment. The small group setting fosters interaction and makes it easier to ask questions, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Value and Cost

At $30 per person, this workshop offers great value considering the quality of ingredients, personalized instruction, and the experience itself. It’s not just about making cocktails; it’s about learning stories, tasting authentic flavors, and creating memories in a lively city setting.

Who It’s Best For

Travelers who appreciate cultural experiences that are interactive and delicious will find this workshop appealing. It’s especially suitable for adults seeking a relaxed, engaging evening—perfect for couples, friends, or even solo travelers looking to connect over shared interests.

Final Thoughts

The Shake & Savor workshop in Ho Chi Minh City delivers a unique opportunity to explore Vietnam’s coffee scene through the lens of mixology. It’s a fun, hands-on activity that combines local ingredients, personal stories, and creative drinks into a memorable 90-minute experience.

Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a curious traveler, or simply looking for a different way to enjoy Saigon’s nightlife, this tour ticks all the right boxes. The small-group format guarantees personal attention, while the compelling storytelling adds depth to the tasting.

This experience is especially valuable for those who want to go beyond the usual sightseeing and truly connect with Vietnamese culture through taste and tradition. It’s a perfect choice for a relaxed evening after a day of exploring the city’s sights—an authentic, flavorful way to deepen your understanding of Saigon’s vibrant character.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, the workshop is only for participants over 18. It’s designed as an adult experience, focusing on alcohol and coffee.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is there any caffeine in the cocktails?
While coffee is involved, the caffeine content is kept low, so don’t worry about a caffeine rush interfering with your evening.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Vietnamese, ensuring clear explanations and stories for international travelers.

How many people are in each group?
The small group size is limited to four participants, offering a more personalized and relaxed experience.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfect—just bring your curiosity and readiness to have fun mixing drinks.

In the end, the Shake & Savor: Coffee-Themed Cocktails workshop delivers a delightful blend of culture, flavor, and skill-building. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening in Saigon, especially if you love discovering local traditions through engaging, tasty activities.

You can check availability for your dates here: