Chicago's Vietnamese coffee scene includes traditional ca phe sua da at restaurants and emerging specialty cafes like Cà Phê Dá in Pilsen.

  • Cà phê sữa đá: Iced coffee with condensed milk
  • Cà phê đen: Black coffee
  • Cà phê trứng: Egg coffee

Nhu Lan Bakery top-pick

Nhu Lan Bakery serves one of the best iced milk coffee in Chicago. The coffee is brewed using traditional filter filters, producing a slow, concentrated drip directly over sweetened condensed milk. The resulting drink is rich, bold, and perfectly balanced — the dark roast coffee cuts through the sweetness of the condensed milk without being overwhelmed. You can taste the difference when it's made properly, and Nhu Lan's version is consistently excellent. Grab one alongside a banh mi for the perfect Vietnamese lunch combo.

Ba Le Sandwich best-value

Ba Le Sandwich on Broadway serves an iced milk coffee that's a favorite among Argyle regulars. The coffee is strong and properly brewed, with that characteristic Robusta punch that Vietnamese coffee is known for. The condensed milk is added in just the right proportion — enough to sweeten and cream without making it cloying. Ba Le's version comes in a generous cup, and the quality is consistent every visit. It's the perfect accompaniment to their excellent sandwiches.

Café Hoang hidden-gem

Café Hoang serves a solid iced milk coffee that's a great way to start or end a meal on Argyle Street. The coffee is brewed to order through a filter, which means a short wait — but it's worth it. The slow drip produces a concentrated, almost syrupy coffee that melds perfectly with the condensed milk. Stir it well, pour it over ice, and you have a drink that's simultaneously strong, sweet, and refreshing. Café Hoang's version is authentic and well-made.