Opening a Vietnamese coffee shop in the UK might sound like an exciting idea — and it truly is. But before jumping in, you’re probably asking: is there really a market for it, will British people enjoy the taste, and what challenges do I need to prepare for? Let’s take a closer look at the UK coffee scene, the opportunities for Vietnamese coffee, and the obstacles you should expect along the way.
The Coffee Market in the UK
The UK has become one of Europe’s fastest-growing coffee markets. Every single day, Britons drink nearly 100 million cups of coffee, and the café industry generates over £15 billion a year. Coffee culture has grown so strong that in cities like London, Manchester, or Edinburgh, you’ll find coffee shops on almost every street corner.
Most of these shops serve espresso-based drinks — cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites. But here’s where the opportunity lies: people in the UK love trying something new. Over the last few years, bubble tea chains, Korean dessert cafés, and specialty roasters have all gained popularity. This shows that British consumers are not only open to new flavors but also enjoy the cultural stories behind them. That’s exactly where Vietnamese coffee can fit in.
Opportunities when opening a Vietnamese coffee shop in the UK
Vietnamese coffee is different — and that’s its biggest strength. Instead of the lighter Arabica blends most UK cafés serve, Vietnam is known for bold, strong Robusta brewed slowly through the traditional phin filter. Drinks like cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk), egg coffee, and coconut coffee don’t just taste unique, they also look great — perfect for the social media generation who love to share their café experiences online.
Another advantage is cultural curiosity. Just as sushi, ramen, or bubble tea became popular because they offered something new and authentic, Vietnamese coffee can create its own niche. A shop that not only serves drinks but also recreates the cozy atmosphere of Vietnam’s coffee culture — with lanterns, bamboo details, and storytelling about the beans — will naturally attract customers looking for more than just a caffeine fix.
There’s also an existing audience waiting. The UK has a growing Vietnamese community, particularly in London, who would welcome a taste of home. On top of that, many British tourists have visited Vietnam in recent years. They’ve sat in Hanoi enjoying egg coffee or in Ho Chi Minh City sipping cà phê sữa đá by the street, and they often return home wishing they could have that same experience again. Your café could be the place that brings back those memories.
Challenges when opening a Vietnamese coffee shop in the UK
High costs
Of course, opportunities always come with challenges. The first and biggest one is cost. Opening any café in the UK — especially in London — requires a large investment. Rent is expensive, wages are high, and there are many extra costs like business rates and licensing fees. You’ll need careful planning and enough capital to survive the first year.
Differences in coffee taste
Another challenge is taste. British customers are used to smoother, less bitter coffees, so the strong kick of Vietnamese Robusta might be overwhelming for some. That doesn’t mean you should change everything — but you may need to experiment with recipes, adjust sweetness levels, or introduce lighter options alongside traditional ones. The goal is to stay authentic while making sure first-time customers enjoy their experience.
Competition from major brands
Competition is another factor. Big chains like Starbucks, Costa, Pret A Manger, and Caffè Nero dominate the market. On top of that, the UK has a strong network of independent specialty cafés that already serve high-quality coffee. To stand out, your shop must offer more than just “good coffee.” It has to deliver a unique experience that combines flavor, design, and cultural storytelling.
Legal difficulties
Finally, supply chain and regulation can’t be ignored. If you plan to import beans and condensed milk directly from Vietnam, expect to deal with customs duties, shipping delays, and paperwork. Post-Brexit trade rules can make this process even trickier, so working with reliable suppliers who already have export experience will save you a lot of headaches.
So, Should you open a Vietnamese coffee shop in the UK?
The answer is yes — but only if you approach it with the right mindset. The UK coffee market is competitive, but it’s also full of opportunities for businesses that bring something new. Vietnamese coffee has the potential to stand out with its bold flavors and rich cultural background, but success will depend on smart planning, adapting to local preferences, and telling a story that connects with customers.
Where to Begin?
If you’re serious about testing the market, the best approach is to start small. A kiosk, a pop-up stall in a busy market, or even a small café in a high-traffic area can help you learn what works without taking on massive financial risk. Focus on a short menu with a few signature drinks like iced coffee, egg coffee, and coconut coffee. Make sure your branding highlights both authenticity and accessibility, so customers feel curious but not intimidated.
Social media will be your friend. Vietnamese coffee is naturally photogenic — the phin filter dripping into a glass, the creamy top of egg coffee, or the tropical twist of coconut coffee. These visuals, combined with good storytelling, can spread quickly online and help you attract the younger crowd.
Most importantly, source your beans and ingredients carefully. If you want to deliver a true taste of Vietnam, you’ll need a partner who understands both quality and international logistics. Hello 5 Coffee (hello5coffee.com) is one option, with over 12 years of experience exporting premium Vietnamese coffee worldwide. They supply roasted beans, drip packs, and even OEM/private label solutions — making it easier for entrepreneurs in the UK to launch with confidence.
Opening a Vietnamese coffee shop in the UK is not an easy path, but it is a promising one. The market is large, customers are curious, and the cultural story of Vietnamese coffee has all the ingredients to capture attention. With careful planning, a unique concept, and strong partnerships, your café could be the one that introduces British coffee lovers to an entirely new experience.
