Chè: Vietnam's sweet soups and puddings
There are dozens of kinds of chè, and every stall has its own line-up. The fun is in pointing and trying.
Chè is the name for Vietnam’s many sweet soups and puddings: beans, jellies, taro, lotus seeds, fruit and coconut milk, served warm or over crushed ice. A cup usually costs 15,000–35,000 VND. Order with “Cho tôi một ly chè”, and try chè ba màu (three-colour chè) first.
At a glance
How to order
“Cho tôi một ly chè ba màu.”
One glass of three-colour chè. Other favourites: chè bà ba (coconut with taro and cassava), chè đậu xanh (mung bean) and chè thái (fruit and jelly).
Hot or cold?
Some chè is served warm, especially in cooler months; many are served with crushed ice in the heat. Stir everything together before eating.
When to go
Afternoon and evening. Chè stalls are busiest after school and after dinner.
Questions travellers ask
What is chè?
A family of Vietnamese sweet soups and puddings, served hot or cold.
How much is chè?
Around 15,000–35,000 VND a cup.
What is chè ba màu?
Three-colour chè: layers of beans, green jelly and coconut milk over ice.
Is chè vegan?
Many kinds are made only from beans, sugar and coconut milk, but some use gelatine or condensed milk – ask if unsure.
Prices are typical ranges we’ve seen and change often; tourist areas can charge more. Spotted something out of date? Tell us and we’ll fix it. Last updated 2026-09-30.
