Vietnam’s Drinking Culture, Explained by Your Favorite Sticker Teacher
- Tommy Truong
- Apr 11
- 3 min read
“Một… hai… ba… dzô!”
If you’ve ever been in Vietnam during a celebration—or, let’s be real, a random Tuesday—you’ve probably heard a joyful roar of “Một, hai, ba, dzô!” echoing from a sidewalk eatery or a family party. That, my friend, is the Vietnamese equivalent of “cheers,” and it’s not just a phrase—it’s an experience.
Grab your glass (even if it’s just water), because today we’re diving into Vietnamese drinking culture—Sticker Teacher style. I promise I won’t bite, unless you’re holding a plate of grilled octopus.
1. It’s Not Just About the Alcohol, It’s About Us
Sure, Vietnam has its fair share of beer (bia), rice wine (rượu), and even the notorious rượu rắn (snake wine—yes, it’s real, and no, I didn’t drink it… twice). But the main ingredient in every Vietnamese drinking session is connection.
In Vietnam, we don’t drink to get drunk—we drink to get closer. Family reunions, friend catch-ups, business deals, wedding parties, death anniversaries—heck, even a karaoke night—usually come with a clinking of glasses and a whole lotta dzô-ing.
2. The Legendary “Dzô” Ritual
This is not optional. If someone raises their glass and shouts “Một, hai, ba…,” you better be ready to shout “DZÔ!” like your long-lost motorbike just rolled back home.
Vietnamese drinking sessions are rhythmic. Sometimes people toast after every sip. It sounds exhausting, but it’s actually energizing—especially when your cheeks are sore from smiling more than sipping.
And if you’re the new person at the table? Prepare to be lovingly targeted with a personal toast. Bonus points if you try it in Vietnamese.
3. Beer on the Sidewalk, Royal Vibes in Your Soul
Forget fancy bars. Some of the most authentic drinking experiences in Vietnam happen on plastic stools that look like they were stolen from a kindergarten. But don’t be fooled—this is where the magic lives.
You sit elbow-to-elbow with strangers who become friends by the second glass. There’s grilled food sizzling, someone passing around peanuts or baby jackfruit salad, and always someone playing Bolero music like their heartbreak is your heartbreak.
4. Warning: Vietnamese Rice Wine Is Not for the Weak
Enter: rượu đế, rượu nếp, or the infamous rượu thuốc. These are the traditional rice wines, and they range from “smooth like grandpa’s advice” to “burns hotter than your ex’s last text.”
Some are infused with herbs, fruits, or entire animals (yes, really). It’s a shot-sized challenge with a cultural twist. I recommend starting slow… or at least making sure you know where the bathroom is.
5. Sticker Teacher’s Pro Tips for Drinking Like a Local
Always use two hands when offering or receiving a drink with someone older. Respect!
Say no politely if you’re not drinking. Smile, hold your glass, and toast with nước ngọt (soda) or nước lọc (water). Trust me, they’ll understand. (If they don't, call Sticker Teacher! I'll deal with that)
Eat while you drink—Vietnamese drinking food (called mồi) is top-tier. Grilled meats, spicy seafood, crispy fried tofu, pickled mango? Yes, please. It’s not just tasty—it’s strategic. You eat so you can last longer. Don’t get drunk too quickly, or you’ll miss half the fun (and probably all the karaoke).
Never let your neighbor’s glass go empty—unless you want the uncle across the table to “accidentally” refill yours five times in a row.
You don’t have to stick with “Một hai ba dzô!” every time. Spice it up with:
“Trăm phần trăm!” – “100 percent!” (a.k.a. bottoms up, let’s goooo)
“Dzô cái đi!” – “Let’s dzô one!” (friendly and casual)
“Vô vô vô!” – Like “Dzô dzô dzô!”
“Cạn ly!” – “Drain the glass!”
"Không say không về!" – “We’re not going home ‘til we’re drunk!” (it's half a warning, half a joke)
Final Sip: It’s All About Joy
Vietnamese drinking culture isn’t about excess—it’s about expression. We toast to health, to love, to dreams, to karaoke victories, to dogs with sweaters, and to the fact that you, my dear reader, are now one sip closer to understanding Vietnamese culture.
So the next time you’re in Vietnam, and someone raises their glass your way, don’t panic. Just channel your inner Sticker Teacher, flash that confident smile, and shout:
“Một, hai, ba… DZÔÔÔÔÔ!!!”
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