The “drink and eat the cup” concept has gained attention on social media in recent weeks, with many Generation Z customers willing to wait up to half an hour to try the unusual offering.
Instead of conventional glassware, the drinks are poured into thick, crunchy waffle cones, allowing customers to combine dessert and drink in one experience. The cups are sturdy enough to hold cold beverages while remaining crisp and buttery.
At a café in Tan An Ward, the shop has stayed busy even on weekdays since launching the edible-cup drinks, the owner said.
Nhe said the fragile waffle cups can crack during transport and must be stored dry, with ice and serving times adjusted to prevent softening.
The café sells about 280 to 300 cups a day at VND 59,000 (USD 2.24) each, she said.
Despite costing more than standard drinks, the concept has proved popular with young customers drawn by curiosity and online videos.
“I saw clips about it on social media and wanted to try. It’s fun because you can drink and eat at the same time. Since it’s a hot trend, I came during quieter hours,” said Le Nguyen Anh Thu, 18.
Others see environmental benefits. “As someone who cares about the environment, I really support edible cups. They reduce plastic waste and still feel new and interesting,” according to Giang Lap Giau, 22.
The waffle cups are fragile, Nhe said, cracking easily during transport and requiring dry, airtight storage. Baristas also adjust ice and serving times to keep them crisp.
Nhe believes the idea has staying power beyond a short-lived trend. “This isn’t just a novelty. We plan to keep it on the menu long-term, like any other regular drink,” she noted.