12 Best Restaurants in Hanoi Featured Image

Best Restaurants & Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam

Probably everything you know about Vietnamese cuisine comes from Hanoi.  The city has a long reputation for making the most of fine ingredients, packing every local ingredient, and combining it with amazing international cuisine. It is easy to come by. Pretty much every global favorite is in this amazing city, but there are some unique places that will give you an exceptional dining experience. Here’s our list of the best restaurants and cafes in Hanoi. 

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Best Restaurants to sample Pho in Hanoi

Pho Gia Truyen Bat Dan

Pho Gia Truyen in Hanoi
[ Beef noodles in Pho Gia Truyen ]

Pho Bat Dan, a legendary restaurant in Hanoi with nearly 70 years of history, is a must-visit for any foodie exploring the city. It’s so well-known that you’ll see it featured on Korean, Japanese, and English food shows.

The restaurant has a simple, no-frills look from the outside, nestled quietly in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. But step inside, and you’ll feel the energy of a busy kitchen and smell the aroma of steaming hot broth. Their pho is unforgettable, with a rich, spice-infused broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and tender, flavorful beef that sets it apart. Be sure to add fried dough sticks to dip in the broth—they’re the perfect crunchy side and may just become your new favorite way to enjoy pho!

Pho Thin Lo Duc

Pho Thin Lo Duc
Beef noodles (source: official website)

Pho Thin, a well-loved noodle spot in Hanoi with almost 40 years of history, sits quietly on Lo Duc Street. Known for its beef pho, this small, unassuming restaurant serves just one thing—and it’s always packed with customers. Instead of the usual rare beef style, Pho Thin stir-fries the beef with spices, adding it to rice noodles with scallions, then pours in a rich, slightly fatty broth that’s cloudy and full of flavor.

The restaurant itself is narrow and easy to miss if you’re not looking closely. Inside, it’s simple with just a few tables and chairs, but the staff is friendly and welcoming. Be sure to add some homemade chili sauce and garlic vinegar for an extra kick!

  • Address: No. 13 Lo Duc Street, Pham Dinh Ho Ward, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
  • Open hours: 6 AM – 9 PM daily
  • Website: phothin13loduchn.vn
  • Phone: 096 665 7997
  • Price range: 2.53 – 4.21 USD

Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su

Pho Ga - chicken noodle at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su
Pho Ga – chicken noodle at Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su
(source: official website)

Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is a top pick for pho in Hanoi, often featured on international food sites and even visited by South Korean President Moon Jae-in. The restaurant has a warm and inviting vibe, with a spacious, well-lit interior and comfortable seating.

They offer various types of pho, including beef, chicken, and vegetarian options, but their classic beef pho is the real standout. Made with fresh, locally sourced beef and a rich, flavorful broth, each bowl is packed with savory goodness. While it’s a bit pricier than other pho spots, the quality of the ingredients and generous portions make it worth the cost.

Pho Ganh Hang Chieu

Pho Ganh Hang Chieu
Pho Ganh Hang Chieu (source: @pilavigne)

Every Hanoi local knows about Pho Ganh, the famous late-night pho spot open from midnight to 7 am, though it sometimes closes early when it sells out. There’s nothing quite like enjoying a hot bowl of pho during the cool hours of the night.

Pho Ganh started nearly 30 years ago as a simple setup with two baskets hanging from a bamboo pole, and the space hasn’t changed much since—no signs, no fancy buildings, just a few plastic tables and chairs for the long lines of night diners. The menu offers three choices: cooked pho, rare pho, and pho with beef stew (Bò sốt vang). The beef stew is a must-try, with big, tender pieces of braised beef that practically melt in your mouth. The broth is sweet and rich, made with perfectly simmered bones, making it a favorite that sells out quickly.

Best restaurant to sample Bun Cha

Bun Cha Huong Lien

US President Barack Obama at Bun Cha Huong Lien
US President Barack Obama at Bun Cha Huong Lien
(source: official Facebook)

Bun Cha Huong Lien, located in the heart of Hanoi, is famous for its delicious Bun Cha and gained even more attention when former US President Barack Obama dined here in 2016.

The restaurant has a cozy, traditional Hanoi vibe, with low tables, plastic stools, and walls decorated with nostalgic photos and paintings. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home.

The highlight here is, of course, the Bun Cha—a Hanoi specialty featuring grilled pork meatballs served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a savory fish sauce for dipping. The pork is perfectly grilled, the herbs add a burst of flavor, and the sauce is just the right balance of sweet and sour. This dish is a local favorite and a true taste of Hanoi’s street food scene.

Bun Cha 74 Hang Quat

Bun Cha Hang Quat
Bun Cha Hang Quat
(source: @eatwithpeachy)

Located in the old quarter of Hanoi, Bun Cha Hang Quat is a small, no-frills restaurant that has been serving up delicious bun cha for over 30 years. The restaurant is always busy, and you may have to wait for a table during peak hours. But the wait is well worth it.

The bun cha here is made with high-quality, fresh ingredients. The grilled pork patties are juicy and flavorful, and the accompanying noodles are cooked to perfection. The fish sauce that comes with the dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and the fresh herbs and vegetables that come on the side add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Bun Cha Sinh Tu

Bun Cha Sinh Tu
Bun Cha Sinh Tu (source: official Facebook)

If you’re not sure where to eat in Hanoi, Sinh Tu is a great choice. It’s a well-known spot for bun cha and a favorite among locals. The restaurant is spacious, clean, and well-organized, and the friendly staff always make sure you feel welcome.

The bun cha here is delicious, with grilled beef served in bite-sized pieces. The meal comes with lots of noodles and fresh vegetables, and the dipping sauce is flavorful and warm. Besides bun cha, they also serve tasty dishes like crab spring rolls and beef noodle rolls, which are worth trying too.

Best restaurants in Hanoi

Banh Mi 25

Banh Mi 25 in Hanoi
[ Banh Mi 25 Menu from the homepage ]

The Banh Mi 25 is about a 10-minute walk north of Hoan Kiem Lake, and it is close to Ta Hien Beer Street, so it is good to have a beer after enjoying banh mi. Staff will start making sandwiches as soon as she receives your order.

They have three Banh Mi 25 places in Hanoi. Each place has a different atmosphere. Go to the banh mi stall at 25 Hang Ca for a quick bite, and visit the Work & Chill at 6 Lo Ren if you have more time. The interior is comfortable and clean, so it’s a good place to take a break while enjoying a sandwich. It is recommended to enjoy banh mi while looking outside on the 2nd-floor terrace.

  • Address
  • Open Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
  • Phone: +84-97-766-8895
  • Website: banhmi25.net
  • Price: 1.05 – 1.69 USD

Essence Restaurant

Essence Restaurant in Hanoi
[ Essence Restaurant in Hanoi ]

Located in the heart of Hanoi city, the Essence restaurant offers authentic dishes and western menus in quite elegant and refined settings. If you are, looking for artfully designed best restaurants in Vietnam Hanoi, then consider Essence restaurant.

The restaurant features an exotic décor that draws on the aesthetics of both contemporary design and colonial designs. Accompany this with an extensive menu of beverages, and you get a wholesome meal, with excellent service in the right spirits, whether it’s lunch or dinner. You can make reservations on their website, Essence dining, or call them at +84 24 3935 2485.

Era Restaurant

Era Restaurant in Hanoi
[ Source: Era Restaurant Homepage ]

If you are looking for a peaceful spot in the Vibrant Old-Quarter, then you should consider Era restaurant. The restaurant offers the best traditional and modern Vietnamese dishes in town making it the best choice for both international and local travelers. The restaurant was founded by Duan and his wife; they both have been in the hospitality industry for more than 20 years. So you expect the restaurant to offer authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

Next time you are in Hanoi, let their menu take you to a culinary journal that will make you fall in love with Vietnam and its rich culture. When you head over there, make sure you order stewed duck in any of the five spices; many people have recommended the dish. But of course, this is one of the few places you can find vegetarian food in Hanoi, so there are a lot of veggie options too. You can also take cooking classes and lessons at the local market. Moreover, they have set menus starting from $15 to $24. You can book a table at their site as well.

JW Café – JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi

JW Café in Hanoi
[ JW Cafe Instagram ]

If you are looking for a famous spot among the best restaurants in Hanoi, then you should definitely visit JW café. The restaurant offers a sumptuous buffet in Hanoi. Let them pamper you with their world-class services as you enjoy their amazing international and local dishes. The restaurant makes some of the best seafood in the city, BBQ, and many more. Here, your taste buds will be satisfied with international cuisine from Korea, Japan, China, and the Mediterranean. The variety of dishes and dining experiences here are endless, and you get to enjoy the stunning lake view of the restaurant.

To show the greatest appreciation of their client, JW offers attractive member promotions, so you may get an exclusive crafted dinner menu. Their rating is the highest of 5 stars. To make reservations please call 09-0-329-0998. It is also on the Ground floor of the JW Marriot hotel. The price range is about $31- $50.

Cloud Nine restaurant

Cloud Nine restaurant in Hanoi
[ Cloud Nine restaurant ]

The Cloud Nine restaurant is probably the most popular best Vietnamese restaurant in Hanoi. There are some conflicting theories about the origin of its name, some saying that it is associated with the number nine in Buddhism, which is the stage of enlightenment. Whatever the meaning, one thing is for sure, this is one of the best restaurants in Hanoi, Vietnam. It is one of the few places we are confident that you will get an extremely happy and satisfying dining experience in Hanoi. Located on the 9TH floor, this restaurant allows you to have a full view of this cosmopolitan city. You get a 360 degrees view across the Hanoi rooftops, the Hoan Kiem Lk ad the red river.

The concept on the outside is well reflected on the inside; the bar area and the restaurant are styled classically with a color palette of black, white, and blue geometric shapes. The menu here is the best you can ask for in Hanoi. They have some of the best authentic flavorful cuisines including dishes from all regions. There is also an extensive range of international cuisine, creatively selected and technically superb. The price range is from $5- $100.

French Grill – JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi

French Grill in Hanoi
[ French Grill in Hanoi ]

There are only a few places in Hanoi that feature contemporary architecture, perfect for a business meeting or family dinner. French grill is one of those few places, you can find amazing architecture and interesting delicacies in Hanoi. The ceiling décor features chandeliers that illuminate your eye as you enjoy your favorite European and French dishes. The seafood offered in this restaurant is quite amazing, and the seating place is just incredible. The wall is transparent letting you enjoy the outside view as you savor your favorite dish. If you visit here, make sure you try the lobster. Here they are prepared using a unique cooking style. They open at 6 p.m. and closed at 10:30 p.m. They are also in the JW Marriot hotel in Hanoi.

Hoang Cuisine (Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegetarian Food)

Hoang Cuisine in Hanoi
[ Source: Hoang Cuisine Facebook ]

Located at the heart of the old quarter on a walking street, this charming restaurant has earned a reputation as one of the best restaurants in Hanoi. Its super friendly services and delicious Vietnamese dishes have earned it a charming spot for many clientele. Here, you get to taste amazing delicious Vietnamese pancakes known as Bun Cha, quail eggs with rice, and many more. You won’t find international cuisine, the restaurants serve 100% Vietnamese Cuisine and vegetarian food. If you want to learn how to cook, you are in luck since this restaurant offers cooking classes almost every day. 

Mam Com Viet Restaurant

By Mâm Cơm Việt Restaurant Facebook

If you want to experience authentic Vietnamese from one of the best restaurants in Vietnam, Hanoi, then visit Mâm Cơm Việt Restaurant. While you may enjoy the Phon and Bun cha from other local restaurants, there is nothing that beats a meal at home with Vietnamese people. Here you get a chance to try all kinds of original and regional specialties with local people. On every table, there is a piece titled, tips for joining Vietnamese Meals.

You are introduced to Vietnamese culture and get to enjoy pretty much what the local has to provide when it comes to traditional meals. The design of this restaurant is incredible; as you savor your tasty lunch or dinner, you will immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of the restaurant while enjoying the hustle and bustle view of the Hanoi, Old Quarter. Moreover, they have a cooking class from 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. The price of the cooking class is about $69 for 1 person and $35 each for 8 people.

Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine

Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine
Cau Go Vietnamese Cuisine (source: official website)

If you are looking for the best restaurants in Vietnam Hanoi with a lake view, then you may need to consider Cau Go. It is an excellent choice for those looking to experience Vietnamese cuisine in an elegant space. The restaurant has a selection of antiques and artifacts that represent ancient Hanoi, colonial charm as well as post-war history. Here you will be rewarded with a sweeping view of Hanoi without trying that much to be fussy. The variety of dishes’ ingredients is from all parts of the country, including Hanoi, Central Vietnam, and Saigon.  

Central province’s dishes varieties include tasty wok-fried chicken in chili and lemon. You can also go for a more delicious steamed squid that comes with central herbs. For the Hanoi options, go for the tender stewed beef infused with lemon and ginger as well as spice Cha Cha fish served with noodles. Indoor and outdoor dining experiences are possible here. 

The Hanoi Social Club

 The Hanoi Social Club
The Hanoi Social Club
(source: official Facebook)

Hanoi Social club is one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Hanoi on the ethical end of the city’s dining spectrum. The restaurant has an amazing range of dishes that boasts the potential of Vietnamese ingredients. The restaurants bring a unique menu of wraps, sandwiches, salads, pasta juice, and other simple but hearty specials.

The restaurant focuses on rustic and nutritious cuisine only. Try lentil pasta here, they are amazing, or you can go for mango curry packed with roasted pumpkin salad or café Trung. The restaurant has music, art exhibitions, and much more once in a while, so enquire in advance before heading over. A place for a peaceful soul. There are not many drinks offered here, but you can delight your taste buds with the best coffee in Hanoi. It’s a nice escape from the city hustle and bustle.

Best cafes in Hanoi

Ca Phe Giang

Ca Phe Giang
Ca Phe Giang
(source: official Facebook)

If you’re a coffee lover visiting Hanoi, Ca Phe Giang is a must-see spot. Located on a narrow street in the Old Quarter, it’s one of the city’s oldest coffee shops, dating back to the 1940s. Known for its signature egg coffee, it attracts both locals and tourists.

Egg coffee is a unique drink you have to try. Made with whipped egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and coffee, it’s creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty. The coffee is served in a small cup placed in a bowl of hot water to keep it warm. Besides egg coffee, the café also offers other drinks like hot and iced coffee, tea, smoothies, and some small snacks like sandwiches and pastries. With its vintage decor, wooden furniture, and old photos, the café has a cozy, welcoming vibe, and the friendly staff make sure you feel right at home.

Xofa Cafe and Bistro

Xofa Cafe and Bistro
Xofa Cafe and Bistro
(source: official Facebook)

If you’re looking for a cool place to grab coffee in Hanoi, Xofa Cafe is a great choice. This trendy café is open 24/7, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to hang out.

The café has a unique mix of vintage and modern furniture, creating a cozy atmosphere. You can choose to relax on a couch or sit at a table. The coffee is excellent, with options ranging from classic drip coffee to specialty drinks like coconut coffee or lavender latte. They also serve delicious pastries, including croissants and brownies.

Tropical Forest Coffee

Tropical Forest Coffee
Tropical Forest Coffee (source: caobang.tintuc.vn)

The Tropical Forest Coffee in Hanoi is an oasis of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of water flowing from the fountains.

The menu at Tropical Forest Coffee is simple yet impressive, with a variety of coffee, tea, smoothies, and light bites to choose from. One standout item is coconut coffee, which is made with fresh coconut milk and a shot of espresso. The combination of sweet and nutty flavors is absolutely divine, and it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a unique twist on their usual coffee order. 

Aside from the coffee, there are also a variety of snacks and light meals available. The avocado toast is a popular choice, as is the tropical fruit bowl, which features a mix of seasonal fruits and a generous helping of granola.

One of the unique features of Tropical Forest Coffee is the self-roasting corner where customers can roast their coffee beans with the guidance of the staff. This adds an interactive element to the café experience and allows customers to create their own unique blend of coffee.

  • Address: A40 TT11, Văn Quán, P, Hà Đông
  • Open hours: 8 Am – 10 PM daily
  • Facebook: Tropical Forest
  • Phone:   0911 701 444
  • Price range: 1.9 – 3 USD

We’ve included some top-notch restaurants and coffee shops above for your consideration. Hopefully, this information helps make your trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, more enjoyable. Have a good time on your journey.

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