12 Best Restaurants in Hanoi Featured Image

Best Restaurants & Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam for the Best Vietnam Trip

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
[ Pho Gia Truyen ]

The Pho Bat Dan is a renowned restaurant that has been around for almost 70 years. This is a must-visit for any foodie visiting Hanoi. You may easily find this eatery on Korean, Japanese, or English food channels. It’s so famous!

The first thing that strikes you about Pho Bat Dan is the restaurant’s simple and unassuming exterior. Located on a quiet street in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the restaurant’s unassuming entrance gives little away about the delicious food inside. But as soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by a bustling atmosphere and the smell of steaming hot broth.

The pho at Pho Bat Dan is simply delicious. The broth is rich and flavourful with unique spices, and the noodles are cooked to perfection. But what really sets the pho apart is the quality of the beef. The meat is tender and juicy and has a deep, satisfying flavor that will leave you wanting more.

Don’t forget to order fried dough sticks with your pho. Dip it in the rice noodle and try it. You may fall in love with the taste.

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Pho Thin Lo Duc

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

With a history of about 40 years, Pho Thin is one of Hanoi’s most well-known noodle restaurants. Located on historic Lo Duc Street, this small and unassuming restaurant serves up some of the best pho (Vietnamese noodle soup) in the city. Although solely serving beef noodle soup, the eatery gets a lot of patrons every day.

Unlike other beef pho restaurants, where meat is frequently dipped in broth to make it rare, beef at Pho Thin is thinly sliced and stir-fried with spices. This is a way to improve the flavor of the meat. The chef will top the rice noodles with beef and scallions before pouring in the flavourful broth. The broth of Pho Thin is murky, ivory, and quite fatty rather than clear. Remember to combine it with homemade chili sauce and garlic vinegar to add a distinctive taste!

In terms of space, Pho Thin Lo Duc’s layout is in the ancient townhouse style, with a deep but narrow foundation. It will be challenging to locate the business if you aren’t paying attention because it is quite small. The interior is simple and unassuming, with a small number of tables and chairs, but the staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming.

  • 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)

It would be remiss not to add Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su when discussing the best pho restaurants in Hanoi. This restaurant has been featured on numerous international food review websites. It was also visited by South Korean President Moon Jae-in. As soon as you step in, you are greeted with a warm and cozy atmosphere that is both inviting and comforting. The restaurant is spacious and well-lit, with modern decor and comfortable seating.

The restaurant offers a range of pho options, from classic beef to chicken and even vegetarian options. The standout dish, however, is their classic pho bo, which is made with a rich and flavorful broth, and tender slices of beef. What makes Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su truly stand out is the quality of their ingredients. The beef used in their pho is sourced from local farmers, ensuring that it is fresh and of the highest quality. The broth is made from a blend of herbs and spices, giving it a deep and complex flavor that is both savory and satisfying.

In terms of price, Pho 10 Ly Quoc Su is on the higher end of the spectrum for pho restaurants in Hanoi. However, given the quality of the food and the overall dining experience, it is definitely worth the price. The portion sizes are generous, and the quality of the ingredients is evident in every bite.

Pho Ganh Hang Chieu

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

All Hanoi gourmets are familiar with the renowned late-night dining location Pho Ganh. The store is open from 12 am until 7 am, though it occasionally closes early owing to product shortages. Nothing beats savoring a hot bowl of pho during a cold spell.

When Pho Ganh first opened nearly 30 years ago, it was just a pair of Quang Ganhs (two baskets hung from either end of a bamboo bole). Until now, the eatery space has remained unchanged. There are no signs, and there are no tall structures. Maybe some plastic tables and chairs just are added to serve the long lines of “hungry” diners.

There are three options on the menu: cooked pho, rare pho, and pho with beef stew (Bò sốt vang). The best is the Bo sot vang, which has enormous pieces of braised beef that are soft and melt in your mouth, rich and fatty. Pho soup is sweet and flavorful because it is made with the perfect bone broth. Because the spot is popular, the pho is sold out by early morning. Bring your buddies to Pho Ganh if you want to experience the sensation of eating pho at night!

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)

The Bun Cha Huong Lien is a well-known restaurant located in the heart of Hanoi, famous for its mouth-watering Bun Cha dish. The restaurant became even more renowned after former US President Barack Obama visited it during his visit to Vietnam in 2016.

The first thing that gonna struck you about Bun Cha Huong Lien is its cozy and traditional ambiance. The restaurant is a typical Hanoi-style eatery, with low tables and plastic stools. The walls are adorned with old pictures and paintings, giving the place a nostalgic feel.

But of course, the star of the show here is the food. Bun Cha, a specialty of the restaurant, is a dish made out of grilled pork meatballs that are served with rice noodles, herbs, and a bowl of savory fish sauce. The pork was nicely grilled. Fresh herbs gave the meal an explosion of flavor, and the dipping sauce was the ideal balance of sweet and sour. The meal is so well-liked in Hanoi that many residents view it as the highlight of the city’s street food.

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)

Sinh Tu should be your first stop in Hanoi if you’re unsure of what to eat. Many people will think of Sinh Tu when bun cha is mentioned since it is a well-known and well-liked bun cha restaurant in Hanoi. The first plus is the building’s spaciousness and constant cleanliness and organization. Also, every visitor to this establishment leaves feeling satisfied because of the owner and staff’s kind and passionate service.

Bun cha here is appealing, with fragrant grilled beef split into bite-sized chunks. A meal at Sinh Tu, in particular, includes an abundance of noodles and side dishes. The dipping sauce is also warmed to taste and is fragrant and flavorful. Raw vegetables are washed, fresh, and never smashed. All of the components combine to make Hanoi’s iconic bun cha.

In addition to their famous bun cha, Bun Cha Sinh Tu also offers a few other dishes, such as nem cua be (crab spring rolls) and pho cuon (beef noodle rolls), which are also delicious and well worth a try.

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.  

Serving staff here wear ao dai, introducing you to Vietnamese regional cuisine. The selection of Saigonese dished includes crispy softened shelled crab, and stewed pork packed with coconut juice.  

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)

This is a must-visit spot in Hanoi for coffee lovers. The small café is situated on a narrow street in the Old Quarter and is one of the oldest coffee shops in Hanoi, dating back to the 1940s. With its signature egg coffee, Ca Phe Giang has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

For first-timers, egg coffee is a must-try. This unique and delicious beverage is made from a blend of whipped egg yolks, sugar, condensed milk, and coffee. It has a thick and creamy texture with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. The presentation of the drink is also something to note – the coffee is served in a small cup that is placed in a bowl of hot water to keep it warm. In addition to egg coffee, the café offers a variety of other beverages, including hot and iced coffee, tea, and smoothies. There are also some small snacks available, such as sandwiches and pastries.

The café itself has a vintage and cozy atmosphere. The wooden furnishings, traditional Vietnamese decorations, and old photographs create a warm and welcoming environment. The service is also top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who are happy to answer any questions or make recommendations.

Xofa Cafe and Bistro

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

If you’re looking for a hip and trendy spot to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee, then Xofa Cafe in Hanoi is definitely worth checking out. This stylish and modern cafe has a cool and casual vibe, making it a popular hangout spot for both locals and tourists alike. This place opens 24/7 so you can drop by whenever you want.

One of the first things you’ll notice when you walk into Xofa Cafe is the unique decor. The interior is filled with an eclectic mix of vintage and modern furniture, creating a charming and welcoming atmosphere. There are plenty of seating options to choose from, whether you want to cozy up on a couch or sit at a communal table.

But of course, the real star of the show is the coffee. Xofa Cafe takes its coffee seriously, offering a variety of blends and brewing methods to choose from. Whether you prefer a classic drip coffee or a fancy latte, the baristas at Xofa Cafe can craft a cup that’s just right for you. And if you’re feeling adventurous, be sure to try one of their specialty drinks, like coconut coffee or the lavender latte. Additionally, they also offer a delicious selection of pastries and light bites to enjoy. From flaky croissants to indulgent brownies, there’s something for everyone. 

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.

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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