Explore Hanoi’s many restaurants and cafes that offer unique atmospheres, delicious dishes, and authentic Vietnamese culinary experiences that will please your taste buds and eyes.
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and mouth-watering cuisine. Not only that, Hanoi also has a variety of unique restaurants and cafes that provide an unforgettable culinary experience.
From charming vintage-designed restaurants to Vietnam War-themed cafes, the city offers a variety of eateries that not only serve delicious food but also an equally interesting atmosphere. Here are 10 unique restaurants and cafes in Hanoi that you must visit.
1. The Hanoi Social Club
The Hanoi Social Club is a must-visit for anyone looking for a relaxed and enjoyable dining experience. Housed in a classic Vietnamese house, the restaurant combines Vietnamese and French exterior styles with a charming vintage design.
Serving a variety of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, The Hanoi Social Club’s menu includes fresh and delicious Western and Vietnamese dishes. One of my favorites is the toasts with poached eggs and morning glory served with fresh tea.
The restaurant is also known for its relaxed atmosphere that makes diners want to linger. If you’re a music fan, visit on Tuesday nights to enjoy ethnic music performances at Tiny Music Club.
You can also find Typical Vietnamese Souvenirs nearby, making it a great spot to enjoy good food while picking up unique keepsakes from Vietnam.
2. Nola Cafe
Nola Cafe is located in the heart of the Old Quarter and is a favorite among many visitors. Although it looks like an abandoned house from the outside, once you step inside, a unique vintage atmosphere will greet you.
With an interior filled with retro furniture and creative designs, Nola Cafe serves a variety of Western dishes, including pasta carbonara and refreshing drinks such as the affordable Singapore Sling.
Located on the second floor of an old building, the cafe has a rooftop area that offers views of the busy streets of the Old Quarter, making it a great place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
3. Lantern Lounge
Lantern Lounge is a place that offers a romantic atmosphere, especially at night when the lanterns that decorate the restaurant are lit up.
Located in the Old Quarter, Lantern Lounge offers a variety of delicious Vietnamese dishes such as bun cha, pho, com rang, as well as several Western food options.
One of the main attractions here is the second floor which is equipped with bean bags, providing a comfortable place to relax.
If you are looking for a place to enjoy dinner or just want to enjoy a cup of coffee in the evening, Lantern Lounge is the perfect choice.
4. Eden Coffee
Eden Coffee is located right next to St. Joseph’s Cathedral, making it an ideal place to enjoy a relaxing afternoon while taking in the surroundings. With four floors, each decorated in a colorful bohemian theme, this cafe is very instagrammable.
Although more focused on coffee and juices, Eden Coffee is a great place to relax while enjoying the view of Hanoi.
Head up to the rooftop for some fresh air and a beautiful view of the city, or sit downstairs and enjoy the cozy and friendly atmosphere.
5. Cong Caphe
Cong Caphe is one of the largest cafe chains in Vietnam with more than 65,000 outlets nationwide. Famous for its Vietnam War-era theme, Cong Caphe has an interior design filled with historical-themed decorations, such as flags, army helmets, and sacks.
Here, you can taste typical Vietnamese coffee, such as Cốt Dừa Cà Phê (Coconut Milk With Coffee) and Bạc Xỉu (Coffee with Coconut Milk), which are favorites of many.
Don’t miss the fresh mango juice which is very refreshing, especially when the weather in Hanoi is very hot. Cong Caphe has several branches in Hanoi, including in the Old Quarter area and near the Cathedral, so you won’t have a hard time finding one.
6. Batavia Restaurant & Cafe
For those of you who miss Indonesian cuisine, Batavia Restaurant & Cafe is the perfect place to cure that longing. Located in the Tay Ho district, this restaurant serves a variety of authentic Indonesian dishes, such as fried noodles, chicken satay, chicken soto, and sweet and sour fish.
This restaurant is owned by an Indonesian couple who have long lived in Hanoi and are famous for their very authentic taste of food.
Batavia Restaurant & Cafe has now been certified halal, making it a friendly place for visitors from various backgrounds. Although it has now moved to Ba Dinh district, this restaurant remains a top choice for Indonesian cuisine fans in Hanoi.
7. May Taste
May Taste is a small restaurant located in Tay Ho district, Hanoi, serving Vietnamese, Asian and Western dishes. Although it doesn’t look flashy from the outside, the quality of the food at May Taste is truly extraordinary.
Some of the must-try menus here are Pad Thai, Bun Bo Nam Bo, and spring rolls. This restaurant is known for its delicious dishes which are perfect for lunch or dinner. With its high quality food, May Taste has become a favorite restaurant for both tourists and locals.
8. Hanoi Cooking Center
If you are interested in learning Vietnamese cuisine firsthand, Hanoi Cooking Center is the place for you. Not only a restaurant, this place also offers cooking classes for visitors who want to learn how to make Vietnamese dishes.
You can enjoy various authentic dishes such as pho, bun cha, and spring rolls here. In addition, Hanoi Cooking Center also has a shop selling Vietnamese cooking ingredients, so you can buy the ingredients needed to try Vietnamese cuisine at home. This is a great place for those who want to delve deeper into Vietnamese culinary culture.
9. The Rooftop Bar
For those of you who want to enjoy the beautiful view of Hanoi from a height, The Rooftop Bar is the perfect place. This bar is located in the city center and offers spectacular views both during the day and at night.
Enjoy a classic cocktail or local drink while observing the beauty of the busy city of Hanoi. In addition, The Rooftop Bar also offers snacks that are perfect to accompany your drink.
This place is very popular among tourists and expats who are looking for a relaxed atmosphere while enjoying the stunning views.
10. Tadioto
Tadioto is a bar and cafe located in the Hoan Kiem area, Hanoi. This place is known for its cozy and unique atmosphere, with decorations that combine modern and vintage art.
Tadioto often hosts live music events and other art activities, making it perfect for visitors who want to enjoy entertainment while enjoying drinks.
With a creative and relaxed atmosphere, Tadioto is a great place to unwind after a day of exploring Hanoi.
Hanoi offers not only beautiful scenery and historical sites, but also an amazing culinary experience in various unique restaurants and cafes.
From Vietnam War-themed cafes to restaurants with a vintage atmosphere, the city is full of choices that will please your taste buds and eyes.
Typical Vietnamese Food is a key highlight in many of these places, offering authentic flavors that reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage.
Don’t miss the chance to explore these 10 unique restaurants and cafes, and have a memorable culinary experience during your visit to Hanoi!
