The Old Quarter is always a fascinating place for visitors, not only for its architecture, rich history, vibrant yet nostalgic atmosphere, but also for its must-visit restaurants in Hanoi. That’s why Hanoi’s Old Quarter is an unmissable spot on the travel map for food lovers. Let’s explore the top 5 must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter and their signature dishes!
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Chapter Dining – Top must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter
- Address: 12C Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening Hours: 18:00 – 23:00 (Mon – Sun)
- Hotline: 0333 201 221
For those seeking fine dining, Chapter Dining stands out as one of the must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter. What sets it apart is the storytelling. Each dish comes with a postcard narrating the local culture, history, and ingredients behind the meal, offering diners a deeply immersive culinary journey. So they can learn more about the Northern Vietnamese cuisine and culture.
The Chapter menu features over 10 courses, progressing seamlessly from appetizers to desserts, each paired with a perfectly selected beverage. Chapter Dining follows a seasonal menu, ensuring fresh, high-quality ingredients in every dish. Beyond gastronomy, sustainability is at the heart of Chapter Dining. They support local farmers, actively participate in ingredient sourcing, and emphasize zero-waste cooking.
One remarkable example is the Phu Tho pigeon, created in collaboration with Quoc Anh Cooperative, ensuring well-raised, environmentally friendly poultry. At Chapter, every part of an ingredient is utilized, crafting a menu that’s not just exquisite but also eco-conscious. This dedication to quality and sustainability earned Chapter Dining the prestigious “Michelin Selected” recognition in 2024.
Beyond its exceptional menu, Chapter Dining is also an architectural gem. Awarded the LIV Hospitality Design Award 2022 for Interior Design & Eating Space, the restaurant captivates guests with its open kitchen concept. Upon entering, diners are greeted by a bustling kitchen, where flames from the grill flicker non-stop, setting the stage for a dynamic fine dining experience in one of the must-visit restaurants Hanoi Old Quater.
Every detail of the restaurant’s interior is thoughtfully arranged, exuding sophistication and elegance. Chapter Dining also showcases original artworks by young Vietnamese artists, creating a modern yet distinctive atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.
Habakuk Fine Coffee and Bistro
- Address: 4 Phan Huy Chu alley, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening Hours: 18:00 – 22:30 (Mon – Sun) | Habakuk Bistro
- Hotline: 038 968 2892
Near Hanoi Opera House, you’ll find Habakuk Fine Coffee and Bistro, located in an apartment building on Phan Huy Chu Alley. This hidden gem offers a peaceful and elegant ambiance, with warm wooden and orange tones creating a cozy yet sophisticated vibe.
During the day, Habakuk is the perfect spot for a cup of coffee while working or an afternoon tea with friends. By lunch and dinner, it transforms into one of the must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter. This restaurant is also listed in Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024.
The bistro features both indoor and outdoor seating, catering to all preferences. The outdoor area allows guests to dine while enjoying the lush greenery and a serene fish pond, while the indoor space centers around an open bar, where diners can watch skilled baristas in action. The soft background music and tranquil atmosphere make every meal a relaxing experience.
Habakuk curates seasonal menus to bring freshness and innovation to its dishes. Inspired by European cuisine, its offerings are not only a delight for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Some signature dishes include:
- Dried Aged Duck Breast – A rich and juicy duck breast with crispy skin, served with teriyaki sauce, delivering a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Roasted Pork Cheek – One of Habakuk’s highlights, featuring crispy roasted pork cheek plated with coriander sauce—a classic dish reimagined by Habakuk’s chefs.
- Pork Panini – Tender, juicy pork cheek, paired with bold green pepper sauce and crispy panini bread, offering a unique Vietnamese-European fusion take on banh mi.
Dana Vegan House
- Address: 12 Dong Thai, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening Hours: 11:00 – 21:30 (Mon – Sun)
- Hotline: 082 874 4931
If you’re looking for vegetarian cuisine, Dana House is one of the must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter. The restaurant preserves the charm of Vietnamese traditional architecture, as it is set in a 100-year-old house. Adding to its uniqueness, Dana House also features a small bar, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for guests enjoying a vegetarian meal.
The vegetarian menu is incredibly diverse, focusing on traditional Vietnamese dishes prepared purely plant-based while maintaining their authentic flavors. Dana Vegan House also offers a buffet for those who love variety, allowing guests to enjoy their meal in a warm and welcoming setting.
One of the standout dishes is the Thanh Lang Mushroom Soup, known for its fragrant and earthy mushroom flavor, which perfectly balances the dining experience. Dana also earns high praise for its beverages, particularly the kombucha tea, which is aromatic and well-balanced, without an overly sharp acidity.
Cay Cau Restaurant
- Address: 17 Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening Hours: 06:00 – 22:00 (Mon – Sun)
- Hotline: 0912 853 325
Cay Cau Restaurant is one of the must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter, perfect for those seeking an authentic home-style Vietnamese meal. The restaurant beautifully presents traditional Vietnamese dishes in a warm and refined setting, allowing guests to eat like a local in Hanoi. Signature dishes include crab soup, pickled eggplant, caramelized shrimp, braised goby fish with pepper, and stir-fried pork belly with fermented shrimp paste.
A highlight of Cay Cau is its 2 signature set menus, featuring northern and southern Vietnamese cuisine, offering diners a chance to experience the distinct flavors of both regions.
All ingredients are carefully selected to ensure authentic and rich flavors in every dish. If you’re dining in a large group, you can book a private room with a view of the restaurant’s courtyard. Each private dining space is uniquely designed, yet all reflect Indochine aesthetics, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Luk Lak Restaurant – One of must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter for burgers
- Address: 4A Le Thanh Tong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Opening Hours: 07:30 – 10:00 (Mon – Sun)
- Hotline: 0943 143 686
For those looking for an all-day dining experience, Luk Lak Vietnamese Restaurant is one of the must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter. It masterfully blends traditional Vietnamese flavors with a modern touch, making it a standout choice for both locals and visitors. Recognized with the Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024, Luk Lak is celebrated for its exceptional food, service, and affordability.
As you step into Luk Lak, you’ll be welcomed by a vibrant artistic space that effortlessly combines Vietnamese heritage with contemporary elegance. The ground floor is a trendy café area with a lively green theme, perfect for a refreshing morning start. The second floor reveals a charming, vintage-style dining space, offering a refined yet cozy atmosphere.
At Luk Lak, every dish is carefully crafted by Madame Bình, a seasoned expert with 25 years of experience. Each passing month and season brings new signature dishes, showcasing the distinctive flavors of different Vietnamese regions.
One of the most famous breakfast dishes at Luk Lak is traditional snail noodle soup, made with fresh, whole stuffed snails. Other highlights include chicken pho and beef stew baguette.
For lunch and dinner, highly recommended dishes include Sapa grilled pork belly, served with a special sauce and fresh Clausena indica leaves, bringing an authentic Northwestern Vietnamese flavor. Each dish captures the unique flavors of North, Central, and South, offering a culinary journey across Vietnam in one meal.
The top 5 must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter offer a unique experience and showcase diverse cuisine and fantastic food for diners. Whether you’re looking for authentic local flavors, innovative fusion dishes, or fine dining excellence, these restaurants promise to deliver unforgettable culinary moments in the heart of the capital. If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi, don’t forget to save this list and experience these restaurants, and share with us your reviews after that!
