Exploring the lively maze of Hoan Kiem’s streets is one of the best parts of visiting Hanoi — and the food scene here is unbeatable. From historic coffee houses to hidden local gems, here’s your ultimate list for first-timers!
☕ COFFEE TIME
1️⃣ Cafe Giang (39 Nguyen Huu Huan) – The original egg coffee 🥚☕ — creamy, rich, and 100% Hanoi tradition.
2️⃣ Cafe Dinh (13 Dinh Tien Hoang) – Hidden upstairs gem with a view over Hoan Kiem Lake.
3️⃣ The Note Coffee (64 Luong Van Can) – Walls full of traveler notes — colorful, cozy, and great vibes.
4️⃣ Hanoi-Oi Terrace (117 Hang Bac) – 🌸 A secret rooftop café with charming views, perfect for a slow morning or sunset drink.
5️⃣ Loading T Cafe (8 Chan Cam) – Vintage French-style vibe, soft lighting, and cinnamon coffee aroma.
6️⃣ The Hanoi Social Club (6 Hoi Vu) – Bohemian hideaway with excellent brunch and live music evenings.
7️⃣ Tranquil Books & Coffee (5 Nguyen Quang Bich) – Quiet, artsy, and filled with books — ideal for a calm coffee break.
8️⃣ Blackbird Coffee (5 Chan Cam) – Minimalist café with top-quality brews and modern Hanoi style.
🍜🥘 WHERE TO EAT
9️⃣ Hanoi-Oi Kitchen (38 Bat Dan) – Home-style Vietnamese favorites: bun cha, grilled beef, grilled fish, banh xeo, and morning glory. Cozy vibes and family-friendly.
🔟 Hoang’s Restaurant (54 Hang Buom) – Authentic Vietnamese food, excellent for vegetarian and vegan eaters.
1️⃣1️⃣ Tung’s Kitchen (2 Hang Bong) – Welcoming local restaurant with great pho, spring rolls, and set menus.
1️⃣2️⃣ MẸT Vietnamese Restaurant (29 Hang Trong) – 100% vegetarian-friendly with creative, beautifully plated dishes.
1️⃣3️⃣ Bun Cha Ta (21 Nguyen Huu Huan) – Famous for smoky grilled pork with noodles — a must-try Hanoi classic.
1️⃣4️⃣ Cha Ca Thang Long (6B Duong Thanh) – Try cha ca — sizzling turmeric fish cooked right at your table.
1️⃣5️⃣ Banh Cuon Gia Truyen (14 Hang Ga) – Silky steamed rice rolls served with crispy shallots and fish sauce.
1️⃣6️⃣ Banh Mi 25 (25 Hang Ca) – Hanoi’s most famous banh mi sandwich — crispy, fresh, and full of flavor.
1️⃣7️⃣ Pho Bat Dan (49 Bat Dan) – Legendary beef noodle soup spot — join the line, it’s worth it!
1️⃣8️⃣ Xoi Yen (35B Nguyen Huu Huan) – Sticky rice with toppings — the ultimate Hanoi comfort food.
