Top 10 Hanoi Old Quarter restaurant – A culinary journey through historic streets

Exploring the bustling streets of the Old Quarter in Hanoi is not just about sightseeing, it’s also a culinary adventure. From street food stalls to fine dining, a Hanoi Old Quarter restaurant offers visitors a chance to savor authentic Vietnamese flavors right in the heart of the city. When planning your food journey, knowing where to find the best restaurant. This guide highlights must-visit eateries that combine traditional Vietnamese cuisine with unique atmospheres, ensuring a memorable dining experience while wandering through the historic streets.

GạoTa Dining – A refined culinary space near Hanoi’s Old Quarter

• Address: Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa - 62 Chau Long, Ba Dinh, Hanoi, Vietnam

Just a few steps from the bustling streets, GạoTa Dining offers a unique dining experience for anyone searching for a restaurant in Hanoi Old Quarter. While not set amidst the hustle and bustle of the Old Quarter itself, its slightly tucked-away location is a true advantage. Guests can easily walk from the vibrant streets of the Old Quarter, yet return to enjoy a tranquil and elegant dining atmosphere, something rarely found in the heart of the city.

GạoTa Dining

The space at GạoTa Dining is designed with sophistication and elegance, blending traditional Asian charm with modern refinement. Warm wooden tones, soft golden lighting, and natural decorative details create an ambiance that feels both intimate and luxurious. The airy and open layout, thoughtfully arranged from furniture to lighting, offers diners a sense of comfort and relaxation in every corner.

GạoTa Dining serves breakfast buffet

The menu at GạoTa Dining highlights traditional Vietnamese cuisine, carefully crafted from fresh local ingredients. Each dish reflects a harmony of authentic flavors, yet is presented with refined artistry, turning every meal into a journey of culinary discovery. Guests can begin with light appetizers, continue with flavorful regional specialties, and finish with desserts infused with an Asian touch.

What an elegant setting!

Dining at GạoTa is more than just enjoying a meal, it is about experiencing attentive, professional, and genuinely warm service. The restaurant is a perfect choice for intimate dinners, family gatherings, or friendly get-togethers after exploring the Old Quarter. It is a destination that combines convenience with comfort, offering the best of both worlds: close to Hanoi’s Old Quarter, yet serene and sophisticated.

Beyond GạoTa Dining, Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa offers memorable dining and leisure experiences. Guests can enjoy the elegant and cozy ambiance at Tonkin Lobby Bar, sipping drinks while taking in the city’s vibrant rhythm, or savor breathtaking sunset views from the Nón Skybar on the rooftop. After a day exploring Hanoi, the infinity pool provides the perfect spot to relax, unwind, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Read more: Discover 10+ beloved Hanoi hotel near Old Quarter

Red Bean Ma May Restaurant

• Address: Red Bean Ma May Restaurant, Ground floor, No. 94 Ma May St., Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam

Located on Ma May Street, Red Bean is one of the most renowned contemporary Vietnamese restaurants in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The space is both refined and modern, yet retains a traditional charm with warm wooden tones, soft lantern lighting, and minimalist but elegant décor. From the windows, guests can enjoy views of the bustling Old Quarter streets, creating a dining experience that feels both intimate and uniquely local.

Red Bean Ma May Restaurant (source: Tripadvisor)

Red Bean’s cuisine emphasizes harmony of flavors, blending traditional Vietnamese dishes with modern presentation. Signature offerings include crab spring rolls, stir-fried beef pho, and caramelized clay pot fish, all prepared with the freshest ingredients and beautifully plated. The restaurant also offers curated set menus that take diners on a culinary journey across Vietnam, from North to South.

Duong’s Restaurant

• Address: 27 Ma May, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam

Duong’s Restaurant, a highly recommended Hanoi Old Quarter restaurant, is a popular choice among both international travelers and Hanoians looking to enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a modern setting. The restaurant stands out with its tasteful design, creating a warm yet sophisticated dining atmosphere.

Duong’s Restaurant (source: Duong’s Restaurant)

The menu focuses on classic Vietnamese dishes prepared with creativity and beautifully presented. From fresh spring rolls, crispy fried nem, and Hanoi’s signature bún chả, to curated set menus showcasing flavors from the North, Central, and South, each dish highlights the use of fresh ingredients and meticulous attention to detail.

Green Tangerine 

• Address: 48 Hang Be, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi, Vietnam

Green Tangerine is one of the most iconic restaurants in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, located in a restored French colonial villa dating back to the early 20th century. The setting exudes old-world European charm, with moss-colored walls, a lush courtyard garden, and elegant interiors. Stepping inside, guests are embraced by a peaceful, romantic atmosphere that feels worlds apart from the bustling streets just outside.

Green Tangerine (source: MIA)

Green Tangerine is a must-visit destination among Hanoi Old Quarter restaurants for those seeking a unique French culinary experience. Its seasonal menu features a variety of creative dishes made with local produce, seafood, and aromatic herbs. Diners can indulge in specialties such as roasted duck with orange sauce, beef bourguignon, or salmon with passion fruit. It’s an ideal destination for a romantic dinner or an elevated dining experience right in the heart of Hanoi.

Cha Ca La Vong 

• Address: 14 Cha Ca Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Cha Ca La Vong, a historic Hanoi Old Quarter restaurant, is a culinary icon that has been closely tied to this place for more than a century. This family-run eatery is the birthplace of the famous cha ca dish, where fresh fish is marinated with turmeric, grilled, then stir-fried with dill and green onions right at the table. Served with rice noodles, roasted peanuts, and a dash of shrimp paste, the flavor is rich, aromatic, and uniquely Vietnamese.

Cha Ca La Vong - a must visit restaurant Hanoi Old Quarter

The restaurant itself has a simple, old-world charm, preserving the nostalgic atmosphere of Hanoi’s traditional dining culture. Dining here is not just about enjoying a meal, but also about experiencing a piece of Hanoi’s culinary history that has been passed down through generations.

Pho Bat Dan

• Address: 49 Bat Dan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Pho Bat Dan remains a top choice among restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter for an authentic Pho for decades. Unlike many modern pho shops, Pho Bat Dan still follows the “self-service” style where customers line up, order, and carry their own bowls to the table – a tradition that has become part of the restaurant’s charm.

Pho Bat Dan (source: MIA)

The broth here is rich, clear, and fragrant, simmered for hours from beef bones to achieve a naturally sweet flavor. Served with tender beef slices, fresh herbs, and chewy rice noodles, a bowl of pho at Bat Dan brings a truly authentic Hanoi breakfast experience. Despite the long queue, locals and visitors alike are willing to wait just to savor this legendary flavor.

Bun Cha 41 Cua Dong 

• Address: 41 Cua Dong Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

When it comes to Hanoi’s culinary specialties, bun cha is simply indispensable – a humble yet flavorful dish that embodies the city’s taste. Located on Cua Dong Street, Bun Cha 41 is a well-known eatery where both locals and visitors come to enjoy Hanoi’s iconic bun cha. The restaurant maintains a simple and rustic style with clean wooden tables and chairs, creating a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

Bun Cha 41 Cua Dong (source: Momo)

The highlight at Bun Cha 41 is the charcoal-grilled pork, perfectly marinated and served with fresh rice noodles, herbs, and a flavorful sweet-and-sour dipping sauce. The menu also features crispy fried spring rolls, a classic accompaniment. With authentic Hanoi flavors and reasonable prices, Bun Cha 41 Cua Dong is one of the must-visit restaurants in Hanoi Old Quarter.

Xoi Yen 

• Address: 35B Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

For those exploring Hanoi, Xoi Yen is a must-visit spot to taste authentic Vietnamese sticky rice. Located on Nguyen Huu Huan Street, this humble eatery has become famous for its wide variety of sticky rice dishes, loved by both locals and visitors.

Xoi Yen (source: Dealtoday)

Xoi Yen is known for its perfectly cooked, fragrant sticky rice, served with a variety of toppings: from peanuts and mung beans to chicken, eggs, and savory options. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast or a light meal, each bite delivers the comforting flavors of Hanoi’s culinary heritage. Its simple, rustic setting allows diners to focus fully on the taste, making it a beloved staple in the Old Quarter.

Highway4

• Address: 5 Hang Tre Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Highway4 Hang Tre is one of the branches of the famous Highway4 restaurant chain, specializing in traditional Northern Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant features a warm, inviting interior with wooden furniture, bamboo and rattan lamps, and murals depicting terraced fields, creating a relaxed and authentic Vietnamese atmosphere.

Highway4 (source: Chao Hanoi)

A special highlight is Son Tinh rice wine, made from local fruits and herbs, which perfectly complements the Northern dishes served at the restaurant. With its cozy atmosphere, flavorful dishes, and professional service, Highway4 Hang Tre is an ideal spot to enjoy authentic Northern Vietnamese cuisine in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Mr Bay Mien Tay

• Address: 79 Hang Dieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi 

Mr Bay Mien Tay is a standout culinary spot specializing in Southern Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant offers a simple, cozy atmosphere, making diners feel comfortable and welcomed. 

Mr Bay Mien Tay (source: Mindtrip)

It is especially famous for crispy Banh Xeo filled with shrimp and pork and Southern-style beef noodle salad (Bun Bo Nam Bo) – all meticulously prepared to bring the authentic flavors of Southern Vietnam right into the Old Quarter. This makes Mr Bay Mien Tay not only a place for delicious meals but also a standout Hanoi Old Quarter restaurant offering Southern culinary delights.
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Hanoi’s Old Quarter is not only a hub of history and culture but also a vibrant culinary destination. Whether you are seeking a quick local snack, a hearty breakfast, or a refined dinner, the Old Quarter promises an unforgettable dining experience. Plan your journey through every Hanoi Old Quarter restaurant and savor the authentic flavors that define the city.