5 Best Restaurants in Hanoi, Vietnam

Now gracing a French-style villa in West Lake (the restaurant used to be next to the Temple of Literature), this place can get packed with tour groups. The flavors here—from baked fish in banana leaf to bamboo beef—are bold and brilliant, and the menu is a mix of creative dishes. The fact that Koto (an acronym for "know one, teach one") is a charity restaurant that benefits street youth, is just the icing on the lemon cheesecake.

This beautiful bohemian villa serves up excellent food and an impressive farm-to-table ethos. They own two farms, one in Sapa and one in Soc Son, so all produce is carefully grown and selected. Vegetarian options abound, from goat cheese omelettes to vegan burgers, and the menu changes regularly to stay seasonal. Try one of their specialty coffee blends or a chai tea charger as you take in the views of the park opposite.

With three always-full locations, Chops is becoming a staple in Hanoi’s foodie community. Their slogan, "Hops, Wheat, Meat," says it all. All Chops burgers are made fresh daily from imported Australian beef and lamb and they bake their buns in-house every morning. They’ve got seriously good service and excel at keeping it simple.

Set up in a giant courtyard full of wooden booths, deck furniture, and barrels, the Moose & Roo Smokehouse at the American Center is chock-full of those looking for delicious smoked meats and comfort food. This lively restaurant promises Texas in Hanoi, and delivers on that promise.

This modern restaurant serves traditional cha ca (pan-fried fish with rice vermicelli) to multi-generational tables of lively locals. Reservations are almost essential, but if you can't get a table confirmed you can find a handful of other Vua Cha Ca locations across the city.