The Polite Pub offers its largely foreign clientele the comforts of home. The owners sate cravings to munch while you drink with an endless supply of roasted peanuts; the CD collection draws from mostly Western favorites, both past and present; and foosball and pool provide sporting distractions from the main activities--drinking and cavorting. Besides beer, the women's Vietnamese pool champion bartender mixes good margaritas and Long Island ice teas.
This lively Old Quarter bia hoi (draught beer) restaurant is notable for the charm of its ubiquitous owner, Miss Minh. It is also known for its ever-expanding second-story terrace, which affords insightful views of the street market below. A good range of Vietnamese rice and noodle dishes is skillfully cooked in the makeshift kitchen area at the back of the terrace. The chicken and coconut curry packs a punch, while soft drinks are available if beer is not your fancy.
A sense of timeless sophistication overcomes you as you enter. Banners sporting ancient Chinese script in bold black hang about the entrance. Double happiness, longevity and wealth motifs translate from similar bamboo wall hangings inside. An army of well-groomed waiters descends as you make your way through the main dining room out into the garden beyond. Meticulously laid tables reside under lush banana palms as classical music wafts from an unseen orchestra. Once seated, smells from the kitchen and an all-you-can-eat buffet tempt skipping an aperitif. A wide selection of beverages is available.
Very few people actually rave about Apocalypse Now, Hanoi's sole after-hours venue, which boldly blends a Vietnamese and foreign clientele in an audacious display of sweaty indulgence. Like corny Hollywood movies, Apocalypse, or simply "Lips" as some locals refer to it, is the type of place that most hate to admit they enjoy. The frenzied dancing scene begins around one in the morning, once rambunctious revelers have been kicked out of the bars. While there is no cover charge, alcohol prices are inflated.
Popular with young Hanoians, this bar's main attraction is live music. Comfortable seating is set on three levels, surrounding a well-lit stage area where classical and vocal combos perform thrice weekly. Jazz on Fridays is the crowd puller (9p-11p), with cocktail prices rising to the occasion an extra thirty percent. Eight pool tables are situated away from the stage and can be hired by the hour for just USD1.50. If you are hungry, Vietnamese food is served.
Bamboo Bar is an oasis in the bustling city. Surrounded by lush greenery and adorned with bamboo accents, it exudes an atmosphere of tropical serenity. Whether you choose to sit at the bamboo-themed bar, lounge in comfortable seating, or enjoy the outdoor terrace, you'll find yourself enveloped in laid-back surroundings away from the city chaos. The heart and soul of Bamboo Bar lie in its cocktail menu. The signature "Bamboo Breeze" and the refreshing "Hanoi Mule" are the drinks that are expertly curated to satisfy every palate. Evenings at Bamboo Bar come alive with live music performances. Local musicians serenade guests with soulful melodies, creating a soothing ambiance.
This venue is not only a bar, but also a cafe and restaurant. Located in the busy and noisy Old Quarter, the Spot is a great place for some Western breakfast, afternoon coffee or evening drink.
Famous for its proximity to West Lake (Ho Tay), Savage acts like a magnetic attraction for locals and visitors. Head to this vibrant and lively club nestled in the heart of Quảng An, Hanoi, that adds a touch of excitement to the city's nightlife scene. You can choose to hit the dance floor, where the music takes center stage, or opt for a more relaxed setting with comfortable seating areas where you can socialize and savor your drinks. The bar menu at Savage is as impressive as its music lineup. It offers a variety of creative cocktails and an extensive selection of brews to cater to different tastes. And to keep the energy high and the party going, the establishment also offers a selection of delectable snacks and appetizers.
Highlands Coffee is known for its view and decoration. Simple, European style tables are laid out amidst a lush garden under umbrellas or set comfortably indoor, shielded from all the hustle and bustle of city life—a perfect place to enjoy Highlands' trademark coffee, which dates back to 1990. Young people and teenagers who frequent the place much prefer smoothies, shakes, and cocktails though, as well as its delicious cakes. Breakfasts and light meals are also served. The staff members are well-trained and speak good English.
Located right next to the University of Fine Arts, in the hall of its exhibition center, Viet Art café is the go-to place of Vietnamese aspiring young artists. Decorated as artistically as you can expect in red, white, glass, and crystal, it's all-too-easy to be swept in and get lost watching the many exhibited works, from paintings, to photography, to installation art. The café has a selection of more than 40 kinds of cocktails to help get your creativity flowing, or a conversation with your favorite artist going. Jazz music and a quiet, serene atmosphere certainly help too. The café also has breakfasts and lunch buffet. - Van Le
Offering a unique bar and cafe experience, on Tong Dan Street, is Tadioto. Known for its Bohemian style and excellent service, the bar has a wide range of cocktails, whiskeys and wines. Tadioto offers an alternate space solely dedicated to artists, photographers, exhibitions as well as experimental music. Besides being a favorite spot for coffee and liquor, a number of fashion and editorial photo shoots also take place. This is a nice location to relieve you stress and share ideas among friends.
The Polite Pub offers its largely foreign clientele the comforts of home. The owners sate cravings to munch while you drink with an endless supply of roasted peanuts; the CD collection draws from mostly Western favorites, both past and present; and foosball and pool provide sporting distractions from the main activities--drinking and cavorting. Besides beer, the women's Vietnamese pool champion bartender mixes good margaritas and Long Island ice teas.