The Best Bars to Grab a Drink in Hanoi

When separating good bars from exceptional ones, what matters most? Decor? Of course. Atmosphere? Obviously. Cocktails? Goes without saying. Tadioto ticks all those boxes and more. It sits within a tranquil neighbourhood a stone’s throw from the Opera House but a world away from the bustle of the Old Quarter. The interior reflects Vietnamese-American owner Nguyen Qui Duc’s interests, from journalism to writing to art and wine. In the dimly lit room, the people, the drinks and the inviting vibe really make a night out in Hanoi, especially during event nights.

Standing Bar is an essential stop-off for craft beer lovers. Not only does it offer 19 high-quality ales on tap, it also hosts comedy shows, both local and international acts. But don’t let its name fool you — there are plenty of seats and space to chill out in. Significantly livelier in the evening, it has an upstairs terrace overlooking the Truc Bach Lake.

Red River Tea Room feels like the nest of an old man who seeks nothing but tranquility, with its shelves packed full of bottles and books. There’s no smoking, TV or loud music. You never quite know what you are going to get inside, but that’s part of the fun: table games, a rooftop terrace with views of the West Lake, table tennis, a small selection of craft and bottled beer, some cheap tasty food, quiz nights and even a tiny dog to cuddle.

A contemporary industrial space with a chilled-out ambiance, 88 Lounge opened in 2013 and has an impressive array of wines from top global wine producing regions. With four floors of bar and lounge spaces, you can enjoy your glass in the comfort of the garden terrace or on cozy sofas and armchairs on the upper floors, with beautiful views over the lake. Check out their occasional wine tasting events to sample sought-after wines from acclaimed brands.

Bar Betta is a themed bar, but a highly authentic one: there’s a gramophone, vinyl records, an antique telephone, TV, radio and plenty of Hollywood prints. All of this is presented in harmony in a beautiful French colonial-era mansion. The rooftop bar has a laid-back ambiance and party vibes after dark, plus well-priced bottled beer, wines and cocktails.