Hanoi is a phenomenal city in Vietnam – the ancient capital sits on the shores of the Red River, flanked by stunning pagodas, colonial structures, and diverse museums. Hanoi’s nightlife is pretty impressive as well – each district of the city has a unique charm, bursting with speakeasy-style pubs, brew companies, and rooftop bars aplenty. Here are our picks for the best bars in Hanoi where you can sip cocktails and observe the illuminated skyline.
La Plume Bar & Lounge
Inspired by the design of the Long Biên Bridge, La Plume Lounge Bar in the French Quarter is one of the best bars in Hanoi. Located in Press Club Hanoi, alongside a renowned Michelin-star restaurant, the place is buzzing every night of the week. On Wednesday and Friday evenings live jazz performances take things to another level. In addition to cocktails crafted by a world champion mixologist, their exemplary wine menu offers over 600 options from the world’s finest producers.
12 Ly Dao Thanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Polite & Co. Bar
Channeling a typical 1920s style speakeasy, this elegant wooden bar in the Old Quarter is easily one of the best bars in Hanoi. Surreal paintings line the walls and smartly-dressed waitstaff serve hand-crafted cocktails and single malt whiskey to affluent patrons. Jazz music plays in the background as small groups of locals, ex-pats and visitors discuss the current state of affairs.
5b Bao Khanh Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Rooftop Sky Bar
Rooftop Sky Bar has some of the best views in the city, overlooking Hanoi’s charming Old Quarter from La Siesta Classic Lo Su. Comfortable sofas and bar stools punctuate the wraparound terrace and candlelit tables bring an intimate atmosphere. This luxurious space attracts Hanoi’s hip and trendy crowd, and with a tempting food and drink menu on offer, it’s the perfect spot for a romantic evening. Every Saturday night the sounds of jazz, pop, R&B, and rock ring out across the city as the resident band ‘Flex’ covers favorite songs on the rooftop. with stunning views of the Red River and Hoan Kiem Lake.
32 Lo Su Str, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
Pasteur Street Brewing Company
This innovative Vietnamese brewery harmonizes American brewing methods with fresh, seasonal Vietnamese ingredients. The brand has been featured in some of the world’s most iconic leisure publications, attracting visitors from all over the world to their taprooms. The Hoan Kiem Taproom and Restaurant in Hanoi invites visitors to try their signature drinks with a regional twist – Jasmine IPA, Dragon Fruit Gose, and Pasteur Street Pale Ale. If you’re staying locally and in the mood for a night in, you can order drinks and gourmet burgers straight to your hotel!
1 Au Trieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Mad Botanist Gin Bar
In the heart of the Old Quarter, this charming speakeasy pub is sister to Polite & Co, but with an affection for gin. It has over 100 choices to sample, with innovative mixtures and candlelit tables overlooking St Joseph’s Cathedral. This elegant bar offers a romantic atmosphere, subdued lighting, and a botanical theme – make sure to visit and you’ll appreciate why it’s one of the best bars in Hanoi!
45 Ly Quoic Su, 10000 Hanoi, Vietnam
Binh Minh’s Jazz Club
Tucked away in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Binh Minh’s stylish bar is the place to catch the best live jazz in the city. The bar’s owner Minh teaches saxophone to students and jams here with musicians he has met throughout the years. With Latin Jazz, Funk, Blue Jazz, and traditional performances, you’re in for a rare treat every night of the week.
No. 1A Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Twilight Sky Bar
Set along a rooftop with 270-degree city views, Twilight Sky Bar offers a unique setting for dinner and drinks after a busy day of sightseeing. This luxurious and romantic rooftop bar is elegantly designed and has breathtaking views of Hoan Kiem Lake. Nibble on a selection of cheese or charcuterie platters, feast on delicious tapas, or sip on a signature cocktail. Admire the clustered rooftops of Hanoi as soothing music fills the air – this is one memory of your trip to Vietnam that you’ll always keep with you.
8th Floor – 1 Cau Go Street, Hanoi City
