Ho Chi Minh City
Cholon
Café Central An Dong
International
18 An Duong Vuong
Tel (08) 3833 6688
It’s worth skipping a meal before visiting this fantastic buffet in order to sample as many dishes as possible. Vietnamese, Japanese, and international cuisine is served for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. An à la carte menu is also available.
Orientica
Chinese/Japanese
242 Tran Binh Trong
Tel (08) 3839 7777
This award-winning restaurant located in the Equatorial Hotel features a “wet market” where guests can choose their own fresh seafood. Chefs prepare meals in an open kitchen.
District 1
Asian Kitchen
International
185/22 Pham Ngu Lao
Tel (08) 3836 7397
Tucked away in an alley, this eatery has a huge menu of Vietnamese, Japanese, and vegetarian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Try the chicken cooked in a clay pot.
Bo Tung Xeo
Vietnamese
31 Ly Tu Trong St
Tel (08) 3825 1330
This large restaurant with its sprawling garden is named after its signature dish, bo tung xeo – strips of beef the diners themselves grill on a brazier at the table.
Bun Cha Hanoi
Vietnamese
26/1 Le Thanh Ton
Tel (08) 3827 5843
Bun Cha Hanoi is one of the most popular places in the city to sample grilled pork served with vegetables and rice vermicelli – a Hanoi specialty.
Huong Lai
Vietnamese
38 Ly Tu Trong St
Tel (08) 3822 6814
A Japanese-run restaurant where orphans, ex-street kids, and disadvantaged youths serve home cooking in a surprisingly classy colonial-style dining room. Staff are attentive, and the food is tasty and well-presented.
DK Choice
Nha Hang Ngon
160 Pasteur
Tel (08) 3827 7131
With simple cooking stations producing delectable regional specialties, this place is aptly named ‘Ngon,’ which means ‘delicious.’ It is a must-visit for an introduction to Vietnamese cuisine, served in and around a lovely colonial villa at rock- bottom prices. Popular with locals, it can get crowded at peak hours.
Pho 24
Vietnamese
71-73 Dong Khoi St
Tel (08) 3825 7505
Branches of this popular franchise can be found all over the country, serving pho – the national dish, consisting of a noodle soup, usually served with beef – in a hygienic, air- conditioned environment.
Wrap and Roll
Vietnamese
111 Nguyen Hue St
Tel (08) 3837 1231
Foodies who really like to get their hands dirty will love this place. Order up the ingredients, roll them in rice paper, and then dip them in tangy sauces.
Black Cat
International
13 Phan Van Dat
Tel (08) 3829 2055
The place to go for comfort food such as waffles and burgers; for the ravenous, the 10 oz (300 g) Double Trouble cheeseburger is a great choice. There are also some Vietnamese and Italian dishes and sandwiches.
Hum Vegetarian
Vegetarian
2 Thi Sach St
Tel (08) 3823 8920
Hum serves a fantastic range of vegetarian fare, so good that even carnivores will love it, and the menu includes many vegan dishes too. There’s another branch in District 3.
Lemongrass
Vietnamese
4 Nguyen Thiep
Tel (08) 3822 0496
A tourist-friendly, three-floor establishment with a menu that offers a range of classic dishes such as prawns on sugarcane and crab in a spicy sauce. The set lunch is a good deal. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
Marina Saigon
Vietnamese/Seafood
172 Nguyen Dinh Chieu St
Tel (08) 3930 2379
Popular among locals for seafood, this is part of the Ngoc Suong chain, which has branches all over the country. Try the crab in tamarind sauce or the sugarcane prawns.
Noir
International Map 2 F4
Lane 178 Hai Ba Trung
Tel (08) 6263 2525
At this famous concept restaurant haute cuisine dishes are served in the pitch dark by blind waiters – the idea is that your sense of taste is enhanced by the deprivation of sight.
Tandoor
Indian
39 Ngo Duc Ke St
Tel (08) 3930 4839
There’s consistently good food (including vegan options) at this centrally located Indian restaurant. It serves both north and south Indian cuisine and is very popular, so book ahead.
Temple Club
Vietnamese
29–31 Ton That Thiep St
Tel (08) 3829 9244
One of the city’s most atmospheric restaurants, with a former Chinese temple as its setting. Try the chicken curry or cha ca Hanoi, then relax in the retro lounge over dessert and coffee.
Camargue
Mediterranean
74/7D Hai Ba Trung
Tel (08) 3520 4888
Located among restaurants and bars in the city center, Camargue serves top-notch Mediterranean cuisine in a stylish setting. Enjoy an aperitif at the bar, then head upstairs for a feast.
Maxim’s Nam An
Vietnamese
13–17 Dong Khoi
Tel (08) 3829 6676
Journey back in time with ancient French-style architecture, elegantly laid tables, and music in the evening. The food is reassuringly traditional Vietnamese and there’s a good-value set menu.
DK Choice
Vietnam House
Vietnamese
93–95 Dong Khoi St
Tel (08) 3829 1623
For those not familiar with Vietnamese cuisine, this is a great place to start discovering its wonderful range of flavors. Set in a lovely colonial-style house, with waiters in traditional attire and live gentle music, it offers à la carte or fixed-price menus.
Xu Restaurant and Lounge
Vietnamese
71–75 Hai Ba Trung
Tel (08) 3824 8468
Part restaurant and part lounge, this ultra-chic venue serves innovative Vietnamese dishes in an intimate setting.
District 2
Sozo
International
51, 24A Street, Area 5, An Phu Ward
Tel (08) 6 271 9176
This café and bakery is the perfect place to unwind over a leisurely meal. The staff is comprised of local street children being trained to run businesses
District 3
Spice
Thai
27 Le Quy Don St
Tel (08) 3930 7873
Conveniently located near the War Remnants Museum, this is probably the best Thai restaurant in town, serving classics like tom yam kung and spicy curries.
Au Lac do Brazil
South American
238 Pasteur
Tel (08) 3820 7157
Excellent Brazilian fare in stylish surroundings; the churrasco, a platter of grilled meats, will satisfy the most voracious carnivore.
Around Ho Chi Minh City
VUNG TAU: Binh An Village
Vietnamese/International
1 Tran Phu
Tel (064) 351 0016
Set in a resort of the same name, Binh An Village is Vung Tau’s most atmospheric place to eat. In a beautiful building with a tasteful decor, this restaurant has great sea views and excellent food.
VUNG TAU: Ganh Hao
Vietnamese/Seafood
3 Tran Phu
Tel (064) 355 0909
Ganh Hao, which serves some of the best seafood in Vung Tau, has tables on a terrace on a promontory above the sea as well as a snug dining room. Try the lobster, jumbo shrimp, or sea bass.
Mekong Delta and Southern Vietnam
CAN THO: Nam Bo
Vietnamese/International
1 Ngo Quyen
Tel (0710) 381 9139
This Can Tho institution offers Vietnamese fusion and international fare, and has a boat-shaped bar on the top floor.
CAN THO: Spices
Vietnamese/International
Victoria Can Tho Resort, Cai Khe Ward
Tel (0710) 381 0111
A meal on the poolside terrace of Victoria Resort is worth heading out of town for. Order traditional Vietnamese cuisine or international favorites such as foie gras and grilled sea bass.
CAO LANH: A Chau
Vietnamese
42 Ly Thuong Kiet
Tel (067) 385 2202
Situated just north of the town center, A Chau serves good local fare such as banh xeo (fried pancakes filled with crayfish, pork, and bean sprouts), as well as several dishes with rice.
CHAU DOC: Bay Bong
Vietnamese
22 Thuong Dang Le
Tel (076) 867 271
This simple eatery with tiny stools and plastic tables serves excellent clay-pot dishes and sour fish soup.
CHAU DOC: Bassac
Vietnamese/International
32 Le Loi St, Victoria Chau Doc Hotel
Tel (076) 386 5010
This is the best spot in Chau Doc for a romantic evening meal on the terrace, with views of the Bassac river. Order the roasted duck or the local fish, and wash it down with a fine glass of wine.
CON DAO ISLAND
Saigon Con Dao
Vietnamese Map B6
18–24 Ton Duc Thang
Tel (064) 383 0336
At the resort of the same name, this is one of the best of the few eating options in Con Son Town. Enjoy fantastic seafood in the smart dining room or out on the breezy terrace.
HA TIEN: Hai Van
Vietnamese/International
57 Lam Son
Next to the hotel of the same name, Vai Han has been decorated in a simple way. It is known for its consistently good Vietnamese fare as well as excellent Western breakfasts.
MY THO: Chuong Duong
Restaurant
Vietnamese
10, 30 Thang 4
Tel (073) 387 0875
Located on the banks of the Tien Giang River; the menu here is slanted towards river fish and seafood, but there are plenty of alternatives. There are also rooms, though they’re not as good as the food.
PHU QUOC ISLAND: Oasis
Vietnamese/International
118/5 Tran Hung Dao St
Tel (0909) 259 605
On the lane behind La Veranda Resort, this is a find for anyone craving comfort food like mashed potatoes or pies. It gets busy in the evening with sports on TV and a pool table.
DK Choice
PHU QUOC ISLAND:
Palm Tree
Vietnamese
118/11 Tran Hung Dao St
Laveranda Resort
The simple furnishings and decor can be misleading, as the kitchen turns out consistently tasty, well-cooked food. Try one of the clay-pot dishes, or go for the seafood barbecue in high season. No sea views to boast of, but the food makes up for it.
SOC TRANG: Quan Com Hung
Vietnamese
6/24 Hung Vuong
Tel (079) 382 2268
The specialty here is grilled steak. As few tourists visit, ordering can be tricky. Use a phrase book or point to a dish that appeals.
VINH LONG: Thien Tan
Vietnamese
56/1 Pham Thai Buong
Tel (070) 382 4001
It is worth heading south of the town center to check out this eatery, which specializes in barbecued dishes. The fish baked in a bamboo tube is particularly delicious.
South Central Vietnam
BUON MA THUOT: Black & White
Café/Bar
171 Nguyen Cong Tru
Tel (0500) 384 4960
A smartly decorated joint opposite the Dam San Hotel, a short walk from the town center. There’s no food, but coffee and a range of cocktails are on offer, and the Wi-Fi is reliable.
DALAT: An Lac
Vegetarian
71 Phan Dinh Phung
Tel (063) 382 2025
A nice variety of vegetarian and vegan options here make the most of the bountiful fresh produce that fills the markets of this town. Some dishes include mock meat.
DALAT: Long Hoa
Vietnamese/International
6, 3 Thang 2
Tel (063) 382 2914
This family-friendly bistro-style restaurant is right in the town center. It serves wonderful hot pots and soups, some superb home-made yogurt, as well as dalat wine.
DALAT: Café de la Poste
International
Tran Phu
Tel (063) 382 5444
Operated by the Du Parc Hotel and located opposite the post office, this classy French-style café serves a filling buffet break- fast as well as sandwiches, steaks and pasta. The daily à la carte menu includes Western and Asian delicacies.
DALAT: Le Rabelais
French
Dalat Palace Hotel, 12 Tran Phu
Tel (063) 382 5444
By far Dalat’s most upscale eating option, both in quality and price. Top-notch French cuisine is served in a majestic setting by wait staff who gladly help with suggestions.
KONTUM: Dakbla
Vietnamese/International
168 Nguyen Hue
Tel (060) 386 2584
A small, quirky café that is a big favorite among travelers, not only for its tasty stir-fries, sandwiches, and coffee, but also for its display of hill-tribe paraphernalia, much of which is for sale.
MUI NE: Shree Ganesh
Indian
57 Nguyen Dinh Chieu
Tel (062) 374 1330
A reliable choice for a hearty meal, featuring North Indian cuisine and tandoori dishes cooked by Nepalese chefs. There is a balcony upstairs and the music creates an intimate atmosphere.
MUI NE BEACH: Lam Tong
Vietnamese/International
92 Nguyen Dinh Chieu
Tel (062) 384 7598
This no-frills eatery located on the beach serves better and tastier food than most fancy restaurants in Mui Ne, at a fraction of the price.
MUI NE BEACH: Rung (Forest)
Vietnamese
67 Nguyen Dinh Chieu
Tel (062) 384 7589
Kids love Rung because it is like dining in the jungle, surrounded by vines and running streams. The food is great too, and traditional musicians perform in the evening.
DK Choice
MUI NE BEACH: Champa
Mediterranean
Coco Beach Resort, 58 Nguyen
dinh Chieu
Tel (062) 384 7111
Closed Mon
Open for dinner only, Champa offers a romantic setting on a terrace overlooking the resort’s swimming pool and a coconut grove. The menu includes tempting dishes such as roast lobster in whisky and veal tenderloin in black pepper- sesame crust. Save room for the heavenly chocolate fudge.
NHA TRANG: Da Fernando
Italian
96 Nguyen Thien Thuat
Tel (058) 352 8034
The place to go to for consistently good pizzas and pastas as well as delicious mains like steak with green peppercorns. There is also a good range of Italian wines.
NHA TRANG: Lanterns
Vietnamese
34/6 Nguyen Thien Thuat St
Tel (058) 247 1674
Here, disadvantaged young people are trained for a stable career in hospitality. They serve excellent seafood hotpot and fish in clay pot, and offer cooking classes too.
NHA TRANG: Louisiane
Brewhouse
International
29 Tran Phu
Tel (058) 352 1948
A beachfront brewery, this has an extensive menu of Vietnamese, Japanese, and other international dishes, as well as delicious home- brewed beer – and a pool.
NHA TRANG: Sandals
International
Sailing Club Nha Trang, 72–74 Tran
Phu
Tel (058) 352 4628
This fancy restaurant right on the beach offers a choice of indoor or outdoor seating and international standards such as beef carpaccio and blueberry cheesecake.
QUANG NGAI: Cung Dinh
Vietnamese
5 Ton Duc Thang
Tel (055) 381 8444
One of the best places in town, in a riverside location, serves an excellent seafood salad as well as dishes like don (snail soup).
QUY NHON: Seafood 2000
Vietnamese/Seafood
1 Tran Doc
Tel (056) 381 2787
Eating on the Vietnamese coast is all about seafood, and this place is often packed with regulars enjoying giant prawns, shark steaks, and seafood hotpot.
Central Vietnam
CHINA BEACH: Blue Whale
Seafood
My Khe Beach
Tel (0511) 394 2777
This beachside colonial villa is an ideal spot to enjoy seafood with great sea views, but check the prices before ordering.
DANANG: Bread of Life
International
4 Dong Da
Tel (0511) 356 5185
Closed Sun
This unusual café, run by an American family, serves comfort food like burgers and pizza. Staffed entirely by the deaf, it gives them a chance to lead an independent life.
DANANG: Apsara
Vietnamese
222 Tran Phu
Tel (0511) 356 1409
One of Danang’s smartest restaurants, with Cham-style decor and a replica Cham tower in the garden. The menu features classic Vietnamese cuisine, including lots of seafood.
DANANG: Waterfront
International
150–152 Bach Dang
Tel (0511) 384 3373
A stylish spot occupying two levels – a bar downstairs and a restaurant with good river views upstairs. Try the pulled duck or the deluxe burger. It offers a wide range of drinks.
DK Choice
HOI AN: Mermaid Restaurant
Vietnamese
2 Tran Phu St
Tel (0510) 386 1527
In a town awash with fancy restaurants serving beautifully presented food, when it comes to taste, this family-run eatery with stylish decor is hard to beat. Try the local white rose dumplings (stuffed with shrimp), cao lau (a delicious noodle soup with crispy croutons and pork), and fish grilled in banana leaves.
HOI AN: Morning Glory
Vietnamese
106 Nguyen Thai Hoc
Tel (0510) 224 1555
One of several eating places operated by local restaurateur Trinh Diem Vy, Morning Glory is set in a colonial-style building and serves delicious dishes like roast duck breast with banana flower salad.
HOI AN: Nhu Y (Mermaid)
Vietnamese
2 Tran Phu
Tel (0510) 386 1527
This simple eatery is hugely popular for its special fried wontons, squid stuffed with pork, and stuffed tomatoes. They also offer cooking classes.
HOI AN: Red Bridge
Vietnamese
Thon 4, Cam Thanh
Tel (0510) 393 3222
A stylish, out-of-town restaurant that is tempting enough to spend a day at – attend cookery classes, enjoy a delicious lunch, or simply lounge by the pool. Dinner is by appointment only.
HOI AN: Tam Tam Café & Bar
International
110 Nguyen Thai Hoc
Tel (0510) 386 2212
A popular spot among visitors, serving good French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine, as well as some Vietnamese dishes. It also has one of the town’s most popular bars.
HOI ANN: Ancient Hue
Vietnamese
104/47 Kim Long
Tel (054) 359 0356
Set among ancient buildings, this atmospheric place is ideal for sampling royal cuisine. There are also occasional performances of traditional music and dance.
HOI AN: Mango Rooms
Fusion
111 Nguyen Thai Hoc
Tel (0510) 391 0839
The names of dishes on the menu are as innovative as the preparation itself. Dancing Phoenix is marinated duck breast and the Magnum Opus is seared blue fin tuna with mango salsa.
HUE: La Boulangerie Francaise
French
46 Nguyen Tri Phuong
Tel (054) 383 7437
Established to give disadvan- taged kids a chance to learn a profession, this French bakery serves excellent baguettes and pastries, and is an especially good breakfast choice.
HUE: Lac Thien
Vietnamese
6 Dinh Tien Hoang
Tel (054) 352 7348
One of a trio of places operated by a mute family with a real flair for cookery. They specialize in Hue cuisine, with dishes such as banh xeo (pancakes stuffed with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts).
HUE: Les Jardins de la Carambole
Vietnamese/French
32 Dang Tran Con
Tel (054) 354 8815
Set in an attractive Colonial villa in the old city, this eatery serves wonderful French cuisine as well as some Vietnamese dishes. The friendly French owner is often around to make recommendations.
HUE: Le Parfum
Vietnamese/International
La Residence Hotel, 5 Le Loi
Tel (054) 383 7475
Located in La Residence Hotel, Le Parfum serves some of the best Western food in Hue. Go for the lamb tenderloin or grilled local fish. The ambience is sophisticated and relaxing.
LANG CO BEACH: Thanh Tam
Vietnamese
Thanh Tam Resort, Lang Co Beach
Tel (054) 387 4456
It is worth stopping at this resort’s restaurant, so well-known for its seasonal oyster specialties. Breathe the sea air and sample fresh seafood. Diners are allowed to use the pool here.
Hanoi
French Quarter
Quan An Ngon
Vietnamese
18 Phan Boi Chau
Tel (04) 3942 8162
This successful restaurant serves a fantastic range of regional specialties. It has pleasant indoor and outdoor seating, but be prepared for crowds at peak hours.
Al Fresco’s
International
23L Hai Ba Trung
Tel (04) 3826 7782
Just the place to indulge a craving for generous portions of comfort food, such as ribs, steaks, or pizza, as well as delicious desserts, beer, and coffee.
Cay Cau
Vietnamese
De Syloia Hotel, 17A Tran Hung Dao
Tel (04) 3933 1010
Set in the refined surroundings of the colonial-style De Syloia Hotel, this classy dining room serves excellent Vietnamese fare. There is live traditional music from 7 to 9pm.
Pots ‘n Pans
Vietnamese
57 Bui Thi Xuan
Tel (04) 3944 0205
Staffed by graduates of the KOTO Academy (Know One, Teach One), service here is impeccable and the ambience sophisticated. The innovative menu features dishes like twice-cooked pork belly with beetroot purée.
San Ho
Vietnamese/Seafood
58 Ly Thuong Kiet
Tel (04) 3934 9184
Specializing in seafood, San Ho is often busy with big groups enjoying a feast and downing a few pitchers of beer. There is live piano music in the evening.
Le Beaulieu
French
Sofitel Legend Metropole, 15
Ngo Quyen
Tel (04) 3826 6919
Set in Hanoi’s top hotel, La Beaulieu serves French cuisine prepared using only the best ingredients. The Sunday brunch is the stuff of legends, but be prepared to pay for the experience.
Ly Club
Vietnamese/International
4 Le Phung Hieu
Tel (04) 3936 3069
One of the city’s most exclusive restaurants, Ly Club features a cocktail bar on the ground floor, and dining with performances of traditional music (7–9pm) on the first floor.
Hai Ba Trung District
Chim Sao
Vietnamese
65 Ngo Hue
Tel (04) 3976 0633
This quirky restaurant is a great find, with many unusual dishes such as roast pigeon and grilled buffalo. There are plenty of vegetarian options too.
Wild Rice
Vietnamese
6 Ngo Thi Nham
Tel (04) 3943 8896
A restored colonial building provides a very classy ambience in which to enjoy traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist. Try the grilled chicken with chili and lemongrass or the braised eggplant with pork.
Old Quarter
Cha Ca Thang Long
Vietnamese
31 Duong Thanh
Tel (04) 3824 5115
The best place to sample Hanoi’s specialty fish dish (cha ca), served with dill, chives and bean sprouts, and very popular with locals.
TheLittle Hanoi
International
21–23 Hang Gai
Tel (04) 3828 8333
This friendly little eatery is conveniently located near the north end of Hoan Kiem Lake – a good spot to escape the bustling traffic outside. The menu includes favorites like baguette sandwiches, fried chicken, burgers, and salads.
DK Choice
New Day
Vietnamese
72 Ma May
Tel (04) 3828 0315
Sometimes the simplest things are best. That is certainly the case with New Day, a no-frills eatery in the heart of the Old Quarter, where the food is better than in many of the city’s more expensive restaurants. It serves fantastic spring rolls and spare ribs at rock-bottom prices.
Tandoor
Indian
24 Hang Be
Tel (04) 3824 5359
Set in a central Old Quarter location, this unpretentious Indian restaurant serves a range of dishes including vegetarian and non-vegetarian thalis. Go up to the second floor to escape the street noise.
Essence
Vietnamese/ International
22 Ta Hien
Tel (04) 3935 2485
This cozy restaurant in the hotel of the same name serves up superb Vietnamese dishes such as beef in bamboo, as well as a range of excellent Western dishes. Impeccable service, too.
Khazaana
Indian Map 2 D3
34 Duong Thanh
Tel (04) 3934 5657
Head here for delicious Indian food served in a stylish setting. Presentation and service is excellent, and the set lunch is reasonably priced.
DK Choice
Green Tangerine
Fusion Map 2 E3
48 Hang Be
Tel (04) 3825 1286
One of Hanoi’s most atmospheric restaurants, set in an old colonial house and courtyard. The ever-changing menu that blends the best of French and Vietnamese cooking techniques is wonderfully inventive. Opting for the set lunch is a good way to taste two or three dishes without breaking the bank.
Tay Ho
Don’s Bistro
Vietnamese/International
16 Quang An
Tel (04) 3719 3719
Enjoy wonderful views over West Lake while sampling chef Don’s delicious meatloaf or lamb shanks, washed down with a wine from the extensive list.
West of Hoan Kiem Lake
KOTO
International Map 1 B4
59 Van Mieu
Tel (04) 3747 0337
Conveniently located near the entrance to the Temple of Literature, this training school for disadvantaged youth serves great sandwiches and salads, and features rooftop views.
Khai’s Brothers
Vietnamese Map 1 C3
26 Nguyen Thai Hoc
Tel (04) 3733 3866
Khai’s hosts a great buffet spread in a colonial building. There is a range of delicious dishes for both lunch and dinner.
Thuy Ta
International Map 2 F3
1 Le Thai To
Tel (04) 3828 8148
This popular café, ideally located on the northwest shore of Hoan Kiem Lake, draws in sightseers for refreshing drinks, baguettes, cakes, and ice creams.
Vine
International
1A Xuan Dieu
Tel (04) 3719 8000
A delight for wine connoiseurs, the walls at Vine are lined with racks of award-winning wines. The menu consists mostly of pastas, pizzas, and steaks – all superbly prepared and served by friendly, attentive staff.
Northern Vietnam
BAC HA: Cong Fu
Vietnamese Map A1
Cong Fu Hotel
Tel (020) 388 0254
Tiny Bac Ha has few dining options. Cong Fu, in the hotel of the same name in the center of town, may not be gourmet dining, but the food served is tasty and good-value.
CAT BA ISLAND:
Green Mango
Vietnamese/International
Map C1
231, 1 Thang 4
Tel (031) 388 7151
This classy place serves a fantastic range of food, from muesli and yogurt to pan-roast salmon and smoked duck rolls. Prices are a bit steep, but the service and quality are top-notch.
DIEN BIEN PHU: Lien Tuoi
Vietnamese
Hoang Van Thai
Tel (023) 382 4919
Lien Tuoi stands out among the few good eating establishments in Dien Bien Phu, and has a menu in English. There are decent Vietnamese and Chinese dishes at cheap prices.
HAIPHONG: Texas BBQ
International
22h Minh Khai
Tel (031) 382 2689
Texas BBQ is very popular with locals for its good-value pizzas, ribs, and steaks. There are Thai and Mexican dishes too.
HAIPHONG: Nam Phuong
Vietnamese
12 Tran Phu
Tel (031) 382 7827
This elegant restaurant in the upmarket Avani Harbour View hotel is open only for dinner, but is worth visiting for its excellent preparation of classic Vietnamese dishes. Try the grilled sea bass with lemongrass.
HALONG CITY: Bien Mo Floating Restaurant
Vietnamese
35 Ben Tau, Hong Gai
Tel (033) 382 8951
Most visitors to Halong Bay hope to eat great seafood while floating on the water, and this upscale restaurant provides the perfect opportunity.
HALONG CITY:
The Square
Vietnamese/International
Novotel, 160 Halong Rd
Tel (033) 384 8108
This is by far the best restaurant in Halong City. Located in the Novotel hotel, it offers à la carte or set menus plus a buffet option in the evening, accompanied by a range of fine wines. Stylish decor complements the efficient service.
NINH BINH: Trung Tuyet
Vietnamese
14 Hoang Hoa Tham
Tel (098) 367 7324
This simple, family-run restaurant near the railway station turns out delicious Vietnamese staples in huge portions.
DK Choice
SAPA: Nature Bar & Grill
Vietnamese
24 Cau May
Tel (091) 227 0068
Set in a huge Alpine-style loft with fireplaces glowing in winter, Nature Bar & Grill specializes in grilled food served on hot, stone plates. Go for the beef or venison dishes, accompanied by spring rolls and maybe a steamboat to warm the insides. The service is very attentive and the owner is usually on hand with recommendations.
SAPA: Baguette & Chocolat
International
Thac Bac
Tel (020) 387 1766
Part of the Hoa Sua School, this stylish café trains disadvantaged youth for a career in catering. It is a real find, with comfortable seating, great coffee and cakes, as well as main meals.
SAPA: Delta
Italian
33 Cau May
Tel (020) 387 1799
Follow up a walk in the hills around Sapa by gorging on wood-fired oven pizzas, pastas, Australian steaks, or lasagna at this lovely place in the town center. The wine bar upstairs has an impressively extensive collection.
SAPA: Viet Emotion
International
27 Cau May
Tel (020)387 2559
There’s something for everyone here – from tapas to big breakfasts, home-made soups to tasty mains such as salmon with sticky rice. There are Wi-Fi and books for browsing as well.
