Chào Bạn Vietnamese Restaurant — Restaurant in Hà Nội

An Absolute Must-Try in Hanoi!

If there's one culinary destination you must experience in Hanoi, this is it. We’ve been eating our way across Vietnam — including stops at several Michelin-starred restaurants — and this place has undeniably stood out as our favorite.

From the moment we walked in, the warmth of the staff set the tone for an unforgettable evening. Trang, our wonderful waitress, was gracious, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic about the food. She guided us through the menu with care and charm, making the whole experience feel personal and special.

The food? Simply extraordinary. Each dish reflects a masterful balance between tradition and innovation, rooted in Vietnamese heritage but elevated with refined French influence. This fusion is executed to perfection by none other than Mrs. Hang — a culinary icon with over 30 years of experience, 15 of which were honed at the legendary Metropole. Her passion and precision shine through in every bite.

Don't miss these standout dishes:

Grilled Prawns – The sauce is absolutely out of this world; rich, nuanced, and unforgettable.

Caramelized Fish in Clay Pot – Deep, savory flavors with a touch of sweetness; pure comfort.

Fried Crab Spring Rolls – Perfectly crisp with a generous filling — they disappear fast.

Tamarind Chicken – Bold, tangy, and beautifully tender.

Desserts – Honestly? Just say yes to all of them. You won’t regret it.

In a city known for its vibrant food scene, this gem rises above. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply in search of an unforgettable meal, this is a place that delivers on every level. Exceptional food, warm service, and a sense of soul you can taste — it’s one of the best dining experiences I’ve had anywhere...

Chào Bạn (Hello, Friend) — and that’s exactly how you’re treated the moment you walk in.

Linh, the host with the most, (thank you for helping me capture the moments) and the extraordinary Chef Madame Hang — along with the entire kitchen team — delivered one of the most memorable dining experiences I’ve had. Not just in Vietnam, but globally.

As a chef with three decades in the industry, having cooked and eaten my way through dozens of countries, I don’t say this lightly: this place holds its own next to some of the finest restaurants anywhere. What sets it apart isn’t pretension or theatrics — it’s the opposite. It’s restraint, respect for ingredients, and that rare alchemy of technique, soul, and intention.

Every dish was a lesson in balance and purity: • The crab spring rolls were light but powerful. • The fresh watermelon juice reminded me how perfect simplicity can be. • The pork ribs — lacquered, fall-off-the-bone, deeply satisfying. • And that banana cake with coconut ice cream… honestly, you could build a restaurant on that dish alone.

There’s love here. Precision. Passion without ego.

You can feel it in the flow of service, the quiet confidence of the plating, the care in every bite.

Chef Madame Hang, you are an artist. And your team — from the floor to the flame — reflects that.

This wasn’t just a meal. It was a reminder of what food is supposed to be: real, rooted, and made with love.

Big ❤️ — A fellow chef, a grateful guest, and someone who recognizes mastery when...

If you’re searching for one of Hanoi’s true culinary standouts, don’t be fooled by imitators. The original Chào Bạn is a Michelin-rated masterpiece, tucked away like a hidden gem, delivering everything that makes Vietnamese cuisine unforgettable—refined, soulful, and deeply rooted in heritage. This place isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a benchmark of excellence.

Sadly, there’s a counterfeit version out there, opened by a former manager who stole the name and copied the menu in an attempt to cash in on the original’s success. Let’s be clear: that place is not Chào Bạn. It’s a pale imitation, and once you’ve experienced the real thing, the difference is glaring. From the service to the execution of every dish, the original Chào Bạn radiates class, craft, and authenticity.

What sets the true Chào Bạn apart? Start with a staff that knows the meaning of hospitality—gracious, professional, and proud to represent a legacy. Then there’s the food: every plate is beautifully composed, clean, and deeply flavorful. Whether you’re enjoying their elegant take on bún chả or savoring a quiet bowl of pho that could win awards (and has), you’re in expert hands. The ambiance is understated but warm, with subtle details that reflect both Hanoi’s charm and international finesse.

If you care about supporting original creators and chefs who put their hearts into their craft, make sure you’re dining at the real Chào Bạn. The Michelin guide didn’t get it wrong—and...