Chả Cá Lã Vọng — Restaurant in Hà Nội

First off - many of the photos linked to this place are not actually of this place. This is not a posh restaurant but a very simple one-room restaurant and kitchen combo. Cash only (I think). Enough English to instruct you in apparently the only menu option they offer. Overblown Internet hype for reasons I can't fathom.

Not normally inclined to take Internet blogger's advice I made an exception to try something different in terms of Vietnamese cuisine. Cha Ca is a Hanoi specialty featuring a kind of grilled catfish served with rice noodles. This establishment was a terrible experience of this dish both in taste as well as in service.

You walk in and are directed to one of the long, family-style tables. if it's busy you'll either wait for someone to finish or be seated next to strangers. Not unusual unless you're from out of town. A burner is placed on your table and then a wok is brought with partially cooked fish pieces topped with green onion stalks and dill. You're instructed to cook it for five minutes before eating. There is no menu and this appears to be the only dish they offer. If you want a drink you may have to specifically ask for it because they may not offer. Bottled water and canned sodas (and perhaps beer) are the options I observed.

Cha ca is a type of catfish marinated and then grilled (but I think these were fried, not grilled) and then you complete the cooking at your table. Served with what look like spring rolls but have more of a sausage-consistency innards. Bowls of peanuts, chopped red chili peppers (be careful these are hot!), and a vinegar ginger sauce are served as garnishes.

*Beware of the purple/pink sauce that is also traditional. It's a fermented shrimp sauce and a local buddy of mine told me it's to be used sparingly with the fish, rice noodles and other garnishes. A whiff of this stuff was enough to turn my stomach (no easy task) and a reluctant taste of it did nothing to change my first impression. Be careful. I'm sure it's an acquired taste that becomes more delicious with time, practice, and/or death. *

The fish can be very greasy and this one was. Also we were not served any rice noodles although everyone else was (and this is an essential, not optional, component of the meal). Other sauces and condiments were seen scattered on some tables and not others. My dining companion and I were charged 450,000 VND (close to $40 US at the time) for this travesty of service. It feels very much like the owners are riding a surge of Internet fame (lots of foreigners in the restaurant and few locals, plus what looked like a food tour group) and are not real worried about trying to prolong it or make it enjoyable.

Very frustrating. In a city where food is an expression of love, this place is truly disappointing and hardly representative of the high levels of food options and quality available. Perhaps the other cha ca restaurant whose pictures have been intentionally or accidentally associated with this place offers a better experience. Maybe it was just an off night. I would not take the chance of returning here or referring others though. Look for another place to try this local delicacy, and perhaps you'll find it as delicious as...

My visit to Cha Ca Lang Thung Cam was an exceptional culinary experience that left a lasting impression. Located in the heart of Hanoi, the restaurant's welcoming and elegant ambiance set the perfect tone for an unforgettable meal.

The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the friendly staff who were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu. Their recommendations were spot on, guiding me to some of the restaurant's signature dishes made from the freshest Lang fish.

The highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the Cha Ca – a traditional Vietnamese dish featuring perfectly grilled Lang fish, seasoned with a delightful blend of turmeric, dill, and other aromatic spices. The fish was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection, and beautifully complemented by the accompanying herbs and dipping sauces. The balance of flavors and textures was exquisite, making each bite a delightful experience.

The portions were generous, and each dish was presented with care and attention to detail. The freshness of the ingredients was evident in every bite, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality.

Dining at Cha Ca Lang Thung Cam was not just about the food, but also about the overall experience. The warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with the impeccable service, made for a truly enjoyable evening.

In conclusion, my visit to Cha Ca Lang Thung Cam was a wonderful experience. The combination of delicious, expertly prepared dishes, a charming setting, and excellent service makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Hanoi. I left the restaurant with a happy heart and a full stomach, eagerly anticipating...

BEWARE! This restaurant is a SCAM! If there is anything good about this place is that it is a professional and well organized SCAM. We went there due to a recommedation of one famous vlogger but seems like we went to the wrong place. First, the restaurant does not have a menu, the crew is the one who decides on how much food will be served based on the number of people. You do not get to order but will dump all the food on your table very fast. There is no price, the crew will just tell you how much you will pay with no explanation at all. The fish is not fresh, looks like leftovers or have been reheated several times as the fish is so salty. My Sister had an allergic reaction after eating the fish. I also had upset stomach after an hour. This pin should be checked as it is misleading. This is the worst restaurant that I...