Some places exude a memorable vibe. Other places provide exceptionally delicious food. Very few can combine both these elements the way Quan An Ngon does. There's a reason it's highly rated and cited as one of the best dining options in Hanoi. Reservations highly recommended especially if you have a larger party. Otherwise, show up earlier rather than later for dinner and a better chance at snagging a table. Cash & credit cards accepted, and probably e-wallet options as well. English spoken.

If you have the opportunity before or after your dining experience, circle the perimeter of the courtyard and view the dozen or more stations where specific dishes are prepared. Admire the shining clams and mounds of snails at one. Watch fish being grilled at another. It's a memorable explosion of colors, scents and sounds.

An extensive menu featuring something for nearly everyone's taste buds and food requirements or limitations. Indoor (AC) and outdoor seating, though without a reservation you're more likely to end up outside. After dark this is no problem though as the temperature is reasonable and they have a variety of mechanisms to protect from rain.

Experiment with different options. Try the braised beef served with a small baguette. Clams in lemongrass are sweet and incredibly fresh tasting. Their spring rolls are technically perfect but probably the smallest in size of any I've ever encountered. And their banana in coconut sauce dessert is sweet, creamy and sends you away from the table like a security blanket for your stomach.

Beers, juices, sodas and smoothies for beverages. Alcohol sold only by the bottle - no individual cocktails. Prices are high for Hanoi but the quality is definitely worth it.

Just watching the service staff is worth the price of your food. It's like a ballet between the waiters and waitresses, busboys and countless others. On a Friday night there must have been close to 100 staff racing around the place delivering food expertly as well as expediently.