Vin Hơi: A Culinary Gem for French-Inspired Vietnamese Flavors and Natural Wines in Hanoi
Vin Hơi in Hanoi is quickly establishing itself as a must-visit for those seeking a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience that beautifully bridges French culinary techniques with Vietnamese soul. This charming bistro, nestled in a welcoming setting, offers a unique take on "nhậu" (Vietnamese drinking and snacking culture) with an emphasis on fresh, market-inspired dishes and an impressive selection of natural wines.
The menu at Vin Hơi is a delightful exploration of flavors, with a focus on small, shareable plates that encourage conversation and discovery. One dish that truly stands out and is an absolute "must-try" is •🫕the Whipped Tofu, Chili Oil, and Veggies. This creation is a revelation – the tofu is deconstructed and whipped to an incredibly creamy, almost cloud-like consistency, yet still retaining a delicious, savory depth. It has a surprising texture, remarkably similar to a savory whipped cream, making it both innovative and incredibly satisfying. The chili oil adds a perfect kick, and the fresh vegetables provide a welcome crunch, making every bite a harmonious blend of tastes and textures.
•🪿Beyond this showstopper, the Duck Croquette with Carrot Puree offers a comforting yet refined bite. The croquette is perfectly crispy on the outside, yielding to tender, flavorful duck within, and the sweet earthiness of the carrot puree provides a lovely contrast.
•🐖For something heartier, the Braised Pork Shoulder promises to be a deeply satisfying dish, likely slow-cooked to perfection with rich, aromatic flavors.
Adding another layer of appeal, Vin Hơi boasts a thoughtful selection of natural wines. This is a fantastic highlight for wine enthusiasts, offering an opportunity to pair unique and interesting varietals with their flavorful dishes. The staff are knowledgeable and can guide you through the options to find the perfect match for your meal.
Vin Hơi offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, making it ideal for a casual dinner with friends or a more intimate evening. The Vietnamese chef's passion for delicious small dishes, perfect for sharing, truly shines through in every plate. If you're in Hanoi and looking for a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation, alongside a great selection of natural wines, Vin Hơi should be at the top...
Read moreWe had a delicious meal in a relaxed and intimate setting. The atmosphere is calm and stylish, with tasteful, minimal decor and lovely film photographs on the walls that add a personal, heartfelt touch. The menu offers a well-curated selection of small plates — enough variety to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
We tried several dishes, and our favourites were the duck croquettes and the ’nduja mussels — both packed with flavour and beautifully presented. The rest of the meal was just as impressive. It’s a great spot for sharing plates or simply enjoying a high-quality glass of wine.
The chef is clearly very talented, and the staff were attentive, friendly, and made us feel very welcome. As visitors from England, we had no trouble communicating and felt really well taken care of.
Regarding the “no photos” policy mentioned in some other reviews — we actually appreciate and support the restaurant’s stance. It’s refreshing to enjoy a meal without being surrounded by people snapping endless pictures or over-ordering just for social media. It preserves the peaceful vibe and shows respect for the quality and care that goes into the food.
Highly recommend a visit if you’re in Hanoi and appreciate great food, good wine, and...
Read moreThis was my second time coming back, with more careful preparation—I even made a reservation. But from the table arrangement to the service, I was utterly disappointed with the restaurant’s management. The manager showed absolutely no hospitality. I was shocked when they informed us we would have the table within two hours. Then, while we were just sitting and chatting without ordering more beer, the staff mistakenly brought out two beers to our table. When I told them we hadn’t ordered more beer, the manager took the beers away with an attitude that was completely unacceptable for someone working in the service industry—and didn’t even bother clearing the dirty plates on our table.
Hey VIN HOI, I WILL NEVER WANT TO COME BACK AGAIN, and don’t even dare say things like ‘we don’t need customers’!!!”...
Read more