The Word Ha Noi

A 2013 Hanoi trend truly in the ascendant is the hybrid hangout space. Places you can go to have a drink, sure, but while you’re at it maybe attend a talk, watch a film, make something, hear poetry, create... As a ‘trend’ this one is hard to define, a bit blurry-round-the-edges. Not an overnight sensation, instead it’s a slow and steady burner.

Both a winebar and a top-end restaurant, Seafood Bar is the latest classy and elegant addition to the Hanoi dining scene.

Forget the old, slightly disappointing seafarer-style 21 North in Yen Phu Village. The latest, recently reopened version screams potential.

One of Hanoi's longest running bars, The R&R Tavern, has reopened this month on Nghi Tam.

Well-loved Hanoi watering hole, Derry’s Irish Bar, is reopening after an 18-month hiatus. With more time to devote themselves fully to the endeavour, owners Victor and Huong are keeping with the formula successful in the bar’s last incarnation — a fusion of Irish, Singaporean and Vietnamese décor, cuisine and styles to create a unique watering hole overlooking Truc Bach Lake.