Hanoi
Hanoi: Entertainment
Pubs, bars, entertainment centres in Hanoi
1. Apocalypse Now
This place has lost some of its lustre since moving a long way south in town. However, it remains a popular place of pilgrimage for Hanoi's hedonists. Definitely one of the more gay-friendly clubs in town.
2. Au Lac Cafe
Au Lac's shaded front patio is a pleasant spot for an afternoon coffee. You've got a French villa behind you and, to keep you in touch with modern Hanoi you've got the blur of traffic whizzing before you. You can also order a light bite or the mixed drink of your choosing.
3. Bia Hoi 68 Hang Quat
Generally, bia hoi (draught beer) is a watered-down product sold cheaply. Here, they don't water it down, and it's still damn reasonable (around ₫4500 a glass). The atmosphere is hardcore, with tiny tables and parked motorbikes sharing a covered alleyway. For company you have cadres of old men who seem willing to exchange a toast. Have a few rounds, skip the food.
4. Cafe Des Artes
On a rooftop terrace overlooking the Temple of Literature, Cafe des Artes' Francophone owner has created a literary atmosphere. It's a literary salon of sorts, with a library, European espresso drinks and fine teas from Vietnam and China. Out the back, an appealing wooden house sits on the roof, providing a traditional environment for drinking tea.
5. Cafe Nhan
Nhan is right in the armpit of the curving Hang Hanh backpacker ghetto, which, if you've come this way, is exactly where you want to be. It has a fine vantage point of the street, and it looks and feels like a spin-off of Rick's, from Casablanca . It's a lively place for a cup of coffee.
7. Cafe Pho Co
Hidden sanctuaries are all over Hanoi, and finding them is a triumph, particularly when the setting is as rewarding as this one. There's no sign - look for the address and walk through the curio shop. Order your coffee at the secluded courtyard counter, carry it up several flights of stairs, and enjoy a show-stopping view of Hoan Kiem Lake.
8. Central Circus
The huge permanent tent at the northern end of Lenin Park is home to Hanoi's Central Circus. The Russians introduced circus arts during their era of influence here, and the Vietnamese have retained a fondness for it. The Sunday morning show is geared towards children.
This place has lost some of its lustre since moving a long way south in town. However, it remains a popular place of pilgrimage for Hanoi's hedonists. Definitely one of the more gay-friendly clubs in town.
2. Au Lac Cafe
Au Lac's shaded front patio is a pleasant spot for an afternoon coffee. You've got a French villa behind you and, to keep you in touch with modern Hanoi you've got the blur of traffic whizzing before you. You can also order a light bite or the mixed drink of your choosing.
3. Bia Hoi 68 Hang Quat
Generally, bia hoi (draught beer) is a watered-down product sold cheaply. Here, they don't water it down, and it's still damn reasonable (around ₫4500 a glass). The atmosphere is hardcore, with tiny tables and parked motorbikes sharing a covered alleyway. For company you have cadres of old men who seem willing to exchange a toast. Have a few rounds, skip the food.
4. Cafe Des Artes
On a rooftop terrace overlooking the Temple of Literature, Cafe des Artes' Francophone owner has created a literary atmosphere. It's a literary salon of sorts, with a library, European espresso drinks and fine teas from Vietnam and China. Out the back, an appealing wooden house sits on the roof, providing a traditional environment for drinking tea.
5. Cafe Nhan
Nhan is right in the armpit of the curving Hang Hanh backpacker ghetto, which, if you've come this way, is exactly where you want to be. It has a fine vantage point of the street, and it looks and feels like a spin-off of Rick's, from Casablanca . It's a lively place for a cup of coffee.
7. Cafe Pho Co
Hidden sanctuaries are all over Hanoi, and finding them is a triumph, particularly when the setting is as rewarding as this one. There's no sign - look for the address and walk through the curio shop. Order your coffee at the secluded courtyard counter, carry it up several flights of stairs, and enjoy a show-stopping view of Hoan Kiem Lake.
8. Central Circus
The huge permanent tent at the northern end of Lenin Park is home to Hanoi's Central Circus. The Russians introduced circus arts during their era of influence here, and the Vietnamese have retained a fondness for it. The Sunday morning show is geared towards children.
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