Highly Recommended Hidden Dessert Shops and Cafes in Hanoi, Vietnam

It has been three years since my first visit to Hanoi, Vietnam. Since then, I’ve made it a point to visit Hanoi every year. Hanoi is a great destination for first-time international travelers and solo female travelers. Here are three reasons why: 1. Affordable (food, transportation, accommodation) 2. Convenient as a transit hub for visiting other countries 3. Easy to get around, mainly by motorbike! Now, let me introduce three highly recommended spots in Hanoi. 1. Authentic Chè at a Popular Local Spot 📍Trà Chanh Address: 8 P. Chợ Gạo, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam 💰Approx. 20,000 VND (around 110 JPY) I discovered this shop thanks to a Vietnamese friend who told me, "For local spots, go to places that are always crowded." True to her advice, this shop is always bustling with people. At the entrance, staff are busy preparing tea, and if you talk to them, they’ll guide you inside. "Chè" is a Vietnamese dessert made with tapioca, beans, and various types of jelly, served with milk or coconut milk 🍧. It’s often enjoyed chilled with ice. The "Chè" here is absolutely delicious! 🤤 I especially recommend the mango Chè. The combination of coconut milk and mango creates a perfectly balanced, not-too-sweet dessert that you can’t stop eating ✨ 2. A Café Overflowing with Messages from Visitors Around the World 📍The Note Coffee Address: 64 P. Lương Văn Can, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam 💰From 35,000 VND This café is popular among tourists and is slightly pricier compared to local spots in Hanoi. However, the large croissants and authentic coffee are of satisfying quality. The walls of the café are covered with messages from visitors around the world, making it a great spot for photos. There’s paper and pens on the tables, so be sure to leave a message when you visit! 🩵 3. A Quiet Café Where You Can Read Books from Around the World 📍Tranquil Books & Coffee Address: 5 P. Nguyễn Quang Bích, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam 💰From 40,000 VND This café offers not only coffee and drinks but also meals like Bánh mì. The interior has a calm, library-like atmosphere where you can read books from around the world. I even found some Japanese manga there 😳 This spot is highly recommended for those visiting Vietnam during the rainy season. You can enjoy a peaceful and quiet time while taking shelter from the rain. Hanoi, Vietnam, is home to not only stylish cafes but also many popular local spots. If you’re traveling there, I hope you’ll experience both atmospheres ✨