Hanoi charms us all with its culture and heritage, and one of those that is hard to give up is the coffee culture shaping the modern-day habits and lifestyles. Amidst the confusion caused by the tremendous amount of coffee shops in the city centre, here are the top 5 that have the best views of the city to meet-up with friends, business partners, or to get the perfect snapshot with an addition of the best brunch in town.

Table of Content

La Terrasse

RuNam Bistro

Serein Cafe & Lounge

Skyline Hanoi

The Church

1. La Terrasse

Those who have passed the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi would notice the outer corners of the hotel, where lies the beautiful and relaxed La Terrasse overlooking Square Chavassieux and the streets of French Quarter.

Inspired by the world-famous Parisian sidewalk cafes, La Terrasse calls to mind the glimpse of Paris in the heart of Hanoi. But with the decorations of antique ceiling fans, stylish window grills and polished wooden parquet floorings, the cafe is tinged with the nostalgic French – Indochina hint and the spirit of Hanoi. This is a popular haunt in town to sit, relax and watch the passers-by while sipping a cup of coffee or enjoying your late brunches.

Besides the sidewalk area, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi also has a picturesque glass house nestled in the hotel garden called L’Orangerie, where guests can have another space to enjoy their usuals, exquisite brunch meals or the signature Afternoon Indulgence high tea.

Location: 15 Ngo Quyen, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

2. RuNam Bistro

The cafes in the RuNam chain follow a blend of modernity and European classic in their decoration style. The most famous RuNam Bistro in Hanoi lies on Nha Tho street, while the latest is on the Phan Chu Trinh street, opposite to the Opera House. From Saigon to prime locations in the capital city, RuNam Bistros are the brand’s attempts to bring the luxurious experience to the people.

Location: 13 Nha Tho, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

3. Serein Cafe & Lounge

Occupying the two top floors of a French Villa near Long Bien Railway Station, Serein has a special view of the Long Bien Bridge, as well as the bustling life surrounding it. The cafe is located right next to the city’s oldest bridge, and offers an one-of-kind experience when a train passes by without having to be the coffee shop on Hanoi Train Street.

Location: 16 Tran Nhat Duat, Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

4. Skyline Hanoi

As one of the rare rooftop cafes in Hanoi, Skyline is located right in the centre, with the panoramic view of the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Covering the rooftop of a 11-storey building on Gia Ngu street, Skyline is the ‘stomping ground’ for party hostings or hanging out on New Year’s Eve.

Location: 38 Gia Ngu, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

5. The Church

The Church is the sight of European classic style in the intersection corner of the two streets Nha Tho – Hang Trong. The interior is spacious with a deep, nostalgic tone, but what sets it apart is the outdoor area that once again reminds us of the Parisian sidewalk coffee shops. There is nothing like enjoying a cup of coffee and seeing for yourself the streets of Hanoi as time goes by.

Location: 1 Nha Tho, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi