Christmas dinner in Hanoi: 11 BEST places to enjoy the holiday meal

Contents

The joyous atmosphere in Hanoi during Christmas (Source: Collected)

Let’s embark on a festive journey with Christmas dinner in Hanoi, where the essence of Vietnam travel converges with the holiday spirit. Amidst the bustling streets and vibrant markets, Hanoi’s culinary scene comes alive, presenting a delightful fusion of local traditions and global influences. Christmas dinner in Hanoi promises a memorable fusion of cultural richness and holiday cheer during your Vietnam travel.

1. What to eat for Christmas dinner in Hanoi?

There are several choices of delightful dining experiences to celebrate Christmas in Hanoi. You can elevate your festive spirit by savoring a traditional feast at one of the city’s distinguished 5-star restaurants, where opulence meets gastronomic excellence. Alternatively, it is a great idea to immerse yourself in the local charm of Christmas in Hanoi by exploring the vibrant streets and indulging in the diverse offerings of Vietnamese Christmas food. 

For a truly distinctive Christmas experience in Hanoi, many international tourists flock to Hanoi Old Quarter to welcome the Christmas season. Here, the festive spirit intertwines with the local gastronomic scene. You can try draught beer, roasted peanuts, fried spring rolls, dried beef salad, chicken feet, or hot pot, which are all special Vietnamese delicacies, to enjoy Christmas dinner in Hanoi like a local. Amidst the bustling markets and lively alleys, nothing is merrier than experiencing the joy of sharing delectable bites with loved ones in a casual atmosphere. 

Ta Hien Street – a hub for both locals and tourists at Christmas (Source: Collected)

Whether opting for upscale elegance or the authenticity of street-side delights, Christmas dinner in Hanoi promises a culinary journey that perfectly encapsulates Hanoi cuisine, creating lasting memories for the holiday season.

>>> Read more: Vietnam Christmas decorations: Guide to a visual feast with festive items

2. Top restaurants to enjoy Christmas dinner in Hanoi

2.1. Chapter Dining And Grill

• Location: 12C Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem District

• Opening hours: 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM

Chapter Dining And Grill in Hanoi Old Quarter, where culinary traditions take center stage, is an ideal place for an extraordinary Christmas dinner in Hanoi. Their chefs, renowned for their ingenuity with fire, redefine dining in town, presenting dishes that push the limits of what can be achieved over the flames. The simplicity yet unpredictability of their approach highlights ingredients in their most natural state, ensuring a dining experience unlike any other. Committed to excellence, they exclusively use the freshest seasonal produce, honoring the quality of each ingredient. Chapter Dining and Grill promises a novel and artful experience for your holiday. 

2.2. The Gourmet Corner

• Location: 9th floor, 22 Ta Hien, Hoan Kiem District
• Opening hours: 
  • Breakfast: 06:30 AM – 10:00 AM
  • Lunch – dinner: From 11:30 AM, last order at 9:45 PM

Established in 2010, The Gourmet Corner stands as a trendsetter in Vietnam’s boutique dining, making it a premier choice for Christmas dinner in Hanoi. The venue’s sophisticated ambiance, adorned with dark-brown furniture and warm lighting, offers a cozy and upscale atmosphere. With stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi’s skyline, it provides a picturesque backdrop for festive celebrations like Christmas dinner. Not only delivering creative dishes, this restaurant also prioritizes professional service, ensuring every dining detail is meticulously attended to and creating a memorable gourmet experience. During holidays like Christmas, guests can indulge in specially crafted set menus which add an extra layer of delight to the celebration.

The Gourmet Corner – one of the pioneers in boutique dining in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

2.3. Ruby Restaurant at Almaz Center

• Location: Almaz Center, Vinhomes Riverside Urban Area, Long Bien District
• Opening hours: 
  • 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Monday – Friday)
  • 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday)

Ruby stands as the epitome of authentic French dining, offering an ideal place for an enchanting Christmas dinner in Hanoi. Renowned for authentic French cuisine, this restaurant promises a culinary journey for families, couples, and foodaholics alike. Here, diners are immersed in a memorable dining setting enveloped in romantic candlelight, roses, and French melodies. Ruby uniquely blends traditional French cuisine with Vietnamese seasonal ingredients presented in a novel style. Moreover, whether you choose the indoor or outdoor area, each space exudes the architectural beauty and meticulous décor of France, ensuring a visually stunning backdrop perfect for your festive celebration. 

2.4. Salmonoid

• Location: 32C Cao Ba Quat, Ba Dinh District

• Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Salmonoid is an exclusive European restaurant devoted to salmon enthusiasts. Nestled in a charming old villa with a balcony and lush gardens, Salmonoid strikes an elegant yet inviting ambiance. Ideal for couples and small groups, this restaurant offers a cozy and romantic atmosphere. What distinguishes Salmonoid is their diverse menu which showcases culinary creativity. From tantalizing turmeric cream soup to fresh salmon with caviar in olive oil sauce, each dish is a testament to their commitment to excellence. For those seeking an unconventional Christmas dinner in Hanoi, Salmonoid stands out as a fantastic choice.

Salmonoid – the best spot for fans of salmon in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

>>> Read more: Christmas music: top 85 festive songs for your joyful playlist

2.5. Maison Vie – An ideal place for Christmas dinner in Hanoi

• Location: 28 Tang Bat Ho, Hai Ba Trung District

• Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Maison Vie Restaurant is a cherished destination for enthusiasts of French cuisine and Hanoi’s culture. Boasting two decades of profound experience in the French restaurant business, Maison Vie guarantees exceptional dishes and professional service brought by skilled chefs and devoted staff. This renowned establishment is an exceptional choice for a Vietnamese Christmas dinner, offering an unforgettable experience in its opulent and classically designed French architectural setting. Maison Vie provides a royal-like ambiance, a realm of luxury and elegance, making it a perfect spot for a cozy Christmas dinner in Hanoi for two. 

2.6. Labri Bistro

• Location: 2nd floor, 113 Bui Thi Xuan, Hai Ba Trung District

• Opening hours: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Honored with MICHELIN Selected in 2024, Labri Bistro is an ideal place for an extraordinary Christmas dinner in Hanoi. Tucked on the second floor behind a neon sign, Labri, translating to “shelter” in French, offers an ambiance of cozy luxury. The highlight here is the open kitchen adorned with grand crystal chandeliers, where the chef skillfully merges French techniques with Vietnamese ingredients for virtuoso cuisine. As a neo-bistro, Labri transcends fine dining, shaping a unique lifestyle through dishes that blend French culinary expertise with Oriental essence. You should opt for the 7-course menu to fully immerse yourself in the distinctive Labri experience during your Christmas dinner in Hanoi.

Labri Bistro breathes a luxurious French vibe (Source: Collected)

2.7. La Badiane

• Location: 10 Nam Ngu, Hoan Kiem District

• Opening hours: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM | 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Monday – Saturday)

Are you seeking a lavish Christmas dinner in Hanoi? La Badiane, a distinguished inclusion in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Vietnam, is an exceptional spot to indulge in culinary splendor. The chef here, a seasoned and well-traveled French maestro, has orchestrated an impressive selection of vibrant and adventurous fusion dishes. Guests can expect bold flavors and tantalizing textures that promise a sensory journey. The ambiance on the lower level exudes warmth with a black and white tiled floor and a convivial atmosphere, while upstairs rooms offer a more intimate dining experience. Affordable and delectable, the Christmas set menu at La Badiane completes the culinary experience, making it a great destination for gastronomic delight in Hanoi.

>>> Read more: Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City: Guide for a night out with endless fun

2.8. El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse

• Location: 11 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem District

• Opening hours: 11:00 AM until late

El Gaucho Argentinian Steakhouse, a distinguished establishment with presence in many countries, is an ideal option for fine dining in Hanoi. Renowned for its remarkable steakhouse experience, El Gaucho specializes in premium beef steaks grilled to perfection in the authentic Argentinian style. Using certified organic, corn-fed beef from the United States and grass-fed Australian cattle, each steak is expertly prepared and sparingly seasoned to highlight its natural flavors without overpowering sauces. For those who appreciate quality meat, the adjacent butcher’s shop offers an opportunity to purchase cuts for a home-cooked indulgence. Reservations are highly recommended for this exceptional Christmas dinner destination in Hanoi.

*This establishment may have more than one branch in Hanoi.

El Gaucho is renowned for its top-quality meat (Source: Collected)

2.9. Moo Beef Steak Hanoi – A must-try restaurant to enjoy Christmas dinner in Hanoi

• Location: 59A Tran Quoc Toan, Hoan Kiem District

• Opening hours: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

For fans of steak, Moo Beef Steak is a top choice for Christmas dinner in Hanoi. This restaurant stands out not only for its emphasis on food quality but also for its elegant American architecture. The formal yet unfussy ambiance with ceiling lights in brown, red, black, and yellow hues creates a cozy space for a relaxing dining experience. Moo Beef Steak not only captivates with its sophisticated interior but also with its beefsteak menu that meets new flavor standards. The diverse menu, featuring dishes made from high-quality beef imported from the US and prepared according to the methods of American chefs, ensures a memorable Christmas celebration in Hanoi.

*This establishment may have more than one branch in Hanoi.

2.10. Oven D’or

• Location: 2nd floor, Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, 11 Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho District

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Elevate your Christmas dinner experience in Hanoi with Oven D’Or, a restaurant located within the luxurious Sheraton Hanoi Hotel – one of the best 5-star hotels in Hanoi. This renowned restaurant is celebrated for its sumptuous seafood buffets and meticulously crafted dishes, all overseen by a Vietnamese head chef and expert team. The flavors are tailored to suit Eastern palates, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. With its warm ambiance and exceptional offerings, Oven D’Or is a perfect choice for those seeking a festive and upscale Christmas dinner in Hanoi. 

Oven D’Or at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel – a top spot for fine dining in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

>>> Read more: Vietnamese Christmas food: Dishes & dining places for a memorable feast

2.11. Pincho – Tapas Kitchen & Drinks

• Location: 34C Cao Ba Quat, Ba Dinh District

• Opening hours: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 5:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Located in a charming French house, Pincho Tapas Kitchen & Drinks offers an opportunity to level up your Christmas dinner in Hanoi. Here, you can indulge in an astonishing variety of tapas, complemented by a well-curated international range of wines and creative cocktails. The innovative menu showcases thrilling interpretations of the region’s freshest ingredients, setting high standards of service. Inspired by Spain’s tapas culture, Pincho brings that signature social atmosphere to Hanoi, along with delectable small bites and selected drinks. Whether you come with friends or plan a party, Pincho ensures a personalized culinary journey for those looking to eat in Hanoi during the festive season.

Best-selling products

[Vinpearl Aquarium Times City] Entrance Ticket

9 USD

-50%

[VinGroup Employees] Standard Admission Ticket to Ocean Park 3 Water Park

6 USD12 USD

[Grand World] Skydrop ticket

2 USD

-50%

[-60%] [VinWonders Hanoi Water Park] Direct admission ticket

6 USD12 USD

[Grand World] Carousel Ride

2 USD

-34%

[Vinpearl Aquarium Times City] Entrance Ticket

4 USD6 USD

-20%

[Aquafield] – [Male] – 4-hour Korean Sauna

416 USD519 USD

-20%

[-15%] Combo Admission Tickets for 2 Zones: Aquarium & VinKE + F&B Set

10 USD13 USD

-66%

[-50%] [VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park] Admission Ticket for 2 Parks

4 USD12 USD

[Aquafield Ocean City] [Male] – Standard Jjimjilbang Sauna Ticket

23 USD

Gondola Boat Ride | One-way Ticket

6 USD

-50%

[-50%] [VinWonders Wave Park] Standard Admission Ticket to Wave Park

6 USD12 USD

-30%

[-30% Grand Opening] [Aquafield Ocean City] – Standard Jjimjilbang Sauna Ticket for Female

17 USD23 USD

[VinWonders Wave Park] Family Coaster Ride Ticket

2 USD

-43%

[Romantic Couple Combo] – Standard Jjimjilbang Ticket & Premium Spa Treatment + Complimentary Bingsu

69 USD123 USD

-30%

[-30% Grand Opening] [Aquafield Ocean City] – Standard Jjimjilbang Sauna Ticket for Male

17 USD23 USD

-19%

[-10%] [Times City Hanoi] – Combo Aquarium Admission Ticket + F&B Set

7 USD9 USD

[Aquafield Ocean City] – Body Exfoliation Session

23 USD

[Aquafield Ocean City] [Female] – Standard Jjimjilbang Sauna Ticket

23 USD

[SUPER SALE] [VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park] Admission Ticket to 2 Parks

15 USD

Gondola boat ride | Round-trip ticket

10 USD

[Times City] Combo VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium Entrance Ticket

13 USD

-10%

[Deep Relaxation Combo] [Female] – Jjimjilbang Sauna & Korean Sesin Body Scrub

42 USD46 USD

Ticket for Redemption Games | VinWonders Water Park

2 USD

[Times City Hanoi] VinKE Entrance Ticket

8 USD

-20%

[Aquafield] – [Male] – 4-hour Korean Sauna

416 USD519 USD

3. Best outfit ideas for Christmas dinner in Hanoi

To choose a perfect outfit for Christmas dinner in Hanoi, you should consider Vietnam weather at Christmas in general and Hanoi weather in December in particular. As the city enjoys relatively mild conditions, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 22 degrees Celsius, the holiday spirit remains vibrant. Traditional Christmas colors like red, green, and white can be incorporated into your attire for a festive touch. Elegant dresses or other coordinated outfits make a statement for women, while men can opt for stylish blazers or dressy shirts.

Hang Ma Street is where you can find a wide array of Christmas decorations and accessories (Source: Collected)

For a casual yet festive look, a classic hoodie paired with jeans and a scarf is ideal. Additionally, embracing holiday-themed accessories like Santa hats or Christmas sweaters will add a playful element to your ensemble, blending Western traditions with the warmth of Vietnamese culture.

What to do in Hanoi in December? There are several enchanting places where you can visit and feel the festive vibe of Christmas in Hanoi, such as Hanoi Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hoan Kiem Lake, North Gate Cathedral, Ham Long Cathedral, shopping malls in Hanoi, etc. Tourists can enjoy the blend of cultural richness and festive ambiance at these iconic locations while making merry memories in the heart of the Vietnamese capital.

Furthermore, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, two exhilarating entertainment destinations in Hanoi, will also add an extra layer of fun to your vacation. VinKE provides an engaging learning-through-playing environment, encouraging children to explore their dream career while having fun. Meanwhile, the nearby Vinpearl Aquarium stands as one of Hanoi’s first aquariums and proudly holds multiple records in Vietnam. A bit farther from the city center, VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park emerges as a comprehensive recreational complex, presenting a beach-like paradise within the city. It offers a myriad of water activities, promising an unforgettable vacation experience.

Enjoy water fun at VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park

>>> Booking tickets of VINKE & Vinpearl Aquarium & VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park for an enjoyable outing in Hanoi!

Christmas dinner in Hanoi brings a harmonious fusion of global holiday spirit and local Vietnamese traditions. Against the backdrop of twinkling lights and jubilant laughter, a feast in Hanoi reflects a perfect amalgamation of diverse culinary influences, making it a truly memorable and culturally rich experience for all.