Nestled in the heart of Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, Chả Cá Thăng Long stands as a beacon for lovers of traditional Vietnamese cuisine and cultural dining experiences. This charming restaurant, located at 17 Phố Chả Cá, offers visitors a unique opportunity to savor the iconic Hanoi dish, Chả Cá Lã Vọng, in an authentic and welcoming setting. Bold flavors and the essence of Hanoi's culinary heritage await you here.
Chả Cá Thăng Long is revered for its star dish, Chả Cá Lã Vọng , which features marinated Hemibagrus catfish infused with turmeric and grilled to perfection. Served sizzling in a hot pot with fresh spring onions and fragrant herbs, this dish invites diners to enjoy it alongside soft rice noodles and a drizzle of fish sauce, creating an addictive and flavorful feast. The interactive nature of cooking the fish tableside adds to the charm and immersion into Hanoi's culinary traditions.
Located on the second floor of a building tucked away in a lively alley, Chả Cá Thăng Long offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling streets of Hoàn Kiếm. The clean, simple interiors focus attention on the food itself, with a cozy terrace providing a pleasant view of Hanoi's Old Quarter rooftops. Diners can also enjoy delicious spring rolls, refreshing frozen yogurt coffee, and a selection of beers and wines to complement their meal. The restaurant caters to groups and is well suited for lunch or dinner outings.
- Dine-in and takeout options available with delivery services provided for local convenience.
- Parking available including free street parking nearby.
- Reservations recommended especially during peak hours to secure seating.
- Accepts major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
- What is the signature dish at Chả Cá Thăng Long? The signature dish is Chả Cá Lã Vọng, featuring marinated Hemibagrus catfish seasoned with turmeric, grilled, and served in a hot pot with spring onions and herbs, best enjoyed with rice noodles and fish sauce.
- Are reservations required at Chả Cá Thăng Long? While reservations are not always necessary, it's advisable to make one, especially during peak hours, to ensure seating.
- What are the operating hours of Chả Cá Thăng Long? The restaurant operates daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Is Chả Cá Thăng Long suitable for vegetarians? The menu primarily features fish-based dishes, so it may not be suitable for vegetarians.
- Does Chả Cá Thăng Long accept credit cards? Yes, the restaurant accepts various credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
Chả Cá Thăng Long enjoys a predominantly positive reputation among locals and travelers alike. Patrons appreciate the authenticity of the dishes and the immersive dining experience of grilling fish at the table. However, feedback about service quality is mixed, with some guests finding staff attentive and others describing encounters as less warm. Portions are considered modest by some, and prices slightly above average, but the overall experience is valued for capturing Hanoi's culinary spirit. This makes it a must-visit destination for foodies seeking an authentic taste of Vietnam's capital.
Whether you're a local wanting to revisit a classic or a digital nomad exploring Hanoi's food scene, Chả Cá Thăng Long offers a vibrant window into Vietnamese cuisine through its carefully crafted dishes and genuine atmosphere.
Nestled in the heart of Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, Chả Cá Thăng Long stands as a beacon of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, drawing food lovers from around the world eager to savor the iconic Chả Cá Lã Vọng dish. This restaurant is not just a place to eat but a living testament to over three decades of culinary passion and cultural heritage.
Established in 1990, Chả Cá Thăng Long began with a mission to perfect the traditional Vietnamese specialty, Chả Cá Lã Vọng. This dish features succulent sweetwater fish marinated in a delicate turmeric and spice blend, cooked with aromatic dill and spring onions, then served alongside soft rice noodles and fresh herbs. The restaurant’s dedication to this authentic recipe quickly garnered a devoted following.
By the year 2000, Chả Cá Thăng Long expanded to multiple locations along Duong Thanh Street, becoming a beloved culinary destination for both local residents and international visitors exploring Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene. The restaurant's reputation grew as an authentic gateway to experiencing Vietnamese flavors rooted in tradition.
In 2010, Chả Cá Thăng Long's commitment to quality and authentic flavors was internationally recognized with a Bib Gourmand award from the prestigious Michelin Guide. This honor highlighted the restaurant's excellence in delivering good value and outstanding traditional Vietnamese cuisine, cementing its status as a must-visit spot in Hanoi.
What makes Chả Cá Thăng Long truly special is its unwavering dedication to the traditional recipes and the immersive dining experience it offers. Located discreetly on a charming alley in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the restaurant serves up a sensory journey with its fragrant dishes and simple yet inviting atmosphere, beloved by locals and travelers alike.
- Traditional recipe – Perfected over 30 years, showcasing authentic Hanoi flavors.
- Cultural significance – A culinary icon representing Hanoi’s rich food heritage.
- Recognition – Honored by the Michelin Guide for outstanding quality and value.
Tucked away at 17 P. Chả Cá in the bustling heart of Hanoi's historic Old Quarter, Chả Cá Thăng Long offers an authentic Vietnamese dining experience centered around the iconic cha ca dish. This restaurant is a favorite for those keen to savor traditional flavors with the local culinary heritage vividly on display.
Chả Cá Thăng Long is celebrated for its commitment to authentic Vietnamese cuisine, especially the cha ca dish, which features fragrant turmeric-marinated fish cooked tableside with dill and spring onions. Diners enjoy an interactive and immersive experience that brings the rich culinary tradition of Hanoi right to the table. The restaurant’s food quality has garnered consistently positive reviews, praised for its fresh ingredients and rich flavors. Moreover, the establishment has earned recognition from the Michelin Guide, highlighting its standing as a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts exploring Hanoi's gastronomic scene.
Despite its many strengths, there are a few points to keep in mind. The restaurant’s prices tend to be higher than average, reflecting its prime location and quality ingredients, which might not suit all budgets. Some visitors have noted that service can be somewhat inconsistent, with staff occasionally exhibiting a less warm demeanor. Additionally, the menu selection is somewhat limited, focusing mainly on traditional dishes which may not appeal to diners seeking more variety or modern twists.
Situated on the second floor of a discreet building, the atmosphere is clean and comfortably local, providing a genuine Hanoi dining vibe rather than a trendy or touristy scene. The cha ca set typically includes rice noodles, aromatic herbs, peanuts, and a drizzle of fish sauce, offering a balanced and addictive meal. For those who prefer alternatives, the grilled ribs and beef with black pepper sauce have also received favorable mentions. The restaurant welcomes groups and offers takeout and delivery options, complemented by free street parking nearby—a convenience in the busy Old Quarter.
- Authentic Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on traditional cha ca dishes.
- Interactive dining experience that immerses you in Hanoi’s culinary traditions.
- Positive reviews for food quality praised for fresh ingredients and delicious flavors.
- Recognized by Michelin Guide as a notable culinary destination in Hanoi.
- Higher prices compared to average may affect budget-conscious diners.
- Mixed reviews on service quality with some customers noting less friendly staff.
- Limited menu options may not satisfy diners seeking extensive variety.
