In this article:
- Rabbit Habit
- Longer Than a Summer
- Hanoi House
- Nê Boong-ke
- The Halflington
- Ủ Bar
- Dram Bar
- Hybrid Saigon
- Tủ Bar
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are famous for their vibrant bars and buzzing beer streets. While Ta Hien Street and Bui Vien Street are appealing to some, the madness can be overwhelming and not everyone’s vibe. Bia Hois don’t always do the trick either. Sometimes we just want a fancy cocktail in a low-lit bar with ambient music, don’t you?
If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist hotspots and explore a different side of Vietnam’s nightlife, we’ve got you. Hidden bars tucked away out of sight offer an intimate, cool vibe and the chance to sip on expertly crafted cocktails far from the noisy crowds.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just in search of a unique experience, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have some incredible secret spots that will make your night unforgettable. Let’s discover some of the coolest hidden bars in these two iconic cities.
Hidden Bars in Hanoi
Rabbit Habit
If you’re into quirky vibes and creative cocktails, Rabbit Habit is the place for you. This hidden bar feels like it’s straight out of a vintage fairytale. The entrance is cleverly disguised, and you might walk past it several times before realizing it’s there. Once you step inside, the magical atmosphere will take you by surprise. Think eccentric décor, cozy nooks, and an eclectic cocktail menu featuring unexpected ingredients. The bartenders here are experts at crafting unusual and memorable drinks, so make sure to ask for their specials, which change regularly.
📍4 P. Trần Phú, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm
Longer Than a Summer
Longer Than a Summer is an intimate bar that feels like a secret escape from the world. Hidden away down an unsuspecting alley, this little gem is all about relaxation, comfort and quiet. The décor is cozy, with soft lighting and flickering candles. And guess what? There’s no menu. But rest assured, the drinks are delicious.
📍2 P. Nhà Thờ, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
Hanoi House
Located in a 100-year-old building overlooking St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Hanoi House is a blend of tradition and innovation. This hidden gem serves up both Vietnamese-inspired and international cocktails. Drinks often feature local ingredients, like herbal infusions and fresh tropical fruits. The decor here is a nod to Hanoi’s classic charm, with vintage furniture and soft lighting creating a cozy, welcoming vibe.
📍47A P. Lý Quốc Sư, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
Nê Boong-ke
For those in search of a truly local experience, Nê Boong-ke is a Hanoi gem you can’t miss. Tucked away in a discreet corner of the city, this bar blends traditional Vietnamese drinking culture with modern creativity. They specialise in inventive cocktails. We highly recommend trying the pho cocktail! The ambience and vibe make it one of the most unique bars in Hanoi.
📍12 P. Cửa Đông, Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm
The Halflington
This bar’s understated exterior might make it easy to miss, but once you enter, the atmosphere changes entirely. The décor here feels like something out of a vintage British novel, with a touch of elegance and old-school charm. From plush armchairs to a hanging dinosaur skeleton, The Halflington provides a perfect balance of sophistication and comfort. Their cocktails are expertly crafted, with an emphasis on classic drinks like Old Fashioneds and Negronis.
📍94 P. Hàng Mã, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm
Hidden Bars in HCMC
Ủ Bar
Ủ Bar delivers a stylish slice of Saigon’s ever-evolving nightlife scene. This modern lounge-bar draws in a trendy crowd with its expertly curated cocktails and intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re warming up for a night out or winding down with friends, this is a great spot to hit.
📍50A Đặng Dung, Phường Tân Định, Quận 1
Dram Bar
The bar’s name, “Dram,” reflects its dedication to whisky culture. It is a haven for whisky enthusiasts, offering an extensive selection of over 250 labels, including Scotch, Irish, and Japanese whiskies. The bar’s decor exudes a vintage charm reminiscent of 1920s speakeasies, featuring a cosy horseshoe bar and a Hennessy room for private gatherings. Dram Bar is a perfect destination for a sophisticated night out.
📍2 Đ. Đặng Hữu Phổ, Thảo Điền, Quận 2
Hybrid Saigon
This speakeasy-style bar is tucked away down an alley and inside another establishment, making it a true secret spot for cocktail enthusiasts. The bar’s philosophy focuses on highlighting unique ingredients resulting in adventurous concoctions like the umami-rich Maestro Mushroom, the bold Mezcal Ant CO2, and a reimagined Piña Colada Old Fashioned. The interior blends old and new, featuring a bar crafted from reclaimed fishing boats alongside a modern mixology lab.
📍57 Đ. Nguyễn Du, Bến Nghé, Quận 1
Tủ Bar
Tủ Bar is a real hidden gem as you have to go through a wooden closet to find it. It offers a seasonal omakase-style cocktail experience (meaning there is no menu). This gives the bar a feeling of uniqueness and exclusivity. The sombre lighting and jazz music create an intimate atmosphere. It’s definitely not one to miss.
📍160 Đ. Ngô Tất Tố, Phường 22, Bình Thạnh
Hidden bars will make you feel like you’ve unlocked a secret part of the city. They’re more than just places to grab a drink. They offer a sense of discovery, exclusivity, and a chance to step off the beatFen path. So leave the main roads, wander down that little alley, and slip through a mysterious door. You never know what awaits you!
If you discover a bar that’s not on our list, be sure to tag us on our Instagrams @whereinhanoi or @whereinhcmc. We are always on the lookout for new and exciting spots to share! Cheers to discovering the best-hidden bars in Vietnam 🍸
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