Cha Ca Thang Long

Cha ca is one of Hanoi's signature dishes, and Cha Ca Thang Long is one of the most reliable places to try it. The restaurant has been running for more than 30 years, since 1994 according to its own website, and is listed as a Bib Gourmand in the 2026 Michelin Guide Vietnam, recognised for good cooking at fair prices. It occupies a century-old, pale-yellow townhouse at 6B Duong Thanh Street, reached through a small courtyard.

There are several restaurants with the same name on the street, so check the number: the Michelin-listed restaurant is at 6B. The restaurant's own website lists its branches at 2D and 6B Duong Thanh, warns that the Google Maps pin is not the correct location, and links to its own map pins instead. The dining room has air conditioning, which is welcome in the hot months.

Cha ca is the dish everyone orders, though the menu also includes a fish hotpot, fish spring rolls and a fish soup, all made with ca lang. Boneless catfish, ca lang, is marinated with turmeric, wrapped in banana leaves and grilled, then brought to the table in a hot pan, where it is stir-fried with spring onions and fresh dill. You then assemble each mouthful yourself with rice noodles, herbs, peanuts and fish sauce. The combination of turmeric, dill and sizzling fish is distinctive and very Hanoi, and if you are unsure how to put it together, ask the staff.

The restaurant is open every day from 10am to 10pm, which makes it handy for a late lunch or an early dinner after sightseeing. It is cash only, so bring dong. Larger groups should book through the hotline on +84 931 111 999 or call the branch on +84 24 3828 6007; the website notes a bamboo garden and a VIP room. A portion is filling, and the set-up works best for two or more people sharing; solo diners may find a full serving generous. Children usually enjoy the interactive cooking, but take care with the hot pan.

Duong Thanh Street is in the Old Quarter, and Pho Gia Truyen on Bat Dan Street is nearby for another meal. A late lunch here pairs well with an afternoon exploring the old town, followed by drinks at the bia hoi corner on Ta Hien Street.