Walter Ponce
The Hanoi Social Club is a café and restaurant on Hội Vũ street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, serving international comfort food with plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes. It is as much about culture and atmosphere as about the food: housed in a 1920s French colonial villa spread over several levels, it has been a favourite with locals, expats and travellers since it opened in 2011. Whether you want a hearty brunch, a coffee break or a laid-back dinner, this bohemian spot has something for everyone.
Why visit The Hanoi Social Club?
A hidden retreat in the Old Quarter
Tucked away at 6 Hội Vũ, Hoàn Kiếm, the café feels like an escape from the noise of the city, and it is only a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, which makes it an ideal place to recharge after exploring.
A relaxed, artistic atmosphere
From the moment you step inside, you are surrounded by a warm, creative mood. The walls are covered with artwork and photographs, and the rustic yet stylish furniture creates a cosy, lived-in feel. Whether you sit by the windows in the natural light or on one of the leafy balconies, it feels like a quiet oasis, the kind of place where conversations flow and time slows down.
The Hanoi Social Club menu: the dishes we tried
Sticky date pudding
Desserts don’t get much better than this. The sticky date pudding, served warm with cream and a rich butterscotch sauce, was hands-down one of the highlights of the meal. The pudding was moist and full of flavour, and the sauce added just the right amount of indulgence. A must-try.
Social Club Burger
A gourmet take on the classic: a well-cooked beef patty with fresh salad, aioli and a touch of sweet chilli sauce in a soft brioche bun, with extras like avocado, cheese or a fried egg if you want them. Served with crispy fries, it is a filling, flavourful meal.
Grilled tempeh Reuben
Vegetarians, rejoice! The grilled tempeh Reuben is an inventive version of the classic sandwich: mustard-marinated grilled tempeh with tangy sauerkraut, melted gruyère, spinach and a hint of chilli. Satisfying and genuinely different.
A menu for every mood
The menu mixes international favourites with a few Asian-inspired dishes, with fresh ingredients and thoughtful presentation. Beyond what we ordered, you will find:
Breakfast and brunch: from scrambled eggs to smoothie bowls, a great way to start the day.
Veggie laksa: a rich soup with aubergine, tofu and bok choy, popular with vegetarians and soup lovers.
Drinks: coffee, fresh juices, craft beers and cocktails.
That range makes it a good spot at any time of day, for brunch with friends, a quiet coffee or an evening meal.
More than just a café
Live music and culture
The Hanoi Social Club is also a cultural hub. It hosts live music and other events such as acoustic sets, readings and open mic nights, which bring together locals, expats and travellers who love creativity and connection. Events are regular but not daily, so check its social media for the latest schedule.
A good spot for remote work
If you need to get some work done, the café has Wi-Fi and a calm, inspiring atmosphere, and the upper floors tend to be the quietest. It is an easy place to settle in with a laptop and a coffee.
A celebration of Hanoi’s charm
The colonial architecture and greenery evoke old-world Hanoi, while the menu and crowd reflect the city’s modern energy. It feels timeless yet contemporary.
Where is The Hanoi Social Club? Address and opening hours
Address: 6 Hội Vũ, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi.
Hội Vũ is a small lane on the western side of the Old Quarter, a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and the busy streets around Hàng Bông. Most Old Quarter hotels are within walking distance, and Grab cars or motorbike taxis are the easiest option from other districts.
Opening hours: the café opens from morning until late, but hours can change, so check the official Hanoi Social Club pages or Google Maps for current opening hours before you go.
Best time to visit: the afternoon for a quiet coffee, or the evening if there is live music on.
The Hanoi Social Club reviews: is it worth it?
My rating is four stars, with four stars each for service, food, location, price and portions. The Hanoi Social Club is more than a restaurant, it is an experience. Whether you are enjoying the sticky date pudding, soaking up the artistic vibe or listening to live music, it leaves an impression.
It suits solo diners, groups of friends and families. With its central location, welcoming atmosphere and varied menu, it is easy to see why it has become one of the city’s best-loved spots.
If you enjoy Hanoi’s café scene, read my review of Dream Beans Coffee Roastery, and for the wider city see my guide to what to do and expect in Hanoi.
FAQ
What is on The Hanoi Social Club menu? International comfort food and brunch with many vegetarian and vegan dishes: the Social Club Burger, a grilled tempeh Reuben, veggie laksa, smoothie bowls, a sticky date pudding, plus coffee, juices, beer and cocktails.
Is The Hanoi Social Club worth visiting? I gave it four stars. It is a relaxed, artistic café with good food, and a pleasant break from the busy Old Quarter.
Where is Hanoi Social Club? At 6 Hội Vũ, in Hoàn Kiếm district, a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
What are The Hanoi Social Club opening hours? It is open from morning until late, but check the official pages or Google Maps for current hours before you go.
Does The Hanoi Social Club have vegan options? Yes. Dishes like the grilled tempeh Reuben and veggie laksa are vegetarian, and there are vegan choices on the menu.
Is there live music every night? No. Live music and events are held regularly but not daily, so check their social media for the schedule.
