Hanoi: Vietnamese Set Menu at The East Michelin Guide Dining

This review explores the experience of dining at The East in Hanoi, a restaurant praised by the Michelin Guide for its authentic Vietnamese set menu. While I haven’t personally sampled this meal, reviews suggest that it offers a satisfying taste of local flavors in a lively setting. If you’re a food lover eager to indulge in carefully curated Vietnamese dishes, this experience might be just what you’re after.

What stands out are the variety of traditional dishes, the relaxed pace of the meal, and the opportunity to enjoy a lively, popular area full of restaurants. However, some travelers note that the overall rating is quite modest, likely reflecting mixed reviews or expectations. This experience is best suited for those looking for a relaxed, authentic Vietnamese meal in a vibrant environment—perfect for curious foodies or travelers wanting a taste of Hanoi’s culinary scene.

Key Points

• Authentic Vietnamese Flavors: The set menu features traditional dishes like seafood soup, grilled chicken, and more, showcasing local ingredients and recipes.
• Michelin-Recommended: The restaurant’s recognition by the Michelin Guide suggests a certain standard of quality and authenticity.
• Leisurely Dining Experience: The 3-hour format allows you to enjoy your meal without rushing, making it ideal for those wanting a relaxed experience.
• Vibrant Location: Situated in a lively area filled with many other restaurants, adding to the authentic Hanoi food scene.
• Customizable and Simple: Upon arrival, staff will take your reservation details; no complicated procedures, just enjoy your meal.
• Limited for Kids: Not suitable for children under 5, so best for adult diners or older children.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering The East: A Closer Look

The Setting and Atmosphere

Located in a bustling part of Hanoi, The East provides a lively backdrop perfect for enjoying local vibrancy. While the restaurant doesn’t appear overly fancy, it exudes a welcoming, authentic vibe that makes guests feel like they’re dining in the heart of Hanoi. Expect a busy, energetic environment, especially during peak hours, but with enough space and comfort for a relaxed meal.

The restaurant’s recommendation by the Michelin Guide lends a sense of credibility, suggesting that the dishes are thoughtfully prepared and authentic. Reviewers mention that the staff is friendly and straightforward—just provide your reservation name, and they’ll take care of the rest.

The Menu: A Taste of Vietnam

The highlight of this experience is, of course, the curated set menu. Starting with a seafood soup and fresh spring rolls, you’ll get an introduction to Hanoi’s fresh ingredients and flavors. These dishes serve as perfect starters, showcasing the light, aromatic quality of Vietnamese cuisine.

Main courses include grilled chicken with lemongrass, which offers a fragrant, tender bite, and duck meat stew in a traditional clay pot, providing a hearty, savory option. The inclusion of grilled eggplant with green onion oil adds a nice vegetarian touch, emphasizing local vegetable flavors.

Accompanying these are fried rice with lotus seeds, adding a subtle nutty flavor and texture, and a sweet fried banana for dessert—providing a satisfying finish. Reviewers note that the dishes are well-prepared, with some mentioning that the food is “delicious” and “authentic,” reflecting the culinary traditions of Vietnam.

The Dining Experience

The meal duration is flexible, but typically lasts around 3 hours, allowing you to savor each course slowly. This leisurely pace is perfect for those who enjoy taking their time, chatting, and fully appreciating the flavors. There’s no rush, and after finishing your meal, you’re free to leave at your own pace.

Guests consistently mention the simplicity of the process—just showing your reservation details to the staff and settling in. The set menu offers a curated, well-balanced experience, allowing diners to sample a range of flavors without the overwhelm of choosing from a vast menu.

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Value and Cost

While specific prices aren’t listed, comparing the experience to other Michelin-guided meals suggests it offers good value for a curated, authentic Vietnamese meal. You get multiple courses and a relaxed dining atmosphere that would typically cost significantly more in Western countries. For travelers eager to experience genuine local cuisine without the hassle of ordering separately, this set menu approach is smart and straightforward.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The meeting point at coordinates 21.029504776000977, 105.84392547607422 is easy to find in Hanoi’s busy streets. The reservation process is simple: just inform staff of your name and reservation time. The experience is private, catering to small groups, which means you can enjoy a personalized atmosphere.

Note that this experience isn’t suitable for children under 5, mainly due to the relaxed, adult-oriented setting and the nature of the meal. If you’re traveling with young children, consider other options.

Reviews and Insights

From the reviews, the most praised aspects are the delicious, authentic dishes and the opportunity to enjoy a tapas-style variety of Vietnamese favorites. Several reviewers mention that the set menu offers a nice balance of flavors without being overwhelming, making it perfect for those new to Vietnamese cuisine or eager to try traditional dishes in one sitting.

Some comments note that the overall rating is modest, possibly because expectations around Michelin dining can be high, or because some guests might find the ambiance too casual or the selection limited. Nonetheless, many appreciated the straightforward approach and quality of food.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This dining experience suits travelers who are looking for an authentic taste of Vietnam in a relaxed, unpretentious setting. Food lovers who enjoy sampling multiple dishes and savoring each bite will find it rewarding. It’s ideal for those who prefer a casual, yet curated meal without the complexities of a lengthy restaurant experience.

If you’re seeking a more upscale, fine-dining experience, this might not be the best choice. However, if you’re after a genuine, local meal that offers value and authenticity, The East is worth considering.

The Sum Up

Choosing a meal at The East in Hanoi provides a reliable way to enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes in a lively setting. The carefully curated set menu ensures you get a thoughtful introduction to Hanoi’s culinary staples, from seafood soup to grilled chicken, all served at a pace that encourages savoring.

While the overall rating suggests some reservations, many find the food to be a highlight, especially when craving a straightforward taste of Vietnam. The experience is well-suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic meal in a bustling neighborhood, particularly those who appreciate a variety of flavors presented in a simple, no-fuss format.

For anyone eager to try local dishes without the fuss of extensive menus or fancy settings, this Michelin Guide-recommended experience offers genuine value—and, more importantly, delicious food.

FAQ

Is the experience suitable for vegetarians?
While the set menu includes several meat and seafood dishes, there is a vegetarian option like grilled eggplant with green onion oil, making it somewhat adaptable.

How long does the meal last?
The experience typically ranges from 3 hours up to a full day, depending on your pace and availability, but most reviews mention around 3 hours.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, you should reserve in advance and arrive at your scheduled time. The process is simple—just inform staff of your name and reservation time upon arrival.

What is the dress code?
The restaurant maintains a casual atmosphere, so smart casual attire is appropriate.

Is the experience family-friendly?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 5, mainly because of the adult-oriented setting and meal structure.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers.

What is included in the set menu?
The menu includes a seafood soup, spring rolls, grilled chicken with lemongrass, duck stew, grilled eggplant, fried rice with lotus seeds, and a sweet fried banana for dessert.

Is this experience expensive?
While prices aren’t listed, the value is generally good for a multi-course, Michelin Guide-recommended meal in Hanoi, offering a traditional dining experience at a reasonable cost.

Are drinks included?
The tour description doesn’t specify drinks, so expect to pay separately for beverages.

Can I request specific dishes or dietary accommodations?
Given the fixed set menu, modifications may be limited, but you can inquire upon booking or arrival for special requests.

This dining experience offers a delightful way to sample Hanoi’s flavors in a relaxed setting that highlights traditional cuisine. Perfect for those wanting an authentic, curated meal, it delivers both value and memorable tastes—ideal for food adventurers eager to explore Vietnam’s culinary heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: