Sitting on a small wooden stool by a bustling street and sipping a cup of milk coffee is a classic thing to do in Hanoi. Here are 4 best Hanoi tea houses where you can relax with a cup of tea and enjoy a good chat.
1. Hien Tra Truong Xuan
For quite some time, Hien Tra Truong Xuan has been a favorite spot among local tea enthusiasts. It’s renowned as one of the finest Hanoi tea houses, especially cherished by Vietnamese who appreciate traditional tea ceremonies. Situated on a quiet lane near the Temple of Literature, a popular tourist destination, it offers a serene escape. The house itself is designed in the style of ancient rural architecture, featuring tiled roofs, brick walls, and a charming garden, adding to its tranquil ambiance.
The Hanoi tea house consists of two areas: a cozy tearoom with warm lighting, ideal for chilly days, and a garden shaded by palm leaves, offering a refreshing breeze on hot days.
What makes the Hanoi tea house so captivating is its diverse selection of teas sourced from various regions across the country, all prepared and brewed using traditional Vietnamese methods. Notably, it’s renowned for its delicately scented teas infused with natural flowers like lotus, jasmine, daisy, and rose. These fragrant blends are served by hospitable waiters dressed in traditional attire, adding to the authentic experience.
Address: 13 Ngo Tat To, Dong Da district
2. Thưởng Trà
Tea lovers in Hanoi adore Thưởng Trà, a hidden gem tucked away on the second floor of an apartment. Despite its hidden location, this traditional Vietnamese teahouse attracts locals with its charming vintage wooden furniture, abundant flower pots, and a delightful small fish pond.
In Vietnamese, “Thưởng trà” translates to “savoring tea,” and that’s precisely what you can experience in this tranquil setting, accompanied by soothing background music. When the weather is cool, choose the outdoor seating on the balcony for a delightful view of the streets below.
Thưởng Trà, owned by a tea connoisseur with over 20 years of experience in the craft, boasts an extensive array of Vietnamese and Chinese teas priced between VND50,000 and VND100,000 per pot (approximately USD2.16 to USD4.31).
When you sip Thiết Quan M tea, you’ll notice a tangy flavor on your tongue, and the smell of orchids will fill your nose.
Address: Room 301, No. 2 Tông Đản Str., Hoàn Kiếm District, Hanoi
3. Tam Tra Quan
At Tam Tra Quan, you’ll feel calm and peaceful while sipping tea. The place has a Buddhist vibe, with brown colors and wooden furniture like in Asian temples. You’ll see pictures of Buddhist things and lotus flowers, which are important in Buddhism. They play calming music too. Plus, the tea menu has drinks named after Buddhist ideas.
Choose the “An Lac” tea, which means peace and contentment. It’s a blend of herbs or flowers that can give you a fresh perspective on your day, away from the usual hustle and bustle. The tea menu also offers options like “Vo Uu” (carefree), “Giac Ngo” (enlightenment), “Tinh Tam” (tranquility), and “Tu Bi” (compassion). For those curious about Buddhism, there are books and newspapers available for reading and learning more about the religion.
Address: 51 Phan Chu Trinh, Hoan Kiem district
4. Bạch Hạc Trà
Another must-visit spot for a peaceful tea experience in Hanoi is Bạch Hạc Trà, where you can escape from your everyday concerns. The cozy atmosphere is infused with Buddhist influences, evident in the décor adorned with Buddha statues on traditional wooden shelves and calligraphy gracing the walls.
On the first floor, you’ll find chairs and tables for standard seating, while the second floor offers comfy cushions on the floor for a more relaxed experience. Visit for a taste of heavenly tea, surrounded by the calming aroma of burning incense, and leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind.
When it comes to tea, we highly recommend trying Bạch Hạc Trà’s lotus-infused rice tea. It boasts a subtly sweet flavor and a delightful fragrance. A pot costs VND150,000 (~USD6.47), perfect for sharing among 2-3 people, and it comes with a dish of mứt sen – lotus seeds cooked with sugar – as a light and enjoyable snack to nibble on. It’s definitely one of the best Hanoi tea houses.
Address: Number 106D2, Alley 215 Tô Hiệu Str., Cầu Giấy District, Hanoi