Essence Restaurant Original (since 2011)
Experience exceptional dining in Hanoi at Essence Restaurant Original. With a 4.8/5 rating, enjoy outstanding food & service. Book your table today.
Elegant hotel restaurant serving traditional regional Vietnamese specialties & Western fare.
About Essence Restaurant Original (since 2011)
Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, this established dining destination, operating since 2011, consistently earns acclaim for its exceptional culinary offerings and warm hospitality. Diners frequently highlight the outstanding service, describing the staff as attentive, welcoming, and genuinely committed to guest satisfaction. The food itself is lauded for its beautiful presentation and rich, satisfying flavors, making for a memorable meal. Appreciated for its moderate pricing and the availability of outdoor seating, it’s a popular choice for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings. With an impressive 4.8/5 rating, it's clear this restaurant provides a delightful and highly recommended dining experience.
Restaurant Analysis
Restaurant Characteristics
This restaurant has been analyzed using our formula-based system to help you understand its key features and match it with your dining preferences.
Price Range (Moderate)
Moderate pricing ($$) - Mid-range restaurants with good value
Meal Time (breakfast)
This restaurant primarily serves breakfast. Based on opening hours.
Group Size (Groups Welcome)
Welcomes large groups and families. Great for group dining.
Atmosphere (Outdoor)
Al fresco dining with outdoor seating
Dining Style (Flexible)
Flexible options. Reservations available but not required.
Features & Amenities
This restaurant offers: Outdoor Seating, Cocktails, Beer, Wine, Coffee, Family Friendly, Groups Welcome, Reservations
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Why Travelers Love Essence Restaurant
Sourced from recent guest feedback and verified reviews.
After a disappointing experience at Tam Vi, we decided to move to a nearby restaurant, Essence Restaurant and it was the best decision we made. The service was excellent, with staff who were warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The food was outstanding, beautifully prepared, and full of flavor. From start to finish, everything about this restaurant exceeded our expectations. Highly recommended for anyone who values both great service and delicious food. Highlight: Best Customer Service we have experienced in Vietnam 🇻🇳 We came to visit as we had a few hours before our train left and wanted a relaxing place to sit, eat, and look at views. We were not disappointed, this spot had everything we were looking for - delicious food, great atmosphere, and beautiful views. Most of all Nora was such a wonderful server, we would go back just for her! She was so helpful with tips for our trip to Ninh Binh and suggested us splitting 1 pho into two bowls instead of 2 orders of pho - she was right, more than enough food! Do yourself a favour and come here! Fantastic food at an unbelievable price. Very nice atmosphere and welcoming staff and the food was even better! They also had a 20% discount when we attended, but we tipped as we felt guilty leaving on the original price. Would highly recommend.
Find the Restaurant
Where to Find Them
38A P. Trần Phú, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 10000, Vietnam
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Recent Reviews
leo
September 15, 2025
After a disappointing experience at Tam Vi, we decided to move to a nearby restaurant, Essence Restaurant and it was the best decision we made. The service was excellent, with staff who were warm, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. The food was outstanding, beautifully prepared, and full of flavor. From start to finish, everything about this restaurant exceeded our expectations. Highly recommended for anyone who values both great service and delicious food. Highlight: Best Customer Service we have experienced in Vietnam 🇻🇳
Hannah S.
October 4, 2025
We came to visit as we had a few hours before our train left and wanted a relaxing place to sit, eat, and look at views. We were not disappointed, this spot had everything we were looking for - delicious food, great atmosphere, and beautiful views. Most of all Nora was such a wonderful server, we would go back just for her! She was so helpful with tips for our trip to Ninh Binh and suggested us splitting 1 pho into two bowls instead of 2 orders of pho - she was right, more than enough food! Do yourself a favour and come here!
Alex E.
October 3, 2025
Fantastic food at an unbelievable price. Very nice atmosphere and welcoming staff and the food was even better! They also had a 20% discount when we attended, but we tipped as we felt guilty leaving on the original price. Would highly recommend.
Keaton B.
October 4, 2025
We had a lovely time at the Essence restaurant. Our server, Nora (ningh) was exceptional and so kind. The food was great and the vibe was outstanding. Coming here for dinner was a great way to escape the busy streets of Hanoi before going to the train station.
Paul L.
June 28, 2025
We started our visit to Vietnam in Saigon, then SaPa, and ended it in Hanoi at the Aira and ate at The Essence Restaurant. We absolutely saved the best for last. We have done 2 foodie tours. The food at Essence beat them. The staff was happy, helpful, kind... Just amazing. The hotel rooms and staff were also truly wonderful. Stay here. Eat here. Enjoy Hanoi Vietnam. What a wonderful place.
What to Expect
Features and amenities that make Essence Restaurant special
Outdoor Seating
Cocktails
Beer
Wine
Coffee
Family Friendly
Groups Welcome
Reservations
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you visit
Payment Options
Parking
Accessibility
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Plan Your Hanoi Trip
From transportation to stays, we help you build a complete itinerary around this must-visit restaurant in Hanoi.
Transportation Tips
Walking is perfect for exploring the Old Quarter. Organized tours include transportation, and taxis are available for shorter trips.
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Where to Stay
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