Hanoi has a nightlife scene full of narrow lanes, old apartments, and unmarked doors hiding some of the city’s most creative cocktail bars. If you want something quieter than the busy Old Quarter pubs, these hidden bars in Hanoi offer intimate spaces, thoughtful drinks, and a completely different vibe.
From 1920s-style speakeasies to art-inspired lounges, this guide takes you through 11 of the best secret spots to explore on your next night out in the capital.
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Why are hidden bars in Hanoi worth exploring?
Hidden bars add a different layer to Hanoi’s nightlife. While the Old Quarter is known for its loud music and crowded beer streets, these secret spots give you something more personal. You step through an unmarked door, walk down a quiet staircase, or push open a disguised bookshelf and suddenly enter a completely different world.
Inside, everything slows down. The spaces are smaller, the lighting is softer, and the drinks are more thoughtful. Bartenders often create cocktails inspired by Vietnamese flavors, and many bars design their menus around art, music, or storytelling. It feels less like going out for a drink and more like stepping into an experience.
Best hidden bars in Hanoi (full guide)
For travelers who want atmosphere instead of noise, quality instead of quantity, and a little mystery in their night, Hanoi’s hidden bars are absolutely worth seeking out.
1. Track 61
Track 61 is one of the most exclusive hidden bars in Hanoi, quietly tucked behind The Hudson Rooms inside the luxury Capella Hanoi Hotel. Part of the fun is simply getting in.
Guests must first receive a “special ticket” from the staff, then follow subtle hints and solve a small riddle to locate the unmarked door. Once inside, the room opens into a 1920s-inspired speakeasy with warm jazz, dim lighting, vintage décor, and only sixteen velvet seats.
The menu leans toward rare whiskies, classic cocktails, and premium cigars. Track 61 is also known for its impressive collection of Macallan bottles, including ultra-rare vintages from the 1950s. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a quiet, luxurious escape far from Hanoi’s noisy beer streets.
Price: Cocktails from 350,000 – 600,000 VND. Rare whisky tastings vary depending on vintage.
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Address: Capella Hanoi, 11 Lê Phụng Hiểu, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi (hidden entrance inside The Hudson Rooms)
2. AURA – The Orange
AURA – The Orange is a stylish hidden bar that blends cocktails, art, and culture in one intimate space. It’s stayed inside a quiet building in central Hanoi, giving it a calm, almost gallery-like atmosphere. The bar is known for hosting film screenings every Wednesday, along with rotating art showcases that make the space feel creative and personal.
The signature drink here is The Orange, inspired by the classic Hanoi snack “ô mai.” It uses local ingredients to create a refreshing, slightly tangy cocktail that pairs perfectly with the bar’s cozy, warm lighting. AURA attracts a young, creative crowd and is ideal if you want something artistic and modern rather than loud and chaotic.
Price: Cocktails from 200,000 to 300,000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Address: 8 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (hidden entrance on the upper floor)
3. Bee’Znees
Bee’Znees is a classic 1920s-style speakeasy hidden behind a bookshelf door. Step through the secret entrance and the vibe instantly changes: dim lights, vintage décor, and smooth jazz that plays softly through the room. Every Wednesday, the bar hosts a live jazz night that draws in both locals and travelers who enjoy a calmer, more intimate setting.
Their menu focuses on well-balanced classics and signature cocktails. The must-try drinks are the Bees Knees (gin, honey, lemon) and the playful FWB – Friend With the Beach. Bee’Znees is a great choice if you want a cozy night out with high-quality cocktails and a nostalgic atmosphere.
Price: 180,000-260,000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Address: 163 Phung Hung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (hidden behind a bookshelf inside the building)
4. Gallery Bespoke Cocktail Bar
Gallery Bespoke Cocktail Bar feels like stepping into an artist’s studio. The space is small, warm, and designed like an “art room,” complete with creative décor and soft lighting. It’s one of the most unique cocktail bars in Hanoi, especially because the team distills some of their own spirits using local ingredients.
Their signatures include the Arabica Coffee Aged Rum and Earl Grey Tea Añejo Rum, which highlight the bar’s focus on experimentation. Drinks here are smooth, aromatic, and beautifully layered. Gallery Bespoke is a top pick for anyone who appreciates craft cocktails with a Vietnamese twist.
Price: 200,000-320,000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 1:30 AM
Address: 95 Phung Hung, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (hidden on an upper floor with minimal signage)
5. The Alchemist – Cocktail Bar
The Alchemist is known for its elegant, slightly mysterious atmosphere. The bar sits on a quiet street in Hoàn Kiếm, and the entrance is understated, making it easy to walk past without noticing. Inside, the room is dim, polished, and decorated with abstract art, creating a sophisticated mood perfect for slower evenings.
The Alchemist focuses on mood-based cocktails and drinks that match how you feel: warm, bitter, relaxed, adventurous. Favorites include the Hot Toddy for a cozy night and the Boulevardier if you prefer something strong and aromatic. This bar is ideal if you want a refined experience with excellent service.
Price: 200,000-300,000 VND
Opening hours: 6:30 PM – 1:00 AM
Address: 19 Bat Su, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (look for the discreet entrance on the narrow street)
6. USE Bar
USE Bar is a minimalist, modern speakeasy inspired by nature and clean design. The entrance is subtle, set inside a quiet building in Hoàn Kiếm, and once you step in, the space feels calm and uncluttered. Warm lighting, natural textures, and a small seating area make it an ideal spot for slow conversations.
The bartenders here focus on ingredient purity, using unusual components and fresh local produce to build balanced, refreshing cocktails. Signature options include the Palm Colada, a tropical twist on the classic, and the Italicus Cobbler, which is light, aromatic, and perfect for warm Hanoi nights.
Price: 180,000-280,000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Address: 55 Ng. Hue, Ngo Thi Nham, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi (hidden on the second floor, minimal signage)
7. Nê Cocktail Bar
Nê Cocktail Bar is one of Hanoi’s most iconic hidden drinking spots and a pioneer in Vietnam’s craft cocktail scene. Tucked inside a modest building, the bar is famous around the world for its Phở Cocktail, a bold mix of gin, star anise, cinnamon, lime, and the aromas of Vietnam’s most loved dish.
Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and slightly chaotic in a charming way: dim lights, small rooms, and bartenders who enjoy experimenting with flavors. It’s a must-visit if you want a drink that captures the tastes and scents of Vietnam creatively.
Price: 160,000 to 300,000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Address: 3B Tong Duy Tan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (entry through a narrow staircase)
8. Polite & Co
Polite & Co is one of Hanoi’s oldest speakeasy-style bars, inspired by gentleman clubs of the 1920s. The entrance is discreet, and inside you’ll find leather sofas, vintage posters, dark wood, and a warm, classic atmosphere. It’s a great place to escape the noise and enjoy a proper cocktail.
The bar is known for its extensive whiskey collection and well-crafted classics. They also offer themed menus throughout the year, keeping things fresh for returning visitors. If you want elegance without being too formal, Polite & Co is a solid choice.
Price: 200,000 to 350,000 VND
Opening hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Address: 5B Ngo Bao Khanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi (hidden upstairs overlooking Hoàn Kiếm Lake)
9. Kumquat Tree Speakeasy Bar
Kumquat Tree is one of the most interesting speakeasies in Hanoi. The entrance sits behind a small, unmarked gate, and guests need a nightly password that the bar shares through social media. Once you step inside, the space feels warm and intimate with soft orange lighting inspired by the kumquat fruit.
Drinks here are creative and often built around local herbs and spices. The bartenders can also make custom cocktails based on the flavors you enjoy, which makes the experience feel personal and relaxed.
Price: 180.000 to 320.000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM to 1:30 AM
Address: 63/52 To Ngoc Van, Tay Ho, Ha Noi
10. The Haflington
The Haflington is a hidden bar designed like an old museum tucked inside an apartment building. The entrance is quiet and easy to miss, but once you climb the stairs, you walk into a playful space filled with antiques, portraits, collectibles, and many small details that make every corner look different.
The cocktails match the quirky style of the room. Drinks are colorful, creative, and presented with fun touches, making this bar popular with young locals and travelers who enjoy unique spaces.
Price: 150000 to 260000 VND
Opening hours: 7:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Address: 94 Hang Ma, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
11. The Unicorn Pub
The Unicorn Pub is a cozy speakeasy located just off a small street in the Old Quarter. It is less hidden than other bars on this list, but it still feels peaceful compared to the busy area around it. The menu highlights Vietnamese ingredients such as lemongrass, ginger, cinnamon, and seasonal fruits.
The signature drink is the Pho Cocktail, created by the same team that built Nê Bar’s version. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, which makes it a good option for both solo guests and small groups.
Price: 150.000 to 260.000 VND
Opening hours: 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Address: 18 P. Nguyen Truong To, Truc Bach, Ba Đinh, Hanoi
FAQs about hidden bars in Hanoi
Are hidden bars in Hanoi expensive?
Most hidden bars in Hanoi have higher prices than regular beer streets because they focus on craft cocktails and premium ingredients. You can expect most drinks to range from 150000 to 350000 VND. Luxury speakeasies with rare whisky or imported spirits can be higher.
Do I need a reservation?
Some hidden bars accept walk-ins, but many of them have limited seating and fill up fast in the evening. Making a reservation is a good idea if you plan to visit on weekends or if you prefer a guaranteed seat.
Can solo travelers visit hidden bars?
Yes. Hidden bars in Hanoi are friendly, calm, and comfortable for solo travelers. Many seats are at the bar counter, so you can enjoy a drink and chat with the bartender.
Are hidden bars safe?
Yes. Most hidden bars are located in central districts and managed by professional teams. The entrances might be quiet or unmarked, but the spaces inside are safe, relaxed, and well maintained.
Final tips before you go
Hidden bars in Hanoi offer a calmer and more creative nightlife experience, so take your time and enjoy the atmosphere. Many of these bars have limited seating, so it helps to visit a bit earlier in the evening or book a table in advance. Dress comfortably but neatly, as some places prefer a smart casual look.
When moving between bars, use Grab or walk through the Old Quarter’s smaller lanes. Most hidden bars are close to each other, so you can try two or three spots in one night without rushing. If you enjoy Vietnamese flavors, ask the bartender for a local-inspired drink, as many bars create cocktails based on herbs, spices, and seasonal fruits.
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