Ecolodge Đồng Lâm Homestay

Now with a two-storey expansion and lush courtyard, English-speaking staff and a photo menu, this vintage tea house is more tourist-friendly. It retains its North Vietnamese charm with antique decor, artwork and a rustic elegance, and continues to impart the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Highlights include chả ốc (ham with periwinkle snails) served with herbs, vegetables, vermicelli and fish sauce, and the subtle crab soup with malabar spinach in a clear broth.

Gia đình, meaning "family", is a reference to chef Sam Tran and partner Long Tran's longing for their homeland during their years working abroad. The restaurant decor draws inspiration from the Temple of Literature just across the road. A single tasting menu is offered, showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients and drawing inspiration from the rich heritage of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Deceptively complex, the beautifully crafted dishes showcase well-judged combinations of subtle flavours, with acidity and texture playing prominent roles.

ONVIT means "warm light" in Korean – a hint at what awaits diners in the elegant, tranquil setting of this upscale restaurant. Chef Joon's tasting menu draws on fresh local Vietnamese ingredients and honours the traditions of his Korean heritage. His signature abalone porridge, prepared with prized ST25 rice and lifted by an abalone liver sauce, is comforting, considered and deeply Asian in soul. A choice of wine pairing menus complements the experience.

In keeping with its name, which means "hello, friend" in Vietnamese, Chào Bạn is welcoming and easy-going. In the kitchen, chef Madame Hang gives traditional Vietnamese recipes a new spin with creativity and aplomb. Her nem rán cua (crab spring rolls) deliver balanced flavours and contrasting textures. The đặc biệt section, which includes prawns in coconut cream, or lacquered pork ribs, is a treasure trove of her creative signature dishes.

This stall is famous for its bún chả (rice noodles with fresh herbs and pork), chargrilled to order. Dip the noodles in the flavoursome broth and feel free to order an extra spring roll for added crunchiness.

Named after a significant year in Vietnamese history, this easy-to-find restaurant sits tucked away in a narrow alley, marked by its bright yellow-and-green townhouse. Nostalgic décor, old wooden tables and vintage photographs add to the charm. Start with the green banana blossom salad with beef, a refreshing combination of tender meat and sweet-sour dressing. The signature fried crab and rice porridge hot pot is the main draw, bringing together crab, pigeon, beef balls and vegetables in a naturally sweet, comforting broth. English menus are available, and booking ahead is recommended.

Popular with tourists, Bun Cha Ta offers various bún chả and fried spring rolls. The classic bún chả features tender, smoky grilled pork, well-seasoned meat patties and smooth rice noodles with a balanced soup base. Among the crispy spring rolls, the seafood crab version delivers a consummate umami flavour, while the chicken is rich and meaty. They also offer rice noodles with fried tofu and tomato sauce and fried spring rolls for vegetarians.