Ta Hien Street – Beer and Food Paradise

by Oanh Phạm

Ta Hien Street is one of the most vibrant streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, where traditional culture meets the modern rhythm of the capital city. During the day, this narrow street maintains the distinctive features of an ancient quarter with its old tube houses and traditional shops. However, when night falls, Ta Hien transforms into a completely different scene – becoming a bustling meeting point for young people and international tourists with its bars, pubs, and entertainment venues. 

The street is also famous for its “corner draft beer” – a unique cultural feature of Hanoi, where people can sit on small plastic stools, enjoying cold draft beer and delicious snacks while chatting and observing the lively nightlife of Hanoi. This intersection of old and new, local and international cultures has earned Ta Hien Street the nickname “International Corner” and made it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Hanoi’s rich cultural tapestry.

Ta Hien Street
Ta Hien Street

How to get to Ta Hien Street?

Google Map: Location of Ta Hien Street 

To reach Ta Hien Street, visitors have several transportation options. From Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s a simple 5-7 minute walk north through Hang Ngang and Hang Dao streets, then turn right. For those coming from farther away, buses 03, 14, 15, and 18 stop near the lake, followed by a short walk.

Taxis or ride-hailing services like Grab, Be, and Xanh SM are also convenient. You can ask the driver to drop you off at the Ma May – Ta Hien intersection or near Hoan Kiem Lake. Ta Hien Street intersects with Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, is close to Dong Xuan Market, and is about 400m from Hoan Kiem Lake. Note that the area gets very crowded in the evening, making parking difficult, so it’s best to park in designated lots in the Old Quarter and explore on foot.

 

What’s appealing about Tạ Hiện Street?

If you’re looking for an exciting destination to explore Hanoi at night, Tạ Hiện Street is definitely a must-visit. Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, Tạ Hiện is not only famous for its ancient beauty but also for its vibrant and bustling atmosphere every evening. Let’s discover the appealing aspects that Tạ Hiện offers when night falls.

Enjoy cold beer – The signature drink of Ta Hien Street

Tạ Hiện Street is known as the “beer paradise” of Hanoi. Here, you can easily find numerous bars and beer hơi establishments with comfortable and friendly atmospheres. Simple plastic chairs are set up on the sidewalks, where you can sit back, enjoy cold beers, chat with friends, or meet new acquaintances. There’s nothing better than sipping a glass of Hanoi beer while watching the crowd pass by and feeling the city’s rhythm.

Ta Hien Street - Beer Paradise
Ta Hien Street – Beer Paradise

The Vibrant Nightlife Hub of Hanoi

Tạ Hiện Street is one of the busiest and most vibrant areas in Hanoi, especially at night. It is known as a hotspot for young locals and international tourists, featuring a variety of bars and pubs. When you step into Tạ Hiện, you’ll be captivated by the lively atmosphere, dynamic sounds, and bright lights coming from the numerous bars. 

Here are some lively pubs and bars in Tạ Hiện Street that you might want to check out:

  • Bar 1900 Le Théâtre (8 Tạ Hiện): This bar features a nostalgic atmosphere, as it was formerly a theater. With its spacious layout, mezzanine level, and eye-catching design, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy music and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Funky B (2 Tạ Hiện): One of the oldest bars in the Old Quarter, Funky B boasts a youthful and modern design. The music here is diverse, ranging from Deep House electronic to Funky House Progressive, providing an exciting experience for patrons.
  • Fat Cat Bar (25 Tạ Hiện): This bar primarily attracts foreign customers and offers various seating options, including indoors, on the loft, and outside. Fat Cat frequently hosts themed music parties, creating a lively and festive environment.
  • Prague Pub (38 Lương Ngọc Quyến): This bar is styled after the city of Prague (the capital of the Czech Republic), offering a unique and distinct atmosphere for visitors.

When you visit Tạ Hiện Street at night, you’ll experience the bustling and energetic vibe from the bars and pubs, which are popular gathering spots for young locals and international tourists alike

1900 - Bar at Ta Hien Street
1900 – Bar at Ta Hien Street

Unique Street Food

Ta Hien’s special beer tastes even better when enjoyed with mouth-watering street food. From savory dishes to sweet treats, there is always something for everyone to enjoy on Ta Hien Street. Some must-try dishes here include:

  • Bánh mì: A Vietnamese sandwich filled with various meats, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces, perfect for a quick bite.
  • Phở: A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken, served with aromatic herbs and a rich broth that warms the soul.
  • Bún chả: A delicious dish featuring grilled pork (chả) served with vermicelli noodles (bún) and fresh herbs, typically accompanied by a side of dipping sauce.
  • Chả giò (Spring roll): Crispy fried or fresh rolls filled with a mix of vegetables, meat, or seafood, these are a popular snack that pairs well with dipping sauces.
  • Chim nướng: Grilled birds, typically marinated with spices, offering a unique flavor and a delightful crunch when cooked to perfection.
  • Chân gà nướng: Grilled chicken feet, seasoned and grilled until crispy, this dish is a favorite among locals and adds an adventurous twist to your street food experience.
  • Bánh tráng nướng: Often referred to as Vietnamese pizza, this is a grilled rice paper topped with various ingredients like eggs, cheese, and vegetables, creating a deliciously crispy treat.
mouth-watering street food
mouth-watering street food
Grilled birds
Grilled birds
Sour Spring Roll
Sour Spring Roll

Lively Atmosphere

At Tạ Hiện Street, the night air is filled with life. Music echoes from the bars, and the cheerful chatter of both locals and tourists creates a vibrant scene. This is the perfect place to socialize, make new friends, and enjoy fun moments together. If you want to learn more about Hanoi’s culture, this is an ideal starting point.

Lively atmostphere at Ta Hien Street
Lively atmostphere at Ta Hien Street

Street Art Performances

Tạ Hiện Street doesn’t just stop at food and beer; it often hosts cultural and artistic activities. You might encounter live music performances, lion dances, or other exciting events right on the street. This not only attracts tourists but also helps preserve and promote the traditional cultural values of Hanoi.

Street Art Performances
Street Art Performances

Beautiful Scenery

As night falls, the shimmering lights and open space of Tạ Hiện create a stunning backdrop, perfect for photography. You can capture memorable moments with friends or simply preserve beautiful memories from your journey of exploring Hanoi.

 

Ta Hien Street
Ta Hien Street
Oanh Phạm

Written by Oanh Phạm