Authentic Vietnamese Set Menu Dining at The East

When you’re exploring Hanoi, tasting the local food is almost a rite of passage. For $29 per person, you can indulge in a carefully curated set menu at The East, one of the city’s well-regarded eateries recommended by the Michelin Guide. This experience offers a relaxed, sit-down meal in a lively neighborhood filled with restaurants and street life. It’s a perfect choice if you’re craving a genuine taste of Vietnam without the hassle of ordering off a large menu or worrying about language barriers.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances authenticity with simplicity. First, the delicious seafood soup sets an inviting tone, blending fresh flavors that highlight Vietnam’s coastal bounty. Then, the grilled chicken with lemongrass delivers tender, fragrant bites you’ll want to repeat. The second highlight? The relaxed atmosphere in a popular district, making it a great break from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s busy streets.

One thing to keep in mind: this meal is designed as a comprehensive tasting, so if you’re a picky eater or have specific dietary restrictions, it might be worth confirming menu details in advance. Also, it’s not a quick snack—plan on a leisurely hour or so for the full experience. It’s best suited for food lovers eager to explore authentic Vietnamese dishes in a comfortable setting.

If you’re after a genuine, well-organized meal that combines quality, value, and local flavor, this tour is a smart pick. It works well for travelers who appreciate authentic cuisine with a bit of guided ease and those wanting to enjoy a sit-down meal in a lively neighborhood.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine: Enjoy a curated set menu showcasing classic dishes like seafood soup, spring rolls, and grilled chicken.
Recommended by Michelin: The restaurant’s quality and authenticity are acknowledged by the prestigious guide.
Relaxed Dining Experience: The leisurely pace allows you to savor each dish without feeling rushed.
Lively Neighborhood Setting: Located in a popular area with many other restaurants, adding to the local vibe.
Flexible Booking & Payment: Reserve now, pay later—perfect for flexible travel planning.
Suitable for Food Enthusiasts: Particularly appealing to those eager to try traditional Vietnamese flavors in a comfortable setting.

While in Hanoi, here are other experiences we've covered

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Location and Atmosphere

The meal takes place at The East, situated in a bustling part of Hanoi filled with restaurants and street life. The neighborhood adds to the charm—no quiet tourist zones here, but rather a vibrant, authentic backdrop that enhances your dining experience. Upon arrival, just tell the staff your name and reservation time—easy and straightforward, especially after a day of sightseeing or wandering.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Once seated, your meal begins with seafood soup and fresh spring rolls. The seafood soup is a highlight, often praised for its balanced flavors and fresh ingredients—perfect for warming up your palate. The spring rolls are light and fresh, a great appetizer that showcases Vietnam’s mastery of combining herbs, vegetables, and protein in a delicate wrapper.

Next, the main dishes arrive—grilled chicken with lemongrass is a standout, offering tender meat infused with fragrant herbs. The duck meat stew in a clay pot adds a hearty, comforting element, slow-cooked to maximize flavor. The grilled eggplant with green onion oil provides a smoky, savory vegetable option that balances the protein dishes nicely.

Sides include fried rice with lotus seeds, which adds a unique texture and subtle nutty flavor, and the meal concludes with fried banana for dessert, offering a sweet, caramelized finish that’s both satisfying and light.

More Great Tours Nearby

Authenticity and Quality

This set menu emphasizes true Vietnamese flavors, with dishes that are familiar yet thoughtfully prepared. The emphasis on fresh ingredients and traditional techniques means you’re likely to enjoy the real taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage. As one reviewer put it, “The food was delicious and tasted homemade, not overly greasy or artificial.”

While you're exploring Hanoi, here are other experiences we've looked into

Timing and Group Size

The entire experience is designed for a relaxed meal, so plan for about an hour or so. The group size is typically small, enabling a more intimate and personal dining atmosphere. Since the reservation process is straightforward—just inform the staff of your details—it’s easy to fit this into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Price and Value

At $29 per person, you get a generous array of dishes that represent authentic Vietnamese cuisine and good portion sizes. Considering the quality and the Michelin recommendation, this meal offers excellent value—especially for travelers wanting a taste of local flavors without overspending.

Booking and Flexibility

The booking process is simple: reserve now and pay later, giving you the flexibility to adjust your plans. Cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-stress option for spontaneous or carefully planned trips.

Who Will Love This

This experience is ideal for food lovers who want a sit-down, authentic Vietnamese meal in a lively neighborhood. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate local flavors and want a hassle-free dining experience. However, it might be less suitable for young children under five or those with special dietary needs, as the menu is curated and not customizable.

Final Thoughts

In a city famous for its street food, a sit-down meal at The East offers a different, more relaxed way to savor Hanoi’s culinary heritage. It’s a well-balanced experience—combining authentic flavors, affordable pricing, and the prestige of Michelin recognition—making it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to deepen their understanding of Vietnamese cuisine.

What makes this experience stand out is the well-thought-out menu that emphasizes quality and authenticity. Instead of just a quick snack or street-side bite, you’ll enjoy a leisurely, curated meal that’s both satisfying and educational. Plus, you get to sit in a lively part of Hanoi, soaking up the local atmosphere while indulging in some of the best dishes Vietnam has to offer.

If you’re looking for a straightforward way to experience genuine Vietnamese food in a welcoming setting—without breaking the bank—this tour is hard to beat. It’s perfect for travelers who value authenticity, comfort, and good value in their culinary adventures.

FAQ

Is the set menu suitable for all dietary restrictions?
The menu is curated to showcase traditional Vietnamese dishes, so if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to check with the restaurant staff in advance.

Can I customize the dishes?
This experience features a fixed set menu, so there’s little room for customization. It’s designed to give you a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

How long does the meal take?
Expect about an hour or so of relaxed dining, allowing you to enjoy each dish without rushing.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5, likely due to the curated nature of the menu and the dining setting.

Do I need to pay in advance?
No—reservations are made by booking now and paying later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the dress code?
Casual attire is perfectly fine—just come comfortable.

How do I find the restaurant?
Arrive at The East at your reserved time and inform the staff of your name and reservation details.

Is alcohol included?
The tour price covers the food. Alcohol may not be included but can often be purchased on-site.

What’s the best time to go?
Anytime during the restaurant’s operating hours—lunch or dinner—is suitable, depending on your schedule.

Can I book this experience for special occasions?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as a celebration spot, it’s a lovely setting for a relaxed meal, making it suitable for small groups or intimate dinners.

This curated Vietnamese meal at The East offers a genuine taste of Hanoi’s culinary soul, with excellent value and an authentic atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-timer eager to try classic dishes or a seasoned traveler craving familiar flavors, this experience delivers.