The Founders: From Tour Guides to Restaurateurs

The restaurant’s founders, a group of professional Vietnamese tour leaders, had all made our living showing international visitors the beauty of Hanoi and beyond. As tour guides, we were constantly immersed in the world of Vietnamese food, explaining the cultural significance behind each dish while offering travelers a taste of the country’s culinary traditions. Over the years, we grew increasingly fascinated with the impact food had on travelers’ experience and memories of Vietnam.

In guiding people through historical sites, museums, and markets, we realized that the role of food in Vietnam’s cultural identity was far greater than just something to enjoy during a tour. Food was a gateway to understanding the heart of Vietnam, its people, and its rich heritage. whether it was for the sizzling hot plates of pho (crispy Pho), the delicate rolls of spring rolls, or the complex flavors of Bún chả.

The idea for opening a restaurant was not an impulse, but rather a well-thought-out venture born from our shared appreciation for Vietnam’s diverse culinary landscape. we wanted to create a place where locals and tourists alike could experience authentic Vietnamese food—prepared with the same care and passion we would share with travelers on a tour. This would also allow us to offer a more intimate, personal connection with visitors who wanted more than just a quick bite on the go.

The Restaurant’s Concept: A Fusion of Traditional and Modern Vietnam

We envisioned restaurant as more than just a place to eat; also wanted it to serve as a cultural hub where guests could immerse themselves in the local traditions while enjoying contemporary twists on classic dishes. Our goal was to preserve the essence of Vietnamese food while introducing new elements that would appeal to a global palate.

The restaurant’s design reflected this vision: it combined traditional Vietnamese elements, such as wooden tables and ceramic dishes, with modern touches (Indochine – 1930s Hanoi well – known), including minimalist décor and open kitchens. The result was a stylish and comfortable space that felt both familiar and fresh. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, much like the hospitality that the founders had extended to tourists during their years as tour guides.

One standout feature of the restaurant was its focus on using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. We worked closely with local farmers and suppliers to ensure that every dish not only reflected the authentic flavors of Vietnam but also supported the local economy. This commitment to sustainability and quality became one of the cornerstones of the restaurant’s philosophy.

The Restaurant’s Success: Building a Reputation

From its opening in 2017, the restaurant quickly gained a loyal following. Word of mouth spread fast, especially among tourists who had experienced the founders’ guided tours and returned to enjoy the food they had come to appreciate during their travels. Social media platforms like Google map and Facebook played a significant role in the restaurant’s rise to fame, as visitors shared photos of their meals, often captioning them with praise for the authenticity and flavors of the dishes.

Legacy and Impact

By 2024, the restaurant has become one of Hanoi’s most well-known dining destinations, recognized for its commitment to quality, authenticity, and hospitality. It is no longer just a restaurant but a symbol of the passion and dedication of a group of tour leaders who wanted to share Vietnam’s rich culinary heritage with the world.

The restaurant’s founders have also become advocates for promoting Vietnamese cuisine internationally, using their platform to highlight the lesser-known dishes of the country and introduce Vietnamese flavors to global audiences. Our story is one of vision, hard work, and the deep love they have for Vietnam and its food. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best businesses are born not from a desire for profit, but from a genuine passion for sharing something meaningful with others.

In the years to come, the restaurant will likely continue to grow, not just in size but in influence, as it remains a beloved institution in Hanoi’s food scene—a testament to the enduring power of food to bring people together and bridge cultures. 

Downtown Restaurant & Lounge Team.

Where Taste Meets Pleasure.