I really enjoy food. I enjoy being the director of kitchen chemistry in my home, and I enjoy trying new foods. Vietnamese food has the reputation of being among the world's finest cuisines, so I must comment on our experience so far with more to come. Hanoi was a bit of a disappointment because we did not know where good indigenous food could be found. I've already mentioned our disappointing first experience.
One recommendation from our guide was the restaurant on the 4th and 5th floors of the Highlands Coffee
Shop. We struck out on foot one evening with that destination in mind but KC, who has a good sense of direction, became as confused as I usually am. We got too hungry and ended up at Ciao Cafe. Anything named Ciao in Hanoi does not portend an extraordinary dining experience, and it wasn't. Not bad, just not up to my expectations.
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| Grilled Fish, Hanoi |
Better was the tiny cafe that Thao led us to at noon. Through a nondescript storefront we ascended uneven, steep wooden stairs to two humble rooms filled with mostly young Vietnamese diners. Thao ordered grilled fish for us, which we tended on the table in front of us over an open flame. On the side was Asian basil, cilantro, and sprouts to be mixed in and cooked. It was a fun and tasty cultural experience.
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| Aesthetically served, Ha Long Bay |
In Hanoi, we stayed at the Golden Lotus Hotel where complementary breakfast is offered on the lower level. The colorful, gleaming offerings tended to stimulate one's appetite. Traditional breakfast food for
American, European, and Asian cultures was included. Of course I had pho, which is the traditional Vietnamese breakfast, and KC stuck to his usual fruit, cereal, and toast.
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| A fraction of the morning spread at Golden Lotus |
Next, on to Da Nang. We ate well there too!
Cheers,
Kiwi Traveler
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