When my Italian friend mentioned he was bringing his girlfriend to Vietnam for the holidays, he had one specific request: a beautiful Vietnamese restaurant for a romantic Christmas dinner. Without hesitation, I recommended Chào Bạn Vietnamese Restaurant at Villa 28.
What followed was a conversation that felt less like casual advice and more like a live restaurant review—each question reflecting what European travelers truly care about when seeking refined Vietnamese cuisine for special occasions.
“So, how is the food quality at Chào Bạn Vietnamese Restaurant?”
The food at Chào Bạn is exceptional and unapologetically Vietnamese. This isn’t fusion cuisine adapted for Western palates—it’s authentic dishes from Northern, Central, and Southern Vietnam, prepared with precision and respect for their origins.
The menu features beloved classics: spring rolls, noodles, braised fish, grilled meats, and sour soup. But thoughtful presentation and perfectly balanced flavors elevate these familiar dishes to something truly refined. You’ll also find creative interpretations by Chef-Founder Vincent Cao Minh Page, who honed his craft in France’s culinary scene before returning to Vietnam.
The accolades speak for themselves. Chào Bạn Restaurant has earned the Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand for three consecutive years—recognition reserved for restaurants offering exceptional quality at reasonable prices. It’s also won People’s Pick for Best Vietnamese Restaurant, voted by Hanoi diners. These aren’t just marketing claims; they’re endorsements from those who matter most.
“What about the space of Chào Bạn? Is it really beautiful and romantic?”
Picture this: a French colonial villa nestled in the heart of West Lake, surrounded by tropical garden and tranquil greenery. The moment you enter Villa 28, you leave the bustling city behind.
You can dine outdoors in the garden under soft golden lights, surrounded by lush plants and the rare gift of quietness in Hanoi. Or choose the indoor space, tastefully decorated with Vietnamese art and cultural touches—elegant without being pretentious, intimate without feeling cramped.
On cool December evenings, with gentle music playing and enough privacy to focus on your conversation, Chào Bạn transforms a simple dinner into something memorable.
“It sounds great, but is Chào Bạn expensive?”
Here’s where Chào Bạn surprises most people. Despite its Michelin recognition and villa setting, the prices are remarkably reasonable.
À la carte dishes range from 100,000 to 300,000 VND (roughly $4–12 USD). A couple ordering five dishes with drinks will spend approximately 400,000–500,000 VND per person ($16–20 USD)—very fair for a romantic villa dinner.
For special occasions, the tasting menu at 880,000 VND per pax (about $35 USD) offers a curated journey through Chef Cao Minh’s signature dishes. It’s an excellent choice for Christmas or anniversary celebrations.
“Will it be crowded or noisy?”
Chào Bạn handles this well. The restaurant has three soundproofed private rooms for group events, ensuring they don’t disrupt another dining area. Table spacing is thoughtfully arranged, allowing comfortable conversations without overhearing neighbors.
The balance works: intimate enough for couples, yet accommodating for small gatherings.
Should you reserve in advance?
Absolutely. Chào Bạn is popular with both locals and international visitors, and it fills up quickly—especially around holidays. Booking through their website lets you choose your preferred seating and note any dietary requirements or special requests.
By the end of our conversation, my friend was smiling. He could already imagine the evening: warm lights in a charming villa, authentic Vietnamese flavors, and a private space to celebrate with his girlfriend.
Chào Bạn Vietnamese Restaurant at Villa 28, Alley 11, To Ngoc Van Street is more than just a restaurant. It’s where couples come to mark meaningful moments in Hanoi—whether it’s Christmas, New Year’s, or simply an evening worth remembering.
If you’re planning something special, visit Chaobansince2020byvincentcaominh and experience it for yourself.
