After looking like it wasn't going to happen, the Hanoi winter has kicked in with full on freezing force. According to a self proclaimed expert, this place has the best hot chocolate in town. Considering it was so cold on the bike that I got earache, we stopped in.
Coming in off the street we have to pass a death trap fishpond set right in the middle of the entry path. It almost ensures the cement turtle in the pond has as many visitors as the cafe itself. Patterned cracked stone walls run down one wall in the outside area where comfortable chairs surround glass tables. There's also an inside and upstairs to choose from and this place does bun bo hue during lunch from a spot in front of the fish pond.
The hot chocolate arrives in dark chocolate brown cups and is truly a fantastic drop. Thick, rich and chocolatey, I have to give it my vote as well. This is number one in Hanoi.
The Stir
2 Hot Chocolates - 40,000VND ($2.50USD, $3.39AUD)
Deco Cafe
4 Tong Dan
Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
Mmmmm....that looks really good. I've always been a sucker for Hanoi winters, so I can't say I feel sorry for you, but I'll admit, a motorbike ride can make 55F feel like 32F.
Posted by: Preya | 27 February 2006 at 02:34 AM
this is rip off. sorry
Posted by: chuong | 27 February 2006 at 10:43 AM
Hi Chuong Guess you just don't understand that when something is this good, it's worth it. Have not had any hot choc that comes close to this anywhere in Hanoi. It also isn't a traditional Vietnamese cafe, it is one of the new Vietnamese Cafes that are popping up around Hanoi, catering to the locals. They look like they are enjoying themselves and we enjoyed it too and that's alright in my book.
Hi Preya, the australian blood in me just doesn't enjoy the cold weather! It is the motorbike that is the problem, it makes everything much colder. Brrrr....
Posted by: Sticky | 27 February 2006 at 05:46 PM
That looks SO great! We'll definitely have to stop by there when we're in country.
Posted by: Nicole | 27 February 2006 at 10:55 PM