Banh Tom Ho Tay restaurant

We chanced upon this great eatery recommended by our hotel bellhop at the Hanoi Club. Easily spotted as the entrance to this joint is brightly lit and there is an adjoining famous ice cream-dessert parlour (Kem Ho Tay) selling coconut based ice cream. There is an endless stream of Hanoians popping by to buy the ice cream from the kiosk facing the main road (Thanh Nien). The menu is extensive and has English description. However, the staff proficiency in English may be sketchy at best. But it should not be a problem..just point to the item no. In particular, I recommend the Deep fried Chicken with garlic & salt and the famous Hanoi Shrimp Cake. The snail we ordered were somewhat tough and not expect the French version of Escargots...while the pigeon was skinny and not really good. But do have an adventure at the food, try it and be smarter for the experience... you will enjoy the ambience by the lake. No tipping is expected and on both occasion, we were not given a receipt for our meal. After the meal, chill out with the town famous coconut ice-cream. Have a great meal , Bon appetit :-)