The art of Vietnamese tea appreciation focuses on subtlety, a serene atmosphere, and a sincere connection between people. Among various types, Bach Diep Lotus Tea (tea scented inside the hundred-petal lotus of West Lake) is considered the pinnacle of Vietnamese tea culture, which used to be a rare offering dedicated to kings.

For international tourists and the expat community seeking an authentic cultural experience, below are the 5 most reputable traditional tea houses that you must visit when coming to Vietnam.

1. Maison De Thé – Cao Son Tea House (Hanoi)

This is one of the most reputable addresses to enjoy Bach Diep lotus tea and ancient tea in the center of Hoan Kiem. It is run by tea artisan Nguyen Cao Son – who has spent many years introducing Vietnamese tea culture to international friends.

• Atmosphere: Deeply imbued with traditional architecture, displaying a variety of ancient terracotta teapots and unique tea-making tools. The quiet and solemn space is suitable for profound tea conversations.
• Tea experience: Visitors receive detailed instructions on the tea-brewing process, from choosing the water and temperature to appreciating the aroma. The shop serves authentic West Lake lotus tea and ancient Shan Tuyet tea from the high mountains of the North.
• Address: No. 4 Hang Chinh Street, Hang Buom, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

2. Thuong Tra (Hanoi)

Thuong Tra is a familiar space for lovers of rustic tea and foreigners who like to find a peaceful, hidden corner in the capital. After moving from Tong Dan, the shop is now settled in an ancient villa space.

• Atmosphere: Located in a small alley, it bears a nostalgic style with rustic wooden tables and chairs, green windows, and is filled with fresh flowers and natural light. The gently simmering boiling water and soft meditation music help guests fully relax.
• Tea experience: The shop specializes in natural Vietnamese tea lines such as Thai Nguyen green tea, ancient tea, and jasmine or chrysanthemum scented tea. Accompanying each teapot is a small information card in both English and Vietnamese stating the origin and appropriate brewing time.
• Address: Villa No. 5, Alley 49B Tran Quoc Toan Street, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

3. Hien Tra Truong Xuan (Hanoi)

As one of the oldest tea houses in Hanoi, it is associated with the name of a traditional tea artisan family. Currently, the shop has moved to a new, spacious and more tranquil space in Cau Giấy district.

• Atmosphere: A rustic, quiet ancient house space, completely separated from the bustling streets outside.
• Tea experience: This is a place where sessions sharing Vietnamese tea culture frequently take place. Visitors can enjoy precious teas named in a classical style and receive dedicated consultations from the tea masters here with their deep understanding.
• Address: No. 21, Alley 125 Trung Kinh Street, Trung Hoa, Cau Giay, Hanoi.

4. Reaching Out Teahouse (Hoi An)

This is the most famous tea house in Hoi An Ancient Town and a “must-visit” destination for international tourists thanks to its beautiful humanitarian values.

• Atmosphere: Located in an original ancient house with a sun-drenched courtyard. The most special feature: This is a “Silent Space”, where all service staff are deaf. Visitors will communicate by writing on paper or using small wooden blocks engraved with English/Vietnamese words.
• Tea experience: Organic tea and coffee here are served in exquisite, handcrafted ceramic and bronze tea sets. Visitors can order tea tasting sets accompanied by traditional mung bean cakes.
• Address: No. 131 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam.

5. Camellia Tea & Coffee (Hoi An)

A peaceful, quiet tea corner located on the edge of the bustling area of the ancient town, which is highly favored by Western guests thanks to its attentive service and green, cool space.

• Atmosphere: Inspired by the ancient tiled-roof houses of Hoi An, combined with a garden filled with many trees, bringing a cool and relaxing feeling.
• Tea experience: The shop offers a diverse menu ranging from healthy herbal flower teas to traditional plain green tea. The staff here speak good English, are friendly, and are ready to share information about local teas.
• Address: No. 26 Dao Duy Tu Street, Cam Pho, Hoi An, Quang Nam.