Legends Beer (Dinh Tien Hoang)

This building is an icon in Hanoi and is know by a range of names from the sharks jaws, Ho Guom Plaza, Café View to the roundabout tower. The building looms over the southern edge of Old Quarter and provides no fewer than six different eating and drinking options on various levels. The most positive thing about it is the views: choose from vistas of Hoan Kiem Lake or the crazy road junction and Old Quarter rooftops. Unfortunately, getting to those views isn’t the most pleasant experience. The entrance to the upper floors is at 5 Dinh Tien Hoang, next to the entrance (lối vào) to the Tourist Information Centre which is on the ground floor, and is initially up a grotty staircase. You can then take the lift or continue up the stairs the rest of the way. Avalon is accessed via a separate entrance, on Cau Go opposite the end of Dinh Liet Street. Take the lift to the fifth floor. On the fifth floor itself is a mostly inside area, with a small balcony, and the sixth floor is a smoking area; unless you like your environment muggy I suggest walking quickly through and up the spiral staircase to the roof terrace. Western and Vietnamese food is served, along with a wide selection of drinks, including cocktails. It’s by no means cheap, but neither is it the priciest place in town, and it’s worth the price of a beer (around 50,000 VND) for an hour spent enjoying the views.

Nice place with a view of busy roundabout. Order 3,5 litres beer Tower. Check out the Deep Fried Pork Knuckles Philippine Style (Crispy Pata) on their menu. I go all the way from across town for that!