A Food Journey by Sujay Dive
Vietnam delighted me in ways I never saw coming, far surpassing anything I had imagined as a traveller.
The landscapes took my breath away, the locals greeted me with genuine warmth, and the street food lived up to its legendary status. I wandered through Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, and Hoi An, thinking about where I could find Indian food in Vietnam. It was the unavoidable moment for desi travellers like me, when the longing for home-like food grows stronger with each passing day.
After days spent savouring pho, banh mi, and crispy spring rolls, a familiar craving began to grow—a longing for butter chicken, creamy dal makhani, and pillowy naan fresh from the oven.
What truly astonished me, though, was just how delicious Indian food in Vietnam turned out to be. I walked into my a restaurant, almost bracing for disappointment, half-expecting a pale imitation of my favourite dishes. Then the butter chicken arrived, and with one taste, all my doubts dissolved into pure delight.
As I journeyed across Vietnam, I stumbled upon remarkable Indian restaurants led by chefs whose passion brought the true taste and warmth of India.
I have prepared a list of 10 Indian restaurants in Vietnam that truly impressed me throughout my journey.
- Quick Comparison
- One evening in Hanoi, after wandering the tranquil shores of West Lake, I stepped into Dalcheeni Restaurant and was instantly transported to a regal Indian dining room.
- Indian Comfort Food After Exploring Ha Long Bay. After a mesmerising cruise through Ha Long Bay, our group found ourselves yearning for the comforting flavours of home. That longing led us straight to The One Indian Restaurant in Ha Long.Ha Long.
- One of the Most Famous Indian Restaurants in Vietnam
- A Hidden Gem for North Indian Flavours
- Dining With a View of St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- The Most Loved Indian Restaurant in Saigon
- A Paradise for Vegetarians. If you are a vegetarian traveller in Vietnam, Shri Natraj is sure to delight you. very happy.
- Premium Indian Dining in Ho Chi Minh City
- Classic Indian Food Near the Backpacker District
- Indian Food in the Magical Lantern City
- About the Author
- Find More Such Food Blogs: Indian Restaurants in Iceland
Quick Comparison
| Restaurant | Location | Best For | Price Range |
| Dalcheeni | Tay Ho, Hanoi | Fine Dining, North Indian | 💰💰💰💰 |
| The One Indian | Ha Long City | Tour Groups, Comfort Food | 💰💰💰 |
| Namaste Hanoi | Old Quarter, Hanoi | Expats, All-Rounder | 💰💰💰 |
| Zaika Restaurant | Old Quarter, Hanoi | Tandoor & North Indian | 💰💰 |
| Masala Art | Hoan Kiem, Hanoi | Views, Halal, Jain | 💰💰💰 |
| Baba’s Kitchen | District 1, HCMC | Best Overall, Garden Dining | 💰💰💰 |
| Shri Natraj | District 1, HCMC | Vegetarian Specialist | 💰💰 |
| Dalcheeni Saigon | District 1, HCMC | Royal Fine Dining | 💰💰💰💰 |
| RANG | Da Nang | Michelin, Fusion | 💰💰💰💰 |
| MAAZI Hoi An | Hoi An Ancient Town | Atmosphere, Late Night | 💰💰 |
1. Dalcheeni Restaurant – Hanoi
One evening in Hanoi, after wandering the tranquil shores of West Lake, I stepped into Dalcheeni Restaurant and was instantly transported to a regal Indian dining room.
Their Butter Chicken was rich and flavorful, with a subtle warmth from clove and cinnamon, the creamy tomato gravy, and just the smoky sweetness. Each bite brought a delightful tingle of spice on the tongue, while the Dal Makhani had the exact earthiness of slow-cooked lentils, buttery smooth and perfectly seasoned. The chefs here are true masters of their craft and originate from India.
The chefs here clearly know their If you find yourself in Hanoi craving a refined Indian dining experience, Dalcheeni should be at the top of your list.options.
Location: Tay Ho, Hanoi
Must Try: Butter Chicken, Lamb Rogan Josh, Dal Makhani
2. The One Indian – Ha Long
Indian Comfort Food After Exploring Ha Long Bay. After a mesmerising cruise through Ha Long Bay, our group found ourselves yearning for the comforting flavours of home. That longing led us straight to The One Indian Restaurant in Ha Long.Ha Long.
Warm hospitality and a relaxed setting stand out. The place is popular with Indian tour groups and travellers to the limestone islands.
Their vegetable biryani and butter chicken tasted especially satisfying after a day packed with adventure.
For Indian travellers in Ha Long Bay, this restaurant feels like a comforting oasis far from home. City
Must Try: Butter Chicken, Vegetable Biryani, Chicken Tikka Masala
3. Namaste Hanoi
One of the Most Famous Indian Restaurants in Vietnam
Namaste Hanoi is the most popular restaurant in Hanoi. With over 4,000 Google reviews averaging 4.7 stars, its widespread popularity speaks for itself.
After dining there myself, I instantly understood the hype.
In the lively Old Quarter, this restaurant serves authentic Indian cuisine, loved by expats and travellers alike.
The restaurant even has a traditional clay tandoor oven, so the naan and kebabs are cooked exactly as they should be.
The Chicken Tikka Masala paired with fluffy Garlic Naan was easily one of the most memorable Indian meals I enjoyed throughout my Vietnam adventure.
Location: Old Quarter, Hanoi
Must Try: Chicken Tikka Masala, Vegetable Biryani, Garlic Naan
4. Zaika Restaurant – Hanoi
A Hidden Gem for North Indian Flavours
Zaika is the kind of place travellers stumble upon by chance and then can’t help but recommend to everyone they meet.
Hidden away in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Zaika serves up traditional North Indian fare, with tandoori dishes and curries that truly stand out. When I walked in, a smiling staff member greeted me with, “Namaste! Xin chào! First time in Hanoi?” Their cheerful welcome and offer to help me choose my meal instantly made me feel at home, bridging cultures with warmth and a genuine smile.
Their Paneer Butter Masala was rich, flavorful, and paired well with the speedy service, which was a blessing for hungry travellers. The staff greeted us with genuine friendliness.
Location: Old Quarter, Hanoi
Must Try: Paneer Butter Masala, Biryani, Cheese Naan
5. Masala Art – Hanoi
Dining With a View of St. Joseph’s Cathedral
This restaurant brings something truly unique to the table.
Located right next to St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Masala Art gives you a chance to enjoy Indian food with one of Hanoi’s most beautiful views outside the window. With its modern, artistic atmosphere, the restaurant welcomes everyone and offers Halal, vegetarian, and vegan options for all kinds of travellers.
The Railway Mutton Curry and Palak Paneer were both outstanding, bursting with authentic flavours.
If you are seeking a romantic dinner paired with delicious Indian food in Hanoi, this spot is just right. Ba’s Kitchen – Ho Chi Minh City
The Most Loved Indian Restaurant in Saigon
When I arrived in Ho Chi Minh City, nearly every traveler I met insisted I try Baba’s Kitchen.
It did not take long for me to see why.
Located near Bui Vien Street, the restaurant buzzes with energy and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.
Their menu includes both North and South Indian cuisine, from crispy Masala Dosa to rich Dal Makhani.
The Butter Chicken here was honestly among the best I have tasted outside India.
No surprise that it consistently ranks among the top Indian restaurants in Vietnam on TripAdvisor (Ganesh Indian Restaurant Phong Nha – Restaurant Reviews, Phone Number & Photos, 2024).
7. Shri Natraj Indian Cuisine – Ho Chi Minh City
A Paradise for Vegetarians. If you are a vegetarian traveller in Vietnam, Shri Natraj is sure to delight you. very happy.
This spot specialises in vegetarian Indian cuisine—dosa, paneer, and thalis.
It has even received recognition from the Indian Embassy in Vietnam, which speaks volumes about its authenticity. Masala Dosa with Sambar and Chutney reminds me of a delicious breakfast in Bangalore.
8. Dalcheeni Saigon
Premium Indian Dining in Ho Chi Minh City
Dalcheeni’s Saigon branch delivers the same elegance and dining experience that made its Hanoi location famous. I noticed the micro-details: copper-rimmed plates reflecting the warm lights, a faint scent of cardamom and clove lingering in the air, and crisp white napkins folded with care. Every element felt considered, creating a quiet sense of luxury that set the stage for the meal.
Here, royal North Indian cuisine arrives in the form of refined, beautifully plated dishes.
The signature Dal Dalcheeni and Lamb Curry were both exceptional.
If you want a fine-dining Indian experience in Ho Chi Minh City, this is one of the best places to visit.
9. Taj Mahal Restaurant – Ho Chi Minh City
Classic Indian Food Near the Backpacker District
Situated near the bustling traveller hub of District 1, Taj Mahal Restaurant has welcomed international visitors with Indian food for years.
Relaxed vibe, generous portions, and classic Indian comfort food fill the menu.
The Chicken Kadai and Vegetable Biryani were both delicious and deeply satisfying.
Sometimes, when travelling, simple, authentic food is exactly what you need.
10. MAAZI – Hoi An
Indian Food in the Magical Lantern City
Hoi An might be famous for its lantern-lit streets and riverside cafés, but it also has a fantastic Indian restaurant. The restaurant features cosy outdoor seating nestled among Hoi An’s enchanting architecture.
Dining here in the evening, with lanterns glowing all around, is a magical travel experience all its own.
Their Chicken Biryani and Samosas were perfect after an evening walk through the old town.
Final Thoughts: Indian Food in Vietnam Is Better Than You Expect
Before my trip, I never imagined I would discover such high-quality Indian food scattered across Vietnam.
From Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter to the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, these restaurants serve authentic dishes that make Indian travellers. For me, stumbling upon these places became one of the most unexpected joys of my Vietnam journey. part of my Vietnam journey.
So if you are planning a trip to Vietnam and suddenly find yourself craving butter chicken, biryani, or masala chai, rest assured.
Vietnam has plenty of places where Indian flavours travel just as beautifully as you’d expect. And trust me, after days of savouring Vietnamese street food, that first bite of naan will feel nothing short of magical.
Which Vietnamese city will you taste India in first? Start planning, and maybe share your own discoveries along the way.
— Sujay Dive
About the Author
Sujay Dive is a travel professional and blogger who has explored multiple destinations across Asia and the Middle East. During his visit to Vietnam, he explored Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An while discovering authentic Indian restaurants across the country.