Grand Mercure Hanoi - Upscale hotels & resorts

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Hanoi’s street culture, look no further than bia hơi — a humble glass of fresh draft beer that holds an entire world of tradition, community, and local flavor.

What Is Bia Hơi?

Bia hơi (literally “steam beer” or “fresh beer”) is an unpasteurized, locally brewed draft beer made fresh daily and served immediately — no bottling, no long-term refrigeration. This makes it exceptionally light and crisp, with a low alcohol content of just 3–4%. Most remarkably, a glass costs as little as 5,000–15,000 VND (roughly USD $0.20–$0.60), making it one of the most affordable beers in the world.

A Brief History of Bia Hơi in Hanoi

The origins of bia hơi in Hanoi trace back to the French colonial era, when European brewing techniques were introduced to Vietnam. During the subsequent era of state subsidies, government-run breweries distributed fresh beer directly to sidewalk stalls, and a uniquely Hanoian drinking culture was born. Today, Bia Hơi Corner at the intersection of Tạ Hiện and Lương Ngọc Quyến streets in the Old Quarter has become one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks — beloved by locals and sought out by travelers from around the world.

Insider Tip from Grand Mercure Hanoi: Bia Hơi Corner is just a short taxi ride from our hotel. Ask our concierge for the best time to visit and recommended local spots off the beaten path.

Contact our concierge team for personalized Hanoi recommendations.

More Than Just a Drink — A Social Ritual

Picture this: low plastic stools, tiny pavement tables, golden foamy glasses, and the sound of “Một, hai, ba — Dzo!” (“One, two, three — Cheers!”) echoing through the street. Drinking bia hơi is a deeply social act — a way to unwind after work, catch up with friends, and connect with strangers. It strips away pretension and invites everyone — students, office workers, vendors, and tourists — to sit at the same level, literally and figuratively.

What to Eat with Bia Hơi – Best Food Pairings

No bia hơi session is complete without snacks. Look out for these classic pairings:

Where to Find the Best Bia Hơi in Hanoi

– Bia Hơi Corner – Tạ Hiện Street, Hoàn Kiếm: The most internationally known spot, buzzing with both locals and visitors every evening.

– 66 Lương Ngọc Quyến: An authentic sidewalk experience right in the heart of the Old Quarter.

– Lý Thường Kiệt Street area: A local favorite away from the tourist trail.

Getting there from Grand Mercure Hanoi

Grand Mercure Hanoi‘s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring the city’s Bia Hoi scene. The Old Quarter is easily reachable by a short taxi, ride-hailing app, or a pleasant evening walk through Hanoi’s atmospheric streets.

Our concierge team is always happy to recommend the best routes, suggest authentic local stalls beyond the tourist trail, or arrange a guided evening walking experience through the Old Quarter. Simply visit the Front Desk before heading out.

Pro tip from our team: Combine your Bia Hoi evening with a walk around Hoàn Kiếm Lake at sunset — the lake is beautifully lit at night and sits just at the edge of the Old Quarter.

Final Thoughts

Bia hơi is more than a cold glass of beer — it’s a symbol of Hanoian identity, resilience, and the joy of simple pleasures shared together. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, pulling up a plastic stool, raising a frothy glass, and shouting “Dzo!” with strangers is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave the capital.Cheers — or as they say in Hanoi — Dzo!