Le Beaulieu

⭐⭐ | Disappointing Michelin Experience in Hanoi - Came to Hanoi wanting to see what “Michelin-level” dining here is really like. - After seeing La Beaulieu recommended everywhere online, we decided to give this Michelin-starred French restaurant a try — especially since it’s located in a historic hotel with over a hundred years of history. Sounded promising. - Reviews online were mixed, but curiosity won. About the ambience: I’d give it 4 stars. Elegant, quiet, and nicely decorated. Good for dates, gatherings, and taking photos. Honestly, this is probably the only highlight of the experience. - They offer both à la carte and set menus. I chose a three-course set. Maybe I went on the wrong day, but the whole meal was… painfully average. Two out of three courses were fish, and both were done in a very mediocre way. No creativity, no wow factor, no memorable flavors. - I’ve had French food in Vietnam before, and this place is expensive — over 1000 RMB per person, which is definitely not cheap here.Yet the food was worse than places that cost 600–700 RMB. - Ingredients: average. Seasoning: average. Sauces and ingredients felt disconnected, like they were doing their own thing instead of working together. Nothing stood out. Nothing impressed. Just… ordinary. Extremely ordinary. If you’re coming mainly for photos, atmosphere, or to celebrate something in a “famous” place, then maybe it’s worth a try. But if you’re like me — coming for the food — you can safely skip this. - This is easily in my top three worst French dining experiences. Very disappointing. It feels more like a French bistro than a proper fine dining restaurant. Not what I expected from a Michelin-starred place.

I had such a wonderful time! I briefly stopped at L’Epiceri prior and snatched some bread and Brie. They graciously let me snack in their outside patio and then I ordered a delicious elevated croissant and I honestly forget the fish but as you can see: IT WAS DIVINE.

What a wonderful Michelin star restaurant in the heart of Hanoi at the Sofitel Metropole Hotel. Lovely welcome upon arrival, the sommelier was extremely professional and service outstanding. We ordered the tasting plate menu with wine pairing, it is excellent, highly recommend.

What really stood out was the staff—they are friendly, intuitive, and genuinely make you feel valued. It’s rare to experience service that feels effortless yet personal. The ambiance is bright, modern, and inviting, making it a perfect place to enjoy good food and good company.