Longer Than a Summer

By far the best cocktail bar in Hanoi and probably in Vietnam. The mini-thrill of getting there and with no menus, we were not really sure how the drinks would turn out to be but it all cocktails were great. The host and bartenders have a conversation with every patron and suggest drinks as per your preferences or just as a surprise. I would recommend the Vietnamese Highball - herbal tea(from where its sweetness comes) and whiskey and the Salted Dog - the chilli-sugar-salt rim and tobasco are just perfect in this. All this with jazz and blues music playing in the background with a massive record collection. You will have to reach out to them via instagram @longerthanasummer for reservations and instructions to reach the bar. All of their staff is very friendly and welcoming. We had a fun and warm experience with AB, Long and Cúc.

Longer Than a Summer is one of my favourite finds in Hanoi, a must for any lovers of music and concept bars. Entrance to the bar is only for those who don’t mind a challenge and being brave enough to ask around to find this unmarked door to lead you to this wonderful dark and atmospheric bar. It’s a part of the experience and fun to figure how where this hidden gem is. You will be questioned on arrival but stand strong! Once inside, the venue only sits 25 people maximum. It’s ideal for 2-3 people to visit, anymore may be tricky to accommodate. As some other reviewers have said, they have a dress code of no sport tank tops, no shorts, flip flops or casual sandals but otherwise they welcome you as you are. The staff are incredibly friendly, passionate about their bar and offer the best personalised service for drinks, explaining their concept, music taste and drinks. One of the bartenders, Long, chatted with us throughout and really made our night. During our time, we even had a live performance on the piano. This is a bar I’ll long to return to one day when I come back to Hanoi.

Longer Than Summer is one of Hanoi’s most unique and intimate hidden bars. Discreetly tucked behind an unmarked door, it feels more like discovering a secret world than simply going out for a drink. The interior is moody, elegant, and effortlessly cool perfect for a quiet night out or a special date. There’s no printed menu here instead, the bartender will ask a few questions about your preferences and craft a personalized gin-based cocktail just for you. Each drink is thoughtful, beautifully balanced, and presented with care. It’s a refreshing change from the typical bar experience. The space is quite limited, so reservations are essential. If you’re looking for something refined, intimate, and unforgettable in Hanoi’s nightlife scene, Longer Than Summer is a must visit.

This is one of those bars you almost feel like you are not meant to find. Hidden in a narrow alley next to St. Joseph Cathedral, the entrance looks more like the back of a restaurant or someone’s home than a speakeasy. But finding it is half the fun. Once inside, everything changes. A record player spinning Sade and Simon & Garfunkel sets the tone, and the vibe and energy feel effortlessly cool, like a place where time slows down. We met Long on our first visit and instantly loved the cocktails he gave us based on our likes and dislikes. We loved it so much that we went back again just before our flight, and the second visit was even better. This time, we got to hang out with both Long and Jenny, bonding over music, culture, and life in general. They were incredibly kind and welcoming and made us feel like regulars. Cannot wait to go back someday, or maybe even bump into Long in Dubai. Until then, Longer Than a Summer will stay rent free in our memories 🍸✨

The owner is an absolutely hospitable man and the team delivered amazing world class service. They made you feel like family and helped me even though I didn’t have enough cash to cover my bill. This is the spot to feeling appreciated as customer and I will definitely be back. Very honest people and honestly impeccable service. Couldn’t ask. For best hosts and they delivered an unforgettable experience that I’ll never forget.

The persistence it took to find this little gem tucked in an alley by St Joseph’s Cathedral was well worth it! Thank goodness AB (the owner) left corporate to start Longer than a Summer. The cocktails are well dosed and yummy, and the vibe is vibing. Do drop by if you’re ever in Hanoi!

Had a pretty awesome night here. They were spinning vinyl records. Felt like they owned every classic album ever made. The music vibe? totally spot on. There was a long-haired bartender who was super chill, cracked a few jokes and somehow knew everything abt music and booze. The drinks were great too. They asked me what I liked and gave really good suggestions 👍 All in all, 10/10 night. I walked out feeling super satisfied 😎

A place that contains all the elements for drunken soul: music, cigarettes, candles, quality drinks and dedicated bartenders. Once you get into the bar, we are all good friends.