Sente: The Flavour of Lotus

Delicious healthy lotus inspired cuisine with everything touches on the basic lotus flower stems and leaves. Up.to it's root. Truly unique experience dining in however the seats are too limited and crampy it's better to be seated with a larger table to enjoy all the food and drinks together. With or without reservation the tables are still closed for the public walk in.

I brought some foreign friends to Sente and it was such a good pick. The place has this cozy, traditional Vietnamese vibe that they really appreciated, and the staff were quick and friendly from the start. The food was fresh, light, and flavorful, we tried a few lotus dishes which felt very special, and the Vietnamese-style pad thai was a fun surprise for everyone. My friends kept saying how much they enjoyed it, and I know I’ll be bringing more visitors back here next time.

The Michelin Guide restaurant lives up to its name. Each meticulously crafted dish was so enjoyable and each dish had its own unique balanced flavor profile. For 2 people the server recommend 2 starters, a main, and a dessert. Highly recommend the brown rice roll unagi chopped scallop. The curry lotus seed puree was so decadent and complex, it was definitely the highlight. Don't forget to order the Junbucha (Champagne of kombucha) to pair with the dishes. Overall, great experience!

Very tentative staff. Loved the brown rice roll and unagi brown rice roll. The fish was roasted just right, and the lotus seed brown rice was flavourful. Could tell the ingredients were very fresh and each dish was carefully crafted. 10/10

It’s the details that count, and Senté has mastered them. The food is unusual (very focused on the lotus flower) but also rooted in very local cuisine (dark rice, good fish, Vietnamese vegetables). The decor looks familiar and yet delightful, sophisticated and relaxed. The service is attentive but not overbearing. If you want something upmarket and a little different in Hanoi, Sante is your place.

Don’t ask me why—I’m just obsessed with this restaurant since it opened near my home. The flavors? Insane. The food? Absolutely incredible. I’ve literally tried every single dish on the menu—including the vegan ones—and I loved them all. My only suggestion? Please update the menu every now and then… because yes, I’ve already devoured everything. Highly recommended if you’re in Hanoi. This spot is a must.

The Flavour of Lotus is truly a hidden gem in Hanoi that beautifully showcases the versatility of lotus in its dishes. From the moment you step into this charming restaurant, you're greeted by a serene ambiance that reflects the essence of the lotus flower, making it a perfect escape from the bustling city. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring an array of dishes that highlight different parts of the lotus plant, including flowers, stems, roots, and seeds. I was particularly impressed with the grilled coconut and lotus seed water, which is not just refreshing but also embodies a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness. This drink is a perfect way to start your meal and sets the tone for the culinary journey ahead. For the main course, I indulged in the brown rice with lotus seeds and grilled grouper fish, seasoned with North Vietnamese spices. The brown rice was perfectly cooked, providing a wholesome base that complemented the tender grouper. The lotus seeds added a unique texture and a subtle flavor that enhanced the overall dish. The spices were aromatic without being overpowering, allowing the natural flavors of the fish and lotus to shine through. What I appreciated most was how Sente has managed to incorporate lotus into every aspect of their menu while maintaining a focus on health and freshness. Each dish felt like a celebration of this iconic Vietnamese flower, showcasing its culinary potential in innovative ways. The service was attentive and friendly, making the dining experience even more enjoyable.

A different (in a good way) restaurant to have a nice meal in Hanoi. The dishes had a lot of detail, flavor and creativity using lotus as one of the main ingredients. Good amount of vegetarian and healthy options. Recommended to book in advance. The atmosphere was welcoming, it's a cozy plaze that is perfect to take a refreshing pause from a busy day in Hanoi's streets.