Authentic Izakaya Vibes by the Lake – A Hidden Japanese Gem in Hanoi

We stumbled upon Quán nhậu Nhật Bản Izakaya MATSUKI Tây Hồ after our original dinner spot had closed for the night — and what a pleasant surprise it turned out to be.

Facing the serene West Lake, I imagine this izakaya offers stunning sunset views during the day. Unfortunately, we visited late at night, so the scenery outside was lost in darkness — but the warm and immersive atmosphere inside more than made up for it.

We requested to sit on the second floor instead of the ground level where we were first directed, and the staff were more than happy to accommodate. The setting upstairs felt cozy, intimate, and distinctly Japanese — reminiscent of small-town eateries in Kyoto or Osaka.

We admittedly went overboard with the food, ordering so much that dishes were still arriving even after we were already full. But honestly, we didn’t regret it. Everything was delicious and felt authentically prepared. The tuna sashimi was fresh, and the rest of the dishes hit the spot.

Do take note that wasabi comes at an extra charge, and hot green tea isn’t refillable — a small detail that’s good to know in advance.

The energy of the place is uplifting. Staff greet and send off guests with enthusiastic shouts, which really adds to the genuine izakaya experience. Prices were reasonable, especially considering the quality and setting.

Overall, MATSUKI is a fantastic spot for a casual yet authentic Japanese dinner in Hanoi — especially for those missing a taste of Japan.

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Post by Crumpled Nomad | Jun 18, 2025