Longer Than a Summer - Bar in Hanoi

Was feeling a bit low so decided to visit this hidden place inside the heart of Hanoi. The atmosphere was great, the entrance is a small red door hidden in a small alley on the left of the cathedral, the staff were nice, they play musics (mostly Jazz and Blues) based on the bartender of that night. I order a citrusy drink with little alcohol (i think it was Aviation (?)) It was fairly good, a good drink with a good amount of sourness (maybe a little too much at the start). Great vibes and a good sellections of drinks, CDs, Vinyls (mostly classics). Might return and bring a friend here with me.

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 a unique little cocktail bar. We had a great time and it was such a special experience to have no menu but cocktails specially made on your taste and preference. The owner made us very welcome and he is extremen skilled in his knowledge of cocktails and music. Difficult to find but we got some help from a local. Thanks again, Darren and Nathalie