KOTO is an upscale restaurant in Hanoi that is very popular with foreigners. I went several times on my first visit in June 2019 and returned last August. It is run by a Vietnamese- Australian as a not-for-profit social enterprise that empowers at-risk and disadvantaged youth in Vietnam. The original is located in Van Mieu, a stone’s throw from the Temple of Literature. There is another branch which I haven’t been to but I think has a different menu. I’m just going to talk about KOTO Van Mieu (https://www.kotovanmieu.com/).
The clientele is mostly foreign because the prices are high for Vietnam. The ambience is relaxed and decor is really nice. The service is attentive. We loved the tableware, which showcased ceramics from Bát Tràng. Inspired by the beautiful design, we actually bought some Bát Tràng tableware from a shop in the Old Quarter to bring back home. The drinks and food are excellent and beautifully presented, but in the context of Vietnam, people might feel the portion sizes are a bit on the smaller side. We really enjoyed our dinner there and would recommend KOTO to any visitor to Hanoi.
