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• A Rare Gem in Hanoi

In almost every city, there is that rare gem of a restaurant that does not serve dead animals. Tamarind Cafe is such in Hanoi. It is not for the backpackers or the penny pinchers or those looking for real pho, as some of the reviews below rant. IF you want real pho, go to a Vietnamese restaurant, not Tamarind. The food here is sublime, wholesome, delicious and saatvik. If these words mean anything to you with reference to food, you will eat here every day, as I did, during your stay in Hanoi. If not, this is not the place for you. The ambience is not the greatest, and while they do not commit the first cardinal sin of serving dead animals, they do commit the second i.e. allowing smokers to pollute the place. The menu is extensive, varied and creative. Yes it is expensive by Hanoi standards, but a bargain by Western standards. In any case, food this good does not have a price tag.