Hoi An has a history as a place to mix and mingle, so it’s no surprise that international influences can be seen and felt (and tasted!) in the handful of cocktail bars and watering holes dotted around the town. Instead of wild parties, look for thoughtfully designed spaces, delicious bar bites, and refreshing drinks that make the most of local ingredients and Vietnam’s new wave of craft spirits. Find your perfect night out among these top bars in Hoi An.

Best for craft beer enthusiasts: 7 Bridges Hoi An Taproom

This relative newcomer in the Hoi An Ancient Town is a must-visit for beer lovers. Come in from the busy streets and find your table in the beer garden and patio inside. Da Nang-based brewhouse 7 Bridges runs the show, serving 35 original craft beers on tap and in 160ml flights, as well as a tempting menu of pizzas, burgers, wings, skewers, and salads.

Best for impressing your date: Mezcal Coctelería

Hidden up a stairs just outside the Ancient Town, this semi-speakeasy is perhaps Hoi An’s most sophisticated bar. Come here for intimate chats in one of the dimly lit booths, or at the long bar, where premium mezcals and tequilas are the star of the show. You can’t go wrong with Mezcal’s exquisite cocktails, made right in front of your eyes by expert mixologists.

Best for long conversations: Barconcu Classic Bar

Barconcu is the kind of place where everyone feels comfortable. Striking a balance between classy and casual, the bar serves delightful drinks at reasonable prices. You’ll find locals and expats chatting for hours in the colorful sofas and cushy chairs scattered in and outside. Show up on Saturday evening to catch Barconcu’s open-mic night and occasional live bands.

Best for ocean breezes and live tunes: Soul Kitchen

There was a time when Soul Kitchen was the only place to go in An Bang Beach. Today, the bar’s grassy lawn and beachfront daybeds still beckon travelers to unwind and let loose, especially on weekend nights, when the best bands in town take the stage. Settle in before sunset to soak up the ocean views, then stay for funky tunes and DJ sets.

Best for a sporting good time: 3 Dragons Sports Bar

Every town needs a reliable sports bar, and in Hoi An that title is claimed by 3 Dragons, a riverfront institution just steps away from the Hoi An Market. Apart from screening top matches and serving ice-cold beers, 3 Dragons also trades in a hearty menu of Aussie and international favorites, such as ribs and pizza. Visit on trivia nights to make new friends.

Best for balmy tropical evenings: Market Terrace Bar

An easy choice for a sunset get together or drinks after dinner, Market Terrace claims a fantastic location within the old market. Classic Hoi An scenes unfold on the intersection below, while above, patrons surrounded by tropical greenery sip on refreshing drinks. The menu features enticing gin infusions, as well as on-point fish and chips, guacamole, salads, and truffle fries.

Best for a Vietnamese drinking experience: Con Co

Newly opened cocktail bar Con Co is bringing an updated version of Vietnamese ‘nhau’ drinking culture to Hoi An. The menu spotlights world-class Vietnamese wines, spirits, and beers, and introduces local bites such as northern-style sausage, grilled duck breast, and dried beef. Explore on your own or ask the friendly staff for advice about what to order.

Best for extended nightcaps: Bubble Bar

The cigar room above Bubble Bar at 37 Phan Boi Chau is still a secret, but that’s a good thing. The bar’s narrow balcony overlooks Hoi An’s tiled roofs, while inside, a seductive, old-world vibe permeates a room decked out in deep greens, black and white photos, and leather armchairs. The menu is equally stylish, with original cocktails, premium wines, and Cuban cigars.

Best for riverside chilling: Cham Chi Club

Travelers wandering into riverside hangout and art space Cham Chi tend to agree with the club’s description of itself as a ‘good vibe place’. Equal parts bar, gallery, and garden, Cham Chi regularly hosts live bands and DJs, but its lovely setting, eclectic decor and easygoing crowd make it a wonderful choice for art and music lovers on any given night.

Best for cocktails and people watching: Mango Mango

The largest restaurant from celebrated Chef Duc Tran is a destination in itself. Directly across the river from the Japanese Bridge, the views from Mango Mango’s upper floors are breathtaking, especially at night when the river glows with hundreds of lanterns. Choose your drink at the Whale Bar, then find your favorite stool to watch the action.

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