Creative gin-based cocktails at speakeasy-style bar with rooftop views of Hanoi’s Old Quarter
February 19th, 2018
Opened in mid-2017 as Hanoi’s first specialist gin bar, Mad Botanist is conveniently located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter – directly opposite the iconic St. Joseph’s Cathedral. Offering a selection of over 100 gin labels from premium global brands and artisan producers, the speakeasy-style bar attracts an eclectic mix of both tourists and local residents for evening drinks and socialising in an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication. Established by the team behind local artisan coffee brand Vpresso, and sibling venue MAD Society at new the Somerset West Point in Tay Ho, Mad Botanist takes inspiration from the botanical elements of gin with the enthusiastic bar team creating their own gin infusions from local plants, and paired with housemade tonic waters to offer guests over 100 Gin & Tonic combinations.
Occupying the 3rd and 4th floors of a traditional shophouse-style building, MAD Botanist is discretely accessed by a stairway behind the street level Vpresso cafe. Designed with a retro style reminiscent of the speakeasy era, polished timber floors, pressed metal ceiling, dark timber wall panels and brass light fittings exude an understated luxe, while the white marble top bar and well-stocked bottle shelves showcase the cocktail credentials of Mad Botanist. At the upper level, indoor and outdoor spaces provide guests with spectacular views of the adjacent cathedral.
A descriptive drinks menu provides information on traditional and contemporary gin styles – with gin bottles categorised under country of origin. A Gin Tasting Menu offers selections of up to 8 different gin styles – served as 20ml measures, with Thomas Henry tonic and paired garnishes. In addition to the Gin & Tonic options, the bartenders also serve up both creative gin and other spirit-based cocktails, plus selections of wines and beer.
Mad Botanist opens daily from 4:00 pm, with Happy Hour deals every day between 5 pm and 8 pm.
