The Koto (know one teach one) Restaurant has long been established on the tourist trail opposite the 1,000 year old Temple of Literature. However, the restaurant has now moved five metres to the left to occupy a roomy brightly lit space, and is now called KOTO on Van Mieu.
Tour groups and individual travelers have been attracted to this restaurant for years, because money from any purchases go directly towards helping build a future for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds studying hospitality as part of the KOTO project.
Offering a delicious menu of Vietnamese and Western dishes, this charming restaurant is spread over different floors, all overlooking the shaded and peaceful Van Mieu. The ground floor is Cafe Koto offering a wide range of local and international dishes, with everything from snacks and dips to signature main courses and the acclaimed selection of Koto's cakes and pastries for dessert. The second floor is the Temple Bar, an ideal meeting place for friends or business associates. The Temple Bar also offers free wifi access. If you have a function for a group of 50 people, you can choose to gather in the spacious Graduate Gallery.
Personally I prefer The Treetops Terrace located on the top floor, where I am folded into the lush foliage of an incredible replica of the Van Mieu Gardens. With the height above the city street I feel as relaxed as if I was in the countryside.
Following a suggestion from Hoang Dinh Doan, a 24-year-old Chef at Koto, I chose Bun Bo Hue (Hue style Rice Noodle with Beef), Nem (Fresh Spring Rolls) and of course Pho soup. All dishes were fresh, reasonably portioned and priced.
"I was born in Ha Tay Province and my family could not afford my education after high school. But I am so lucky to be introduced to Koto vocational school where I learn everything about cooking, life skills and English. I am very happy to be able to support my family with my income now," said Doan.
It was interesting to discover that at this restaurant, the trainees put into practice what they previously learned only in theory. They interact with customers and practice their English, work as a team and improve their skills.
"I learned about Koto through the Lonely Planet Travel book and I just wanted to check it out. Yes I like the traditional but comfortable ambience with friendly staff, good food and I am so impressed with the principle behind Koto," said Estelle Beauvallet, a young French tourist.
Currently, the restaurant offers many set menus options (ranging from VND60,000 to VND120,000) varying in style, including street food, vegetarian, traditional Vietnamese food, seafood and a Western set menu. I always have a good time at this restaurant, as I know coming here I am contributing to improving the future of young and disadvantaged students at Koto.
Koto Restaurant
Add: 59 Van Mieu Street, Hanoi
Tel: (84-4)747 0337/ 747 0338
Fax: (84-4)747 0339
