My name is Niall Mackay, the podcast host of A Vietnam Podcast. In this show, my guests and I talk about stories, insights, and experiences related to Vietnam.
This is the 3rd episode of our trip to Da Lat. We have discovered many hidden gems including coffee spots, restaurants, and bars.
And today, Adrie and I continued to unveil Da Lat’s hidden gems (up to 10), and I will show you my favorite spot in this city.
Da Lat Beyond the Usual Attractions
Da Lat is known for its waterfalls, colorful flower gardens, and charming French villas. Tourists flock to Xuan Huong Lake, the night market, and Lang Biang Mountain. But there’s much more to this beautiful city if you’re willing to explore beyond the usual spots.
Today was our last day in Da Lat, and we had one goal—discover as many hidden gems as possible before heading back.
We were up before the sun, long before most people in Da Lat had even stirred. It was so early that even the fish in the pond seemed to be asleep, barely moving in the water. I had never really thought about whether fish could sleep, but here they were, proving that they could.
Check out the first few Đà Lạt’s hidden gems: Discover Da Lat’s HIDDEN Gems – Day 1
Hidden Gem 5: Đa Phú Hữu Hill
Our journey took us to a spot we found through a mix of online searching and sheer curiosity—Dfu Hill. Or was it Da Far? The name was up for debate, but either way, we set off on our adventure. The route involved multiple steps: a motorbike ride, a four-wheel drive up the hill, and eventually a short hike to the viewpoint. At 60K VND per person, the experience felt both exclusive and unexpectedly organized.
As we reached the top, we realized we were the only foreign tourists among a crowd of locals, all eagerly awaiting the sunrise. The sky glowed with the reflection of city lights on the clouds, creating an almost mystical effect. Some people had small fires going, while others were playing music on speakers—perhaps not the serene, untouched nature experience we had hoped for, but uniquely lively in its own way.
Unfortunately, the much-anticipated sea of clouds didn’t quite appear for us that morning, likely due to the weather. But even without it, the view was worth the early wake-up call. The downside? The usual issues—plastic stools scattered around, bits of trash disrupting the landscape, and the occasional overly loud group breaking the peace.
Best Breakfast in Đà Lạt: Bánh Căn
Mornings in Đà Lạt are always an experience—cool, fresh air, quiet streets slowly waking up, and, of course, incredible food. Today, we set out on a mission to find bánh căn, a specialty we had tried before and absolutely loved.
We found a small spot serving these tiny, crispy pancakes made from rice flour and quail eggs. As soon as they arrived, we knew we were in for a treat. They were golden brown on the outside and perfectly soft inside.
The way they’re cooked makes all the difference. Each pancake is poured into a small terracotta mold and then covered until the edges crisp up while the inside stays soft. This method gives bánh căn its signature texture—crispy on the bottom, but tender and eggy in the center.
But the real magic? Dip them into a hot bowl of broth packed with meatballs, shredded green mango, peanuts, and chili.
The dipping sauce wasn’t just any ordinary sauce—it was a whole experience in itself. A rich, slightly sweet soup filled with:
- Juicy meatballs, add a savory depth
- Shredded green mango, giving it a fresh tanginess
- Crushed peanuts, adding crunch and nuttiness
- Chili, bringing the perfect amount of heat
Each bite was an explosion of textures and flavors—crunchy, creamy, tangy, spicy, and umami all at once. We originally ordered 10, but somehow ended up with 20.
Every time I eat Vietnamese food, I’m reminded of how amazing it is. Whether it’s a dish I haven’t tried in a while or something completely new, it always surprises me.
Da Lat’s Hidden Gem 6: Persimmon Café
Tucked away in the hills of Đà Lạt, Persimmon Café is the kind of place you wouldn’t stumble upon by accident. It’s hidden just enough to feel like a secret, but once you arrive, you’ll realize it was worth the effort.
Surrounded by blooming flowers and offering a peaceful atmosphere away from the city, this café is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet moment with a great cup of coffee.
Tips for finding the way
Reaching Persimmon Café was not easy I admitted. The café is located a little outside of Đà Lạt’s main town, requiring a short journey through winding roads and steep laneways. After turning off the main road, visitors need to follow a small, bumpy cobblestone path that seems almost too hidden to be correct. But don’t let that fool you—this is the way.
The best marker to look out for is a temple archway. Once you see it, take a right and continue up the hill. Along the way, you’ll pass a sign for a barbecue restaurant. Many first-time visitors, including us, assume this is the café and stop too soon. However, the actual café is a little further ahead, nestled among greenery with a breathtaking view of the valley.
A Café Surrounded by Nature
One of the first things you’ll notice upon arrival is the abundance of flowers. The café is surrounded by colorful blooms, adding to its charm and making it feel like a hidden retreat in the mountains. The space is large, with plenty of seating options both inside and outside. Even on a cloudy morning, the atmosphere is peaceful and inviting.
Since the café is slightly off the beaten path, it remains relatively undiscovered by large crowds. However, it’s spacious enough to accommodate visitors even on busier days. There’s a good chance you’ll find a quiet corner to sit back, enjoy your coffee, and take in the beauty of Đà Lạt without distraction.
Hidden Gem 7: Strawberry Picking
We planned to go to Biofresh farm – a well-known spot for strawberry picking. Reality, however, had a different plan. After navigating our way through the area, we arrived at what seemed to be a deserted farm – the place was clearly closed.
Luckily, Vietnam has a way of making things work. A quick search led us to another small, local strawberry garden nearby.
- Hùng Hương Strawberry Farm
This farm wasn’t a tourist hotspot. There were no guided tours, no instructions, just neat rows of strawberry plants stretching across the field. It was the kind of place that felt authentic, where locals tended to their crops in peace.
The excitement quickly faded, however, as we bent down and realized—there were hardly any strawberries to pick. Most of the berries were small, green, or still white, hidden beneath the leaves. We searched, hoping to uncover a ripe patch, but the few red ones we did find were either too tiny or already starting to mold.
It slowly dawned on us: we hadn’t checked if it was actually strawberry season before setting off. A crucial mistake.
So, the biggest tip, remember to check the strawberry season before choosing a farm for strawberry picking.
Hidden Gem 8: Balava Chocolate House
Vietnam is full of hidden gems, and one of the sweetest surprises in Da Lat is the Chocolate Factory.
The road wound through lush green hills, and as we approached, the setting felt straight out of a storybook. The warm, inviting atmosphere made it clear that this was a special place—perfect for chocolate lovers and anyone looking for a unique experience in Da Lat.
A Taste of Vietnam’s Finest Chocolate
Stepping inside, we were immediately drawn to the chocolate-tasting station. The factory offers a variety of handcrafted chocolates made from locally sourced cocoa beans from Lâm Đồng and Phú Yên—two regions known for their rich agricultural heritage. Each bite was smooth, rich, and incredibly well-balanced—not too bitter, not too sweet.
While enjoying our chocolates, we chatted with the owner’s wife, who shared the story behind the Balava Chocolate House. Her husband, a passionate chocolate lover, fell in love with Da Lat and decided to open the factory here. The business is still young—just a little over a year old—but it’s quickly becoming a must-visit spot for travelers.
When asked why they chose this remote location, she simply smiled and said, “My husband just loves Da Lat.” That love is reflected in every corner of the chocolate house, from its thoughtful design to the quality of its products.
Hidden Gem 9: Bánh Tráng Nướng
I’ll show you one of the best Vietnamese street food – Bánh Tráng Nướng. Often dubbed “Vietnamese pizza,” this crispy grilled rice paper dish is a must-try for any food lover exploring the country, especially in Đà Lạt.
With the cool weather, it’s always better to try a hot meal, and this time is Bánh Tráng Nướng.
A Street Food Classic
We found ourselves at Hidden Gem number 9, a small roadside stall with warm charcoal grills glowing in the cool Đà Lạt air. The scent of sizzling toppings filled the night, drawing us in like moths to a flame. This wasn’t our first time having bánh tráng nướng, but in Đà Lạt, where it’s said to be the best in Vietnam. It felt like an entirely new experience.
A thin sheet of rice paper is placed over an open flame and brushed with butter. An egg is cracked and spread across the surface, followed by a mix of scallions, dried shrimp, and shredded chicken. The vendor then adds a small triangle of processed cheese, a signature touch that melts beautifully into the crispy base.
We took our first bite. The combination of crispy rice paper, savory egg, and smoky grilled toppings creates an explosion of textures and flavors. It’s crunchy, slightly chewy, rich yet balanced.
If you’re ever in Đà Lạt, bánh tráng nướng is an absolute must-try. It’s the perfect street snack—cheap, satisfying, and packed with umami flavors.
Hidden Gem 10: Maze Bar (My Favorite)
After a day of exploring, we ended the night at what was possibly my favorite bar in all of Vietnam—Maze Bar, also known as The Bar of a Hundred Rooftops.
The Unique Structure
We finally arrived at Hidden Gem number 10, and let me tell you, this might just be my absolute favorite spot in all of Vietnam. Seriously, it is almost definitely my favorite in Da Lat. We’ve been here a bunch of times, and it always feels like a freaking adventure.
The structure itself evoked a sense of Da Lat’s own topography, with its undulating hills and unpredictable pathways, a constant negotiation between ascent and descent
Known alternatively as the “Bar of a Hundred Rooftops,” though comprising only six floors, Maze Bar bore a distinct resemblance to the Crazy House (the previous episode). The entire space was a labyrinth of staircases, tunnels, and hidden rooms, each leading to another level of exploration. You never really knew where you were going, but that was the fun of it.
I grabbed a rum and coke for 60,000 VND and started wandering. Every turn revealed something new—a small balcony overlooking the city, a dimly lit cave-like corner, or a rooftop with an incredible view.
The architecture reflected Da Lat’s unpredictable terrain, with its rolling hills and endless paths. Every time I thought I had seen everything, another staircase would appear, leading to an entirely different section of the bar.
There was something about the place that made it feel like an adventure rather than just a night out. I had been here before, and every time, it felt just as exciting as the first. If you’re in Da Lat and looking for a unique way to end the night, Maze Bar is the place to be.
No matter how many times I visit Da Lat, there’s always something new to discover. Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall street food stall, a family-run chocolate factory in the hills, or a bar that feels like an adult playground, this city never fails to surprise me.
And that’s what makes it one of my favorite places in Vietnam.
Conclusion
That’s all about our trip to Da Lat. Although I have been to Da Lat before, this place is always fascinating as I can discover more and more hidden gems.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these hidden gems will offer an unforgettable experience.
Make sure to watch the full series and follow me for more adventure!
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