The mall center at No. 7 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, also known as "Shark Jaw" given its shape, was built from 1991 to 1993, facing towards the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square.
To its left is the Hoan Kiem Lake, to its right is Cau Go Street, and behind it are restaurants and coffee shops.
Photo by Giang Huy
The building spans 300 m2 with six floors, four of them being restaurants and cafes. The Hanoi Transport and Services company, a state firm under the Hanoi People's Committee, is running the location.
Even during weekdays, crowds would gather at the building to enjoy food and beverages, especially at lunches. People often park their vehicles outside the building as there is no basement for parking.
All the floors are either opened or equipped with glass panels, making it possible for people inside to gaze outward.
A coffee shop on the 5th floor. Each floor only has one business operating.
Bich Hanh, from Hoan Kiem District, said she feels sad to hear that the building would be dismantled. She often brings her friends who visit Hanoi to the place.
"But maybe the demolition would create a better space," she said.
People would come to the building for taking photos and sightseeing. It is often crowded during special occasions, such as music festivals and fireworks shows.
Nguyen Hong Dung, chairman of the Hang Bac Ward People's Committee, said the demolition of the building would help expand the space at the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square.
Besides the mall center, Hanoi has also requested units to consider making adjustments to certain buildings and houses in the area.
Photo by Ngoc Thanh
