1. Pho Bo, Pho Ga

At the heart of this culinary tapestry are “pho bo” (beef noodle soup) and “pho ga” (chicken noodle soup), often simply known as "pho". These beloved dishes feature soft rice noodles, tender meat cuts such as brisket, rare beef or chicken, occasionally with beef balls and fresh herbs consisting of coriander as well as spring onions, all immersed in a fragrant, steaming broth simmered for hours.

In Northern-style pho, the broth is lighter and clearer, focusing on the natural umami from beef bones and star anise. Hanoians often enjoy pho with crispy fried dough sticks (quay), a side of poached eggs that enhances both texture and flavor.

A steaming bowl of pho bo with tender beef and fragrant broth (Source: Pexels)

A flavorful bowl of pho ga with succulent chicken and fresh herbs in a soothing broth (Source: Pixabay)

2. Bun Cha

One dish that embodies this smoky, grilled goodness is “bun cha”, a beloved combination of chargrilled pork, spring rolls, soft rice vermicelli, and fresh herbs, including perilla leaves, cilantro, Thai basil, and crisp lettuce for a mild, refreshing crunch. The highlight is the perfectly caramelized pork patties and pork belly, grilled over an open flame to achieve a rich, smoky flavor before they are submerged into a tangy-sweet fish-sauce dressing featuring crunchy pickled green papaya and carrots.

Tasty bun cha with grilled pork, soft noodles, and aromatic herbs (Source: Canva)

3. Banh Mi

The crusty baguette, with its crisp golden shell and pillowy soft interior, encases a vibrant mix of ingredients. A smear of rich, buttery pâté lays the foundation, followed by layers of savory cold cuts, smoky grilled meats, or fluffy eggs. Fresh cilantro and pickled daikon-carrot slaw add a bright, herbaceous crunch, while a drizzle of chili sauce infuses a lingering heat. The interplay of textures, crispy, tender, creamy, and tangy creates a perfectly balanced sandwich that is tasty yet addictive, which is great for breakfast or when you’re on the move.

A mouthwatering banh mi with soft crunchy veggies and a burst of bold flavors (Source: Pexels)

4. Pho Cuon

“Pho cuon” or pho rolls, is a delicious twist on traditional pho, swapping the steaming broth for soft rice noodle sheets wrapped around stir-fried beef, fresh herbs, and crisp lettuce. Each bite bursts with savory, chewy, and refreshing flavors, enhanced by a side of tangy dipping sauce made from fish sauce, garlic, and chili. Simple yet addictive, pho cuon is a must-try for anyone looking to experience a different side of Hanoi’s incredible food scene.

Delightful pho cuon with savory beef, fresh herbs, and a hint of dipping sauce (Source: Canva)

5. Bun Ca

“Bun ca” or fish noodle soup with crispy fried fish, sometimes paired with fish cakes or freshwater fish like tilapia or carp, served over soft rice vermicelli in a light yet flavorful tomato-based broth. Simmered with fish bones and tangy tomatoes, the broth has a natural sweetness balanced by a slight tartness.

What truly sets Hanoi-style bun ca apart is the generous topping of fresh dill, scallions, and sometimes pickled bamboo shoots, which add a fragrant, herbaceous depth. Locals often pair it with a side of crispy fried dough sticks or a splash of chili vinegar for an extra kick, making each spoonful both refreshing and satisfying.

Flavorful bun ca with golden-fried fish and vibrant herbs (Source: Canva)

6. Bun Oc

A Hanoi specialty, “bun oc” is a vibrant noodle soup known for its tangy, tomato-based broth and plump, chewy snails. The broth, simmered with vinegar and tomatoes, delivers a perfect balance of sour and savory flavors, enhancing the natural sweetness of the snails. Crispy tofu adds a crunchy contrast, while banana blossoms and fresh herbs like perilla and cilantro bring a refreshing, aromatic finish. Often enjoyed with a side of chili vinegar for extra heat, bun oc is a bold, flavorful dish that captures the essence of Hanoi’s street food culture.

Aromatic bun oc with savory snails and a light, sour broth (Source: Canva)

7. Xoi

“Xoi” or sticky rice, is a beloved comfort food in Hanoi, prized for its simplicity and rich, satisfying flavors. This versatile dish comes in many variations, from plain sticky rice topped with crispy shallots to more indulgent versions loaded with shredded chicken, Chinese sausage, or creamy mung bean paste. Often served as a quick breakfast or a filling late-night snack, this humble yet delicious dish is a staple of Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene.

A traditional xoi is served in a wooden container lined with banana leaves (Source: Canva)

8. Mi Ga Tan

“Mi ga tan” is a deeply soothing dish, featuring succulent chicken slow-cooked with medicinal herbs such as ginseng, goji berries, and angelica root. The result is a fragrant, nutrient-rich broth with layers of earthy, slightly sweet flavors. Mi ga tan is a deeply soothing dish, featuring succulent chicken slow-cooked with medicinal herbs such as ginseng, goji berries, and angelica root. The result is a fragrant, nutrient-rich broth with layers of earthy, slightly sweet flavors.

For an extra burst of flavor, locals often dip the tender chicken into a simple yet flavorful seasoning of salt, pepper, and lime, enhancing the dish’s depth and complexity.

Inviting mi ga tan with a warming, herbal soup and juicy chicken (Source: Canva)

9. Banh Cuon

Few dishes manage to be both delicate and packed with flavor quite like “banh cuon” or steamed rice rolls. These soft, thin rice sheets are expertly folded around a savory mixture of minced pork and wood ear mushrooms, often served with bean sprouts, silky Vietnamese pork sausage, crispy shrimp fritters, and even golden-fried spring rolls to add more layers of texture and flavor.

For an extra twist, “banh cuon trung” offers a richer variation, where a fresh egg is cracked into the steaming batter before folding, creating a silky, custard-like interior. Some eateries serve the dipping sauce separately for visitors to pour a healthy dose of it all over the plate, while others submerge the “cha lua” in the fish sauce, infusing it with extra depth.

Steamed banh cuon, combining tender rice rolls with fragrant herbs and crunchy toppings (Source: Pexels)

10. Banh Xeo Nem Lui

Crispy, aromatic, and bursting with flavor, “banh xeo” (Vietnam’s signature sizzling pancake) offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Made from a turmeric-infused rice flour batter, this golden crepe is stuffed with a savory mix of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts before being folded into a crunchy, delicate shell.

Each bite is elevated when wrapped in fresh herbs and delicate rice paper, then dipped into a signature sweet-and-sour fish sauce. This dipping sauce is a blend of fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, garlic, and chili often enhanced with pickled carrots and daikon to add a mild crunch and slightly sweet taste. Often served alongside “nem lui” or grilled lemongrass skewers, the pairing offers a satisfying contrast – crunchy pancakes meet smoky, juicy grilled meat. This hands-on dish isn’t just about taste; it’s an experience that brings people together over bold, irresistible flavors.

Classic banh xeo and nem lui, delivering a harmonious mix of textures and Vietnamese spices (Source: Pexels)

11. Ngan Chay Toi

Rich, aromatic, and utterly satisfying, “ngan chay toi”, or Fried Garlic Muscovy Duck, is a must-try in Hanoi’s vibrant street food scene. The duck is expertly seared, achieving a crisp, golden exterior while keeping the meat incredibly juicy and tender. What truly sets this dish apart is the generous coating of golden-brown fried garlic, infusing every bite with a bold, savory fragrance.

To balance its richness, ngan chay toi is typically served with a side of fresh herbs and a dipping sauce. The sauce for ngan chay toi is often a more robust blend of fish sauce, lime juice, and minced garlic, creating a tangy yet deeply savory complement to the duck. Additionally, some places offer soy sauce as an alternative dip, adding a slightly richer, umami-laden depth to the experience.

When it’s time to kick back with a beer, don’t forget to order ngan chay toi for its bold, garlicky crunch and deeply satisfying umami flavor.

Mouthwatering ngan chay toi with perfectly roasted duck and golden

12. Xien Nuong

These grilled skewers, from tender marinated pork to the crispy bite of “doi sun nuong” or also known as grilled cartilage sausage, are cooked to perfection over an open flame, giving them a rich, slightly caramelized crust. The mix of bold spices, juicy meat, and that signature smoky char makes every bite irresistible. Paired with tangy pickled vegetables and a spicy dipping sauce, grilled skewers aren’t just a snack but they’re also a full-on flavor experience that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.

Delicious xien nuong with succulent, well-seasoned skewers and a burst of smoky flavor (Source: Pexels)

13. Nom Bo Kho

“Nom bo kho” or Vietnamese green papaya salad with beef jerky is a Hanoi street food classic that delivers the perfect balance of textures and tastes. Crisp strands of green papaya create a fresh, slightly crunchy base, while the chewy, savory dried beef adds a rich, satisfying contrast. A sprinkle of roasted peanuts, aromatic herbs, and a tangy-sweet dressing tie everything together, making each bite a delicious harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy notes.

Zesty nom bo kho, combining vibrant vegetables with chewy, seasoned beef (Source: Pexels)

14. Nem Chua Ran

“Nem chua ran” is a beloved Hanoi street food known for its irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Made from fermented pork, these bite-sized rolls have a slightly chewy, tangy interior wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown crust.

Unlike the traditional fresh nem chua ran, this version is coated in a thin layer of batter or starch before frying, creating a delicate crunch that contrasts with the moist, flavorful center. Served hot, they are often accompanied by slices of green mango or fresh herbs to balance the richness, while a side of spicy chili sauce or thick, sweet-sour dipping sauce enhances their bold, savory profile. Perfect for sharing, nem chua ran is a go-to snack for casual hangouts and late-night street food feasts.

Bite-sized nem chua ran, with a crunchy exterior and a juicy, slightly sour interior

15. Banh Tom

“Banh tom” stands out for their signature lacy, crackling crust made from a light batter mixed with shredded sweet potato. Whole shrimp, left with their shells for extra crunch, are nestled into the batter before being deep-fried to a satisfying crisp. The natural sweetness of the potato balances the briny, umami-rich shrimp, creating a contrast of flavors and textures in every bite.

To complement its richness, banh tom is always served with a side of fresh herbs like perilla leaves, lettuce, and coriander, adding a refreshing contrast. The dipping sauce, a signature sweet-sour fish sauce blend, is made with diluted fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and chili, sometimes with shredded green papaya or carrot for extra crunch. Together, these elements create a perfect harmony of crispy, savory, sweet, and tangy notes that make banh tom an irresistible treat.

Golden fried banh tom with a crispy sweet potato base and juicy shrimp on top (Source: Canva)

16. Banh Goi

“Banh goi” is a staple of Hanoi’s street food scene, instantly recognizable by its crisp, golden shell and signature half-moon shape. This deep-fried pastry encases a savory filling of minced pork, crunchy wood ear mushrooms, chewy glass noodles, and a whole quail egg, creating a delightful mix of textures in every bite. The contrast between the flaky, shatteringly crisp exterior and the rich, well-seasoned interior makes it an irresistible treat.

To balance the dish’s richness, banh goi is served with vegetables like cilantro, perilla, and lettuce, adding a burst of freshness. The dipping sauce, a tangy blend of fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, chili, and thinly sliced green papaya or carrot, enhances the dumplings with a perfect touch of sweetness and acidity. Whether enjoyed as a midday snack or a street-side bite.

Freshly fried banh goi, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite

17. Che

“Che”, a staple of Vietnamese desserts, frequently combines cooked beans, pulses, or tubers with rich coconut milk, sometimes thickened with glutinous rice or jelly-like agar strands. Depending on the type, che can be served warm or chilled, often featuring crushed ice for a refreshing contrast. The balance of sweetness, creaminess, and chewiness defines this dessert, while additional ingredients like fresh fruit, pandan-infused syrup, or toasted sesame seeds elevate its complexity.

Vietnamese che comes in many variations, include “che thai”, a tropical mix of lychee, jackfruit, and chewy jellies; “che troi nuoc”, glutinous rice balls with mung bean filling in a warm ginger syrup, and Che Thap Cam, a mixed sweet soup featuring beans, coconut milk, and crushed ice.

A refreshing serving of che thap cam offering a burst of color and freshness (Source: Pexels)

18. Banh Trang

The crispy, grilled “banh trang nuong”, often likened to a Vietnamese-style pizza, is layered with egg, scallions, and savory dried meats. For a lighter option, banh trang cuon offers fresh herbs, pork, or shrimp wrapped in delicate rice paper. Meanwhile, banh trang tron brings together shredded rice paper, dried beef, quail eggs, and aromatic herbs in a zesty, umami-rich dressing. No matter the style, banh trang offers a flavorful and satisfying experience for street food enthusiasts.

Irresistible banh trang nuong, with a golden, crispy base and rich toppings (Source: Pexels)

19. Kem

Unlike the ultra-rich, dairy-heavy styles of Western ice cream, Vietnamese ice cream often has a lighter texture, a gentle sweetness, and a more pronounced focus on natural flavors. Traditional versions use coconut milk instead of heavy cream, resulting in a subtly fragrant and slightly chewy consistency.

One standout is “kem xoi”, where creamy coconut ice cream is paired with fragrant pandan-infused sticky rice, topped with crunchy roasted peanuts, creating a satisfying contrast between cold, chewy, and crispy elements. Another iconic favorite is “kem oc que Trang Tien”, known for its airy texture and delicate milky taste, served in a crisp wafer cone that enhances its light, refreshing appeal.

Creamy and refreshing kem xoi, pairing rich coconut ice cream with sticky rice (Source: Canva)

Whether you're wandering the vibrant alleys of Hanoi Old Town or soaking up the electric atmosphere of Ta Hien Beer Street, Hanoi Old Quarter: The Go-To Destination for Nightlife, the best food in Hanoi Old Quarter is always just a few steps away. From comforting bowls of pho to crispy banh goi and fragrant mi ga tan, Hanoi offers a street food experience unlike any other. If you're ever wondering what to do in hanoi, let your taste buds lead the way, because in this city, food is more than a meal, it's an adventure.

Get ready to indulge in authentic flavors and make your food adventure in Hanoi truly unforgettable and follow Vietnam Airlines for more updates!