Food in Hanoi: Top 12 Dishes for An Unforgettable Culinary Experience

Food in Hanoi is more than just a meal – it’s an experience. From the bustling streets lined with food stalls to the cozy local eateries, Hanoi offers a rich culinary landscape that reflects the city's culture, history, and diverse influences. As a must-try food in Hanoi, each dish tells a story of tradition and flavor. If you're wondering what to eat in Hanoi, in this article, we’ll explore the must-try dishes and hidden gems that make Hanoi a food lover's paradise.

1. Reasons Why Hanoi Cuisines Are Highly Appreciated

Hanoi's cuisine is renowned for its unique flavors, fresh ingredients, and a rich history that blends traditional Vietnamese cooking with regional influences. Here are several reasons why Hanoi cuisines are highly appreciated:

• Balance of flavors: Hanoi dishes are known for their balanced flavors with the harmony of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. A typical meal features a perfect mix of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter tastes.
• Use of fresh, local ingredients: Hanoi's wet markets provide an abundance of locally grown vegetables, herbs like basil, mint, and coriander, and high-quality meats and seafood. Besides, the food in Hanoi changes with the seasons, making it incredibly diverse throughout the year.
• Healthy and light dishes: Hanoi’s cuisine incorporates a wide range of vegetables in every meal. Many Hanoi dishes are steamed, boiled, or grilled, rather than fried. This makes the food not only healthier but also less greasy, allowing the natural flavors to shine through.

Hanoi has all the conditions to become one of the culinary hubs of Southeast Asia and Asia. Hanoi was ranked as One of the Top 25 Food Destinations in the World 2022, according to the famous travel site TripAdvisor.

Most international tourists consider Hanoi's cuisine to be one of its top attractions (Source: Internet)

2. Top 10+ Best Vietnam Food in Hanoi to Enjoy During Your Visit

2.1. Pho – Vietnamese Noodle Soup

Pho is undoubtedly one of the must-eats in Hanoi, renowned for its fragrant broth, delicate balance of flavors, and comforting warmth. This iconic noodle soup is made with a rich beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and thinly sliced meat—typically beef (Pho Bo) or chicken (Pho Ga). Simmered for hours, the broth develops a deep, aromatic flavor, perfectly complemented by fresh herbs, lime, and chili.

Where to try:

• Pho Thin: No. 61 P. Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Pho Bat Dan: No. 49 Bat Dan Street, Cua Dong Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Pho is a traditional famous dish in Hanoi (Source: Internet)

2.2. Banh Mi - Vietnamese Sandwich

Vietnamese sandwich is a famous food in Hanoi, made with a crispy baguette, filled with a variety of ingredients, including pate, grilled pork, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and chili. Hanoi's version of Banh Mi features a perfect balance of crunchy bread, savory fillings, and refreshing pickled vegetables.

Where to try:

• Banh Mi Ba Dan: No. 34 Lo Su Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Banh Mi Duc Long: No. 5H Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Banh Mi is a famous street food around the world (Source: Internet)

2.3. Bun Cha - Vietnamese Noodles with Grilled Pork

Bun cha is a must-try food to eat in Hanoi consists of grilled pork (usually pork patties and pork belly) served with a bowl of flavorful dipping sauce, fresh herbs, and a side of vermicelli rice noodles. The smoky grilled pork combined with the sweet and sour dipping sauce creates a delicious, savory contrast, making it a local favorite.

Where to try:

• Bun Cha Hang Than: No. 34 Hang Than Street, Nguyen Trung Truc Ward, Ba Dinh District
• Bun Cha Huong Lien: No. 24 Le Van Huu Street, Phan Chu Trinh Ward, Hai Ba Trung District

The combination of the rich flavor of meat and the freshness of vegetables (Source: Internet)

2.4. Cha Ca La Vong - Turmeric La Vong Fish with Dill

Cha Ca La Vong is one of the best examples of good food in Hanoi, traditionally made with catfish. The fish is marinated with turmeric, galangal, shrimp paste, and other distinctive spices before being grilled over charcoal and then sautéed with dill and scallions. It is typically served with rice noodles, roasted peanuts, fresh herbs, and a side of fermented shrimp paste or sweet fish sauce, creating a unique and flavorful dining experience.

More than just a delicious dish, Cha Ca La Vong is a cultural icon of Hanoi’s cuisine, with a history spanning over a century.

Where to try:

• Cha Ca Ha Thanh: No. 32 Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Quan Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District
• Cha Ca Giang Vo: No. 120K1 Giang Vo STreet, Giang Vo Ward, Ba Dinh District

The unique of Cha Ca La Vong is that it's served at the table on a sizzling hot plate, making it a fun and interactive experience (Source: Internet)

2.5. Kem Trang Tien - Trang Tien Ice Cream

Founded in 1958, Kem Trang Tien originated in the Trang Tien Street area of Hanoi, where it quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors. It is particularly famous for its simple yet delicious flavors and creamy texture. The ice cream is known for being light and not overly sweet, making it perfect for Hanoi’s hot and humid weather.

Where to try:

• Kem Trang Tien: No. 35 Trang Tien Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Over time, Kem Trang Tien became a symbol of Hanoi’s street food culture, attracting both locals and tourists (Source: Internet)

2.6. Banh Tom Ho Tay - Fried Shrimp Cake

Banh Tom are crispy shrimp fritters, typically served in a light batter and deep-fried until golden and crunchy. The crispy exterior and the juicy shrimp inside create a delightful texture contrast, making it a popular dish around West Lake.

Where to try:

• Banh Tom Ho Tay Restaurant: No. 01 Thanh Nien Street, Yen Phu Ward, Tay Ho District
• Banh Tom Co Am: No. 84 Hang Chieu Street, Hoan Kiem District

A dish has a crispy texture and a complex fragrance (Source: Internet)

2.7. Bun Thang - Hanoi Chicken Noodle Soup

This is a Hanoi-style noodle soup with thin rice noodles, chicken, egg, pork, and herbs, all served in a savory, clear broth. The balance of flavors and textures from the shredded chicken, egg, and pork, combined with the clear broth, makes it a comforting and flavorful dish.

Where to try:

• Bun Thang Hang Hom: No. 11 Hang Hom Street, Hoan Kiem District
• Bun Thang Mot Buoi Sang: No. 86 Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoan Kiem District

A simple dish with many refreshing ingredients (Source: Internet)

2.8. Banh Cuon - Vietnamese Steamed Rice Rolls

These are delicate rice rolls filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and sometimes shrimp, topped with crispy fried shallots and served with a side of fish sauce. The thin rice rolls are soft and delicate, while the savory filling and crispy shallots add a delightful texture and depth of flavor.

Where to try:

• Banh Cuon Hong Anh: No. 37D Hang Vai Street, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Banh Cuon Ba Hoa: No. 66 To Hien Thanh Street, Bui Thi Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District

A familiar and energy-rich breakfast of Hanoi people (Source: Internet)

2.9. Bun Dau Mam Tom - Vermicelli with Fried Tofu Dipped in Shrimp Paste

Bun dau mam tom is a famous food in Hanoi made from rice noodles, fried tofu, and fermented shrimp paste. It’s often served with a variety of fresh herbs and vegetables, creating a satisfying and aromatic dish.

Where to try:

• Bun Dau Co Tuyen: No. 199/10 Tran Quoc Hoan Street, Dich Vong Hau Street, Cau Giay District
• Bun Dau Ngo Gach: No. 04 Ngo Gach Street, Hang Buom Ward, Hoan Kiem District

Bun dau mam tom is deeply rooted in the food culture of Hanoi, where it’s typically served as a casual, street food dish (Source: Internet)

2.10. Bun Rieu Cua - Freshwater Crab Soup

A flavorful crab-based noodle soup, Bun Rieu features a rich broth made from crab or tomato, served with rice noodles and topped with herbs and fried tofu. The fresh, slightly tangy broth from the crab and tomato, combined with the soft tofu, creates a satisfying and aromatic dish.

Where to try:

• Bun Rieu Cua Huyen Thu: No. 2F Quang Trung Street, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District
• Bun Rieu Be Be: No. 608 Lạc Long Street, Tay Ho Ward, Tay Ho District

A dish with a combination of many ingredients that brings a diverse flavor (Source: Internet)

2.11. Banh Da Cua - Red Noodle Soup With Crab

Banh da cua is a noodle soup made with banh da - a type of wide, chewy rice noodle, crab, and a rich, savory broth. The dish is usually topped with a variety of fresh herbs, vegetables, and crispy fried shallots, creating a delicious and aromatic meal. The most significant feature of this dish is its deep, flavorful crab broth, which is the essence of the dish.

Where to try:

• Banh Da Cua An Bien: No. 108 Tran Thai Tong Street, Cau Giay District
• Banh Da Cua Phung Hung: No. 6A Phung Hung Street, Hoan Kiem District

It is a rich and savory noodle soup made with crab and a variety of fresh ingredients, known for its unique combination of flavors and textures (Source: Internet)

2.12. Bun Oc - Snail Noodle Soup

Bun oc is a noodle soup made with rice noodles and snails. The dish features a tangy, savory broth, which is typically made with tomatoes and sometimes tamarind or vinegar to enhance the flavor. The snails are usually cooked with herbs, making it a distinct and flavorful dish that combines seafood, herbs, and noodles.

Where to try:

• Bun Oc Ba Luong: No. 195 Khuong Trung Street, Dong Da District
• Bun Oc Co Hue: No. 26 Dang Dung Street, Ba Dinh District

The broth is the star of the dish, featuring a combination of sour and savory flavors that come from the tomatoes, tamarind, and various spices (Source: Internet)

2.13. Xoi Khuc - Vietnamese Sticky Rice Balls

Xoi is sticky rice, often served as a snack or breakfast, with toppings like mung beans, fried shallots, and a variety of meats like chicken or pork. The sticky rice is perfectly cooked and can be paired with sweet or savory toppings, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.

Where to try:

• Xoi Khuc Co Lan: No. 29 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ba Dinh District
• Xoi Khuc Hai Ngan: No. 28 Thanh Cong Street, Ba Dinh District

Sticky rice is combination between a chewy texture and the fragrant aroma of pandan leaves (Source: Internet)

3. The Ideal Spots for A Hanoi Food Tour

3.1. Ta Hien Street - Famous Beer Street

• Distance from Hoan Kiem Lake: 1.2km

Ta Hien Street, often known as "Beer Street" is one of the most iconic streets in Hanoi, famous for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food. Ta Hien Street is famous for its Bia Hoi – a fresh, light draft beer that is served in small, plastic cups.

Visitors can also find various foods here such as: Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich), Cha Ca (Grilled Fish with Turmeric and Dill), Nem Chua (Fermented Pork), Goi Cuon (Vietnamese Spring Rolls), Grilled Skewers, etc.

Ta Hien is bustling, especially in the evening, when people gather to relax and enjoy food and drinks (Source: Internet)

3.2. Tong Duy Tan Street - Bustling Food Street

• Distance from Hoan Kiem Lake: 1.4km

Tong Duy Tan Street in Hanoi is a fantastic place to experience the city’s street food scene, particularly known for its bustling, vibrant atmosphere. This street is often called “The Street of Food”, and it's the go-to spot for both locals and tourists looking for delicious, authentic Vietnamese dishes: Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls), Bun Cha (Grilled Pork with Noodles), Banh Da Cua (Crab Noodle Soup), Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich), etc.

Tong Duy Tan can be quite busy, especially in the evening, so be prepared for large crowds (Source: Internet)

3.3. Gam Cau Street - Best for Grill And Hotpot Lovers

• Distance from Hoan Kiem Lake: 3.1km

Gam Cau Street is a fantastic destination for grill and hotpot lovers. It offers a vibrant atmosphere with a wide variety of eateries serving up delicious grilled meats and hotpot dishes. The street is filled with small, cozy restaurants that specialize in different styles of barbecue and hotpot, catering to various tastes.

You can enjoy everything from Korean-style grilled meats to traditional Vietnamese BBQ and hotpot, with rich broths and fresh ingredients.

If you’re in the mood for an unforgettable dining experience with sizzling grills and steaming hotpots, Gam Cau Street should be at the top of your list (Source: Internet)

3.4. Hanoi Local Markets - Shopping And Dining Combined

Hanoi's local markets such as Hang Da Market, Luong Yen Market, etc, are a blend of shopping and dining, offering a unique and vibrant experience for visitors. These markets are not only the perfect place to shop for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local goods, but they also serve up some of the best street food in the city.

Markets in Hanoi serves as a hub for both locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience the true essence of Hanoi (Source: Internet)

3.5. Dong Xuan Market - The Heart of Hanoi’s Trade and Culture

• Distance from Hoan Kiem Lake: 2.2km

Dong Xuan Market is undeniably the heart of Hanoi’s trade and culture, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s bustling commerce and rich heritage. It’s here where you can taste the city’s most iconic dishes, such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls). The market’s food stalls are constantly busy, making it an excellent spot for a quick and authentic bite to eat.

Dong Xuan Market is also a food lover’s haven (Source: Internet)

Food in Hanoi offers a variety of flavors, textures, and experiences that are deeply rooted in the city's history and culture. The dishes of Hanoi are not only delicious but also tell the story of the city’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you prefer savory, sweet, or crispy treats, Hanoi has something for every food lover to enjoy!

If you can't resist the allure of Hanoi's specialties, book your Flight to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.