Hanoi, the vibrant capital city of Vietnam, is a treasure trove of culinary delights. While the city may not boast modern amenities or glossy appearances, it is famous for its long-standing restaurants that have been serving up incredible flavors for generations. The eating habits of the Hanoians, with their focus on the aesthetics of food and the art of savoring it, have remained unchanged despite the influences of modern urban life. In this article, we bring you a curated list of Hanoi’s 20 best street eats that will spoil your taste buds.
Bun Cha Hang Quat (Grilled Pork and Vermicelli)
‘Bun Cha’ is a simple yet traditional dish that embodies the taste of Northern Vietnamese villages. To experience the authentic flavors of this dish, head to ‘Bun Cha Hang Quat’. They master the art of marinating and grilling pork to perfection, creating a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors. This place has been serving satisfied customers for years, and you’ll understand why once you take your first bite.
Bun Oc Ngo Cho Dong Xuan (Vietnamese Snail Noodle Soup)
If you find yourself in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, make sure to visit the narrow streets and alleys near Dong Xuan Market. Among the many food stalls, ‘Bun Oc Ngo Cho Dong Xuan’ stands out with its snail noodle soup. Savor a steaming hot bowl filled with snails and fried tofu, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among the locals. The flavors are simply irresistible.
Mien Ga Hang Buom (Hang Buom Chicken Glass Noodle Soup)
Nestled on Hang Buom Street, you’ll find a humble stall known for its chicken glass noodle soup. Despite its run-down appearance, ‘Mien Ga Hang Buom’ attracts a crowd of loyal customers with its exceptionally flavorful broth. While waiting for your bowl of nourishing chicken congee, don’t forget to enjoy the special crispy breadsticks. It’s a perfect comfort food experience.
Pho Bat Dan (Bat Dan Noodle Soup)
No visit to Hanoi would be complete without trying the quintessential Northern Vietnamese dish – ‘Pho’. And ‘Pho Bat Dan’ is the go-to place for this iconic noodle soup. Open since time immemorial, this restaurant still attracts a queue of customers waiting to savor their delicious bowls of tender beef, chewy noodles, and aromatic broth. Be ready to join the line!
Pho Thin Pho Lo Duc (Thin Noodle Soup)
Since 1979, ‘Pho Thin’ has been serving one of the best noodle soups in Hanoi. Together with ‘Pho Bat Dan’, it has contributed to the legendary status of Vietnamese ‘Pho’. The secret lies in their perfectly cooked beef, abundant onions, and the rich, flavorful broth. This place offers only one type of noodle soup, but it’s enough to leave you craving for more.
Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh – To Hien Thanh (Vietnamese Steam Rice Rolls)
At ‘Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh’, you can savor delicate steam rice rolls served with grilled pork meat. The highlight of this restaurant lies in its thin rice paper, perfectly marinated meat, and tasty dipping sauce. The combination of flavors is simply unforgettable. It’s a must-visit spot for a delightful brunch in Hanoi.
Chao Ga Ba My – Ly Quoc Su (Chicken Porridge)
If you’re in the mood for some comforting chicken congee, head to the famous Church neighborhood and look for ‘Chao Ga Ba My’. Mrs. My’s chicken congee has a unique flavor that keeps customers coming back. Don’t be alarmed if you hear her swearing at her staff – it’s just her characteristic style, and it adds to the overall experience.
Bun Dau Mam Tom – 31 Hang Khay (Vietnamese Fermented Shrimp Paste Noodle)
In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, on a narrow alley called Hang Khay, lies a modest restaurant selling ‘Bun Dau Mam Tom’. You’ll find many places selling this dish, but according to locals and seasoned travelers, the first restaurant on the left is the one worth trying. Their tray of ‘Bun Dau’ is loaded with fried tofu, black pudding, stomach, thin-sliced pork leg, and boiled pork tongue. It’s the perfect combination for a satisfying and aromatic meal best enjoyed in a sidewalk food stall.
Banh Mi Thit Xien Ba Nga (Bread with Grilled Pork Mrs. Nga)
‘Banh Mi Thit Xien Ba Nga’ on Quang Trung Street is a beloved spot known for its grilled pork bread. The secret to their deliciousness lies in their unique way of preparing the pork, resulting in soft grilled pork skewers. You can savor them with or without bread, depending on your preference. It’s a popular destination for locals from different walks of life, carrying forward a tradition that spans generations.
Nom 25 Ham Long (Vietnamese Salad)
If you’re looking for a refreshing and light meal, head to Ham Long Street, where you’ll find a cluster of salad stalls. Among them, ‘Nom 25’ at No.25 stands out as the oldest and most famous one. What sets them apart is the unique sweet and sour flavor that can’t be replicated. Indulge in traditional dried beef salad or sun-dried salad mixed with organ meats, and make sure to try the additional snacks like ‘banh bot loc’ (Vietnamese tapioca dumpling), ‘co ga’ (chicken’s neck), and ‘chim quay’ (roasted quail).
Banh Gio Ngo Cho Nguyen Cong Tru (Vietnamese Rice Pyramid Dumpling)
In the vicinity of Nguyen Cong Tru Market, you’ll find the beloved ‘banh gio’ stall. ‘Banh Gio Ngo Cho Nguyen Cong Tru’ is a hidden gem, perfect for a light brunch. The rice pyramid dumplings here are not too big or greasy. Enjoy them with lean pork paste and fermented pork roll for a satisfying and flavorsome experience.
Banh Ran Luc Lac Gia Trinh Ngo 16A Ly Nam De (Vietnamese Doughnuts)
‘Banh ran luc lac’ is a popular snack that dates back to Vietnam’s subsidy period, and ‘Gia Trinh’ is the name you need to remember for this delightful treat. The combination of boiled green peas and the thin, crispy crust is simply irresistible. Make sure to visit Gia Trinh’s bakery in advance during festivals to secure your share of traditional cakes, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Quay Hang Bong (Hang Bong Bread Sticks)
For nearly two decades, the ‘quay’ stall on Hang Bong Street has been serving hot bread sticks that evoke childhood memories for many Hanoians. These bread sticks have been a favorite snack for generations, enjoyed with the same flavor, same sellers, and a few plastic chairs just like in the old days. Take a nostalgic bite and savor the taste of the past.
Che 16 Pho Ngo Thi Nham (Vietnamese Sweet Gruel)
For over 30 years, ‘Che 16’ has been serving a variety of traditional gruels at the crossroad of Ngo Thi Nham and Le Van Huu Street. Indulge in green bean sweet gruel, black bean sweet gruel, lotus seed gruel, or steamed sticky rice with sweet gruel. The natural ingredients and traditional cooking methods ensure that the gruels retain their light sweetness. With prices ranging from 10,000 VND to 15,000 VND, it’s an affordable and delightful treat for your taste buds.
Xoi Xeo Hang Bai (Vietnamese Yellow Sticky Rice with Fried Onions)
For over two decades, ‘Xoi Xeo Hang Bai’ has been an on-the-way breakfast destination for the people of Hanoi. This stall offers yellow sticky rice topped with green peas and fried onions. Every ingredient is fresh and safe, emphasizing the stall’s commitment to quality. Indulge in ‘xoi xeo’ and experience a taste that has stood the test of time.
Chao Trai – Tran Xuan Xoan (Mussel Congee)
If you’re a fan of mussels, ‘Chao Trai Tran Xuan Xoan’ is the place to be. This street stall has been serving delectable glutinous rice congee filled with pieces of mussel for over 30 years. The combination of flavors and textures is simply divine. Don’t forget to try their ‘tao pho’ (Vietnamese tofu) – another favorite dish among the locals.
Suon Ran Le Duan (Pork Ribs)
Fried ribs on Le Duan Street have earned a great reputation in Hanoi. Despite being a simple snack made from humble ingredients, the secret lies in their special marinating and frying technique. ‘Suon Ran Le Duan’ offers an array of delicious dishes, including roasted stomach, pork rib porridge, and fried chicken. It’s a must-visit spot for meat lovers.
Mi Van Than So 8 Nguyen Bieu (Ramen Noodle Soup)
For over 20 years, the ramen noodle soup stall on Nguyen Bieu Street has been a favorite among Hanoians. Expect long lines of eager customers, reminiscent of the subsidy period. The noodles are cooked to perfection, and the flavor of the shrimp dumplings is simply delightful. Join the crowd and experience a taste of Hanoi’s culinary history.
Bun Rieu Trang, Nguyen Sieu (Crab Paste Vermicelli Soup)
‘Bun Rieu’ is a well-loved specialty that has been passed down through generations in Hanoi. ‘Bun Rieu Trang’ is the place to go if you want to taste the best version in town. Be prepared to queue during rush hours, as locals can’t resist the flavors that this 10-year-old restaurant has to offer. The fragrant and light soup is perfect for a sumptuous breakfast or brunch.
Xoi Khuc Co Lan, Nguyen Cong Tru (Vietnamese Sticky Rice Balls)
Located in a small alley off Nguyen Cong Tru backstreet, ‘Xoi Khuc Co Lan’ is renowned for its authentic Vietnamese sticky rice balls. What sets them apart is the inclusion of soft and lean pieces of bacon in the core of the rice balls. Make sure to visit in the morning to catch them in the alley, or in the afternoon when they move to the roadside. This is a taste you won’t want to miss.
Conclusion
Hanoi’s street food scene is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. From traditional noodle soups to flavorful rice dishes and delightful snacks, there’s something for everyone. Join the locals and embark on a gastronomic journey through the vibrant streets of Hanoi. Remember to try these street eats and indulge in the flavors that have captivated generations of food lovers. For more travel guides and tips, visit Travel Guide.