Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, is a paradise for food lovers. From street vendors to upscale restaurants, the city offers a delectable array of dishes that showcase the unique flavors and culinary heritage of the region. If you find yourself in Hanoi, don’t miss out on these five local tastes that will tantalize your taste buds.
Xôi Xéo
One dish that you can’t afford to miss while in Hanoi is Xôi Xéo. This delicious treat can be found in almost every outdoor market and even has dedicated restaurants in the Old Quarters. Xôi Xéo is sticky rice topped with ground de-hulled mung bean and crispy fried onions. For an extra boost of flavor, it can be served with eggs or steamed chicken breast. Locals often enjoy Xôi Xéo for breakfast or lunch, but it’s suitable for any time of the day.
Where to try: For an authentic experience, head to Xoi Yen on Nguyen Huu Huan Street, just north of Sword Lake (Hoan Kiem Lake). This local favorite offers Xôi Xéo for about 50 cents a bowl. Pair it with a refreshing glass of soy milk, and you’ll have more energy than a box of granola bars!
Bánh Cuốn
Similar to the French crepe, Bánh Cuốn is a steamed crepe made from rice flour and water. This savory dish is filled with ground pork, wood-ear mushrooms, and flavorful seasonings. Look for street vendors where you can see the steam rising high as they prepare fresh Bánh Cuốn. The dish is usually served with nuoc mam, a tantalizing mixture of fish sauce, sugar, and lime.
Where to try: If you’re looking for a more upscale experience, visit Banh Cuon Gia An on Ba Trieu Street, opposite Vincom Tower. This restaurant specializes in Banh Cuốn without preservatives, offering a hygienic and delicious dining experience. The price for a serving is around $1.5, which is slightly higher than street vendors but well worth it. Vegetarian options are also available.
Phở (Noodle Soup)
A trip to Hanoi wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the famous Phở. This iconic dish, invented in Hanoi in the early 20th century, is a rice noodle soup that can be found everywhere, from street vendors to high-end restaurants like Pho 24. Phở comes in various forms, with chicken or beef as the main protein. Each type of meat offers a unique blend of flavors, with different cuts such as beef tenderloin or chicken thigh. To find the best Phở, follow the locals and look for the most popular gathering spots.
Where to try: For an authentic Phở experience, head to Phở Bat Dan. This famous local restaurant is located in the heart of the Old Quarter and is easily recognizable by the long line of eager customers. Join the locals, queue up for a bowl of Phở, and find a spot to savor its flavorful broth. It’s an experience that will surely leave you satisfied.
Bún Thang
One of Hanoi’s hidden gems, Bún Thang is a must-try dish that you won’t find easily outside the Old Quarters. This delicacy features rice vermicelli noodles, artistically served in a chicken broth. The dish is a beautiful blend of colors, with sliced egg (yellow), vermicelli noodles (white), chicken (off-white), and fresh herbs (green). Bún Thang is a feast for the eyes and taste buds.
Where to try: Visit Bun Thang Ba Duc on Cau Go Street to savor this delightful dish. This street vendor has limited seating on the pavement, but don’t be surprised by the number of people who can fit in the two-story old house behind the stall. The unique setting adds an extra touch to your Bún Thang experience, making it a highlight of your trip to Hanoi.
Cha Ca La Vong
Listed as one of the top 100 things you must try before you die by many cuisine experts, Cha Ca La Vong is an exquisite grilled fish dish. Served with bún (rice vermicelli), peanuts, green onions, dill, and shrimp paste, this dish is a symphony of flavors. The fish is carefully chosen to ensure there are minimal bones and fishy smells. To complement your meal, enjoy a glass of bia hoi (local draft beer) or tra da (iced tea).
Where to try: Indulge in the tradition and quality of Cha Ca La Vong at the restaurant on 14 Cha Ca Street. While it may be more expensive than other local food, the experience of dining in one of the oldest houses in Hanoi, served by traditionally styled chefs, is truly worth it. Expect to pay around $6-8, including a drink.
Travel Guide
So, if you’re planning a visit to Hanoi, make sure to embark on a culinary journey and try these five essential local tastes. From the comforting Xôi Xéo and Bánh Cuốn to the iconic Phở and visually stunning Bún Thang, not forgetting the exquisite Cha Ca La Vong, Hanoi offers a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving more. Don’t miss out on these delightful dishes that capture the essence of the city’s vibrant food scene.
For more travel tips and information about Hanoi, visit Travel Guide.