When it comes to trying unique and unusual hotpots, Hanoi has some hidden gems that will surprise and delight your taste buds. From pigeon to mudskipper, these hotpots offer a one-of-a-kind dining experience you won’t soon forget. Join us as we explore five strange and exotic hotpots in Hanoi that are worth a try.
Pigeon Hotpot on Hoe Nhai Street
A rather unforeseen consequence of having an exceptional dining menu at the local pub, Nam Duong Tuu Quan on Hoe Nhai Street is renowned for its pigeon hotpot. Unlike typical local pubs, this place attracts a crowd of female patrons who come for the birds!
The standout feature of this hotpot is its broth, a very liquid porridge boiled with pigeon earlier. The combination of hot steamy rice soup infused with the essence of marrow, tender white meat, and a blend of herbs, vegetables, and mushrooms creates a sensory explosion. You’ll find yourself wanting to dive into this glorious concoction, if not for the playful bubbles teasing your nose. This is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
If you’re dining with friends, be prepared to chip in around 350,000vnd for one pot. But let’s be honest, you’ll probably want more than just a taste!
Snail Hotpot on Truong Chinh Street
Hard to find in Hanoi, the original snail hotpot reigns supreme. Tucked away in a little alley off Truong Chinh Avenue, this street stall has been serving the exotic pot for over 40 years. It’s a testament to its popularity that it has withstood the test of time, even during periods of conflict.
Besides the hot and sour broth that will tantalize your taste buds, this hotpot features intriguing ingredients like snails, dumplings, wontons, and rolls, all made from the crawling creature itself. The addition of typical fried tofu, unripe banana, and pork belly slices completes this unique dish, offering a beautiful aroma and a crave-worthy taste found nowhere else.
For around 300,000vnd, a pot of snail hotpot will satisfy a group of four. Despite being considered a peasant’s food, this hotpot is anything but ordinary.
Mudskipper Hotpot on Van Cao Street
Mudskipper fish and hotpots are common in the south, but they have recently made their way to the northern dining table. One of the few places in Hanoi that serves mudskipper hotpot is Mrs. Sau’s Hotpot on Van Cao Street. The name itself carries a southern accent, promising an authentic taste.
The distinguishing feature of this hotpot is the presence of exclusive river leaves, adding a lightly bitter yet strangely aromatic taste. The broth is a mouth-watering sweet and sour mix. The mudskippers, although small, boast a soft texture and tender meat that soaks up the broth perfectly. Accompanied by water hyssop, sliced banana flower, and water spinach, this hotpot is a true delight.
At around 350,000vnd for a steaming pot, it may seem a tad pricey, but considering the ingredients are shipped from the southern land, it’s a reasonable charge for the experience.
Chicken-in-vinegar Hotpot on Tran Nhan Tong Street
Located on Tran Nhan Tong Street, the sidewalk restaurant at 52 Tran Nhan Tong offers a unique take on the classics. Their chicken-in-vinegar hotpot stands out among a menu mostly devoid of chicken dishes.
The specialty here is the hill chicken, free-range birds with tender, juicy meat and a full-textured skin that sets them apart. Diners also praise the great broth, which includes a special homemade rice liquor brewed exclusively for this hotpot. It’s no myth; 52 Tran Nhan Tong truly delivers an extraordinary chicken hotpot experience.
For a group of 5 to 6 people, expect to pay around 350,000vnd. The proud owner is always ready for a chat, and the service is reasonably quick.
Frog Hotpot on Truc Bach Street
Truc Bach Street, running along the shore of Truc Bach Lake, is famous for its frog hotpot. Among the numerous vendors, Ngan Beo at 43 Truc Bach (also known as Fat Mama Ngan) stands out as the most famous and highly regarded.
The frog hotpot here is on the spicy side and requires meticulous preparation. The meat is deeply marinated and half-cooked with bamboo sprouts, resulting in a rich, deep, and spicy flavor. The aroma is mouthwatering, and the meat is perfectly tender. Served with water spinach and sliced bamboo sprouts, this hotpot is a winter favorite for many Hanoians.
A pot for two will cost around 350,000vnd, which may seem a bit higher compared to other hotpots. However, the strong flavor, exotic ingredients, and fine taste will leave you longing to return.
Caution: Frogs may harbor parasites that can severely affect human health, so ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked before eating. Customers have reported some unfavorable experiences with the service at Fat Mama, so neighboring establishments may be worth considering for a more satisfying experience.
Happy feasting!
