Northern culture in Vietnam has its distinct culinary traditions, and Hanoi is at the heart of it all. The food in Hanoi is renowned for its balance and subtlety, focusing on elegance and tradition rather than spiciness or bold flavors. While Southern Vietnam excels in sweet and spicy fusion dishes, Northern Vietnam takes pride in its centuries-old practice of perfecting light and delicate flavors.
Traditional Dishes to Try in Hanoi
When in Hanoi, there are several must-try traditional dishes that will take you on a culinary journey. Here are five of the best:
Pho Hanoi
Considered the national dish of Vietnam, pho is a rice noodle soup that is widely enjoyed in Hanoi. This hearty dish, often eaten for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, features a rich and clear broth made by simmering beef bones with star anise, cinnamon, ginger, and black cardamom. Topped with noodles, green onions, and your choice of beef or chicken, pho is a satisfying and flavorful meal, especially during the cold winter months.
Banh tom
Banh tom, also known as West Lake shrimp cakes, is a crispy snack that originated from Hanoi. Shredded sweet potatoes are battered and deep-fried, with a whole shrimp embedded on top. The result is a crunchy fritter that is best enjoyed wrapped in lettuce, dipped in fish sauce, and accompanied by a cold beer.
Banh cuon
Banh cuon is a rice flour roll filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and black funguses. This popular breakfast dish is made by steaming fermented rice batter on a taut cloth, resulting in a soft and translucent pancake. The rice pancake is then rolled up and served with a side of pork sausage, fresh herbs, and a delicious homemade sweet and sour fish sauce.
Cha ca La Vong
Cha ca La Vong is a famous dish that represents the Old Quarter of Hanoi. This flavorful dish consists of turmeric and dill-marinated snakehead fish, which is grilled or baked before being pan-seared to perfection. Served with rice vermicelli noodles, peanuts, and a side of fermented shrimp paste, Cha ca La Vong is a unique and delicious culinary experience.
Bun cha
Considered the capital city’s designated lunch, bun cha is a popular dish in Hanoi. Grilled fatty pork is served in a hot, sweet broth, accompanied by thin rice vermicelli, meatballs, and a variety of pickled and fresh vegetables. It’s a balanced and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by mixing all the ingredients together in the soup.
Fine Dining and International Cuisine in Hanoi
While the best Vietnamese food in Hanoi is often found in humble street stalls and family homes, the city also offers a diverse array of international fine dining options. These restaurants bring together the flavors of Cantonese, Japanese, and French cuisines with a touch of Hanoi’s charm. Here are three fine dining establishments that are worth exploring:
Crystal Jade Palace Restaurant
Crystal Jade Palace Restaurant specializes in authentic Cantonese cuisine and has been serving Chinese food in Vietnam for over 25 years. With high-quality imported ingredients and a reputation for excellence, this restaurant has earned a Michelin star and continues to impress diners with its delicious offerings.
Kappou Ishia Sushi
For a change of pace, try Kappou Ishia Sushi, an “omakase” Japanese restaurant where the chef chooses every plate for the guest. This culinary journey includes a 10-course set menu featuring appetizers, sashimi, a main dish, a rice dish, and a dessert. Kappou Ishia is known for its exceptional quality and offers a dining experience that goes beyond just a meal.
Spices Garden – Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
At Spices Garden, Vietnamese cuisine meets French gastronomy. Located in the luxurious Sofitel Legend hotel, this restaurant offers traditional Vietnamese street food favorites like bun cha, pho, and cha ca, expertly cooked and beautifully presented using European techniques. It’s a perfect blend of flavors and cultures.
Traveling through Hanoi allows you to explore a diverse range of culinary experiences. From traditional Vietnamese dishes to international fine dining, there’s something for every food lover. So, pull up a plastic chair or reserve a table at a fine dining establishment and embark on a culinary adventure in the vibrant city of Hanoi.
