Hanoians have a unique and sophisticated eating habit that has withstood the test of time. Despite the rapid changes brought by modern urban life, the culinary traditions of Hanoi remain intact from one generation to the next.
Instead of fancy restaurants, Hanoi locals prefer street stalls and local food carts. However, they are not easy to please when it comes to food. Many renowned restaurants in Hanoi have been serving their signature dishes for over two decades and are still packed with customers every day.
Bun Cha Hang Quat (Grilled Pork and Vermicelli)
One such legendary restaurant is Bun Cha Hang Quat, where you can experience the authentic taste of this traditional specialty. Bun Cha is a simple dish with grilled pork meat and sauce, but the art of marinating and grilling the meat to perfection is a skill that only true gourmets possess. The sweet and salty sauce, made in the Northern Vietnamese style, is what sets Bun Cha Hang Quat apart. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness how Hanoians enjoy Bun Cha by visiting this bustling restaurant.
Bun Oc Ngo Cho Dong Xuan (Vietnamese Snail Noodle Soup)
When it comes to street food in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the narrow streets and alleys around Dong Xuan Market are a food lover’s paradise. Among the various street food stalls, Bun Oc (snail noodle soup) is a favorite among Hanoians. This steaming hot bowl of snail noodle soup, topped with fried tofu, is simply irresistible. For the best flavor, head to Bun Oc Ngo Cho Dong Xuan.
Mien Ga Hang Buom (Hang Buom Chicken Glass Noodle Soup)
If you’re looking for a hearty bowl of chicken glass noodle soup, look no further than the stall on Hang Buom Street. Despite its run-down appearance, this place is always filled with satisfied customers. The secret lies in the flavorful broth and the special crispy breadsticks that perfectly complement the dish.
Pho Bat Dan (Bat Dan Noodle Soup)
No article about Hanoi’s best street eats is complete without mentioning the iconic Pho Bat Dan. This noodle soup is the epitome of Northern Vietnamese cuisine. For many years, the restaurant has been serving bowls of pho to eager customers who patiently queue outside. The tradition of standing and eating with an empty bowl in hand is still intact, just as it was in the past.
Pho Thin Pho Lo Duc (Thin Noodle Soup)
Since its opening in 1979, Pho Thin has established itself as one of the best noodle soup brands in Hanoi. Together with Pho Bat Dan, it has contributed to the legendary reputation of Vietnamese pho. A bowl of Pho Thin is always filled with meat, onions, and a delectably greasy broth that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist. The restaurant focuses solely on this one type of noodle soup, prepared by quickly rolling beef in a large pan with various spices.
Banh Cuon Ba Hoanh – To Hien Thanh (Vietnamese Steam Riced Rolls)
Apart from its famous cinnamon rolls and shrimp paste, Ba Hoanh’s steam rice rolls are a standout. The highlight of this restaurant is the grilled pork meat served with the thin rice paper. The rice paper’s thickness, the well-marinated meat, and the tasty sauce make for an unforgettable plate of Banh Cuon.
Chao Ga Ba My – Ly Quoc Su (Chicken Porridge)
Chicken congee made by Mrs. My on the famous Church neighborhood not only attracts customers with its special flavor but also with the owner’s quirky way of selling. Don’t be alarmed if you hear her swearing at her staff. It’s just her unique character, which customers have come to love.
Bun Dau Mam Tom – 31 Hang Khay (Vietnamese Fermented Shrimp Paste Noodle)
In the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, a narrow alley at No.31 Hang Khay is home to a dozen restaurants selling Bun Dau Mam Tom. It’s hard to find the best one, but according to locals and seasoned travelers, the first restaurant on the left is a must-try. A tray of Bun Dau there consists of fried tofu, black pudding, stomach, thin-sliced pork leg, and boiled pork tongue. It’s best to enjoy this aromatic and flavorful dish at a sidewalk food stall.
Banh Mi Thit Xien Ba Nga (Bread with Grilled Pork, Mrs. Nga)
Located on Quang Trung Street, Banh Mi Thit Xien Ba Nga is a popular destination for delicious grilled pork bread. The unique preparation technique results in soft and crumbled grilled pork skewers. You can enjoy the grilled pork skewers with or without bread.
Nom 25 Ham Long (Vietnamese Salad)
Ham Long is known for its row of salad stalls, but the most famous and oldest one is Salad Mai Nga at No.25. What sets this restaurant apart is its light, sweet, and sour flavor that no one can imitate. Traditional dried beef salad and sun-dried salad mixed with organ meats are the two main offerings. You can also enjoy additional snacks such as Vietnamese tapioca dumpling, chicken’s neck, and roasted quail.
Banh Gio Ngo Cho Nguyen Cong Tru (Vietnamese Rice Pyramid Dumpling)
Located in a small alley beside Nguyen Cong Tru Market, Banh Gio Ngo Cho Nguyen Cong Tru is the perfect place for a light brunch. These rice pyramid dumplings are not too big or greasy. They are usually enjoyed with lean pork paste and fermented pork roll.
Banh Ran Luc Lac Gia Trinh Ngo 16A Ly Nam De (Vietnamese Doughnuts)
Banh Ran Luc Lac is a popular snack in Hanoi, especially during the Vietnam subsidy period. The combination of sweet boiled green peas and crispy thin crust makes these doughnuts incredibly appealing. Gia Trinh, the owner of the shop, also sells various traditional cakes, which quickly sell out during festive seasons. Make sure to visit ahead of time to avoid the rush.
Quay Hang Bong (Hang Bong Bread Sticks)
For nearly two decades, the stall selling Quay (fried bread sticks) on Hang Bong Street has maintained its flavor. These hot bread sticks have been a favorite of Hanoi people for a long time, evoking memories of childhood with the same taste, same sellers, and a few plastic chairs just like in the past.
Che 16 Pho Ngo Thi Nham (Vietnamese Sweet Gruel)
At the crossroad of Ngo Thi Nham and Le Van Huu Street, you’ll find a 30-year-old sweet gruel shop. It is the oldest shop in Hanoi, serving traditional gruels like green bean sweet gruel, black bean sweet gruel, lotus seed gruel, and steamed sticky rice with sweet gruel. The gruel’s light sweetness is unmatched, thanks to natural ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Plus, prices are affordable, ranging from only 10,000 VND to 15,000 VND.
Xoi Xeo Hang Bai (Vietnamese Yellow Sticky Rice with Fried Onions)
For over two decades, Xoi Xeo made by Mrs. May on Hang Bai Street has been a popular breakfast choice for Hanoi locals. The greasy yellow sticky rice is topped with green peas and fried onions, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Fresh ingredients and the utmost attention to food safety have earned this stall a long-lasting reputation.
Chao Trai – Tran Xuan Xoan (Mussel Congee)
Hanoi’s backstreets are dotted with street stalls and restaurants serving mussel congee. However, Chao Trai Tran Xuan Xoan stands out for its well-cooked glutinous rice congee filled with tender pieces of mussel. The restaurant has been serving delicious mussel congee for over 30 years at an affordable price. Don’t forget to try their famous Vietnamese tofu dish, ‘tao pho,’ especially during the summer.
Suon Ran Le Duan (Pork Ribs)
Fried ribs on Le Duan Street have earned a great reputation over the years. This beloved snack made from simple ingredients captures the hearts of Hanoi people. The secret lies in the special marinating and frying method, resulting in fried ribs that satisfy even the most discerning palates. In addition to the ribs, you can also try other delicious dishes like roasted stomach, pork rib porridge, and fried chicken.
Mi Van Than So 8 Nguyen Bieu (Ramen Noodle Soup)
Opened over 20 years ago, the ramen noodle soup stall on No.8 Nguyen Bieu Street is always crowded with lines of eager customers waiting to be served. The noodles are highly appreciated for their flavorful broth and the delicious shrimp dumplings that accompany them.
Bun Rieu Trang, Nguyen Sieu (Crab Paste Vermicelli Soup)
Bun Rieu, a popular dish among Hanoians, has been passed down through generations. It is a light and flavorful soup that is perfect for a sumptuous breakfast or brunch. Despite the increasing number of street food stalls, the 10-year-old Bun Rieu Trang restaurant remains the top spot for the best Bun Rieu in Hanoi. Be prepared to queue during peak hours.
Xoi Khuc Co Lan, Nguyen Cong Tru (Vietnamese Sticky Rice Balls)
Hidden in a small alley on Nguyen Cong Tru backstreet, Xoi Khuc Co Lan boasts the authentic flavor of Vietnamese sticky rice balls. Only in this restaurant can you find bacon-filled Xoi Khuc that is soft and lean. In the morning, the rice balls are sold in the alley, and in the afternoon, they move to the main road.
These 20 street eats in Hanoi offer a glimpse into the city’s vibrant culinary scene. Each dish has its own unique flavors and tells a story of Hanoi’s culinary heritage. So, the next time you visit this remarkable city, make sure to indulge in these mouthwatering street eats that will truly spoil your taste buds.
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